Brielle Home Premium Bamboo Sateen Sheet Review

If you’re looking to change things up in the bedroom, the Brielle Home’s Premium Bamboo Sateen Sheet set is a soft and seemingly breathable alternative to cotton sheets. The important characteristics of these sheets are really in the details. Read on for my full review.

 

Which Set Did I Get?

I got the 100% Rayon from Premium Bamboo Sateen Queen Sheet Set in Gunmetal. The set comes with:

• One flat sheet. The finished size is 90-inches x 102-inches.
• One fully elasticized deep pocket fitted sheet. It fits a mattress that is 60-inches x 80-inches and can fit mattresses up to 17-inches deep.
• Two standard pillowcases The finished size for these is 20-inches x 30-inches but can fit pillows 20-inches x 26-inches.

These sheets are made from rayon from bamboo. Rayon is a type of fiber that comes from natural products like trees or bamboo plants.

The sheet set I am reviewing is part of Brielle’s Upscale Bedding line (there is also an Everyday Bedding line). The Premium Bamboo Sateen bedding is one of the most expensive on the line.

Brielle Home rates their own products and provides a chart and graph in the sheet set.

The set that I got received an 88 out of 100. Of the This was the second lowest highest score, despite being one of the most expensive product in the Upscale Bedding line.

The sheets are rated on their softness, durability, and breathability. The softness and durability of the sheets were rated “Very Good” while the durability received a “Good” rating. None of the characteristics received an “Excellent” rating.

Brielle is a registered trademark of Zorlu, a logistics, warehousing, and textiles company that manufactures bedding, towels, bathrobes and windows.

The packaging on this particular set of sheets said they were made in China.

Brielle Home Premium Bamboo Sateen Sheet Review

4.1 Reviewer

Summary

Overall the sheet set was comfortable and draped nicely over my bed. The set fit quite well on my queen sized bed and 10-inch deep mattress and I am sure it would work with a thicker mattress as well. I did not like that it wrinkled so easily or that it was made from rayon from bamboo because I am skeptical about the manufacturing process.

Durability3.6

Style4.5

Weight3.8

Comfort4.6

Value (Price)3.9

How Do They Feel Like?

From previous experience with sateen sheets, I know the weave is intended to produce a fabric that is silky and soft to the touch.

The sheets were soft when I pulled them out of their package, but not cashmere soft. I was also surprised by how heavy they felt. They were heavily creased from being in their packaging for so long.

The sheets came with a small insert that provided specific care instructions:

• Wash cold
• Dry on low heat and remove promptly from the dryer
• Do not use bleach
• Touch up ironing may be required

I liked that they told me exactly what I needed to do with the sheets. They also provided a list of care tips that included recommending using a front load washer, which I happen to have.

I washed the sheets by themselves in a cold, gentle cycle with a mild detergent from Seventh Generation.

When I switched the sheets from the washer to the dryer, they felt heavier compared to wet cotton sheets. They were also even stiffer than they were straight out of the packaging.

I used a low heat to dry the sheets. The recommendation is to take them out quickly from the dryer (and I assume put them directly on your bed). I think they say this because the fabric creases pretty easily.

The sheets were their softest once I removed them from the dryer after their first wash and dry. They felt silkier and draped nicely over the bed.

I wasn’t able to remove them immediately, so when they were on my bed they were fairly wrinkled, the pillowcases were the most wrinkled.

The fit on my queen size bed was great. I liked the deeper aspect of the fitted sheet. My mattress is 10-inches thick and there is plenty of room for thicker mattresses. I like knowing it won’t come off while I sleep.

Quality Issues

The sheet set packaging talks a lot about the natural benefits of bamboo, from its antibacterial and deodorizing qualities to its breathability and comfort.

While it is hard to review antibacterial or antifungal qualities, I never felt that my bedding retained any sort of smell in the four days I had them on my bed.

I also want to mention that other reviewers found that their sheets shrank after their initial wash. There were other complaints about the lack of overall durability and pilling of the fabric after washing.

I personally did not experience any of these things but wanted to note them as they popped up in several other reviews.

Fabric Labeling

The sheet fabric is labeled as 100% Rayon from Bamboo. According to Federal Trade Commission guidelines, sellers must disclose if textiles are made are made from rayon (or viscose) using bamboo.

Textiles can only be called 100% bamboo if they are made directly from bamboo fiber. You can read more about the manufacturing process of bamboo fiber here.

