How Much Does a Pillow Weigh?

You may be wondering how much your ideal pillow should weigh before making the purchase, but each type of pillow is different. Pillows may greatly vary in thickness, loft, quality, and style which may give them different weights. Sometimes, you may notice your pillow growing heavier after prolonged usage and that may be because of excessive accumulation of dirt, mites, danger, sweat, and oil. In such a case, you may need to thoroughly clean your pillow.

Synthetic pillows weigh differently from memory foam types, which in turn are different from latex pillows. The weight of a pillow is determined by its filling, size, and many other such factors which we will explore in detail below.

How much does a new pillow weigh?

The weight of a new pillow depends entirely on the type of pillow and its special loft. Some pillows such as the latex variety may weigh a lot more than feather pillows or memory foam pillows. This is primarily due to the loft quality, volume, air pressure, etc.

In a research study by the Ohio State University, it was found that the average weight of a new pillow is approximately between 3 to 5 pounds. You may notice a sudden increase in this weight with time and usage as dust, mites, and all kinds of impurities begin to accumulate in the tender crevices of your pillow’s filling. Sweat and oil from cosmetics, hair, and even the natural glands and pores of the skin may glue inside the pillow and add to its overall weight.

How much does a standard pillow weigh?

A standard pillow of any variety may significantly differ in weight, but a common consensus can be achieved depending on the size of the pillow. 

Most pillows come in standard, queen, king, and jumbo sizes and this can impact the overall weight of the pillow. A standard pillow measures from 20” to 26” but this can be bought in the flat or medium variety. A flat standard pillow can weigh up to 8 oz., while a medium sized standard pillow weighs approximately 14 oz.

In some cases, you may have the option to purchase a customized pillow where you may increase or decrease the filling. Your standard pillow’s weight will depend on the amount of filling inside.

How much does a cotton pillow weigh?

A standard cotton pillow, much like other varieties, weighs according to its filling and size. Cotton pillows are some of the most common types of pillows used by sleepers and while they are cheaper than other pillows, they can weigh a bit more compared to feather or water-based pillows.

A 100% cotton pillow will weigh approximately 1.0 kg. If your pillow is encased in a cotton pillow cover, the case will weigh 120 g. A larger cotton pillow that measures 18” to 24” may weigh up to 1.5 kg. Its case will be 140 g. You can also find cotton pillows of a larger variety in the market that weigh a little over 1.5 kg.

How much does a Tempur-Pedic pillow weigh?

A standard Tempur-Pedic pillow may weigh around 4 to 5 pounds. Some sleepers may choose to invest in a Tempur-Pedic body pillow instead which can weigh up to 8.5 pounds if it comes in the dimensions 48” x 14” x 7”.

Depending on the size, dimensions, and filling of the Tempur-Pedic pillow, its weight can be different. A standard Tempur-Pedic neck pillow of 20” x 12.5” x 4.75” inches weighs 2.8 pounds as it is specifically made for the neck’s comfort.

How much does a feather pillow weigh?

There are several varieties within the feather pillow style, but most of these weigh three pounds or less. Feather pillows are known for their splendidly soft feel, plush support, and lightweight. The feather filling inside accumulates air and makes it easy to move or adjust the pillow in the middle of the night.

Feather pillows with a combination of goose down may weigh differently as the latter is softer and lighter in weight and texture. Different feather pillows may weigh differently depending on the combination of the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are memory foam pillows heavy?

Memory foam pillows are notoriously heavy compared to other varieties such as fiberfill or down pillows. Most memory foam pillows may weigh 5 pounds or more, but this too depends on the memory foam filling type. Shredded foam is airier and thus weighs less than solid memory foam pillows.

One reason for their weight is the adequate support for your neck to keep away any aches, but their sheer weight may make you feel hot or claustrophobic and the rigidity of the pillow can feel uncomfortable. The thickness and height of memory foam pillows cannot always be adjusted so the heavy weight remains a constant factor.

Do pillows get heavier?

With time and extensive usage, you may notice your pillow increasing in weight. This is due to the accumulation of dust mites, molds and mildew, dander, debris, sweat, cosmetic residue, skin oils, dead skin, etc., This makes your pillow less comfortable and more hazardous for your health. If you do not wash and thoroughly clean your pillow, it may weigh twice as much with all these impurities glued to its surface and tender filling.

Does pillow weight indicate the quality of the pillow?

Your pillow’s weight can indicate the quality of the pillow in some instances, but this is not a fool-proof method to ensure top standard. You should ideally look for a pillow that offers thickness equivalent to the distance between your ear and shoulder. This ensures perfect support and comfort.

Keep in mind that this also relies entirely on your preferred sleeping position. If you are a stomach sleeper, you may not need a pillow at all! The quality of the pillow is largely determined by the quality of the filling, fill power, resilience, and the ability to provide the body with ample support.

What is the weight of a pillow in KG?

Different pillows may weigh differently in kilograms. A standard cotton pillow may weigh 1.0 kg, while a standard memory foam pillow may weigh 1.5 kg. A pillow’s weight in kilograms depends on its length, fill power, thickness, etc.

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