What’s A Squishy Pillow? A Definitive Guide To Buying One.
A Squishy pillow is one that is filled with small beads or pieces of foam that conform to the shape of your head and neck. They are also known as microbead pillows, bead pillows, or bean pillows. Squishy pillows are usually cylindrical or rectangular in shape, but they can also come in other forms, such as animals, fruits, or characters.
Squishy pillows are very flexible and moldable, meaning you can twist, bend, or squeeze them into any position you like. They are also very lightweight and portable, making them ideal for travel or lounging. Squishy pillows can be used as a head pillow, a neck pillow, a back pillow, a body pillow, or even a decorative pillow.
How do Squishy Pillows Differ from Other Types of Pillows?
Squishy pillows have some unique characteristics that set them apart from other types of pillows. Here are some of the main differences:
- Fill: Squishy pillows are filled with tiny beads or pieces of foam that move around inside the pillow. Other types of pillows may be filled with feathers, down, cotton, polyester, latex, memory foam, or buckwheat hulls. These fillings may have different levels of firmness, loft, support, and durability.
- Feel: Squishy pillows have a very soft and squishy feel that adapts to your movements. They can also make a slight rustling noise when you move them. Other types of pillows may have a more solid and stable feel that retains its shape. They may also be more silent or more noisy depending on the filling.
- Temperature: Squishy pillows tend to be more breathable and cooling than other types of pillows. This is because the beads or foam allow for more air circulation within the pillow. Other types of pillows may trap more heat and moisture, making them warmer and less comfortable for hot sleepers.
- Maintenance: Squishy pillows are usually easy to clean and care for. Most of them have removable covers that can be machine-washed and dried. The fillings are also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold. Other types of pillows may require more frequent washing or fluffing, or they may need special cleaning methods or products.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of A Squishy Pillow?
Squishy pillows have some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before buying one. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Comfort: Squishy pillows are very comfortable and cozy for most sleepers. They can provide a gentle hug for your head and neck, relieving pressure points and promoting relaxation. They can also be adjusted to suit your preferred sleeping position and posture.
- Support: Squishy pillows can offer adequate support for your head and neck alignment. They can conform to the curves of your body and keep your spine in a neutral position. They can also help reduce snoring by elevating your head and opening your airways.
- Cooling: Squishy pillows can help you sleep cooler and more comfortably. They can regulate your temperature by allowing air to flow through the pillow. They can also wick away moisture and prevent sweating.
- Fun: Squishy pillows can add some fun and color to your bedroom. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns that can match your personality and style. They can also be used as toys or props for kids or adults.
Cons
- Durability: Squishy pillows may not last as long as other types of pillows. The beads or foam may lose their shape or volume over time, making the pillow flatter or lumpy. The cover may also wear out or tear easily.
- Odor: Squishy pillows may have an unpleasant odor when they are new or after prolonged use. The odor may come from the chemicals used to make the beads or foam, or from the sweat and oils absorbed by the pillow. The odor may fade over time or after washing the cover.
- Allergies: Squishy pillows may cause allergic reactions for some people who are sensitive to the materials used in the fillings or covers. The beads or foam may contain synthetic substances that can trigger skin rashes, itching, sneezing, or breathing difficulties.
- Noise: Squishy pillows may make some noise when you move them or change positions. The noise may come from the friction between the beads or foam inside the pillow. The noise may be annoying or distracting for some sleepers or their partners.

How to Choose the Best Squishy Pillow for Your Needs?
Squishy pillows are not all the same. They may vary in terms of size, shape, fill, cover, firmness, and price. To choose the best squishy pillow for your needs, you should consider the following factors:
- Size: Squishy pillows come in different sizes, ranging from small to large. The size of the pillow should match the size of your bed and your head. You should also consider how much space you have in your luggage if you plan to travel with your pillow.
- Shape: Squishy pillows come in different shapes, such as cylindrical, rectangular, or irregular. The shape of the pillow should suit your sleeping position and preference. You should also consider how the shape of the pillow affects its support and comfort.
- Fill: Squishy pillows are filled with either beads or foam. The fill of the pillow affects its feel, support, durability, and temperature. You should choose a fill that is comfortable, supportive, durable, and cooling for you.
- Cover: Squishy pillows have covers that are either removable or non-removable. The cover of the pillow affects its cleanliness, maintenance, and appearance. You should choose a cover that is easy to clean, hypoallergenic, and attractive for you.
- Firmness: Squishy pillows have different levels of firmness, ranging from soft to firm. The firmness of the pillow affects its conforming ability, pressure relief, and loft. You should choose a firmness that is comfortable, supportive, and suitable for your sleeping position and weight.
- Price: Squishy pillows have different prices, depending on their quality, brand, and features. The price of the pillow should fit your budget and expectations. You should also compare the prices of different squishy pillows and look for discounts or deals.
Conclusion
Squishy pillows are a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable, supportive, and fun pillow. They can provide a soft and squishy feel that conforms to your head and neck shape. They can also help you sleep cooler and more comfortably. However, squishy pillows also have some drawbacks that you should be aware of. They may not be very durable, odor-free, allergy-friendly, or noiseless.
To choose the best squishy pillow for your needs, you should consider several factors, such as size, shape, fill, cover, firmness, and price. You should also read customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of how other people like their squishy pillows. By doing some research and comparison shopping, you can find the perfect squishy pillow for your sleep needs.
I hope you enjoyed this article about squishy pillows. Did you check our contour swan pillow article? (You really should).