Breathability

Of the four nights I used the sheets, I only woke up because I was too hot once. If I did sweat it was not absorbed into the sheets and once I adjusted my layers I was fine.

My husband (a volunteer reviewer) said that he felt the fabric breathed well. He runs a little hot naturally. He felt like the sheets kept him cool enough to be comfortable.

Price

These sheets are sold through many retailers. I found them on Amazon, Overstock.com, Kohl’s and Wayfair.com. The prices varied but the price range was around $88 – $110 for a queen sheet set.

The sheets were nice and comfortable but fell short of luxurious for me which is why I feel like anything over $100 for a set would be too much. If you can find them for less I think it is worth giving them a try.

Small Details

The brand does a good job of providing a lot of information about the sheet set, including how it compares to other products in its line and how to care for it.

They do disclose that their sheets are made from rayon from bamboo, but there are several large placements on their packaging that just say “100% Bamboo” which can be misleading because these are actually two different things.

The sheets wrinkle easily. If you don’t like wrinkles you may need to be willing to do some ironing or be available to put the sheets on your bed immediately after drying.

I don’t think you will find the same “crisp” feeling you would with percale cotton sheets. My husband said the sheets were comfortable because they felt like they’d been worn in already.

The sheets do feel much softer after they are washed and dried for the first time.

Overall

These sheets are generally soft and breathable and I thought they fit my bed wonderfully. I did not have a hard time sleeping in them.

They were heavier than I thought they would be and also wrinkled very easily. I think the idea of needing to iron these sheets could be a dealbreaker for some.

The biggest issue for me is the fabric quality. The sheets are made with rayon from bamboo and the chemical process in which these fibers are produced is not environmentally friendly.

More importantly, the Federal Trade Commission warns customers that when bamboo is processed into rayon, “no trace of the original plant is left.”

This makes me skeptical about whether or not the sheets are actually antibacterial, antifungal or deodorizing. If these qualities are as important to you as they are to me, it is worth making sure you know how your sheet fibers are manufactured before purchasing.

Brielle also makes sheets with Tencel fiber, which is a greener alternative to rayon from bamboo, and may be worth trying.

The post Brielle Home Premium Bamboo Sateen Sheet Review appeared first on Mattress Clarity.

Bamboo in Bed: How Bamboo Finds Its Way into Sleep Products

When we talk about bamboo we often think of the versatile plant as a snack for pandas (or for us!), or something our friend has just installed as flooring or furniture in their new house. Some of us may even have lucky bamboo plants sitting in our offices – anything to boost our chances at buying that winning lotto ticket, right?

In its natural state, bamboo fiber is naturally moisture wicking, hypoallergenic and strong as it is silky, making it the perfect material to add to bedding like sheets and pillows.

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to just how the bamboo plant becomes a textile and what parts of the manufacturing process you need to focus on when deciding if the bedding is right for you.

What Is Bamboo Fiber?

Bamboo fiber comes from the species of bamboo that is most like timber (there are more than 1,400 species altogether). The manufacturing process of bamboo fiber varies based on the desired fabric production.

In general, the plant is harvested – at an age specified by the manufacturer – and taken to a facility where it is crushed and often immersed in a liquid mixture – this varies but is often sodium hydroxide. During this process, the bamboo cellulose is dissolved. A chemical – carbon disulfide is frequently used – is then added to the solution which allows the fibers to be regenerated and drawn off the plant.

Once the fibers are removed from the plant, they are then bleached, dried, and ready to be woven into a fabric or textile.

How Is Bamboo Fabric Made?

There are three different types of bamboo fabric on the market today. The main differences in these are based on the manufacturing process of the fibers used to weave the fabric.

Bamboo Rayon (Viscose): You may notice that bamboo sheets and other textiles feel a lot like the silky smooth texture of rayon. That’s because rayon fabrics are created with essentially the same process – the natural material is converted into a fiber through a chemical process.

This process is commonly referred to as a viscose process (the bamboo is dissolved in a viscose solution). The main concern with this manufacturing process is the use of toxic chemicals, like carbon disulfide, in the fiber manufacturing process.

Recently, the Federal Trade Commission has cracked down on the labeling of bamboo products, like sheets, as 100% Bamboo. According to the FTC, the process of making Bamboo rayon strips the fibers of any of their natural health benefits, including anti-microbial properties.

Bedding or other fabrics made with this process must be labeled as “rayon made from bamboo.”

