What Is a Bolster Pillow?

When it comes to purchasing such an accessory as a pillow, lots of people start doing research, understanding the pros and cons of the different types. And very often, when they come across bolster pillows, they don’t clearly understand what they are, how they work, what are the benefits of sleeping on them, etc.

Well, to begin with, it should be said, that it is a long cushion with a cylindrical shape. They are very beneficial in terms of health, since they ensure considerable support for the head, neck, shoulders, and back all night long. Such kind of a pillow was specially developed for those, looking for comfort as well as health qualities. Be sure, with this product, you can forget about the back pain, neck numbness/ stiffness, waking up multiple times through the night, etc. Instead, you get energized and well-rested mornings in a good mood ready to start a new wonderful day. Nonetheless, they can be used not only when sleeping, but also when reading a book, watching TV with raised feed, lazing around the house- literally anything whatever you feel comfortable and cozy with.

Furthermore, due to the point that these items are made of main foam, they perfectly align the spine. This automatically means individual contouring of a body and consequently, support and deeper sleep. Remember, feathers are the thing of a past!

One of the best things that can be said about these particular cushions is that they are multi-purpose. But what does it mean? Well, for example, some people prefer to use them as a neck-roll, others as a knee pillow, and so on and so forth. So, whatever you feel comfortable with during sleep or rest or even exercising, this device will definitely help you, especially knowing that there are long, large, round, shapes, and sizes. Additionally, it absolutely doesn’t matter; whether you are a side, stomach, or a back sleeper, these items fit everyone in any favorite position!

Top Bolster Pillows – Price Comparison

ImageProductBrandLink
Cushy Form Bolster Pillow for Lumbar and Leg Support - 20.5 x 8 x 4.5 Inches Half Moon Memory Foam Cushion for Stomach, Back & Side Sleepers - Roll Pillows for Back and Neck w/Washable CoverCushy FormBuy on Amazon
ForPro Full Round Bolster Pillow, Black, Oil and Stain-Resistant, for Massage and Yoga, 6” R x 26” LForPro Professional CollectionBuy on Amazon
Back Pain Relief Memory Foam Pillow - Half Moon Bolster Knee Pillow for Side, Back, Stomach Sleepers - Semi Roll Round Lumbar Leg Wedge - Reduce Neck Spine Back Hip Ankle Stress - Organic Cotton CoverBeautifulLifeBuy on Amazon
Hotel Comfort Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Bolster PillowHotel ComfortBuy on Amazon
Newpoint Pillow Neck ROLL Pair, 2 Count (Pack of 1), WhiteNewpointBuy on Amazon
Zen Bamboo Memory Foam Half-Moon Bolster for Back and Knee Pain Relief - Wedge Pillow Provides Ultimate Support for Side and Back Sleepers - Semi Roll Pillow, Ultra-Soft, Washable Bamboo Blend CoverÂZen BambooBuy on Amazon
EARTHLITE unisex adult Full Round Jumbo Massage Bolster, Black, Full Round Jumbo USEARTHLITEBuy on Amazon
16"x6"Car Round Neck Pillow with Washable Cotton Cover Pillow Provides Best Support .(Dark Gray)NBPillowsBuy on Amazon
Kingnex Bolster Roll Pillow for Sleeping on Back or Side Under Knee to Relief Lower Back Pain Between Legs for Side Sleepers Cylinder Pillow with Removable Cooling Cover 20x8KingnexBuy on Amazon

One more major pro of the products in this category is a wide choice. Dozens of manufacturers are doing them to create improved and better versions that would be not only a nice and trendy accessory but also a healthy item that makes one’s sleep deeper. They all vary in shapes, sizes, designs, colors, patterns, fillers, companies, and other aspects. According to thousands of customers’ feedback, comments, and reviews, one clearly understands that they are 100% worth the investment!

How Are These Cushions Produced?

Indeed, bolster pillows are becoming more and more popular with each and every year, thanks to the comfort and support they promote. Speaking of the manufacturing process, the companies usually start with the creation of a cover. Bolster pillow cover is mainly made of 100% natural cotton or cotton-polyester. The second option makes the price lower. Both of these materials are hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, which makes them ideal for allergy sufferers. When the material is ready, it moves further to the sewing process, where special machines sew two parts together creating one case.

If a manufacturer is known and popular, they very often have all these processes automatically done, whereas little companies tend to hire people to do all this work since the equipment is fairly expensive. The third step is the filling. Once again fillers can be different from cheap to expensive ones, from polyester to memory foam, etc. As soon as the filling process is over, it is time to close the cover and weigh the received item to make sure everything is according to the company’s standards. Finally, the manufactured devices are placed into boxes and are ready for shipping.

