Gel pillows (also known as gel fiber pillows) are becoming more and more popular. Does one deserve to be in your bed? Let’s see its main advantages and disadvantages. But first, let me explain exactly what a gel pillow is.

A gel pillow is not filled with any kind of gel or liquid substance. Rather, it is filled with polyester gel fibers. This makes the pillow similar to a traditional polyester/synthetic filled pillow in some ways. However, polyester gel has some unique properties, which I will talk about now.

Advantage

Gel pillows have a soft, comfortable feel similar to down, but offer a bit more support. The pillows can be easily shaped or crinkled to provide support where you need it.

They’re easy to care for because they usually don’t need to be shaken or fluffed to maintain their height the way feather pillows often do. And they can be machine washed and dried. Gel pillows are also lightweight and hypoallergenic.

Finally, they are probably good value because they are fairly inexpensive, but they are likely to last a few years.

Disadvantages

The pillows may not provide the support some people need, especially side sleepers, because the pillow is quite soft and may not have the necessary height.

Like other polyester-fill pillows, gel pillows can shift, clump, and develop voids as they age. Also, some owners complain of a noticeable odor when the pillows are new.

Finally, the polyester fiberfill in pillows can be susceptible to dust mites, which can cause allergies.