Tencel Bamboo (Lyocell): Bamboo products made with fiber manufactured through the lyocell process (can be found under the brand name Tencel) are considered to be a more eco-friendly alternative to a viscose fiber and rayon bamboo fabric.

Lyocell fibers are created with the same regenerated cellulose fiber process, but involve the use of non-toxic solvents to dissolve the bamboo and the use of a closed- loop system (think minimal waste and low emissions).

Water consumption is also reduced in this process and has been used by environmentally conscious brands as a greener and more sustainable processing option for bamboo fabric.

Fabrics will be labeled as Bamboo Lyocell.

Bamboo Linen: The fabrication process for bamboo linen is the same as other linen fabrics like cotton. And just like those linen pants sitting in your cotton, the fabric tends to wrinkle easily. It is also not considered as soft as viscose processed or lyocell processed options. While it is a durable option, it will be higher maintenance (unless you love ironing!).

Fabrics will be labeled as Bamboo Linen.

A Bamboo/Cotton blend is also on the market. It tends to be 60 or 70 percent bamboo rayon and 30 or 40 percent cotton, which makes it stronger than 100 percent bamboo but not as soft.

Is Bamboo Fabric Antibacterial?

The bamboo plant contains natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) say that when bamboo is manufactured into rayon, no trace of the original plant is left.

The best way to learn about the benefits of the product you’re interested in purchasing is to research the company’s manufacturing process. According to the FTC, “If a company claims its product is made with bamboo, it should have reliable scientific evidence to show it’s made with bamboo fiber.”

Does Thread Count Matter in Bamboo Sheets?

Cotton sheet quality is often thought about in terms of thread count (though I don’t think this should be a hard and fast rule). Bamboo rayon is said to be softer than cotton so a lower thread count may still produce extremely soft sheets.

How Do I Care for my Bamboo Sheets?

Since bamboo fibers are different than cotton, there is a different treatment plan for bamboo sheets. Bamboo sheets will often come with personalized care instructions for the best care of their specific fabrics. Here are some general guidelines for sheet care:

Avoid bleach and vinegar based products. Bleach and acids like vinegar can damage your bamboo sheets. Opt for more natural cleaning ingredients like baking soda.

Wash sheets before use and in cool water with a gentle cycle. Darker colored sheets may bleed more during the first wash so make sure to wash with darker or similar colored fabrics.

Dry on a low and gentle cycle as well. Some brands will encourage you to hang or air dry if that possible.

The post Bamboo in Bed: How Bamboo Finds Its Way into Sleep Products appeared first on Mattress Clarity.

TravelMate Neck Support Travel Pillow Review

While the TravelMate Neck Support Pillow is certainly an upgrade from an inflatable neck pillow, but it’s not checking all of our boxes. Read on for the full review.

Who Makes It?

The name TravelMate sounded vaguely familiar when I received my pillow. I originally thought it was a company name, but on the pillow’s packaging, it states that TravelMate is a registered trademark of IPT LLC. I did a decent amount of online sleuthing but was not able to figure out exactly what type of company IPT LLC is or what other products they manufacture.

I was always directed to Amazon to purchase TravelMate pillows. Aside from pillows, it looks like IPT LLC also makes seat cushions under the TravelMate trademark.

Key Features

• 11” x 12” x 3.8”
• 5.9-oz weight
• Memory foam filling
• Removable foam insert
• 75% Cotton/ 25% Polyester cover
• Carry-on luggage attachment
• Machine Washable/Dryable
• Removable cover
• Multiple color options

Pros:

• Loop for carry-on luggage
• Removable foam insert allows you to adjust position based on preference
• Zippered and removable/washable cover
• Responsive memory foam filling
• Soft fabric cover
• Works with earbuds/headphones

Cons:

• Fabric bled upon first wash
• Label recommends ventilating pillow cover before use
• No chin support so there’s potential for your head to fall forward
• Several (recent) reviews of the seam ripping
• No way to compact it to a smaller size for packing
• It was not dense enough to support my neck comfortably

My Experience

The pillow comes in a clear package with a large white label that highlights several features of the pillow, who makes it, and a rather lengthy disclaimer about ventilating the pillow.

This is the first pillow I’ve seen that has a paragraph dedicated to informing me that my pillow may have a “distinct smell” that should dissipate in a few days and encourages me to remove the cover to let it “air out.”