What Is The Future For Such Pillows?

The first and foremost thing to note is that these products are getting only better with companies inventing new unique technologies, beneficial features, extra comfort, etc. Nowadays, every single manufacturer is trying to make only hypoallergenic items so that people with super sensitive skin or allergies could enjoy using them. Moreover, some companies even add herbs to make the nights extremely pleasant. Whatever filler you like the most: memory foam, gel, water, polyester, or something else- you will find them all available. These cushions are aimed at supporting the head, neck, and shoulders as well as provide proper spinal alignment.

These advantages make them orthopedic pillows. Therefore, whether you are searching for just comfort or comfort with healthy features – you will get it all in one bolster pillow. To cut a long story short, these devices can perfectly serve as decoration due to original shape and various designs. They are also perfect for relieving neck/ back pain along with a headache. They are simply versatile and can be used however you want, in whatever position you need it, and anywhere you’d like to place them, be it a bedroom, living room, or a nursery.

What Are The Pros & Cons?

As with any other product, this one is not an exception and has its advantages and disadvantages too. Let’s have a closer look at them.

Advantages:

  • Decorative matter – due to the fact that these pillows are one of the most exclusive and original ones with different designs, they are often used as unusual décor items. For example, when you decorate rugs or some pieces of furniture with decorative bolster pillows, the interior automatically becomes more attractive and cozy. You can opt for products of many sizes, shapes, and designs that would suit your home. Remember, the covers don’t require complicated care and should be simply washed in a machine in a gentle cycle. Moreover, having several various cases will be a wonderful idea, as it changes the look of a flat/ house;
  • Increased comfort anytime – quality sleep plays a vital role when it comes to well-being. However, sometimes there might be somebody ache that automatically interrupts good and comfortable sleep. To avoid it, it is recommended to sleep on a bolster cushion that will support the head and neck, thus creating the right spinal alignment. Such a pillow can be placed under the neck if the pain is there or if you prefer large bolster pillows, they can be placed under the knees, hence relieve lower backache.
  • Suitable for everyone – no matter how old you are, you can always use this pillow, as it will never harm you. Additionally to that, they are often used by babies and toddlers with parents being very satisfied with the outcomes. Apart from using these products as a cushion in the nursery, they can also serve as bumpers in cribs. Whatever bolster cushion you opt for a child, it will always work as support and comfort. NOTE: Long bolster pillow is one of the most favorite ones among kids, as they can snuggle up to it;
  • Better sleep quality – as these devices easily and quickly adjust to individual shapes of a body, quality sleep is guaranteed. No more waking up in the middle of the night because of discomfort or something else;
  • Multiple ways of usage – as was aforementioned, these devices can be used not only for sleeping purposes but also when reading books, watching TV, just relaxing, etc.;
  • Support – as it is an orthopedic device, you can definitely count on whole-body support;
  • Softness aspect – if you are into soft cushions, then this is exactly what you need;
  • Blood circulation– due to the right posture that is kept all night long whatever position you take, the blood circulation improves too. The heart is properly supplied with blood, that’s why it doesn’t have to work twice harder;
  • Psychological criterion – a lot of people require something to snuggle up to during sleep, so this can be the best option;
  • No more tension, pressure, and pain – working all day might bring undesirable neck pain, especially it can be said about people who lead sedentary lifestyles, e.g., IT specialists, drivers, and others;
  • Good treatment from injuries – a lot of people, who suffer from back-related illnesses, for instance, osteochondrosis or scoliosis, use these products as they can be placed above the hip, thus relieving pressure and ache, not already talking about the right posture;

Top 10 Picks to Choose From – Bolster Pillows

We do really understand that the researching process takes a lot of time, with lots of details that have to be paid special attention to, so that to make the right final decision. To simplify this action for you, we have researched and analyzed hundreds of bolster cushions and have come up with a list of the best 8! Picking one of them that is the most suitable for your needs and preferences, will be the best idea!

#1 Hugger Mugger Standard Choice Yoga Bolster

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This manufacturer is one of the leading and most well-known ones in the world of cushions. The company was founded several decades ago and since that time has dramatically improved the models, making them super quality ones. As for this particular option, it is the best buy among yoga fans. It is very durable, soft, and with a removable cover that is machine-washable. Inside, it is filled with cotton filling and foam core. It can be taken and used anywhere, as it has two carry handles for that. Also, it is produced in the US, meaning that is it definitely certificated.

