38 Questions About Hollow Fiber Pillows Answered

Soft, firm, comfortable, and inexpensive, hollow fiber pillows are a perfect synthetic alternative for you. We are answering the top 38 questions people frequently ask about them.

What Is A Hollow Fiber Pillow?

Hollow fiber pillows are stuffed with very fine hollow strands of polyester. Due to their lightweight, soft texture, and permeability, they’re popular among hot sleepers and people prone to allergic reactions to Down or Feather pillows.

What Is Hollow Fiber Made Of?

Hollow fibers are commonly made up of synthetic polymers such as polyamide, polysulfone, and polyacrylonitrile. They are porous, which makes them breathable and suitable for pillow filling. 

These fibers are capable of withstanding hydraulic pressure of over 1000 psi, making them extremely durable and strong for pillows. 

What Are Their Pros And Cons?

What Does a Hollowfiber Pillow Look and Feel Like?

Hollow fiber pillows look exactly like any other traditional cotton pillow. They are super fluffy in appearance. However, a hollow fiber pillow is extremely soft to the touch due to its plushy texture. 

Are They Good For Health?

Hollow fiber pillows are highly breathable. However, there is a vast difference in viewpoints since everyone has their own preferences.

These pillows are popular for their firmness and for being hypoallergenic. They also get all the points for reducing moisture during night-time sweating.

However, people prone to synthetic fiber allergies and preferring natural fill materials might not find hollow fibers ideal. Polyester fabric releases chemicals like phthalates into the environment, which can cause health issues.

Additionally, hollow fiber pillows are firm and undeformable, making them ideal for people suffering from chronic back or neck pain. We’ll explain the same in detail later in this article.

Are They Comfortable?

Hollow fiber pillows are a cost-effective substitute for pillows made of natural fibers or microfiber. We did our research and found that different people have varied opinions on this.

Their soft and squishy filling has more space between the fibers, making them lightweight, easy to contour, and comfortable to sleep on.

Because of their softness and affordability, hollow fiber pillows are an excellent choice for all types of sleepers. However, stomach sleepers might find them rigid. Hollow fiber pillows also come as full-sized body pillows for full-body support and overnight comfort. 

Do They Cause Allergies? 

Many pillow manufacturers claim that because hollow fiber pillows are filled with synthetic materials, they have hypoallergenic properties. This, however, is not scientifically proven. 

Moreover, hollow fibers can be good for allergy-prone people who prefer to avoid pillows stuffed with feathers, down, or other natural fibers.

In contrast, if you have an allergy to synthetic polymers, you should probably stay away from pillows that contain hollow fiber pillows and use hypoallergenic alternatives instead.

Do They Attract Dust-Mite?

To increase their sales, many sellers claim their hollow fiber pillows are dust-mite resistant. However, this isn’t entirely true. Your hollow fiber pillow could be a breeding ground for those bothersome insects. 

It has been scientifically proven that a greater proportion of dust-mite allergen is found in synthetic fibers after a certain period of use. Synthetic pillows pile up dust-mite germs more quickly than feather pillows do.

Do They Attract Bed Bugs?

As we’ve spoken earlier about the myths spread by manufacturers, many of them assert that hollow fiber pillows can not harbor bed bugs. Once again, there is no scientific evidence to back up such claims.

It is still possible for those minuscule bugs to infiltrate your hollow fiber pillow and live there, especially if it’s exposed to an adequate amount of moisture. Maintaining hygiene is the only way to avoid such situations.

Do They Mold?

Hollow fiber pillows are susceptible to the growth of mold and mildew, contrary to what some producers state. This is especially true if the pillows are frequently exposed to humid surroundings.

Those who assert that hollow fiber is made up of synthetic material and hence can’t grow fungi are intentionally misleading you because there is currently no scientific explanation that can substantiate such properties. 

Do They Turn Yellow?

Your hollow fiber pillows could turn yellow for the following reasons:

• Exposure to moisture
• Wet surroundings
• Improper washing
• Excess overnight sweating
• Dirt and debris
• Food and other stains 

Read our detailed article on why pillows turn yellow and how to fix them. 

Are They Noisy?

Due to the intermolecular space between the loosely woven hollow fibers, pillows stuffed with them can be a little noisy.

Do They Go Lumpy?

Your hollow fiber pillows can go lumpy for the following reasons:

• Inadequate washing
• Presence of moisture
• Exposure to heat
• Dust-mite infestation
• Regular use
• Over time pressure  

Check out this detailed article on why pillows go lumpy and how to fix them at home. 

Do They Go Flat?

Hollow fiber pillows are known for their high loft. However, they have the disadvantage of quickly flattening with time. It happens due to regular use, carefree washing, and hollow fiber’s natural tendency to degrade.

Moreover, some users claimed that, compared to other feather and down products, hollow fiber pillows don’t need to be fluffed or refilled frequently. 