Alright, I will definitely do that. Despite the fact that the note says the smell is “natural and harmless”, it seems like a lot of effort to tell me to air it out and I don’t want to risk figuring out what happens if I don’t.

There is another paragraph warning people with allergies to wait a few days before using this pillow as well. I don’t have issues with allergies related to different scents so I had no issues at all.

I do my due diligence and let my pillow air out on my back porch for two days. After, I removed the cover and gentle machine washed it in warm water (as per instructions).

The deep blue fabric definitely bled. I used a dye catching sheet in the washer and it came out blue. My washer was also filled with small pieces of blue fabric that came off the cover during the wash.

The plush fabric of the cover and squishy memory foam gives this pillow a feeling of luxury and comfort. It’s got some weight to it and feels substantial.

When I placed the pillow around my neck it stayed in place and felt comfortable.

This pillow has recently been re-designed to include a removable section in the back (near the base of your spine). This removable piece of foam keeps your head from being pushed forward in a high-backed chair.

The memory foam filling is nice and I agree with the other reviewers who prefer it to the inflatable neck pillow. However, I have a hard time seeing myself being able to fall asleep with this for a long cross-country flight.

I’m a side sleeper so when I’m traveling my head tends to fall to the side and I didn’t find enough support from this neck pillow to keep my neck from getting stiff. The memory foam just wasn’t firm enough for me.

What I did find comfortable was taking out the removable foam section in the back of the pillow and resting my head back (while reclining slightly) in my nursery chair. The removable section stops my head from being pushed forward and provides a decent amount of support.

I’m also able to wear my headphones with this pillow and have no issues.

Review 0

3.5 Reviewer

Summary

Overall I thought this pillow was a good value for the price. It is soft and the responsive memory foam filling is nice. I like the added features that allow me to connect the pillow to a carry-on back and the removable piece of foam in the back of the pillow. However, the fabric did bleed and I wasn't able to rest my head to the side comfortably because the pillow filling was not firm enough.

Durability3.3

Style3.7

Weight3.3

Space3.2

Versatility3.5

My Experience3.8

Value (Price)4

What You Need to Consider Before Buying

While this pillow’s memory foam filling and plush removable cover make it a nice place to rest your head, but it really is best suited for travelers who want to lay their heads back as it does not provide neck-brace level stability.

The pillow does not provide chin support so there is the potential for your head to fall forward when resting with the pillow in an upright position.

The fabric did bleed when I first washed it and a handful of pieces of fabric came out in the washer as well.

The packaging did come with a disclaimer about a “new foam smell” and encouraged me to air out the pillow before use. Keep this in mind if you’re looking to purchase and use this pillow immediately.

Other reviewers mentioned the seam ripping easily but I have not had that issue yet.

Price

Amazon has this pillow listed at $12.99 (originally $28) and I cannot find it sold anywhere else online. That seems like a good price to me for a memory foam-filled pillow that is very soft.

I like that it has additional features, like the ability to add it to carry-on luggage and to remove the cover and throw it in the wash.

 

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Compressible Pillow Travel Pillow Review

The straightforward and compact nature of the Compressible Pillow makes it a great fit for any traveler who misses the comforts of their traditional bed pillow. Read on for my full review.

Who Makes It

The Compressible Pillow is made by Therm-a-Rest, an outdoor product company that makes camping gear like mattresses, sleeping bags and pillows. The Compressible Pillow is one of six types of pillows they produce.

Therm-a-Rest recommends the Compressible Pillow for any type of travel, whether it be international trips or a road trip adventure. The company says that between their manufacturing facilities in Seattle and Cork, Ireland, the majority of their products are built by Therm-a-Rest employees.

Key Features

• 14” x 18” (size Medium)
• Nine ounces
• 4-inch thickness
• Traditional Pillow Shape
• 4 color options
• Compact
• Machine washable and dryable
• Urethane foam filling
• Brushed polyester cover material
• Pillow tucks into itself – no travel case needed

My Experience

When I first unrolled the Compressible Pillow from its small, cylindrical travel shape into a rectangle, I was worried. The pillow felt lumpy and flat and I could not imagine how it would be comfortable as a regular pillow, let alone on a plane or in a car.

There is a small tag on the pillow that indicates that it has been compressed (if the name didn’t already give that away). In order to restore it, you must “simply shake and fluff pillow” and for ultimate loft, you should machine wash and tumble dry. Highly skeptical, I threw the pillow into a gentle cycle in my washing machine.

