Memory foam pillows offer firm support that naturally conforms to the shape of your head, and the best ones can last years. However, they may also trigger allergies or asthma for some due to their chemical composition. For a bit less, gel pillows feel similar to natural down but may not last long.
There are times in life when competition becomes so high that arguments arise and once this happens, the stronger person ends up winning. As fate would have it, it is no longer people who get into arguments as personal items have also started the habit. Pillows are used by almost everyone and the latest mediation talks are being held to reconcile pillows. Two fierce rivals happen to be memory foam and gel-infused memory foam pillows. Once claims to be older hence it should be more respected while the other says that time for the old generation to be gone and the young blood should take on the driver’s seat. Read on and see what the memory foam vs. gel pillows debate is all about.
Comfort and Durability
Memory foam- generally constructed from polyurethane- has the unique ability to soften when the heat is applied. When you place your head on a memory foam pillow, it immediately softens to form a supportive cradle. The key, therefore, is to select a memory foam pillow that isn’t too dense; if the pillow has the correct density for your needs, it will still feel soft even after compressing around your head and won’t trap excessive heat. Memory foam can also last several years before it begins to break down. On the other hand, if you prefer to mold the pillow around your head to attain a specific shape, this isn’t possible with memory foam.
Gel or “down alternative” pillows resemble the down pillows you might be familiar with, without the animal cruelty and allergy issues inherent in those products. They provide an excellent balance of comfort and support, mold easily into any shape, and don’t off-gas as memory foam pillows can. However, gel pillows also need to be fluffed regularly and lack the durability of memory foam. If you are hard on your pillows, you may need to replace gel pillows every few months as they begin to flatten and become less supportive. For this reason, many manufacturers use a combination of gel and other materials such as shredded latex or memory foam. This greatly increases the durability of a gel pillow.
Health Factors
The polyurethane used to make memory foam pillows is a form of plastic, which means that it may tend to release volatile gases into the air. This can possibly trigger allergies or induce asthma symptoms. Online research shows that this seems to happen far less frequently with down alternative pillows. If you have allergies or sensitivities, you would be wise to speak with your doctor before selecting a pillow. In some cases, enclosing your pillow in an allergy or dust mite cover may alleviate these effects. If you perspire at night, you want to think carefully before purchasing a memory foam pillow, as the density of memory foam may trap additional heat around your head.
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