I decided to try out the best buckwheat pillow, which was known for its support and simplicity. And honestly, I've got no complaints and am impressed with these kinds of pillows!
If you're wondering how buckwheat pillows can benefit you and how to select one, read on as I show you the ultimate purchasing guide here.
Pillow Comparison Table
Top 5 Best Buckwheat Pillows 2019
Based on my research, tests, and overall customer reviews, these are the five top buckwheat pillows you can refer today:
What makes the Hullo Pillow one of the best pillows I've tried is because it's great to support! When I began using it, that was the first thing I was wowed with, as it conformed to my head and neck so well and I didn't wake up with a strained neck.
After a few days of using the pillow, I noticed that I woke up feeling fresher and with less pain around my back and shoulders. That was a surprise for someone like me, who always shifted sleeping positions. It still offers the full support regardless of how I slept.
While it did make some noise whenever I moved, it didn't bother me as much. So if you want something similar to a custom-made pillow, then you'll appreciate this pillow a LOT!
- It has helped relieve pain around back and neck
- Very supportive and conforms to head efficiently
- The pillow is best for any sleep position
- It makes a bit of soft noise as you move around
- Some complaints of loose buckwheat hulls even when zipped up
If you're looking for something just as supportive and conforming as my editor's pick, then you'll like the Beans72 Organic Buckwheat Pillow. Not only is it organic and all-natural, but it also comes at a slightly lower price!
However, the reason why it's a close second is because unlike the Hullo, it takes more time to get used to. I was quite shocked at first because it felt SO firm as if I was sleeping on rocks! But after a week or so, I started getting used to its firmness and actually appreciate it because it's helped keep my body supported, lessening pain and strains.
Furthermore, it's very heavy, so don't expect to move around or travel a lot with it. But this is a small price to pay for its support and durability. Even after a year or so, it still feels new!
- Long-lasting and durable feel great for years
- Pressure-relieving and prevents pain from coming back
- Doesn’t collapse or lose its shape
- Very heavy and can’t be moved around easily
- Takes a few weeks to get used to its firmness
If you're looking for something that feels great and at affordable prices, then I recommend the Zen Chi Buckwheat Pillow.
This is a very firm pillow which stays in shape while still conforming to your head and neck. It does take a few days to get used to, but it forms perfectly to your sleeping position and is best for sleep on back. It's not a miracle worker, but I wake up feeling a bit better and with less pain as before!
But do take note that since it comes at a lower price, it may not be as durable as expected. Furthermore, there is a bit of a smell and noise, though they aren't big factors and are manageable.
So if you're on a budget and interested in getting a buckwheat pillow, then this is still an excellent choice to look into.
- Affordable price with great value
- Softcover with comfort and breathability
- Cooling and has me sleep straighter
- There are complaints of it leaking after a year
- Not as durable as other types of water pillows
I was a bit hesitant with investing in the ComfySleep Buckwheat Pillow, as it was very expensive! However, once I began using it and testing it out, I could definitely see and feel why it's worth the price.
The main feature is that it's fully customizable. That's because it comes with four different-sized pillows, which you can add or remove in one pillow case to ensure that you have the adjustable firmness and loft for your sleeping position.
For my husband, who sleeps on his stomach, I made it as flat as possible. As for me, I tested it with three pillows, as I'm a back and side sleepers.
After the first night, I was amazed! It definitely helped with my back and shoulder pain. It also didn't make much noise compared to other buckwheat pillows I've tested. No smell, all comfort, and I have NO complaints at all (besides its price, honestly).
- Easy to fluff and stays in shape long
- Very comfortable and supportive, no complaints of pain
- No noise or smell
- Comes at a high price
- Some complaints of stiff neck
The Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow is best known for its cooling properties. It's one of the most breathable pillows I've had so far, honestly! And the best part is that it comes at a great price for a buckwheat pillow.
As for its material, I believe it can last for long. It feels strong and hasn't worn out even after weeks of using. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you've got a pillow way worth more than what you pay for!
It's adjustable and conforms well to your neck and head, which is what I looked for in a pillow. It didn't exactly cure all my body pain, but I did feel a whole lot better and had no neck pain anymore. I do feel a bit of strain around my lower back, but it's probably because I keep moving around a lot.
Overall, everything is good, and it does the simple job of keeping me comforted. A good price to pay for a buckwheat pillow!
- Comes with a lifetime guarantee
- Soft and comfortable, provide adequate support
- Breathable and cooling, best to prevent night sweats
- Not as pain-relieving as expected
- Pillow case isn’t machine-washable
What Is Buckwheat Anyway?
Buckwheat is actually a seed-like grain, which is native to Asia. Before it was used as pillows, this was (and still is) a staple for feeding animals and it's also edible for us humans. Considered as a fruit, it grows in a husk, which is used as a durable filling for mattresses and pillows.
We don't use the seeds, but the husks, or what we call hulls, as the pillow's filling. When the seeds are removed, the hulls are cleaned and placed in the pillow case. That way, you are able to adjust the amount of hulls or replace it throughout your pillow's lifespan.
While these pillows are beneficial, it all depends on its quality. Brands should ensure that the hulls are made of organic, cleaned, and dust-free hulls.
Buckwheat hulls are known for its breathability, but you should also ensure that its pillow case is just as well-ventilated. Remember, don't just focus on the hull quality but the pillow case it comes with, too.
The entire pillow should have cooling effects and ensure that it prevents night sweats and hot flashes, despite living in a warm climate or home.