When I pulled the pillow from the washer, it was full and firm and a huge change from the pillow I first unwrapped. I also ran it on a low tumble dry and it came out no worse for the wear.

The particular pillow I’m reviewing is a size Medium, which is 14” x 18” and weighs about nine ounces. For reference, a standard bed pillow is roughly 20” x 26”.

At its maximum loft, the pillow feels like the perfect size for travel. It’s larger than the pillow offerings on most airplanes but noticeably smaller than a standard-size pillow (which means you won’t be bumping your neighbor).

According to camping retailer R.E.I., the Compressible Pillow is made from extra foam pieces used to make Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads. Despite being filled with various sized and shaped pieces of foam, the pillow is not super lumpy. It’s not as smooth as an inflatable pillow, but it’s very comfortable.

Because the Compressible Pillow is in a traditional pillow shape and made for all sorts of travel and outdoor exposure, it is very durable and versatile. I easily napped with it on my couch, in a high-backed chair in my nursery and felt comfortable with it pressed against my car window on a long trip.

The cover fabric is Brushed Polyester, which gives it a nice softness. Unlike other travel pillows, it grips materials and prevents the pillow from slipping down the side of a plane or car window (or the side of your face).

It is not a neck pillow, so you will miss some of that neck support. Therm-a-Rest does make a neck pillow which I’d be interested in checking out. But if you are a side sleeper (like me) and prefer the feeling of something pressed against the side of your face, I think this pillow is a great option for a road trip or window seat on a plane or train.

I also really liked how easy it was to roll up and pack away. There is a pocket on one end of the pillow and all you need to do is roll the opposite end up like you would a sleeping bag, tuck it into the pocket and tighten the accompanying drawstring and you’re ready to go. No extra travel bags or cases to keep track of.

Compressible Pillow

4 Reviewer

Summary

Overall I thought this pillow was a great value due to its space saving abilities and its durable outer cover. I also liked that the pillow was machine washable and dryable and could be compressed into a smaller size. I did not like that it didn't have a way for me to attach it to a carry-on and I didn't love how lumpy the pillow got after a lot of use.

Durability4.5

Style4

Weight3.8

Space4.2

Versatility4

My Experience3.9

Value (Price)3.8

What You Need to Consider Before Buying

This pillow comes from a company known for its camping products. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad air travel pillow, but I think the focus is on being compact, easy to pack and durable.

The fabric cover is not plush, but plenty soft. It does not have a latch or strap to attach to the outside of a carry-on bag or piece of luggage.

It does take a little time (and patience) to get this pillow to its maximum loft without a washer and dryer.

I shook and tossed the pillow around for about 10 minutes before I felt like it was at a comfortable firmness. It will get there, but don’t expect to be able to use it comfortably immediately after unrolling.

The pillow is not as smooth as other travel pillows – the foam pieces make it a little lumpy but after it’s been through the dryer the lumps are less obvious.

Price

The price for a Compressible Pillow ranges from $19.99 to $34.95 depending on size. A Medium size is $22.95.

This seems like a fair price for the quality of the pillow. I think the fabric is durable, it’s machine washable and dryable and it compacts nicely for travel.

I like that I can use it in a variety of travel settings and that it was firm enough for me to fall asleep using. When I’ve rolled it back up I am able to use it as a lower back pillow.

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Evolution Pillow Travel Pillow Review

While the Evolution Pillow may be a good travel pillow option for people who want a high level of support and stabilization, I personally found the pillow to be so firm it was uncomfortable. Read on for my full review.

Who Makes It

The Evolution Pillow is made by Cabeau, a company whose products are designed to help make travel more comfortable. One of their goals is “transforming Coach-Class woes into a First-Class experience.” The Evolution Pillow, created by CEO David Sternlight, debuted in 2009 and was their first product.

According to the website, Sternlight, a former professional basketball player who stands at 6’8”, was inspired to create the Evolution Pillow when he could not get comfortable while traveling. In addition to travel pillows, Cabeau also sells items likes socks, backpacks, travel adapters and umbrellas.

