When you get home from work, the last thing you want to do is sit down on an uncomfortable couch with boxy, disagreeable throw pillows. After a long day of working hard you deserve comfort and relief at home - that's where our pillow inserts come in! The right pillow insert can make the difference between feeling refreshed or being cramped and even having your allergies or asthma act up.
Pillow inserts – the ‘pillow’ that you slip into a decorative pillow cover – come in different types and at different price points. Instead of buying a whole new throw pillow, pillow inserts allow you to swap out your cushion covers whenever you want to refresh your decor or mix things up based on the season. Pillow inserts with interchangeable covers are also more affordable than throw pillows, and help to save space when storing your pillow covers for the seasons.
Each pillow filling has its own unique features (and some drawbacks) that you should consider when you are in the market for a new one. Choosing the best pillow insert for you shouldn’t be too stressful, so here is some helpful information to help you choose the best pillow filling for you and your home.
Down Feather
Down feather pillow inserts are filled with a mix of regular feathers and down feathers from waterfowl, like ducks. The feathers come from the wings or tails of these birds and have a thick, inflexible center shaft or quill. The bird’s down is found underneath their outer feathers, which is incredibly soft and thus makes an excellent filling for pillows. The feathers and down are harvested through various methods, many of which center around the well-being of the animals.
Pillows filled with a feather and down mix are known for being plush and luxurious. They are soft and comfortable, but still able to hold shape and conform to your head and sleeping position. These pillows need to be fluffed out every now and then to keep them puffy and full. Down feather pillows are generally more expensive, but very durable and will last for years to come.
High Fiber Poly
Poly pillow inserts are filled with a synthetic polyester fiber. The poly fibers are spun into thin, lightweight fibers that resemble cotton, making for a pillow that is soft and breathable. Poly fill pillows feel similar to down filled pillows, but come at a lower price. Some of the benefits of a poly fill pillow insert is that you can wash it at home and they're lightweight. Poly filling is also outdoor-friendly, so it can be used for your outdoor pillow covers. On the other hand, they tend to have a shorter lifespan than down feather filled pillows. If you're looking for a vegan or hypoallergenic pillow, poly might be the best option.
Down Alternative
Down alternative pillow inserts feel similar to a down and feather fill pillow, but it is filled with a synthetic fiber. The type of fiber used can vary, and some hold up better than others. Here at Cloth & Stitch, our down alternative inserts are made with fluffy microfiber fill. These pillow inserts are typically more affordable than feather down pillow inserts but less affordable than poly inserts.
Down alternative is a popular choice for those who love the feel of feather down pillow inserts but who may want an option that is easier to clean. It is also a good alternative for someone who prefers a vegan-friendly pillow insert.
Different pillow inserts offer different benefits. Some are more expensive and could require some additional care to keep them in their best condition, while others are cheaper and easier to clean, but they may need to be replaced more often. The best pillow for you will provide you comfort and ease.
A decorative pillow should look and feel good - no matter which aforementioned pillow insert style you choose. At Cloth & Stitch, we ensure that all of our pillow inserts are made with high-quality, dependable materials to keep your home looking great for years to come!