What is a Cloud Pillow? Types, Materials and Orthopedic Functions
Perhaps there came a point in our childhood when we lay down under thick, fluffy clouds and wondered how it feels like to sleep on top of them, floating in the sunny sky. When we reached grade school, our science teacher might probably have frustrated us when she told our class that clouds are vapors and water particles, and we cannot ever sleep on them. But don’t let that dream die out. Today, because of technology, we can actually experience sleeping in the clouds through cloud pillows.
Are they Real Clouds?
Cloud pillows are, unfortunately, not real clouds. They are not pieces of cumulus clouds brought down to Earth from the atmosphere. Instead, they are pillows made of synthetic materials that are developed by experts. But like our childhood imaginary clouds, which these pillows are named after, cloud pillows offer the best comfort that sleepers need for a healthy posture, longer sleep and good mornings.
Cloud pillows are therapeutic cushions that intend to provide a better sleep for people who suffer from different body pains and other sleeping problems. These pillows support the shoulders, spine, head and neck of the user, keeping them properly aligned in every sleeping position that the user takes. Just like fiber pillows, cloud pillows do not require flipping or fluffing because any position can be comfortable enough for anyone.
General Types of Cloud Pillows Based on Materials
There are two main types of cloud pillows: the memory foam type and the Air Beads type. The memory foam is a special pillow material that precisely fits to the contours of the body. It adjusts its temperature depending on the body warmth of its user. Also, it supports and keeps the head aligned with the neck and spine. The Air Beads type, on the other hand, is a version inspired by the buckwheat pillow used in Asia. A popular Air Bead pillow is the Sobakawa cloud pillow. This pillow contains more than 10 million air beads that create a cloudy feeling when the user rests his head on top of it.
Different Kinds of Cloud Pillows and Their Therapeutic Functions
There are different kinds of cloud pillows sold nowadays. First on the list is the Sobakawa Cloud Pillow. As mentioned, this orthopedic pillow is an air bead cloud pillow. The Sobakawa Company in Japan, the first company that manufactured cloud pillows, made this cushion based on the traditional Japanese buckwheat pillow. This pillow has different advantages. It prevents morning stiff neck and frozen shoulders. Also, it is very flexible not just in form but also in temperature; it adjusts to the ambient temperature – making the pillow warm during winter, and cool during summer.
The next kind of cloud pillow is the Tempur cloud pillow, a very soft pillow that is perfect for those who want a better sleep. It is named after the TEMPUR-ES material that it is made from. This therapeutic pillow supports the head, neck and shoulders and allows full muscle relaxation. It is not only useful for back sleeping; it is also effective in bringing a more comfortable rest for side and stomach sleepers. This pillow is resistant to dust mites and other allergens, being suitable for asthmatic and allergy-prone individuals.
Another kind of cloud pillow is the Contour cloud pillow. This orthopedic pillow has been proven effective in avoiding back pain and discomfort during sleep. Aside from sleeping, this pillow may also be used to lessen the tiredness of the back and the strain in the lumbar region of the spinal column while sitting or driving. The unique shape of the cloud pillow supports the head and neck, and also keeps them aligned with the spine. This pillow has three layers: white, yellow and blue. The white layer is made of memory foam; the yellow layer is a wedge inside the pillow that supports the neck; and the blue layer is the base of the pillow.
Lastly, the Natura wool cloud pillow has a lot of pure virgin NaturaWool that protects the pillow and adjusts its warmth or coolness depending on the body temperature of the user. Like other cloud pillows, this cushion is also orthopedic. It absorbs moisture and creates a fresh, allergen-free sleeping environment. In addition, the Natura wool cloud pillow is hypoallergenic, flame-inhibitor and completely breathable.