Key Features of the Evolution Pillow

• 9.5 x 10 x 5 inches
• 11.6 ounces in weight
• 100% Polyurethane Memory Foam filling
• 80% cotton, 20% polyester cover
• 360° neck and head support
• Patented ergonomic design
• Removable and washable cover
• Cover comes in a variety of colors and patterns
• Pocket for media player
• Comes with travel case and foam earplugs

Evolution Pillow

4 Reviewer

Summary

The neck pillow, while well-designed and quite soft, was too large and too firm for me. I was unable to wear earbuds comfortably while using the pillow. My iPhone 6 did not fit into built-in the media holder pocket unless I removed the case. It has a lot of strong features and was clearly designed with comfort in mind, however it was just not a good fit for me.

Durability3.8

Style4.6

Weight3.6

Space4.2

Versatility4.3

My Experience3.5

Value (Price)3.7

My Experience

The Evolution Pillow’s unique design piqued my interest immediately. It comes in clear packaging and its label touts many features, from memory foam filling to its ergonomic design and built-in holder for your media player.

When I placed it around my neck I immediately felt engulfed. The raised side supports on the pillow touched the bottom of my earlobes and traced my cheekbones.

The pillow looked bigger on my neck in comparison to the people in the photos on the packaging. For reference, I’m 5’7” – not that petite!

The ends of the pillow have adjustable strings and plastic toggles that snap together, allowing you to connect the horseshoe shape. The ability to customize this part of the pillow is a major plus for me.

Cabeau highlights the Evolution Pillow’s ability to rotate 360° and be used in any direction. They also suggest using it backward if you want to stop your head from falling forward.

I’ve never worn a neck brace, but I imagine it would feel something similar to this. There is a lot of filling and it’s very firm (as memory foam tends to be). My head and neck were fairly stabilized and I could see that being convenient when I’m on a plane and I don’t want to wake up when my head falls to the side.

The pillow was just a little too large for me and for that reason I think I wasn’t able to get 100% comfortable and relax enough to fall asleep when I tested it in my car and in a high-backed chair in my house.

The back of the Evolution Pillow is designed with a flat back – intended to prevent your head from being pushed forward. I truly did feel a difference here and I was able to rest with my headphones in when I laid my head back.

I had an issue with the raised sides of the pillow. They prevented me from being able to wear my earbuds and try to sleep with my head tilted to the side. The sides pushed against my ears and made it uncomfortable to have headphones on.

Another feature that some reviewers liked, but fell short for me, was the built-in holder for the media player. I was not able to get my iPhone 6 into the holder easily with the case on.

Without a case, my phone fit well and did not slide out. But I am clumsy and drop my phone on a daily basis (having an infant does not help the situation, either!) It’s way too risky for me to take it out of the case just to put in the holder.

As noted in the key features, the pillow comes with a small attachable travel bag that is said to compact the pillow to a quarter of its original size.

Instructions are provided on the website with two ways (beginner and expert levels) to pack the pillow for your trip.

The “Stuff and Fold” technique (for beginners), was definitely the easiest. It did still require a decent amount of arm strength to stuff the pillow into the travel case. I thought the expert-level, or “Cinnamon Roll” technique, was the best for getting the pillow as small as possible.

I also followed the instructions and gently machine washed and dried the removable pillow cover. I read a few other reviews and the authors mentioned that the fabric color bled, so I used a color catching in-wash dye trapping sheet. The fabric did bleed so I would heartily advise washing this alone before use!

What You Need to Consider Before Buying

The size of the pillow and the stability provided by the foam, while nice for some, was just too much for me. Those who value firmness and use memory foam mattresses or pillows at home may enjoy this travel pillow.

I wasn’t able to wear my headphones (or earbuds) comfortably and still rest my head to the side using the pillow. This was a complaint that I read from a couple other reviewers as well.

The media player only held my iPhone 6 when I removed the cover. I drop my phone a lot. Removing the cover is just not a risk I can take!

There were also several reviews that mentioned the poor quality of the travel bag and that it was damaged and/or broke after a couple uses. I used it several times to pack and re-pack the pillow but had no issues with it.

The dye bled slightly when I washed the removable pillow cover for the first time. Since my pillow was a bubblegum pink it wasn’t super noticeable. However, I’d be cautious if using a deep blue or black pillow cover for the first time.

Price

Based on my experience testing the Evolution Pillow, I think $40 for the pillow is a bit steep. I understand a lot of thought went into the design and there were a couple features of the pillow I think created value.

The flat back design which prevents the back of your head from being pushed forward when seated upright is an excellent detail and made the pillow more comfortable for me.

The adjustable toggles that allow you to customize the tightness of the pillow around your neck was also a nice feature and definitely took the concept of the neck pillow up a level.

