43 Questions About Microfiber Answered

Due to their affordability, lightweight, and low maintenance, microfiber pillows are one of the most popular types of pillows in the USA. We are answering the top 43 questions about them in this article.  

What Is a Microfiber Pillow?

Microfiber pillows are pillows stuffed with microfiber, which is synthetic fiber finer than silk. The diameter of one strand of microfiber is less than 10 μm!

The most common microfiber types are made purely of polyesters or polyamides, or even a blend of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene woven into tight strands.

What Are Their Pros And Cons?

What Makes Microfiber a Great Material to Fill Pillows?

Microfibers have a diameter that is one-third that of cotton, one-quarter that of fine wool, and half that of silk, which indicates they are extremely lightweight.

They are resistant to pilling and wrinkling and stronger and more durable than other synthetic pillow-filling materials. Additionally, microfibers are more breathable, which makes them an excellent choice for pillow stuffing.

Are Microfiber Pillows Soft?

Microfiber pillows are soft and known for their fine fibers. One of the benefits of buying a microfiber-filled pillow is that, even after multiple washes, it tends to stay soft and fluffy.

How Do They Feel and Look Like?

Microfiber pillows are extremely soft to the touch due to their fine fibers. However, their firmness level can decide how bouncy they are. On the other hand,  because of their simple design, their appearance is like any other regular pillow. 

Are They Comfortable?

A microfiber pillow offers support for the back and neck. The fine fibers of the fill material also prevent skin damage due to friction.

It has been suggested that resting on a pillow made from microfibers can enhance sleep quality and reduce the severity of sleeping disorders.

Are They Hot?

Because of their greater thermal insulation properties and reduced thermal conductance, microfibers are becoming increasingly popular. 

However, depending on the amount of pressure applied, microfiber pillows provide a sensation that is warmer than that of traditional filling, which can make them hot during summer.

Moreover, this may be because of the difference in the surface of the microfiber that is in contact with your skin.

What Is ‘Thread Count’ In Microfiber Pillows?

The number of individual strands that are woven into one square inch of cloth is referred to as the thread count. Adding the number of horizontal and vertical yarns, known as wefts and warps, also determines thread count.

In terms of durability, having a microfiber pillow with a 230-300 thread count is ideal as per industry standards. However, a high thread count isn’t always a guarantee of excellent material.

Make sure you’re buying high-quality pillows rather than cheap ones that claim to have 1000 thread counts or more. Using more than one strand of fiber to form a single thread is a common way to increase the thread count by doubling or even tripling the number of threads.

Are They Vegan?

Yes, microfiber is made up of polyester, polyamide, and propylene, all of which are synthetic in nature. Pillows filled with them are 100% vegan and free of animal products. 

Are They Eco-Friendly?

There has not been any documented evidence of microfibers’ negative effects on the surrounding environment as yet. The unethical disposal of old pillows, however, may have undesirable pulmonary effects with a growing amount of landfill waste.

Here’s how you can recycle them without harming the environment. 

Do They Cause Allergies? 

Microfiber pillows are known for their hypoallergenic properties. They do not cause any issue for people prone to allergies. They are also more breathable than other synthetic alternatives.

Although some people might find them a little irritating, it is typically uncommon to get allergic reactions triggered by them. 

A study titled “Laboratory assessment of the efficiency of encasing materials against house dust mites and their allergens” states that cotton allows a larger percentage of mite allergens to escape than microfibers.

Do They Get Dust Mites?

As opposed to what manufacturers promise you, every pillow available on the market is capable of harboring dust and mites. Microfiber pillows, however, have been scientifically proven to do the same.

Researchers from China published a report in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety suggesting serious infection-causing pathogens can enter the microfiber filling through the pillowcase.

The study also found that during the COVID-19 pandemic, microfiber pillows were considered a significant habitat and ecological barrier for the transmission of infections.

Do They Get Bed Bugs?

To increase sales, many manufacturers label their pillows as ‘resistant to bed bugs and insects.’ However, there is no scientific proof to validate this theory. Every pillow can attract bed bugs due to the presence of sweat, body oils, and food stains. 

Do They Get Mold and Mildew?

Most pillows can grow mold and mildew when exposed to water.

However, microfibers are extraordinarily absorbent, having the ability to soak up more than seven times their weight in water and then dry faster than regular fibers. 

Moreover, the natural anti-microbial compounds of microfibers help protect pillows from mold and mildew. Hence, they provide excellent insulation in all weather, making sure your pillows are safe from a damp environment. 

