History

• Pillows have a long history that can be traced to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. They were found inside the tombs of Pharaohs. They were originally used only by the rich and were made of curved wood. In China, hard pillows made of jade, porcelain and wood were also used
  
  Softer materials were used for pillows in ancient Rome and Greece. Straw, down and reeds were used as stuffing to create headrests for the rich and powerful. Embroidered pillows came into fashion in medieval Eurpoe. It wasn't until the 16th century that pillows were commonly used, although filling had to be changed regularly. The pillows we know today were developed in the 19th century but were not mass produced for consumers until the 1900s.
  
  

Function

• Pillows are used to support the head, usually while sleeping. However, pillows may also be used to support the body when used on a sofa or chair. Some pillows are used purely for decoration or display and can be referred to as cushions.
  
  

Features

• Pillows feature a soft filling made of foam, feathers, down or synthetic stuffing. Buckwheat is common filler in parts of Asia. The filler is covered by a pillowcase or pillow sham made of cloth or silk. Some pillowcases feature zippers; others have one side open at all times in order to remove the actual pillow. Pillow shams have a slit in the back through which the pillow is inserted and removed.
  
  

Types

• Decorative throw pillow.
  
  There are three primary types of pillows in use today: bed pillows, orthopedic pillows and decorative pillows. Bed pillows are square or rectangular in shape and come in sizes corresponding with bed size (standard, king and queen).
  
  Orthopedic pillows come in various shapes and sizes. Neck orthopedic pillows are designed to provide support to the neck. Doughnut orthopedic pillows provide support to the tailbone and alleviate pressure while sitting. Lumbar orthopedic pillows support the lower back while sitting or driving for long periods.
  
  Decorative pillows are used on sofas, chairs and beds. They are sometimes known as accent pillows, couch or sofa pillows, throw pillows or toss pillows. They are typically smaller than bed or orthopedic pillows.
  
  

Benefits

• The use of pillows has many advantages. They support the head, which in turn keeps the neck and shoulders in alignment. This relieves painful pressure in the body and balances the skeletal system. They also create a feeling of comfort, aid in a good night's sleep and help with feeling well rested upon waking.