For me, the size of the pillow and the firmness just made it a bad.

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J-Pillow Travel Pillow Review

It’s not perfect, but the J-Pillow Travel Pillow is a great option for side sleepers who are looking for a comfortable neck pillow alternative. Read on for my J-Pillow Travel Pillow review.

Who Makes It

The J-pillow was developed by Gemma Jensen, a mother of three and former airline stewardess who drew on her experience in the airline industry to create her design. Her pillow went on to win the British Invention Show’s British Invention of the Year in 2013. The J-pillow is also one of the best-selling travel pillows on Amazon.

Key Features of the J-Pillow Travel Pillow

• 11.8 x 7.9 x 13 inches
• 100% polyester filling
• Head, chin and neck support
• Plush cover that comes in multiple colors and patterns
• Snap loop button for travel
• Machine washable

Pros:

• Good for window seats
• Soft and lightweight (7.5 ounces)
• Machine washable
• Clips to carry-on bag
• Can be flipped into various positions depending on your needs (multi-functional)
• Comes in many colors and patterns

Cons:

• Not as comfortable if you want to wear glasses
• Must wash the whole pillow, not just cover
• Not an easy shape to pack neatly into a bag or suitcase
• Not super firm
• Did not stay on my neck/shoulder when sitting normally

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

4.2 Reviewer

Summary

Overall I thought this travel pillow was very comfortable, soft and could be used in many different travel settings. I am glad the pillow is machine washable but wish it had a removable cover and different fabric options. I think this pillow is best suited for side-sleepers but those with glasses should be cautious as the pillow presses directly on the temples of the face.

Durability4.2

Style4.5

Weight4.8

Space3.5

Versatility4.4

My Experience4

Value (Price)3.8

My Experience

Unlike your typical neck pillow, the unique design of the J-pillow had me intrigued when I unpacked it. True to its name, the pillow is shaped like a puffy letter “J”. I am glad it comes with an illustrated brochure because I had to refer to it to make sure I was using it the way it was intended.

I placed the longest section of the pillow – the part that acts like the curve of the “J” – under my chin. The shorter sections fell into place by my eye and around a good portion of my neck. As a side sleeper, the feeling of softness on the side of my face was immediately very familiar and comforting.

The pillow fabric is very soft and plush, and the firmness seems average for a pillow. When I hold the J-pillow I can pinch my fingertips together through the filling, but it immediately bounces back into shape once I let go.

I tested the J-pillow in the passenger seat of my car, in a high-backed seat in the nursery and lying down on my side on my couch.

I also tested the pillow with my eyeglasses on and off. The pillow touches the side of your face right by your temples, and I found it interfered with the arms of my glasses and I could not lay on my side and use it comfortably and wear them at the same time.

The J-pillow was very comfortable in the car when I rested my head against the window (glasses off). My only issue is that the pillow doesn’t stay around your neck the way a traditional neck pillow would. The fabric is so soft it becomes almost slippery, so every time I adjusted my head the pillow would fall down.

The pillow also works in a high-backed chair, but with nothing to lean the pillow against, I didn’t find it possible to nap. One thing that I liked is that it still provides more support to your neck than a U-shaped neck pillow would.

I was able to fall asleep on the couch with the pillow – which makes it a great alternative if your hotel pillow is less than satisfactory. I was surprised by how comfortable this pillow was laying down, it really cradles your head.

Another bonus position with this pillow is to place the longer section behind your neck (as opposed to under your chin). This provides more support if you’re using it to sleep laying down. I think this could also be a great position if you’re in the middle seat on a plane.

I did throw the pillow in the washing machine and the dryer. The instructions say to use warm water so I did a warm gentle cycle and tumble dry and the pillow came out with no wear or tear, still just as soft.

There is a small loop that allows you to snap the pillow to any carry-on case. For me, the pillow is too bulky to squeeze into a bag. If you’re someone who wants to pack your pillow away, it can take up a lot of room with its strange shape. There are instructions in the brochure on how to fold the pillow to make it more compact, but it didn’t seem to save much room overall.

The J-pillow shape makes it a little tricky to use as a lower back pillow or to use successfully in a lower-backed chair. I wasn’t able to get comfortable using the pillow in either of these positions and struggled to keep the pillow on my head and neck in a lower-backed chair.

