Shop Buckwheat Pillows

The opposite is true.

Thanks to the distinctive structure of buckwheat hulls used as filling, these pillows are among the coolest and most breathable options available.

For those who tend to sleep hot, pairing the pillow with a cooling pillowcase can enhance its temperature-regulating benefits even further.

The buckwheat hulls inside the pillow can create a rustling sound when the pillow is moved, unlike quieter options like memory foam or latex.

However, the level of noise can vary significantly depending on the pillowcase material and the overall design of the pillow.

In many cases, the sound is minimal or barely noticeable.

Fresh buckwheat hulls, like those in buckwheat pillows, have a natural earthy scent, similar to millet hulls used in millet pillows.

While some people might find this scent bothersome, the majority of sleepyheads out there don't see it as an issue.

Additionally, the smell tends to fade over time.

No, they do not.

As long as the pillow isn't exposed to constant excessive moisture, mold growth is not a concern.

While some people may go to bed with wet hair, which isn't ideal for maintaining the pillow, we’ve been making these pillows for over seven years without receiving any reports of mold development.

With proper care, these pillows can last up to 10 years.

You may need to occasionally refill or add more hulls, but the cost of doing so is just a fraction of what you would spend on a new memory foam pillow.

Absolutely.

It's crucial for children to have proper head and neck support since their bones and joints are still developing.

Using the wrong pillow for extended periods can negatively affect their posture as they grow. Japanese buckwheat pillows are highly recommended for kids due to their excellent support.

However, it's important to consider safety.

Larger buckwheat pillows can be heavy, which may pose a risk for young children.

It’s advisable to start with a super lightweight pillow to ensure safety and comfort.

The widespread use of buckwheat hull-filled pillows in Japan is due to their benefits in addressing posture-related issues such as neck pain, headaches, migraines, as well as lower back and shoulder pain.

It's estimated that around 80 million Japanese people sleep on these pillows because of their superior support and comfort.

No other type of pillow is as popular in Japan as the Sobakawa pillow.

Yes, compared to pillows filled with memory foam or fibers, buckwheat hull pillows are noticeably heavier.

Depending on the size and manufacturer, the weight can range from around 2 lbs for a travel-sized pillow to as much as 18 lbs for a king-sized pillow.

For most people, we recommend using a Japanese Plus size, as it provides all the necessary support for proper head and neck alignment without being overly heavy.

Proper spine and body alignment during sleep is a major factor in preventing chronic issues such as neck, back, and shoulder pain—common problems that bring people to chiropractors and physical therapists.

Buckwheat pillows offer excellent support, helping to maintain healthy alignment, which can reduce the need for frequent doctor visits.

A good mattress and pillow combination is essential for overall spinal health.

Japanese pillows, particularly those filled with buckwheat hulls, are ideal for side and back sleepers due to their firm support and ability to maintain proper spinal alignment.

While they can sometimes work for stomach sleepers, it's generally not recommended because stomach sleepers require a very flat, thin pillow, which buckwheat pillows are not.

Most stomach sleepers opt for specially designed pillows that better suit their needs.

Properly cleaned buckwheat hulls do not attract bugs.

While it's possible for bugs to get into the pillow depending on how and where it's stored or used, the chances are extremely low—less than 0.05%.

The likelihood of bugs in a buckwheat pillow is about the same as with a memory foam pillow, and such instances are very rare.

No, pillows filled with buckwheat hulls, like Sobakawa pillows, do not attract dust mites.

In fact, they are considered hypoallergenic.

However, if you have severe allergies, it's always best to consult with your doctor before using any new pillow, just to be safe.

While buckwheat pillows offer excellent support and alignment, there are some potential drawbacks and side effects to be aware of:

1. Pressure and Discomfort:
Buckwheat pillows are firm, and some people, especially those who have used soft pillows for years, may experience discomfort or pressure around the ears or face. This is more common for side sleepers who rest their ear directly on the pillow. The firmness can take some getting used to, but adjusting the amount of hull filling can sometimes alleviate this issue.