Editor's Note
The Advantages
What does the buckwheat pillow have to offer that makes it such an excellent product for many sleepers? Here are some of its benefits:
1
Excellent Support
The buckwheat hulls move naturally in line with both your head and neck, maintaining your posture the entire night. Because of this, it helps keep you comfortable and free from pain!
It supports natural spin alignment and relieves pressure all the while keeping me comfortable. With optimum firmness, you won't have to worry about neck strains or back pain caused by pillows that are too soft or don't align your spine and neck thoroughly.
This feature is thanks to the buckwheat hulls NOT compressing under pressure. As a result, it reduces stress for more comfort as you rest.
2
It's Hypoallergenic
If you're prone to allergies, then this is a major benefit! Buckwheat hulls are all-natural, so they are hypoallergenic and prevent allergens from causing morning colds. Not only does it prevent allergies, but buckwheat hulls and a well-ventilated pillowcase also provide cooling effects, which can avoid hot flashes and night sweats!
3
Adequate Moldability
This is probably the best feature of buckwheat pillows. Just like a water pillow, they are able to shift shape and conform to the shape of the head and neck efficiently. I love this pillows that mold easily as I change positions, all the while time retaining its shape when not in use (yes, it doesn't flatten!).
4
Lasts For a Long Time
Compared to other pillows, the hull stuffing is known to last way longer! As long as you care for both the casing and stuffing, they can last for up to ten years. Another advantage to these hulls is that they are straightforward to clean, as you just need to remove them and wash the casing as instructed.
Wondering how to select one? Check out this helpful video showing you tips on choosing the buckwheat hull pillow for your comfort and sleep:
The Disadvantages
While a buckwheat hull pillow does have its benefits, they also have a few disadvantages to taking note of, such as:
It's a Bit Noisy
Heavy Weight
Clumps When Hulls Shift
Has the Risk of Odor
It's Expensive!
Who Should Use Buckwheat Hull Pillow?
You're probably wondering: With its benefits, who should be using the best buckwheat pillow to get their money's worth? It's best for the following types of sleepers:
What's Your Sleeping Posture?
This is a type of firm pillows, which means it's best suited for either back or side sleepers. It isn't the best for stomach sleepers due to its firmness, which may cause discomfort and spinal misalignment from it.
However, buckwheat pillows can be customized according to how flat or firm you want it to be, by removing or adding hulls. That way, it's more compatible for any type of position and conforms well as you shift positions.
Are You a Hot Sleeper?
If you suffer from night sweats and/or hot flashes, then the buckwheat pillow is right for you. It offers breathability and better ventilation to help your head neck stay cool throughout the night. No more complaining about waking up sweaty.
Do You Snore?
You'll be surprised to know that buckwheat hulls can actually help reduce your snoring! While it isn't a direct solution to sleep disorders like sleep apnea, it can help reduce the chances of snoring because of how supportive it is.
Do You Have Allergies?
Like mentioned, buckwheat hulls are naturally hypoallergenic and do not stick to dust or allergens as quickly as other stuffing. So if you suffer from frequent allergies or the morning colds, then these type of pillows can help alleviate those symptoms.
And since this symptom can also cause snoring (Via: Sleep Foundation), the hypoallergenic buckwheat pillow can reduce the noise caused by allergens.
What About the Rest?
Buckwheat pillows aren't just for these specific types of sleepers, though! As long as you don't mind the noise and want something pressure-relieving while keeping cool the entire night, then you'll benefit from this type of pillow.
Tips on Caring and Maintaining This Pillow
Now that you've learned what's needed to know about Japanese buckwheat pillow, how can you care for them? Here are some excellent tips on how to properly clean and maintain your pillows:
1
Cleaning
Take note that whole buckwheat pillows aren't dryer or machine-friendly. When you soak buckwheat hills in water, you'll ruin its quality. Follow these steps to clean your pillow:
via: comfycomfy.com
2
Maintenance
Wrapping it Up
For those who want a chemical-free and natural filling to sleep on, then I recommend that you get Japanese buckwheat pillow. With its quality stuffing that conforms well to the shape of your head neck, you're assured that these types of products fully support your upper body to prevent body pain from happening as you sleep.
Of all the different types of pillows I tried and tested, I believe that the best one goes to the Hullo Pillow. Now only is it a personal fave because of its excellent and quality material (which is organic!), but because it's got everything I need in a pillow.
It provides fantastic support and adapts to my head just right. It also conforms quickly and gets its shape back whenever I get up or shift positions. Plus, it has the cooling and breathable cover that prevents night sweats, making it all worth the price!
- 🇺🇸 DURABLE AMERICAN CONSTRUCTION - Cut, sewn & assembled in the U.S.A. with robust overlock stitching and the highest quality components. Compare Hullo to other brands and you'll recognize our...
- ✅ 100% ORGANIC COTTON – Preshrunk, machine-washable 7 oz. cotton buckwheat hull pillow
- ✅ PREMIUM BUCKWHEAT HULLS – American-grown and milled buckwheat hulls – Never imported roasted hulls.
- ✅ ALL NATURAL – No chemical-based foams or inhumane bird feathers.
- ✅ COOL & DRY BREATHABILITY – Buckwheat pillows allow air to circulate freely, eliminating build-up of heat and moisture.
Hopefully, this article on the buckwheat pillow review gave you an idea of what you should invest in. So don't wait any longer and look into any of these pillows today.
If you have any questions or want to share your reviews and experiences when using these kinds of pillows, then comment below. I would love to hear what you have to think.