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Reading is a great way to unwind and declutter the mind. A booklover’s downtime will not be complete without a good book, relaxing music, and a comfortable reading pillow
Why do you need a reading pillow?
This type of pillow is specially designed to provide ample support to your upper body while you’re in a reading position. It can help you maintain a good reading posture while you are lounging in bed.
The size is very important so if you are unsure check our standard pillow sizes chart to check. Remember that when you are reading, you need to keep your head, neck, and spine aligned properly to prevent strain.
Stacked sleeping pillows may be comfortable at first but the longer you maintain an upright seated position the more strain you put on your body.
To enjoy your downtime, make sure to use a good reading pillow. Choose one that provides adequate support to your upper body and conforms well to your pressure points.
How To Choose The Right Kind of Reading Pillow
There are four things to check when buying a reading pillow:
The Filling
There are range of man made and organic fillings that you can choose for your reading pillow. Here are some of the options:
Memory Foam
This material uses your body heat to soften and conform to the shape of your body. Its high-density material provides excellent relief on pressure points and supports your body adequately. It is very comfortable to use.
Shredded Memory Foam
As the name implies, this is a pillow made of memory foam torn into small pieces. The memory foam pieces move independently which makes the pillow more moldable.
Polyester Fibers
This material is frequently used for budget-friendly pillows. It is made of fluffy synthetic microfibers that provide lush comfort. However, it is not as durable as memory foam.
The Type of Reading Pillow
There are different types of reading pillows available, here are the mains ones:
Traditional Reading Pillow
A traditional reading pillow or “husband” pillow comes with a high contouring backrest and comfortable armrests.
The design’s focal point is upper body support. Some designs come with added features such as cup holders or side pockets.
Wedge Reading Pillow
If you have chronic back pain, a wedge reading pillow or orthopedic pillow suits you best. The wedge design follows the natural contour of the spine and gives the upper body enough elevation to prevent strain.
You can place it against the headboard or on your lap. It comes in different sizes and incline levels to match your preference.
Wedge pillows are also recommended for sleepers with medical conditions such as sleep apnea and acid reflux.
Fabric Cover
Have your pillow covered in your favourite fabric to get the most comfort. Here are some ideas for you:
Corduroy
This ribbed fabric cover feels soft. It is available in pure cotton or cotton blends.
Although the fabric is durable it is not recommended for pet owners because the ridges will unravel when clawed at.
Faux Suede
If you are into animal print, there are reading pillows with faux suede cover. This material is stain-repellent so it is very family-friendly.
Velour
This cover is soft, shiny, stretchable, and inexpensive. This is a good alternative to a velvet cover because it is easier to clean. If you have little kids and pets, this is a better option.
Velvet
This gives off a very luxurious feel. It is soft, shiny, and plush. Velvet reading pillows need to be dry-cleaned. There are different kinds of velvet covers used for reading pillows.
Mohair and wool are stain-resistant and durable while silk velvet is more delicate.
If you prefer the cotton variant, opt to get cotton velvet blended with polyester because it is more durable than plain cotton velvet.
Available features
Handle
Large reading pillows are equipped with top handles for easy handling when moving.
Headrest. There are reading pillows with fixed or detachable headrests and neck rolls. If you prefer to sit upright while reading, this added feature will provide good support to your head and neck.
Armrests
Husband reading pillows come with comfortable armrests to prevent shoulder and arm strain while reading.
Cup-holders
Husband reading pillows often come with cup-holders so you do not need to get off the bed to drink.
Pockets
Some brands of husband-reading pillows have pockets on the armrests for gadgets and other items.
Removable Cover
Reading pillows with removable covers are easier to clean and replace.
The 5 Best Reading Pillows For Unwinding
We reviewed a whole bunch of reading pillows and cushions available online. Here are our top 5 favourites:
Sallie Velvet Bedrest Pillow
- Features:
- Textured Velvet cover that comes in solid hues
- Dimensions: 18” H x 20” W x 17” D
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Made of cotton blended with cotton, polyester fill
- Removable cover
- Zipper closure
- Machine washable
- Top carry handle
- Product warranty
Lorna Pillow Cover and Insert
- Features:
- Polyester blend cover with piped edges
- Available in light and vibrant hues
- Polyfill
- Dimensions: 14”H x 13”W x 8.5”D
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Removable cover
- Top carry handle
- Comes with a side pocket
- Machine washable
- Warranty: 15 days
Montalvo Bed Rest Indoor/Outdoor Backrest Pillow
- Features:
- Recycled polyester fiberfill
- Water and stain-resistant Polyester/Polyester blend slipcover
- Spot clean slipcover
- Dimensions: 18” H x 33” W x 6” D
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Machine washable
- Iron safe
- Zipper closure
- 30-day return policy
ComfortSpa Reading Pillow Bed
- Features:
- Anti-clump Shredded Foam Fill
- Stain-resistant Grey Velour cover
- Dimensions: 30” L x 12” W x 18” H
- Spot clean cover
- Top carry handle
- Side pockets
- 100% guarantee refund
Linenspa Shredded Foam Pillow
- Features:
- Memory foam fill
- Velour cover in stone and navy hues
- Dimensions: 22” L x 8”W x 8” H
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Spot clean only
- Top carry handle
- Warranty: 3 years
Frequently Asked Questions About Reading Pillows
Below are the most frequently asked questions related to reading pillows, feel free to contact us if you have any more:
How do I clean my reading pillow?
For Reading pillows with removable covers: Load the foam into the washing machine. Wash on a quick cycle in cold water. Then tumble dry it on low heat. Refrain from using strong detergents, bleach, and chlorinated products.
For pillows with stitched-on cover: Spot clean with mild detergent and lay flat to dry.
Make sure to read and follow the product care instructions.
My pillow was delivered in compressed form, how do I fluff it up?
Put your new reading pillow plus two clean tennis balls in the clothes dryer. Let it tumble dry for 5 minutes at a no-heat setting.
For shredded foam fill, shake and knead the pillow vigorously for five minutes. Give it 24-48 hours to get plump and firm.
How do I remove the strong odor?
Pillows are vacuum-packed for delivery so they will emit a strong chemical scent when new. Do not use the pillow right away. After fluffing it up, air it out for 24 hours or until the strong scent disappears.