Since there are so many choices out in the marketplace on pillows, innkeepers are always concerned about purchasing the correct and best pillows for their Inn. We usually can solve these concerns by speaking to them about their options and budgets and sending them samples to try. The truth is that everyone has different likes and dislikes when it comes to pillows. So we will always advise to have a few different styles of pillows in each room and extra styles/sizes on hand.
Size of Pillows
The size of bed pillows you choose will depend on the size of the bed and the preferences of your guests and how they sleep. In general, for a twin size bed, a standard pillow would be the correct size. For a queen bed two queens is a preference and for a king bed two king pillows would fit best on the bed. We always suggest having 2 pillows in the room for each guest. It would be best to have a soft (down-like) pillow and a medium firm pillow. It is always good to have available a few down pillows and a few firm pillows (in standard, queen & king) on hand for those guests who prefer “real down” or very firm pillows. Also, guests sleeping on a king bed may prefer a smaller pillow then a king. Having these extra pillows on hand in different fills and sizes is a thoughtful accommodation for your guests who will appreciate your consideration of their sleeping needs. On our site we have a pillow menu that may help with making pillow choices for your particular property. Guests appreciate it when they can have the pillow of their choice to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Cost of Pillows
As far as cost of pillows for your property, there are many choices depending on your budget. If you have a limited budget, select one or two good quality pillows to actually sleep on and use an inexpensive polyester filled pillow for filling Standard or Euro shams. These are used mainly for decorative purposes and do not require a more costly pillow. Our staff is very informed on quality and price and can help you decide what will work for you within your budget.
Soft vs. Firm
The “loft” of a bed pillow is determined by the volume of fill it contains. For a firm pillow, the fill will be tighter. For a soft pillow, the fill will be lighter. A foam pillow will feel firm and hold its shape throughout the night, even when you shift on the bed. A down pillow or down-like pillow can be squeezed around to adjust to your head and give it a soft cushion. You can crumple it up for snuggling. A good quality compromise might be a pillow with a core of foam, gel or feathers, surrounded or wrapped with an outer coat of soft down. Most top quality feather and down pillows are hypo-allergenic and can be used by people with allergies. If your pillows feel flattened, toss in the dryer for a few minutes to fluff. Most pillows can be machine washed and dried. Check the directions when purchasing. Regardless of the pillows you choose, be prepared to replace the pillow often depending on your occupancy of your rooms. Industry suggests pillows should be replaced once a year.
Pillow Protectors
Always use a pillow protector on a bed pillow. These are covers that should be zippered and then covered with a pillowcase. Be certain, when purchasing, that it protects your pillow against dust mites, bacteria & bed bugs. It is beneficial if they are also waterproof. For a feather or down pillow, be sure that the ticking or cover is tightly woven cotton so that the feathers don’t leak out. Purchase a pillow protector for every pillow you own. This will keep the cover on the pillow clean and help protect the pillow. The pillow protectors should be washed after each guest.
Please call us at InnStyle 1-800-877-4667 and one of our knowledgeable sales reps would be very happy to guide you in the right choice of pillows for you or your Inn.