How comfortable and safe is The Original Theraline?
This V-shaped pillow is made from 100% cotton and feels comfortable against the skin. It’s not as soft as either the Mamas & Papas Maternity and Nursing Pillow or Theraline’s own Plushy Moon, however there is an option to buy a jersey cover which may be a little softer to the touch (although we didn't test this). There are also no tags or seams that would cause irritation.
Theraline's microbead filling really is its USP. The sand-like filling moves to accommodate your growing bump, whatever size it is and whatever stage of pregnancy you're at - whether it's been days since your positive pregnancy test or you're well into the throes of researching the best stretch mark cream and TENS machines. This means that it moulds itself around your body to help you maintain a safe and comfortable sleeping position and it'll give plenty of support at the same time. The filling makes a slight noise if you listen really carefully, but it won't cause distraction or irritation.
The pillow is light and flexible so you won't feel forced to lie a certain way. It’s long too, so you can really support your whole body (inclu
ding your head and shoulders) and target different aches and pains.
Our tester, Laura, felt really comfortable and supported using this pillow and saw a marked improvement in her aches and pains, which meant that not only did she get a good night’s sleep, but she also felt better the next day as well.
How easy is it to use and clean?
The pillow comes with adequate instructions, and it is relatively simple to use. Theraline has a very helpful site that gives lots of extra information, including details of the materials used, washing instructions, refilling instructions (you can buy replacement beads, though not directly from the UK website) and other help and advice, including a video for breastfeeding mums.
It’s easy to mould the pillow into the right position. There's no zipping or unzipping – just bend the pillow into whatever shape you need.
There are clear washing instructions on the pillow itself. The cover can be removed to wash and tumble dry, and the pillow can be machine-washed at 60 degrees, although you will need to use a laundry bag to prevent any escaping beads from damaging your washing machine.
Stains from chocolate and spilled tea and milk came out on the first wash (the pillow can be washed at quite a high temperature) using non-biological washing powder. It looked and felt clean and fresh after washing, with no bobbling or fading.