2. Sensitivity to Natural Smell:
Buckwheat hulls have a distinct earthy scent, especially when the pillow is new. While many people don’t mind or even enjoy this natural aroma, others may find it bothersome. Over time, the smell typically fades, but for those with heightened sensitivity to scents, this could be an issue.

3. Allergic Reactions:
Although buckwheat pillows are generally considered hypoallergenic, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. People with nut allergies, in particular, might be sensitive to buckwheat hulls, as there can be cross-reactivity. If you have known allergies, it's advisable to consult with your doctor before using a buckwheat pillow.

4. Maintenance and Upkeep:
Unlike synthetic pillows, buckwheat pillows require regular maintenance. Over time, the hulls may compress, so they need to be refilled periodically to maintain proper support. Additionally, the pillowcases and hulls should be aired out and cleaned to prevent the buildup of dust or odors, which some may find inconvenient compared to low-maintenance synthetic pillows.

5. Weight:
Buckwheat pillows are significantly heavier than most other pillow types. A standard-size buckwheat pillow can weigh several pounds, and this weight might be too cumbersome for some users. If the weight is a concern, choosing a smaller pillow, such as a Japanese or travel size, can help alleviate this issue.

6. Noise from Hulls:
Buckwheat hulls can create a rustling sound when the pillow is moved or adjusted. Although many people get used to this noise, it can be bothersome for light sleepers who are sensitive to sounds during the night.

7.Higher Cost:
Quality buckwheat pillows tend to be more expensive than synthetic options like memory foam or fiber-filled pillows. This is partly because they are often handcrafted and filled with natural, sustainably sourced materials. Additionally, the shipping costs are higher because buckwheat pillows cannot be compressed like foam pillows, requiring larger packaging. However, the long lifespan of these pillows can help offset the initial investment over time.

8. Adjustability:
While buckwheat pillows are adjustable in terms of filling, this can be a double-edged sword. Some people appreciate the ability to customize the pillow’s firmness, while others may find it tedious or difficult to find the "perfect" fill level. This process requires trial and error, which may not suit those who prefer a simpler option.

In summary, buckwheat pillows offer unique benefits but come with a few considerations such as firmness, weight, and maintenance. For many, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, but it's important to understand these aspects before making a decision.

If a buckwheat hull pillow gets wet, there's no need to panic. As long as it's just water, it can be easily remedied with the following steps:

1. Empty the hulls: Carefully remove the buckwheat hulls from the pillowcase.
2. Dry the hulls: Place the hulls in a large container and leave them outside in the sun for a day to fully dry.
3. Refill the pillowcase: Once the hulls are completely dry, refill them back into the pillowcase.

This process ensures the hulls don't develop mold or retain moisture.

Sobakawa pillows come in various sizes and shapes, from travel size to king size.

However, due to the unique functionality of these pillows, a smaller size, such as a Japanese or travel size, is often sufficient for most people.

Larger Sobakawa pillows can become quite heavy, which may not be practical for everyone.

For more details, check out our size guide for a comprehensive list of sizes and shapes to help you choose the perfect fit for your needs.

Several alternatives to buckwheat hull pillows exist, each offering different benefits and characteristics:

• Millet hull pillows: Much lighter than buckwheat hull pillows, millet pillows offer a softer feel while still providing good support.
• Rice-filled pillows: These offer a different texture and are typically softer, but may not provide the same level of support as buckwheat.
• Hemp hull pillows: Heavier than buckwheat pillows, they provide firm support, but the added weight may not be ideal for everyone.
• Wheat husk pillows: While they offer support, they can be very dusty, which may not be suitable for people with allergies or sensitivities.
• Flaxseed pillows: These are soft and moldable, but they tend to be smaller and more commonly used for therapeutic purposes than for general sleeping.

Each alternative has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that best suits your preferences and needs.