RELIABLE SOURCES FOR IDEAL PILLOW INSERTS: SQUARE, LUMBAR, AND BOLSTER

ideal pillow insert size and type for decorative pillows

Pillow inserts, often overlooked in the realm of home decor, are as crucial to our comfort as a mattress on a bed frame. Furthermore, a high-quality pillow insert bestows your pillow with a designer aesthetic and a luxurious feel. Are you seeking a moldable insert that maintains its “V-shape”, or do you prefer a bouncier, more resilient option? In this guide, we'll delve into the advantages and drawbacks of various insert materials and suggest reliable sources where you can find the perfect inserts for your needs.

Where to get the perfect pillow inserts

For those of you who already have a clear preference for the type of pillow insert you're seeking, I'm pleased to offer recommendations for trusted sources with links where you can find the perfect inserts for Ciélle Home pillows sizes, whether you're in search of square, lumbar, or bolster pillow inserts. As a general rule, we recommend choosing inserts that are about 2" larger than your pillow covers.

Special note for bolster pillows

At Ciélle Home, we proudly offer optional firm foam inserts for all our bolster pillow sizes, which range from small neckrolls to oversized kings. These upholstery-grade foam inserts provide firm to extra-firm support, enhancing both the comfort and the designer aesthetics of your bolster pillow.

Conversely, if you prefer a softer yet still bouncy option, we recommend  bolster insert in down/feather or bolster insert in down alternative or Perma Soft from Pillowxpress. Please remember to order the appropriate insert size: a 7x18” insert for our 6x18” neckroll bolster, a 9x24” insert for the 8x24” twin bolster, a 9x36” insert for the 8x36” queen bolster, and a 9x48” insert for the 8x48” king bolster.

Comparing Key Types of Pillow Inserts

If you find yourself uncertain about which type of pillow inserts to select, I invite you to refer to the chart below, which provides a concise summary of the key characteristics of each option.

 

Down/Feather Insert

Down Alternative / Microfiber Insert

Polyester Insert with Woven Cover

Softness

Relatively soft and crisp, with increased softness as the down content rises

Soft and smooth

Soft and smooth

Bounciness

Not bouncy. Needs frequent fluffing to retain its sumptuous appearance

Bouncier compared to down/feather inserts

Remarkably bouncy and resilient

Moldability

Ideal for decorative purposes, as it's moldable and maintains its V-shaped top

Modest moldability, retains some V-shaped structure

Typically lacks moldability and the ability to maintain a V-shaped top

Support

Limited support, tends to flatten and not regain shape easily

Provides relatively good support for the head and back

Offers excellent support for the head and back

Cleaning

Potential allergen due to dust mite accumulation; Requires professional cleaning

Hypoallergenic;  Generally washable

Hypoallergenic;  Generally washable

Weight

Medium weight, lending a substantial feel

Light-medium weight

Light weight

Cost

Generally more expensive, with higher down content leading to increased cost

Typically more affordable

Typically more affordable

Other*

Most contain less than 10% down and mostly feathers; Feathers may protrude from the cover over time. (Read below for the difference between down and feathers)

 

 

Let's break it down further: 'down' refers to the fine feathers located beneath a bird's outer, tougher plumage. These feathers are typically sourced from the bird's soft belly, where they provide exceptional insulation to maintain warmth. Down fibers are known for their light and fluffy nature and their absence of quills. Conversely, 'feathers' are what you likely picture as the more common bird plumage, featuring a central spine with fibers or hairs fanning out to create the recognizable leaf-like shape. Due to its relative scarcity, down is much pricier than feathers.

Difference between feather and down pillow insert
Feather (left) | Down (right)

In My Opinion...

When considering all these factors, my recommendation often leans towards opting for down alternative or high-quality polyester inserts rather than traditional down/feather fillings. After all, your decorative throw pillows don't need to provide insulation and warmth like comforters do. So, why not choose options that are low-maintenance while still offering the desired look and feel?

Cielle Song, Founder of Cielle Home

Cielle Song

 

The founder of Ciélle Home, a self-taught textile designer turned entrepreneur, embarked on her creative journey with a fervent passion for crafting exceptional soft furnishing goods. In 2022, she transformed her artistic vision into reality by establishing Ciélle Home that resonates with elegance and comfort. Prior to that, she was a CPA and worked at Goldman Sachs for six years. This career transition underscores her unwavering commitment to pursuing her true calling and translating her innate creativity into beautifully curated soft goods that enrich homes worldwide.

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