How Long Will My Pillow Last Me?
This is a very common question that we receive on this blog, the Neck Pillow Queen. In particular we get this about our fiber pillows, such as the arc4life cervical linear traction neck pillows, arc4life linear gravity neck pillows and the tri core orthopedic neck pillows.
I know that what most people want to hear is their pillow will last them "forever". Unfortunately, this is not the case, especially when it comes to a fiber stuffed pillow.
In the specific case of the arc4life traction neck pillow and the arc4life linear gravity pillow- there is no shelf life. It could last you a few months, it could last you a few years. All of arc4life pillows are created here in the USA. The pillows are made from a special fiber called gar-netted fiber and are hand stuffed and rolled into each and every pillow. Most other fiber filled pillows use a machine to blow in the fiber. The pillows are not overstuffed. Therefore, the fibers will break down over time. If the pillows were stuffed more, then they would last longer. One prime example of that is the Tri Core orthopedic neck support pillow (this pillow contains fiber that is blown in by a machine). The fiber in these pillows is stuffed to the maximum. There are even two versions of this pillow (gentle and firm) and both them are quite firm. If you were to put your finger on the pillow, there would be a small amount of give. Compare this to the arc4life traction neck pillow or the arc4life linear gravity neck pillow there is more give to these pillows. They are not overstuffed and we don't consider them a firm pillow. The way we would describe them would be in between: not firm like a foam pillow, and not soft like a feather pillow. They are in between.
One the reasons that the arc4life neck pillow are not overstuffed is because they are created specifically to help you through a neck condition. Many of the customers and patients that order our pillow have neck pain, stiff neck, a bulging disc, a herniated disc, arthritis or disc degeneration in their neck. They have been recommended by their health professional to order an orthopedic pillow that has contours. The traction pillow works particularly well because it gently stretches the cervical spine, while at the same time allowing for optimal neck alignment.
In the particular case of the arc4life traction pillow there is a Firm Side and there is a softer side. The V traction side is the firmer side and the neck roll or support side is the softer side. Even though we distinguish between these two sides as being firm and soft, overall this fiber filled pillow is not as firm as other pillows on the market.
Because the fiber is not packed in, the fibers will break down faster than a more firmer pillow. As mentioned above the tri core pillow is another fiber pillow that will last you a lot longer than the arc4life pillow.
If you are looking for softer pillow to start with, try the arc4life natural alignment pillow.
Can you Wash a Fiber Pillows in the Washing Machine?
Yes, technically you can but we do not recommend it. Washing your pillow in the washing machine will further break down the fibers. Also, if you do not subsequently dry the pillow well, you are creating a potential mold or bacteria problem.
Many people do wash their pillows in the washing machine. If you do a quick Google search, you will find a way to do this. Just keep in mind that you will lose some support from the pillow.
What is the Best Way to Keep Your Arc4life Pillow and Other Fiber Pillows Lasting Longer?
To start with get a dust cover with the fiber pillows. A dust cover with a zipper allows mold, bacterial, pollen, pet hairs and other particles out of your pillow. Use a regular pillow case over your dust cover for further protection.
Another way to clean your fiber pillow is to spot clean the pillow. If you have a stain on your pillow, use some detergent or even something as simple as Ivory soap to spot clean the area. Use soap and then rub with clean water. Let the pillow dry well.
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