Do They Get Lumpy?

Because of age and use, microfiber pillows get lumpy. Other contributing factors include moisture retention because of insufficient drying as well as frequent and vigorous cleaning. 

The buildup of dust and dirt over time can be another reason for their lumpiness. Here’s how you can fix your lumpy pillows easily at home. 

Do They Go Flat?

Microfiber pillows can become flat as the microfibers deteriorate with time. This, however, doesn’t happen that often, since microfiber pillows do not lose their shape easily and can keep their initial contour for at least three years when used appropriately. 

Do They Turn Yellow?

With regular use and moisture accumulation, microfiber pillows tend to turn yellow. Some other reasons for their yellowing could be aging, dirt, old stains, and color bleeding from other fabrics. However, you can easily fix them at home.

Check out our in-depth article to learn more about why pillows turn yellow.

Do They Have Odor?

Because new microfiber pillows typically come packaged airtight in plastic, you might notice a scent that is similar to that of rubber. But as soon as you start using it, the smell fades away.

Are They Good for Side Sleepers?

The spine needs to remain horizontal if you choose to sleep on your side.  A microfiber pillow will uniformly distribute your weight and maintain the alignment of your head, neck, and spine to provide an optimal sleeping position.

Guide to Side Sleeping and the Best Pillows for This Position

Are They Good for Back Sleepers?

The support provided by microfiber pillows keeps your spine in the right place when you sleep and makes them a suitable choice for back sleepers. Choose a medium loft pillow for maximum comfort.

Guide to Back Sleeping and the Best Pillows for This Position

Are They Good for Stomach Sleepers?

Finding a pillow that is both flat and comfy is essential for individuals who sleep on their stomachs. Therefore, choosing a low-loft microfiber pillow will keep your head and neck in a straight line and will protect them from twisting abnormally to either side.

Guide to Stomach Sleeping and the Best Pillows for This Position

Are They Good for Hot Sleepers?

Yes, when it comes to heat dissipation, microfiber pillows aren’t as good as their synthetic counterparts. They can sometimes make a person feel uncomfortably hot and overwhelmed with heat during the warmer months. 

As a result, you’ll sweat more when you use microfiber pillows, and you may end up with a sticky feeling on your skin.

Are They Good for Neck Pain?

Microfiber pillows are soft to the touch and help relieve neck pain. They are firm enough to ensure your head stays at a healthy angle without letting it sink too deeply into the pillow. Microfibers are excellent if you have a sore neck since they relieve stress in the pain points. 

Are They Good For Back Pain?

Microfiber pillow’s synthetic fibers are durable and provide the back support most sleepers need. They usually retain their shape for a longer time than other pillows. The firm material provides better head support, preventing back pain.

Which Is Better: Microfiber or Memory Foam Pillow?

Microfiber pillows are a better option for people who want a more breathable pillow for less money. Microfiber is soft and fluffy, but memory foam is firm.

Microfiber pillows are also known for being more malleable than memory foam. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. Neither is superior to the other. 

Which Is Better: Microfiber or Down Pillow?

A microfiber pillow is denser than a Down pillow due to its synthetic fill. Down feathers aren’t as soft as microfiber, they are stiff and provide better support. They are also thicker than microfibers, but way more breathable.

To tell which one is better is not possible, since it depends on one’s needs. However, microfiber pillows are low-maintenance and a much more pocket-friendly option.  

Which Is Better: Microfiber or Feather Pillow?

Microfiber and Feather pillows, both are supportive and breathable. However, they are the exact opposite in terms of their fill. Feather pillows are filled with bird feathers, whereas microfiber pillows are a cruelty-free synthetic alternative.

Microfiber pillows are not as malleable but don’t become lumpy over time. Feather pillows are lightweight and comfortable but aren’t ideal for people looking for vegan products. 

Is Microfiber Better Than Polyester?

Microfiber and Polyester both are synthetic materials that have key features like affordability, durability, and softness. However, they still have their differences.

In terms of breathability and cost, microfiber pillows outperform polyester pillows. Polyester, on the other hand, gets points for being more durable and supportive. Microfibers have finer fiber, whereas polyester is resistant to shrinkage.

It is not fair to say which one is better since they have their qualities and drawbacks. 

Is Microfiber Better Than Cotton?

Microfiber pillows look exactly like cotton pillows. However, you can enjoy the perks of cotton pillows, like softness and comfort, inexpensively by choosing a microfiber pillow.