How Do You Fluff Them?

There are several ways to fluff your hollow fiber pillows:

• Do it manually: Use your fingers to detangle clumps inside the pillow. Give it a shake, and you’re good to go.
• Throw in the washer: Throw your pillows along with a couple of tennis balls into the machine. Set the heat setting to the lowest.
• Sunbathe them: Allowing them to sunbathe for a few minutes can help evaporate any trapped moisture and revive their fluffiness.
• Refill if needed: The stuffing inside gets flattened over time; try refilling your pillows to get the original shape back.

Are They Good for Side Sleepers?

As one of the most popular pillow types, it’s no surprise that hollow fiber pillows are firm and moisture-wicking making them ideal for side sleepers.

Hollow fiber pillows, which are made up of hundreds of fluffy polyester hollow fibers, can be customized to fit the needs of side sleepers.

They help in keeping your head in the right position by preventing it from sinking too deeply into the pillow. Moreover, their soft fibers contour your neck and provide comfort while sleeping.

Are They Good for Back Sleepers?

Due to their firmness, hollow fiber pillows are well-suited for those who prefer to sleep on their backs. These pillows offer excellent support to the neck while preventing the head from plunging into the fill.

However, to achieve the desired loft, back sleepers must customize the filling as per their needs. Generally, back sleepers are recommended to use a medium loft pillow. 

Are They Good for Stomach Sleepers?

It is essential for stomach sleepers to have proper ergonomic assistance.

For the spine to remain in its natural alignment, a low loft hollow fiber pillow that is both firm and supportive is ideal. Hollow fibers do not shrink due to compression, making pillows filled with them ideal for stomach sleepers. 

These pillows are breathable and allow air to circulate throughout the night, helping to maintain a comfortable body temperature. This is to ensure that they do not sweat during the night, which is a common problem among stomach sleepers. 

Are They Good for Hot Sleepers?

Hollow fiber’s loose structure creates tiny gaps in the pillow, which creates better airflow and maintains a cool temperature. They also do not absorb sweat, retain, or emit body heat, contributing to more cooling.

Are They Good for Neck and Back Pain?

Head and neck pain can be alleviated by using a hollow fiber pillow because of the evenly dispersed fill material that offers adequate support and contouring. If you have neck or back pain, hollow fiber pillows are an excellent alternative to natural pillows. 

Are They Good For Back Pain?

The hollow fibers maximize comfort. The fill material molds itself to the natural contours of the body in a way that is both supportive and relieving to the whole body as a whole.

The fact that it can be molded exactly to your specifications makes hollow fiber pillows an excellent choice for providing additional support for your back, based on how you prefer to sleep. Its firmness will help your spinal cord maintain its natural alignment, and your lower back will receive the support it needs.

Can They Be Washed?

Hollow fiber pillows can be washed. However, it is recommended to wash them by hand to avoid damage. Although they can be machine-washed as well, make sure to run a gentle cycle to avoid ruining them in the process. 

How to Hand-Wash Them?

Use a tub and warm water to clean your pillows by hand. Place the pillow in a sink full of warm soapy water and a small amount of mild dish soap. It is advisable to use a moderate detergent to avoid damaging the fiber stuffing inside the pillow.

After 15 minutes of soaking, the filth and grime will loosen. Use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas. Afterward, the pillow should be rinsed until the water becomes clear and then hung to dry.

Check out our detailed article to learn more about how to hand-wash pillows.

Can You Machine-Wash Them?

Yes. Some people might say they can be machine-washed. However, it is easy to ruin them in the washing process and impossible to fix since they develop lumps quickly and lose shape after a vigorous spin cycle and rigorous drying.

There is no way to keep the filling from clogging and damaging after washing your hollow fiber pillows. Since they have a short life span, it is recommended to hand wash your hollow fiber pillows.

Read our detailed article on how to fix your lumpy pillows.

Can You Dry Them In The Dryer?

You can put your hollow fiber pillows in the dryer. However, be careful because they can develop lumps.

Spin-drying your hollow fiber pillows is recommended once you’re done washing them. Move the pillow to the dryer and set the temperature to medium once it has been spun-dried in the washer.

Make sure the pillow is entirely dry before fluffing it back up. Check for any clumps; if you find some, they are not completely dry. Re-dry for another 15 minutes, or hang outside so they can get some sunlight.

Should You Put Them In A Pillowcase?

Covering your hollow fiber pillow with a pillowcase is highly recommended since it keeps dirt and grime out of the fibers of your pillow, which slows the process of flattening.

However, sweat can still sweep through the outer case. In addition to protecting your pillow from debris, dead skin, dander, and spills, a pillowcase provides an additional layer of protection.

Which Is Better: Microfiber or Hollow Fiber Pillows?

Even though both types of pillows are constructed using very fine strands of polyester, there is a distinction in the manner in which microfiber and hollow fiber are woven together.

