
When it comes to hospital stays, comfort is key, and many people wonder if they should bring their own body pillow from home. While hospitals do provide pillows, they are often small and flat, covered in plastic or with plastic casing, and can be uncomfortable and noisy. As such, some people prefer to bring their own pillows for added comfort, especially during labour. It is recommended to bring pillows with non-white pillowcases so they don't get confused with hospital pillows and get lost. In addition to pillows, people may bring other items from home, such as blankets, towels, and entertainment, to make their hospital stay more comfortable and relaxing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why bring your own pillow to the hospital | Hospital pillows are plastic and wiped down between patients, uncomfortable, and flat |
| People feel more comfortable with their own pillows | |
| Hospital pillows are noisy | |
| Hospital pillows are dreadful | |
| People want to avoid using the pillow during labor | |
| Hospital pillows are not enough for patients | |
| Hospital pillows are not decent | |
| Hospital pillows are not big enough | |
| Hospital pillows are not good for breastfeeding | |
| Hospital pillows are not good for post C-section | |
| Hospital pillows are not good for postpartum stay | |
| Hospital pillows are not good for back support | |
| Pillow cases | Use non-white pillow cases so they don't get confused with hospital pillows |
| Who brings their own pillows | Moms, dads, and patients |
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What You'll Learn
- People bring their own pillows to the hospital for comfort
- Hospital pillows are plastic and wiped down between patients
- Hospital pillows are often uncomfortable and flat
- A pillow can be useful during labour and after a Cesarean section
- Some people choose not to bring their pillows to the hospital due to germs

People bring their own pillows to the hospital for comfort
Bringing your own pillow to the hospital is a common practice, especially for pregnant women and new mothers. While hospitals typically provide pillows, some people prefer to bring their own for added comfort and familiarity. This is also recommended by organizations like the National Childbirth Trust, as it can provide comfort and security during labor and delivery.
Pillows from home can offer a better night's sleep, especially if you have specific preferences or requirements for your pillow type and firmness. Hospital pillows may be flat, noisy, or covered in plastic for hygiene reasons, which can be uncomfortable for some. Additionally, bringing your own pillow can ensure you have enough support during your stay, as pillow shortages in hospitals have been reported.
For pregnant women, having their own pillow can be essential for positioning and comfort during labor. Multiple pillows may be used at once, and having your own can ensure you have access to as many as you need. It is also recommended to bring extra pillows for partners or support people who will be staying overnight, as the hospital blankets and pillows may be insufficient for their needs.
However, some people may be concerned about bringing their good pillows to the hospital due to hygiene issues, sweat, or blood stains. To address this, some people choose to bring cheaper pillows or use pillowcases that are not white to distinguish them from hospital linens. It is also important to remember to take your pillow with you when leaving the hospital to avoid losing it.
Overall, bringing your own pillow to the hospital can significantly impact your comfort and well-being during your stay. It ensures you have access to the support you need and can make a hospital room feel more like home.
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Hospital pillows are plastic and wiped down between patients
While hospitals do provide pillows, some people prefer to bring their own pillow from home for added comfort. Hospital pillows are typically made of plastic and are wiped down between patients to maintain hygiene. This means that they may not be as soft or comfortable as the pillow you use at home.
Hospital pillows are designed with healthcare settings in mind, offering pressure-reducing comfort for patients. They are usually made to be reusable and routinely disinfected between patients. Some hospitals may also use disposable pillows, which are thrown away after each patient. These disposable pillows are often favoured in emergency units due to their convenience and sanitary benefits.
Reusable hospital pillows are commonly made with materials that are bacteria-resistant, anti-fungal, non-allergenic, and flame retardant. They are also breathable, noiseless, and relatively comfortable. However, due to the nature of their use, it is understandable that these pillows may not provide the same level of comfort as one's personal pillow.
Bringing your own pillow to the hospital can be a good idea, especially if you are particular about your sleeping arrangements. It can be a game-changer, as some people find the plastic hospital pillows uncomfortable. However, it is important to remember to retrieve your personal pillow when leaving the hospital to avoid losing it.
Additionally, it is worth noting that hospitals often provide small blankets, but you may want to bring your own for added comfort and warmth.
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Hospital pillows are often uncomfortable and flat
One person who works in a hospital recommended bringing your own pillow, as the hospital pillows are "plastic" and "flat". They also noted that it is a "total game-changer" in terms of comfort. This is a common sentiment, with many people opting to bring their own pillows to improve their sleep quality during their hospital stay.
