What is a 3-chamber pillow and who is it suitable for?
Firm on the inside, soft on the outside: we explain the structure of a 3-chamber pillow and what you should look out for in terms of height and filling.
A 3-chamber pillow consists of one inner chamber and two outer chambers. This design allows different fillings or quantities of filling to be used in specific areas: the inner chamber provides more support, whilst the outer chambers are pleasantly soft. However, how a particular pillow feels still depends on the actual model.
How are the three chambers structured?
The inner chamber is situated between the two outer layers. It helps to give the pillows their shape and firmness. The outer chambers have a significant influence on how soft the surface feels when you first lie on it. When you turn the pillows, one of the outer chambers is always on top.
The principle is not limited to a single material. OBB offers various 3-chamber models, such as the Schwarzwald Aktiv 3-Chamber Pillow. You should always check the specific product description to see which filling is in which compartment. A general description of the compartment type is no substitute for this information.
What is the difference between this and a traditional pillow?
In a simple pillow, the filling is not usually separated into distinct inner and outer layers. This opens up different ways of combining softness and support. A 3-chamber pillow can offer a softer surface whilst providing greater stability at its core. Whether this design is more comfortable for you depends on your personal sleeping preferences.
A classic pillow with a firmer filling can still provide more support than a particular 3-chamber model. So don’t just compare the number of chambers, but also the height, the amount of filling, the cover and how the pillow feels when you lie on it.
Who might it be suitable for?
If you like a soft surface but don’t want to lie without any support at all, 3-chamber pillows are worth a look. Pay particular attention to how your head rests in your usual sleeping position. Sleeping on your side, back or front may make different pillow heights comfortable. Your mattress also affects how far your shoulder sinks into the pillow.
Size is also a factor. OBB offers certain models in 40 × 80 cm and 80 × 80 cm. The comparison explains which size is best for you Pillow 40 × 80 or 80 × 80.
A simple decision-making guide
- First, consider whether you’re looking for a flat or a higher headrest.
- Compare the actual fillings and compartments of the model you are interested in.
- Choose the format to suit your preferred surface.
- Put more weight on how it feels when you try it on and lie on it than on blanket promises.
If you already have a favourite pillow, use its height and firmness as a point of comparison. This will help you choose a new model much more effectively than simply going by the description ‘3-chamber’.