In today’s pillow fight where synthetic pillows are ruling the roost, millet pillows definitely deserve a mention. They are lesser-known yet one of the best natural alternatives.
What Are Millet Pillows?
Millet pillows are exactly what they are called – a pillow stuffed with millet hulls. The natural filling material is packed in a way it conforms to your head and neck, thereby providing better spinal alignment.
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What Are Millet Hulls?
Millet hulls are empty shells of millet seeds that are harvested and then dehulled. Since the seeds are tiny and round, the hulls have the same shape and are concave on the inside. They also retain the smooth, velvety texture of millet seeds without losing their sturdiness.
What Does Sleeping on Millet Pillows Feel Like?
Sleeping on millet pillows feels soft since your head sinks deeper into the pillow. Millet pillows are lighter than buckwheat pillows. Therefore, the pressure your head applies while you lie on one causes the millet hulls to slide away and create a cavity to provide an added neck support.
What Are Their Pros and Cons?
These are some of the pros and cons of millet pillows:
- Lightweight
- Easily customizable
- Softer in touch
- Contour well
- Extremely durable
- Excellent support
- Carry odor
- Require fluffing
- High maintenance
- Not too breathable
Are They Better Than Buckwheat Pillows?
Due to their bigger size and coarser texture, buckwheat husks are noisier than millet husks. The rustling sound can be annoying to some people. Millet hulls hold significantly less air and are thus substantially quieter than buckwheat.
However, both pillow types are environmentally friendly and renewable. They are also easily adjustable since the husks can be added or removed per your needs.
Here’s a list of their differences:
| Millet Pillows | Buckwheat Pillows |
|---|---|
| Less bulky | Bulkier |
| Less noisy | Noisier |
| Lighter | Heavier |
| Smoother | Rougher |
| Less breathable | More breathable |
| Stronger odor | Milder odor |
| Less support | More support |
Learn more about Buckwheat pillows here
Are They Hypoallergenic?
Millet pillows are inherently hypoallergenic, so you don’t have to worry about allergies. They are an excellent organic alternative for people looking for natural vegan options.
Are They Safe?
Filled with 100% organic millet hulls, millet pillows are soft, hypoallergenic, and thermally neutral. They can be easily customized by adding or removing hulls. The millet hulls move freely and provide an excellent sleep experience. They are highly recommended for better neck and head support.
Moreover, millet pillows are non-toxic. Since millet hulls are derived from grout plants, these pillows are a great alternative to traditional down and latex pillows. They’re known for their hypoallergenic and pesticide-free nature; they’re also organic and easily renewable.
Are They Eco-Friendly?
Filled with organic millet hulls, millet pillows are easily renewable and break down naturally, making them biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Are They Hot to Sleep On?
The small millet hulls block airflow, making them less efficient in moving air and transporting heat than buckwheat pillows. However, they are still more breathable than down and feather pillows.
Are They Good for Side Sleepers?
Side sleepers constantly struggling with neck and back pain can benefit from the Millet pillow’s smoothness. The supportive, conforming, and pressure-relieving properties of millet hulls make them ideal for side sleepers.
Are They Good for Back Sleepers?
The millet pillow’s extra padding feel due to their organic hulls provides proper posture and lumbar support for back sleepers. Since these pillows are thermal-efficient, they are excellent for overnight sweating.
Can You Be Allergic to Them?
Millet pillows are known for their hypoallergenic properties and inhospitable nature toward pathogens and dust mites, making them allergy-free and suitable for sensitive people.
Do They Cause Neck Pain?
The natural millet hulls are soft and comfortable, which can help alleviate neck discomfort and pain. They are highly recommended for neck-related problems since they conform to the neck shape better than regular pillows.
Can Sleeping On Them Hurt Your Back?
Sleeping on a millet pillow gives extra support and softness, which helps relieve back pain. It is recommended to fluff the pillow before sleeping to get the desirable loft.
Users are also advised not to use tight pillowcases and to allow the millet hulls to move freely. It can help the pillow contour your shape better while providing lumbar support.
How Often Should They Be Replaced?
Unlike regular pillows, millet pillows don’t need replacement every 1-2 years. As long as you’re cleaning your pillowcases while drying your millet seeds in the sun, they don’t need a replacement for at least the next ten years.
Since millet pillows can last for a decade with proper care, it is advised to take precautions to maintain them for a long time. It is recommended to spot-clean your millet pillows whenever needed.
Can You Wash Them in the Machine?
Yes. Empty your millet pillows into a large container to air out and wash the outer case once in a while. You can machine-wash your pillowcase along with other light-colored laundry or bedding. Avoid using high temperatures as it can cause shrinkage to your pillowcase.
How to Wash Pillows by Hand and in a Machine – Complete Guide
How Do You Dry Them?
Once you’re done washing your pillowcases, put them into a household dryer and set the heat to low. You can also hang the pillow cover outside in the sun. They must be dried completely as moisture can cause allergies and an unpleasant odor.
How Do You Fluff Them Up?
Lay your pillowcase down and fill it with millet hulls to get the required loft. Lift your pillow up and evenly distribute the hulls. Once you’re done stuffing the millet inside, give it a shake and slowly press with both your hands.
Gently drying your case using a low-heat setting can help you eliminate wrinkles and make your pillows look fluffy.
How Long Do They Last?
Millet pillows usually last a decade if properly taken care of. This is due to their natural hull filling. Eventually, the millet hulls slowly break down, but you can easily add more to get the required loft.
The disadvantage of millet hulls is that they are smaller, making them more difficult to remove from the pillow.
How to Make Millet Pillows?
Start by choosing the right material for your pillowcase. Cotton and rayon are two excellent options that will last you for years. Use your old pillow to take measurements. Leave extra space for the zipper and seams. Stuff your pillowcase with millet hulls and secure the opening to keep the fill inside. Check out this step-by-step tutorial to make a millet pillow:
Do They Have an Odor?
Millet hulls can have a very strong smell that can be bothersome to some people. Its natural odor resembles the smell of bird feathers. However, with daily use, it fades away.
In Which Cases Wouldn’t They Work?
The reason most people avoid using millet pillows is that they are high-maintenance. Washing them is a tedious task as it requires you to empty them.
Another reason for their unpopularity is that they’re noisier than regular synthetic pillows. The natural millet odor is also a drawback. However, the smell reduces over time with daily use.
How Much Do They Cost?
A millet pillow usually costs about $50 – $80, depending on its size and filling. It can take 7-8 pounds of millet hulls to fill a standard-sized pillow.
Where Can You Buy the Best Millet Pillows Online?
Millet pillows can be found anywhere on eCommerce sites. The best sites have been listed below.