Continuing its pros, thousands of users note that it is an ideal yoga bolster pillow for all sitting positions as well as stretching ones. Furthermore, it is highly recommended by trainers in yoga studios. It comes in 4 available colors: black, dark blue, poppy, and plum. The cost of this unique product is worth every penny. More than thousands of customers have rated it 4.7 stars out of 5. Nonetheless, there is a con that should be mentioned – the cover might get smaller in size. Consequently, one won’t be able to put it back on a cushion. Therefore, be careful with the washing aspect- only cold water and gentle cycle or dry cleaning, which is even better.


#2 AllSett Health Bolster Pillow Cervical Neck Roll

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It is an excellent round bolster pillow that is both comfortable and supportive. Due to its original shape and beneficial qualities, it fits all kinds of sleepers: back, stomach, and side ones. This company produces only top-notch products of premium quality materials. This model is not an exception and is made of 100% cotton shell, which is extremely pleasant and nice to the touch. It also makes the item cool and breathable, excluding overheating or sweating. Inside, it is filled with polyester with the right density.

This makes the device comfortable and long-lasting without losing shape. As all the used materials are hypoallergenic, you may not worry about asthma or possible allergy. The case is easily removable and washable in a machine. It can serve as the main cushion or as an extra additional one for the neck. Nonetheless, it can be used not only for neck pain, numbness, or stiffness but also for raising legs/ feet and as general body support. It can be used not only at home but also while traveling. The item is highly-rated, yet some minuses are still here. For example, according to some people, it is too thick when used under the neck. Also, it can be too bulky when used for the neck.


#3 ZIRAKI Pain Relief Memory Foam, Bolster

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This is one of the most budget-friendly cushions in the industry today. However, its inexpensive cost doesn’t mean low quality or lack of features compared to other models. On the contrary, it can easily be compared with them, since it has dozens of pros on offer. To begin with, it doesn’t only align the back but also relieves the neck, head, and leg pain. It is manufactured of 100% memory foam that is aimed at contouring to the shapes of a body as if cradling and supporting at the same time. Additionally, it is a versatile item that can be placed under the beck, between the thighs, underneath the leg, behind the back, and so on so forth. It can be used in any position you feel the most comfortable with.

Sleeping or relaxing on it, you will immediately feel how all muscles, joints, and tissues start gradually relaxing. It would be a perfect choice for those, having issues with blood circulation, back pain, etc. It is also very useful and effective for expecting moms, as they can use it as tummy support. The case is machine-washable, which means no complicated care of required. The manufacturer guarantees 100% satisfaction or a full refund upon return. As for the cons, people note bad smell for a couple of days when it is just unpacked. The second minus is that it might go flat sooner than customers expect if bought not directly from the manufacturer.


#4 Coop Home Goods Four Position Wedge/ Half Moon Bolster

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Whether you are a stomach, side, or a back sleeper, you can be sure, this cushion will be suitable for you. You can take a favorite sleeping position and feel neck/back pain reduce. It also deals greatly with muscles, tissues, and joints tension. It has an original half-moon shape that is very comfortable, hence popular among customers across the globe. It is filled with 100% memory foam that cradles and supports you through the night. Speaking of the cover, it is produced of bamboo-derived rayon and polyester, making it very soft, pleasant to skin, and touch. With such premium materials, you may not worry about any allergies or asthma reactions, as they are hypoallergenic.

The product can be used not only when sleeping but relaxing, watching TV, reading books, lazing around, etc. Due to the shape, it can be placed behind the neck, under the legs, on the side of a back – literally in any suitable and desirable for your place. The item is really unique since it provides not only comfort and supports everyone is looking for, but also massage and physical therapy effect. As for the side effects, we can name the following: for some users, the firmness is too much, and the smell is unpleasant for a couple of days.


#5 Resort Spa Home Décor Collection Set of 2 Indoor/ Outdoor Decorative Bolster/ Neckroll

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If you have been dreaming of making your apartment or house look cozier, then stop the choice at this particular model. It is a super unique, unusual, and original decorative bolster pillow that can be used both inside as well as outside, making your home look warm and stylish at the same time. For a non-expensive price, you receive a set of 2 cushions manufactured from orange teal, grey bohemian elephant fabric. They serve as a decoration and wonderful neck support too when one wants to relax, have a nap, etc. The items are filled with top-notch poly-fiberfill that is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant.

It is soft and breathable, which makes it a perfect device for hot days. In case you decide to place them outside, you may not worry about fading, as they are fade, water, and soil-resistant. What can be better than that? Other ways of using are the following: back cushion, outdoor/ indoor décor, swing pillow, pillow to be put on a chair, etc. Finally, it doesn’t require much care- all a user has to do is to wash with water and soap, and later air dry it. Made in the US. Despite all these benefits, there is one minus to be told- they can be misshaped if bought not directly from the manufacturer.