Microfibers are extremely fine strands of polyester that are woven very closely together, leaving very little space between each strand. In contrast, the term “hollow fiber” comes from the voids or “hollows” that are found between the individual fibers of polyester.

Because of this space, hollow fiber pillows are compact and lightweight. However, they are prone to losing their shape over time. They both have their specific qualities, so it is not fair to call one better than the other.

Are They Better Than Polyester Pillows?

Polyester pillows are synthetic pillows made up of 100% polyester fibers, whereas hollow fiber pillows are polyester pillows made up of loosely woven hollow polyester fabric.

The space between hollow fibers makes them more breathable than polyester pillows. However, their lifespan is shorter due to the loosely woven strands.

Polyester pillows are also easy to maintain since washing them in the machine isn’t a tedious task, whereas hollow fiber pillows can easily develop lumps after heavy machine washing. Once again, choosing which one is better depends on personal preferences. 

Are They Better Than Down Pillows?

Down pillows are filled with natural bird feathers of ducks, swans, and geese, whereas hollow fiber pillows come with synthetic polyester filling.

However, Down pillows are extremely costly in comparison to hollow fiber pillows due to the limited availability of bird feathers. They are also super soft and fluffy, so they are unable to adequately provide support to the neck.

Moreover, they are not ideal for hot sleepers because of their insulating properties. Hollow fiber pillows, on the other hand, are affordable and make an excellent alternative for hot sleepers due to their breathability.

They are also recommended for people who suffer from neck pain. Additionally, they can be superior to Down, keeping their affordability, lightweight, and breathability in mind. Down pillows, however, are more eco-friendly and can last for a very long time. 

Are They Better Than Cotton Pillows? 

Popular for their comfort, low insulation, and heat absorption properties, cotton pillows outperform hollow fibers in many ways. However, due to their low cost, hollow fiber pillows do not make a hole in your pocket. 

If we consider their organic stuffing, cotton pillows are superior in terms of natural decomposition and hypoallergenic nature.

Hollow fiber pillows, on the other hand,  might be bothersome for people who are prone to allergic reactions to polyester. Moreover, you can choose which is better for your needs since they both provide support.  

Are They Better Than Buckwheat Pillows?

Both buckwheat and hollow fiber pillows provide back and neck support. However, buckwheat pillows tend to be heavier than hollow fiber.

They are also firm and hefty. Hollow fiber pillows, on the other hand, are soft and squishy due to their lightweight fibers. 

Unpopular for their crackling noise, buckwheat pillows can aggravate buckwheat-induced allergies in people who are prone to allergic reactions. Similarly, hollow fiber pillows might trouble people who are allergic to polyester. 

They both have their own set of pros and cons, so it is unfair to say one is better than the other.

Are They Different From Ball Fiber Pillows?

Ball fiber pillows, just like hollow fiber pillows, are filled with synthetic polyester fiber. However, instead of long, straight strands in hollow fibers, the fibers in ball fiber pillows are arranged into poofy balls.

Because of their smoothness, ball fiber pillows are comfortable to use and offer a sleeping experience similar to down and feather pillows. On the other hand, hollow fiber pillows provide firm support and help alleviate back and neck pain.

Are They Eco-Friendly?

The hollow fiber in hollow fiber pillows is composed of polyamide, polysulfone, and polyacrylonitrile, which are all synthetic polymers that are not at all eco-friendly. Contrary to what most manufacturers claim, polyester can not be recycled completely. 

Are They Affordable?

Because of their lower manufacturing costs, hollow fiber pillows are more affordable than pillows stuffed in traditional ways with natural materials such as latex, cotton, and goose down.

How Much Do They Cost?

Hollow fiber pillows cost somewhere between $8 and $120. Their cost varies depending upon several factors, such as brand, filling, size, the fabric of the pillowcase, and more.

Buyers on a tight budget can never go wrong with polyester hollow pillows. Compared to wool or cotton pillows, hollow fiber is a cost-effective alternative.

How Long Do They Last?

Hollow fiber pillows usually last 2 to 2.5 years if you take good care of them. Compared to other synthetic options like microfiber, polyester, and foam pillows, they have a shorter lifespan. Hollow fiber pillows are a popular option for people who like to replace their pillows frequently. 

How Do You Choose a Hollowfiber Pillow?

Look for the following aspects while buying a hollow fiber pillow:

• Loft: high for side sleepers, medium for back sleepers, and low for stomach sleepers. 
• Brand: choose a brand that offers premium products.
• Cost: the best hollow fiber pillows costs between $40 and $90. 
• Zippered shell: access to the filling makes it easy to customizable the pillow loft.

Where Can I Buy Them?

Go to the following website to buy the best hollow fiber pillows:

• Amazon
• Etsy
• Home Depot
• Walmart

Do you have more questions about wool pillows? Let us know as we’d love to answer.