Cotton pillows are filled with organic fibers, making them suitable for people who are prone to allergies. Microfiber pillows, on the other hand, are known as a distant cousin of polyester, having finer synthetic fibers that make them long-lasting.

Choosing one over the other is a personal choice since they both have similar properties like softness, firmness, and breathability.

Can They Be Washed?

The microfiber pillows are washable, which makes them easy to clean. To keep dust and other allergens away, consider washing them every 6 months.

How To Wash Them By Hand?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to washing your pillows by hand:

1. Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. 
2. Put your pillows into the water and squeeze them to remove stains.
3. Let them soak for a while.
4. Take them out and squeeze the extra water out. 
5. Rinse them with clean water. 
6. Hang them outside to dry naturally. 

Are They Machine Washable?

Microfiber pillows are machine-washable. Most microfiber pillows come with a removable pillowcase, which can also be washed in the machine to keep your pillows safe.

Learn how to wash your pillows in this article. 

How To Machine-Wash Them?

Here’s how to machine-wash your microfiber pillows in 5 easy steps: 

1. Take the pillowcase out and wash them separately. 
2. Add a mild detergent to cold water.
3. Place your pillows and run them on a gentle wash.
4. Take them out when washing is finished.
5. Dry them in an air-dry setting.

How To Spot Clean Them?

To spot-clean your pillows, follow these 7 steps: 

1. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water. 
2. Add a small amount of mild detergent. 
3. Take a white towel and dip it into the mixture. 
4. Gently rub the wet cloth on the stains. 
5. Use clean water to absorb the soap.
6. Repeat the process until all the stains disappear. 
7. Use a blow dryer or leave them to dry naturally.

Can They Go Into The Dryer?

Yes, you can dry your microfiber pillows on a low setting at low-medium heat in the dryer. However, it is recommended to give it 1-2 spins to make sure they are completely dry.

Most microfiber pillows come with an easily removable case that can be dried individually or with other delicate clothes.

Should You Put Them In A Pillowcase?

Yes, keeping your microfiber pillow inside a pillowcase is essential to preserve it from exposure to moisture, body oils, cosmetic products, food stains, dead skin cells, dirt, dust, and other allergens.

Washing pillowcases regularly will help get rid of dust mites, which are tiny parasites that can irritate skin and aggravate allergy symptoms over time.

However, choosing a zippered pillowcase is advisable since it allows you to customize the filling to your liking. By adjusting the stuffing of your pillow, you can easily alter the loft and firmness. 

How Long Do They Last?

Microfiber pillows usually last 3 to 4 years. However, their life span depends on various factors, such as how often you wash them, how much you use them, and how well you take care of them. 

Are They Recyclable?

Microfiber-filled pillows are neither recyclable nor biodegradable. However, according to a published report on Springer by Shanthi Radhakrishnan, Preethi Vetrivel, Aishwarya Vinodkumar & Hareni Palanisa. Some recycled PET products can be used for filling pillows, which can prevent plastic from ending up in a landfill. 

Are They Toxic?

A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information in California discovered that individuals who slept daily on microfiber sheets had an increased urinary concentration of phthalates. Exposure to phthalates is known to be dangerous and can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and even cancer.

What To Look For When Buying A Microfiber Pillow?

While buying a microfiber pillow, look for the following aspects:

• Material: Choose a high-quality durable material.
• Price: some of the best microfiber pillows cost between $100 – $400. 
• Loft: high for side sleepers, medium for back sleepers, and low for stomach sleepers. 
• Density: a pillow with a higher density would be more resilient.
• Thread count: look for a pillowcase with a thread count of at least 230. 

When Should You Replace Them?

In general, you should get a new microfiber pillow every two to four years. But if you see any of these red flags, you might want to throw them away immediately:

• Physical deterioration of the pillow
• Visible lumps
• Lack of shape and support 
• Itchy skin or allergies
• Unpleasant odors
• Stubborn stains

The presence of lumps in microfiber pillows is an indication that they are losing their loft and conformity. If that’s the situation, you should think about recycling them or getting new ones. 

How Much Do They Cost?

A queen or king-size microfiber pillow usually costs between $14 and $500. A standard-sized pillow would cost $100-$150 less. You can also consider buying in bulk to get additional discounts. 

Where Can You Buy The Best Microfiber Pillow?

Buy the best microfiber pillows online on the following sites:

• Amazon
• Etsy
• Home Depot
• Walmart