#6 InteVision Four Position Support Bolster

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If you are really looking for the best of the best bolster pillows, then don’t miss an opportunity to check this model out. It is currently in great demand worldwide due to its super beneficial factors. It was specially designed and produced to relieve pain and so, promote healthy, deep, and comfortable sleep all night long without waking up. Its cover is made of 100% Egyptian cotton, meaning it is hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable. Inside, it is filled with the best material ever- memory foam that contours the shapes of a body, providing necessary support, and consequently, improves blood circulation. From its name, it is clear that it is versatile and can be used for knee or lumbar support, leg spaces, and finally, for traveling purposes. Thanks to high-quality materials it is made of, it will serve many years, hence is an ideal investment in the future. It comes in two colors: white and blue. It has a fairly high rating among customers, to be exact 4.4 stars out of 5. Speaking of its cons, it is important to mention the following: firmness of a high level which is not liked by some people and the smell takes some time to evaporate.


#7 Cushy Form Half-Moon Bolster

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In case you are experiencing regular pain in a neck, back, or legs, you should consider purchasing this model, since it was specially designed by professionals to relieve the ache. It is a budget-friendly model which will help you to forget about neck stiffness, muscles tension, and pressure, etc. It is made in a half-moon shape and can be easily placed behind the back, legs, and neck. The filler inside is memory foam that adjusts to every individual curve of a body. The case is made of cotton, meaning it is soft, pleasant to the skin, and of course, breathable. These two materials are hypoallergenic, so they are suitable for allergy and asthma sufferers. Apart from relieving pain and supporting the body, the cushion is also capable of improving blood circulation. It is made in the US and is certified by all departments. The manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, but in case you don’t like something about the purchased item, you can always return it back and get a full refund. Finally, it is highly rated by thousands of customers across the world, giving it a minimum of 4.4 out of 5 as the minimum. As for the cons: too high firmness, thus uncomfortable for users, who prefer softer versions.


#8 Massage Pro Full Round Bolster

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This model from the Massage Pro is very affordable and will never burn holes in your pockets. Its current price isn’t high, and rating among thousands of users is 4.5 out of 5. It comes in two colors: crème and black with a size of 26×6 inches. It is a perfect model for back or neck pain, tissues or joints pressure, etc. It has an interesting round shape, and due to this feature can be easily placed under the knees or legs, behind the neck and back, or basically any other place you will feel comfortable with. When it is located behind the back, it ensures proper spinal alignment and consequently, improves blood circulation.

Moreover, it is ideal for yoga and massage purposes. It is made of high-density foam and PU vinyl that makes it soft and nice to the touch. These materials are of high quality, hence the cushion will not go flat. It has carry handles and can be taken anywhere and anytime. Critical points of this item include: some users claim that it loses its shape quicker than the warranty expires. Additionally, some people claim it to be too hard. However, these are just very few disappointed users; the rest are more than satisfied with this round bolster pillow.

Final Thoughts: Improved Health Quality With Bolster

If you are searching for comfort and health quality at night and not only, then bolster pillows are the ones to be considered primarily. Indeed, there are so many people that experience back or neck pain, muscles, joints or tissue tension that they simply require a top-notch cushion of this category that will solve all these and many other issues. It is wrong to ignore physical conditions, as later it will only lead to a worsening of well-being.

The cushions are more than affordable for absolutely everyone. They are made of premium quality materials and are definitely worth investing in the money. Sleeping on the right item, you will immediately feel the difference. It will cradle you, adjust to every shape/ curve of a body, and the most important- it will support whatever position you take. Additionally, they are suitable for all kinds of sleepers, since they can be placed literally anywhere: behind the back, under the neck, under feet/ legs, etc. These cushions are also one of the best choices when it comes to the after-surgery period. Special memory foam filler will help to minimize the pain, relieve muscle tension, and finally, relax the body for deeper sleep or rest.

To put it all simply, all eight above-mentioned models of bolster pillows are currently the best-buys on the market, due to their unique features. Buying one of them, you are guaranteed health aid for the whole body as well as prevention of all side effects of diseases. It is an investment for a minimum of several years that is obviously worth it. So, don’t hesitate to make a purchase right now to feel the real difference of healthy, deep, and quality sleep without waking up, discomfort, ache, and other unpleasant side effects of poor sleep.

Article by Emma Bishop
Article by Emma Bishop
Doctor, gynecologist, and pediatric therapist from California
Hello, my name is Emma Bishop. I am a doctor, gynecologist and pediatric therapist from California. Last 10+ years I help women to become mothers and lead the pregnancy process throughout the period. I am a newbie blogger, but hope my maternity tips will be useful for future mothers.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.