There were times when pillows would be considered a symbol of luxury. Archeologists found the first pillows ever made in the tombs of pharaohs. This is how we know that they were usually made of wood and served the purpose of protecting the head from insects. These days pillows also play a health-related role, supporting the upper part of the spine, the neck and the head. We have traded wood for filling made of down, wool or flax but this is also changing as we’re getting more inclined to pick synthetic cushions filled with latex or thermoelastic foam. Why? Because a natural fill, even when expertly made with high-quality products, loses its original shape over time. Consequently, such pillows no longer offer the right support for the spine. A synthetic fill is significantly more durable and the cushion we buy is likely to stay with us for many years. There are two main types of synthetic pillows: latex and thermoelastic. The biggest strengths of latex cushions are their ability to adjust to the shape of the head as well as high breathability achieved by means of vertical air ducts which reduce sweating and prevent bacterial growth. Pillows made of thermoelastic foam are “tailor-made,” meaning that they offer perfect adjustment – the foam softens under the influence of body temperature, and then (when not in use) returns to its original form.