Some people also bring extra pillows to support their back, feet, and arms, or to help with positioning during labour. In addition, for new mothers, pillows can be useful for propping up the baby during breastfeeding. It is recommended to bring pillows with non-white pillowcases, so they do not get confused with the hospital's pillows.
While hospitals do provide pillows, they are often basic and may not meet individual preferences for comfort and support. Therefore, bringing your own pillow can make a significant difference in your overall comfort during your hospital stay.
It is worth noting that some people may be hesitant to bring their own pillows due to concerns about hygiene or not wanting their personal items in a hospital setting. However, for those who prioritise comfort and familiarity, bringing their own pillow can be a worthwhile decision.
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A pillow can be useful during labour and after a Cesarean section
A pillow can be incredibly useful during labour and after a Cesarean section. It is recommended that you bring your own pillow to the hospital, as the pillows provided are often plastic and used by multiple patients. Having your own pillow can make you feel more comfortable and relaxed during your stay.
During labour, pillows can be used to help a woman find optimal positioning. Back labour can be challenging, and pillows can be used to relieve back pain. For example, a partner can roll two tennis balls in a tube sock on a woman's back or use the heels of their hands to relieve pain. Additionally, a pillow can be placed under the knees when turning over in bed to support the belly and avoid excessive twisting.
After a Cesarean section, a pillow can be used to support a woman's low back while sitting and feeding. It is recommended to use a cushion or pillow to bring the baby close and avoid slouching or leaning. A pillow can also be used to support the belly when coughing or sneezing. When getting in and out of bed, a pillow can be placed under the knees to provide support and reduce strain on the body.
Furthermore, getting adequate sleep during pregnancy is crucial, as lack of sleep can impact delivery and increase the chances of requiring a Cesarean section. Pregnancy pillows offer full-body support and can help women find comfortable sleeping positions, promoting muscle relaxation and improved circulation.
In summary, bringing your own pillow to the hospital is advisable, as it can significantly enhance comfort during labour and recovery from a Cesarean section. It aids in pain relief, positioning, feeding, and overall comfort, contributing to a more positive and relaxed experience.
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Some people choose not to bring their pillows to the hospital due to germs
While some people choose to bring their own pillows to the hospital, others opt to leave theirs at home due to concerns about germs and cleanliness. Hospitals are known to be germ-prone environments, and patients may worry about exposing their pillows to potential contaminants. This is especially true for individuals who consider themselves germaphobes or have a heightened sensitivity to germs and dirt.
The idea of bringing one's pillow into a hospital setting, where various illnesses and infections may be present, can be off-putting for some. Hospitals are associated with sickness and recovery, and the perception of germs and bacteria lingering on surfaces is understandable. People who are particularly conscious about hygiene may find the prospect of placing their personal pillow in such an environment uncomfortable.
Additionally, hospitals take stringent measures to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infections. This includes sanitizing procedures for bedding and pillows. Hospital pillows are typically wiped down or disinfected between patients to ensure cleanliness. As a result, some people may feel that their pillow could be exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals or disinfectants if brought to the hospital.
Another concern is the potential for bodily fluids, such as sweat, blood, or other fluids, to come into contact with one's pillow during a hospital stay. This is a valid consideration, as hospital stays can involve various procedures, treatments, or situations where bodily fluids are present. People may not want their pillows to absorb these fluids, leading to potential stains, odours, or hygiene issues.
Furthermore, hospitals often provide pillows for patients, and while these may not always be the most comfortable, some people prefer to use them to avoid exposing their personal items to the hospital environment. Hospital pillows are designed to withstand the rigours of hospital use, including frequent cleaning and handling by multiple patients.
In summary, while bringing one's pillow to the hospital can provide comfort and familiarity, it is understandable why some people choose to leave theirs at home. The concerns about germs, cleanliness, and exposure to the hospital environment are valid considerations for anyone packing for a hospital stay. Ultimately, the decision to bring one's pillow comes down to individual preferences, and hospitals typically accommodate patients' choices.
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Frequently asked questions
Hospital pillows are often plastic and uncomfortable. They are also wiped down between patients. It is therefore recommended to bring your own pillow(s) to the hospital, especially if you are particular about the type of pillow you use.
It is recommended to bring a pillow with a non-white pillowcase so that it doesn't get confused with the hospital's pillows.
In addition to pillows, you may want to bring your own blanket, towel, clothes, and entertainment such as a book or cards.



































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