How do I adjust the pillow to suit my sleeping position?
The pillow features a zippered opening that allows full access to the wool filling. For side sleepers who need substantial height to maintain neck alignment, keep the pillow fully filled or add extra wool. For back sleepers, remove a small amount of filling to achieve medium loft. For front sleepers who need minimal height, remove more filling until you achieve the flat profile that prevents neck strain. You can experiment freely until you find your perfect configuration. Many customers adjust seasonally or as their preferences change.
How does wool temperature regulation work in a pillow?
Wool fibres have a crimped structure that creates tiny air pockets. When you’re warm, these fibres release excess heat and allow air circulation around your head. When you’re cool, the same fibres trap warm air for insulation. This active regulation is particularly valuable for head temperature, as significant body heat escapes through the head during sleep. Unlike memory foam or synthetic fills that trap heat, or feather fills that provide static insulation, wool adapts dynamically to your needs throughout the night.
Is this suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and creates an environment hostile to dust mites, which require moisture to survive. The dry microclimate wool creates a barrier that prevents dust mite colonisation that plagues synthetic and feather pillows. Wool also naturally resists mould and bacteria without chemical treatments. Many customers with allergies, asthma, or sensitive skin report significant improvement in symptoms after switching to wool pillows. The British wool is naturally washed without harsh chemicals, making it ideal for those with sensitivities.
How do I care for and wash this pillow?
The cotton cover is machine washable. Unzip and remove the wool filling first. Wash the cover following standard cotton care instructions. The wool filling should be aired regularly outdoors on sunny days, which naturally refreshes and sanitises the fibres. If the wool needs washing, hand wash separately in a netted bag using wool detergent at a low temperature, then air dry thoroughly. Most customers find regular airing sufficient, with wool washing only necessary if soiled. This maintenance is considerably easier than laundering entire feather or synthetic pillows.
Will the wool filling clump or become lumpy?
British wool maintains its structure beautifully when properly cared for. Regular fluffing and shaking keep the fibres evenly distributed. If you notice any compression, simply unzip the pillow and tease the wool clusters apart by hand to restore loft. The adjustability actually makes maintenance easier than fixed-fill pillows, as you can directly access and refresh the filling. Many customers report that their wool pillows maintain consistent performance for years with this simple care.
How does this compare to memory foam or synthetic pillows?
Memory foam and synthetic pillows trap heat, don’t breathe, and often contain chemicals that off-gas. They also lose support relatively quickly, typically flattening within 1-2 years. Wool pillows actively regulate temperature, wick moisture, are completely natural, and maintain their supportive structure for 5-10 years. The adjustability means you’re not stuck with whatever firmness the manufacturer chose. For those concerned about sleeping on petrochemical-derived materials or who struggle with overheating, wool is vastly superior.
What about feather or down pillows?
Feather and down provide good insulation but less temperature regulation than wool. They can trap moisture, making them more susceptible to dust mite colonisation. They’re also not adjustable, so if the loft isn’t right, you’re stuck. Some people have allergies to feather proteins. Wool offers better moisture management, natural hypoallergenic properties, and the ability to customise the fill amount to your exact needs. Both are natural options, but wool’s adjustability and superior moisture control make it more versatile.
How much filling should I remove or add?
This is entirely personal and depends on your sleeping position and preference. Start with the pillow as supplied and sleep on it for a few nights. If you wake with neck pain or feel your head is too elevated, remove a handful of wool. If you feel you need more support, add wool (extra filling available separately). Most customers find their perfect configuration within a week of experimentation. Side sleepers typically use 80-100% of the supplied fill, back sleepers 60-80%, front sleepers 40-60%.
Is this pillow suitable for hot sleepers or night sweats?
Exceptionally so. Wool’s moisture-wicking properties actively draw perspiration away from your head, and the breathable structure allows heat to dissipate. Many customers specifically purchase wool pillows to address overheating issues with their previous synthetic or memory foam pillows. The temperature regulation is particularly beneficial for those experiencing menopausal hot flushes or night sweats. The ability to adjust fill also means you can reduce loft during warmer months if desired.
How long will this pillow last?
With proper care, British wool pillows typically last 5-10 years, significantly longer than synthetic alternatives that need replacing every 1-2 years. The natural resilience of wool fibres means they bounce back after compression night after night. The adjustability also extends lifespan, as you can add extra wool filling if the original compresses over years of use. When calculated as cost per year of use, wool pillows represent excellent value despite a higher initial investment.