What You Need to Consider Before Buying

This pillow is really best suited for people who are side sleepers, or people who will be using it on a window seat on a plane, train or car in a high-backed seat. It is also not very comfortable if you wish to keep your glasses on, as one of the sections rests against the temples of your face.

It’s lightweight but firm enough to maintain its shape. This firmness makes it slightly difficult to stuff it into a carry-on bag and is not a space saver in those instances.

While I did like the soft, plush cover but I have two small issues with it. First, the fabric did make my head/face slip a little when I started dozing. When I walked around it didn’t stay on my neck the way a traditional neck pillow would.

I would be more inclined to recommend it if it came in different covers so I could choose something with more grip.

While it is good that you can wash the pillow, it would be great if it had a removable cover that you could take off and wash/dry. This way I could buy multiple covers for one trip and not worry about having a dirty pillow on my trip.

Price

I think because of its versatility the pillow is worth the price for side sleepers. The website sells it for $60, but also lists Amazon as a retailer who sells it for a discounted price (roughly $30).

With this pillow, I know I can take it on a trip and it will keep me comfortable, but if I end up with a subpar hotel pillow I can also rely on it for support.

Another plus is that the website also offers a 30-day money back guarantee if it does not meet your expectations.

The post J-Pillow Travel Pillow Review appeared first on Mattress Clarity.

5 Common Latex Mattress Complaints You Should Know

Latex is becoming a very popular category in the mattress industry.  It is a great sleeping surface that is really starting to catch onto the mainstream.  There are a ton of benefits to latex mattresses, but as more models come out, people are wondering what the top latex mattress complaints are.  I’ll go over the main ones in this article.

Quick Note: Not All Latex Is Created Equal

You should know that there are different types of latex mattresses.  There are natural latex mattresses, where the latex actually comes naturally from a rubber tree.  Synthetic latex is human made.  Blended latex is a mix of natural and synthetic latex.  Also, some mattresses contain all-latex, while others have just one layer of latex and then the rest is another material.

If you are looking at certain models, make sure you know exactly what type of latex mattress you are getting.

Related: What are some of the best latex mattresses out there?

Bounce

If you were to push your hand into the mattress and then lift your hand away quickly, a “bouncy” mattress would snap right back to its original shape immediately.  With memory foam, the opposite happens and the mattress very slowly returns to its original shape.

This video shows what a bouncy/responsive mattress is like.  This mattress comes from Plushbeds.

Some people want bounce in their mattress.  It really comes down to personal preference.  Latex mattresses can be very bouncy, with all-natural, all-latex mattresses being very bouncy.  You need to know if you like bounce before you buy a latex mattress.

They Are Heavy

Whenever I receive a latex mattress, especially a natural latex mattress, I am a little scared to lift them because the mattresses are incredibly heavy.  The mattresses are very dense, which on a positive note means they are also very durable.  If you will ever have to move your mattress around, then this is definitely something to note.

In this video, I assemble an all-natural latex mattress.  You can kind of tell how heavy each individual layer is.  I definitely could not lift the mattress anywhere by myself if it’s all in one piece. This mattress is a Spindle.

Cost

The process to get natural latex is very time-intensive and costly.  As a result, natural latex mattresses are expensive.  There is no way around it.  There are a lot of benefits in getting a natural latex mattress, but those benefits come with the tradeoff of a higher price tag.

Synthetic latex mattresses are much more affordable, and they are so prevalent because of how difficult the process of getting natural latex is.

Off-Gassing Of Synthetic Latex

If you get a natural latex mattress, there should be no off-gassing or chemical smell when you get your mattress for the first time.  If you get a synthetic latex mattress, however, there is the chance that there will be some off-gassing.  This typically isn’t a big deal and the smell will go away within a couple of days, but it is something that happens with some synthetic latex mattresses.

Some Motion Transfer

Motion transfer is basically when you are able to feel the movement of your partner on the other side of the bed.  Memory foam mattresses are really good at isolating motion, and thus they are a great choice for those who sleep with a partner.  Latex mattresses do fairly well in this category, but for most models there will be some motion transfer.  Latex generally doesn’t perform as well as memory foam in this category.

This video shows an example of motion transfer for an all-natural latex mattress.

Overall

Many of the common complaints about latex mattresses are either minor or just a matter of personal preference.  It is still a great sleeping surface that you should definitely be taking a look at.

The post 5 Common Latex Mattress Complaints You Should Know appeared first on Mattress Clarity.