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Essential Oil Diffusers, Ultrasonic vs Nebulizer with Reviews

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One of the most effective ways to get the benefits from your essential oils is to buy a good diffuser. I will be covering ultrasonic and nebulizing diffusers here.

While there are some fundamental differences between the two, which I will cover, neither type will alter the molecular composition of your essential oils making them an ideal way to fill your room with the soothing sweet aroma of your favorite oils.

Ultrasonic Diffusers

Ultrasonic Diffusers use electronic frequencies to create vibrations which vaporize water along with your essential oil and disperse it into the air without the need for heat. This leaves the composition of your essential oils unaltered and creates a cool fine mist that fills your room with the aroma of your essential oils.

Don’t confuse a diffuser with a humidifier. Humidifiers increase the moisture in the air and are often used in areas of low humidity or dry climates. They can also be useful for relieving cold or flu symptoms, however, they are unsuitable for diffusing essential oils.

With a diffuser, the output of moisture is less than a humidifier. The aroma it produces is usually only enough to fill a room, not your whole house.

How Do Ultrasonic Diffusers Work?

Ultrasonic Diffusers have a reservoir that you fill with either tap, filtered or distilled water depending on the instructions. Most, on average, hold about 100ml. You then add a few drops of your essential oil to the water, press a button and voila! – instant mist with the wonderful aroma of your essential oils.

You should make sure you clean the tank out regularly as a stagnant tank of residue water will develop bacteria and the next time you use your device, this bacteria will also be dispersed into the air along with the mist!

Why Choose an Ultrasonic Diffuser?

They are very easy to use and will give you a gentle, natural aroma that won’t overpower the whole house.

The 2019 Model Zen Breeze, Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze


The Zen Breeze, Essential Oil Diffuser is a good choice if you a looking for an ultrasonic diffuser.

I chose this one because it’s super stylish and quite small at 4.75 x 6.6″ across so it will fit nicely onto a bedside table. It features 14 different color LED light settings which you can choose between, leave on the color-changing mode, or you can turn the lights off if you prefer.

It’s very simple to use: You add water using the measuring cup provided, and a few drops (try 3 -4 at first) of your essential oil, press the mist button and let the beautiful natural scent fill your senses.

You can set it to run for 1, 3 or 6 hours, or you can just set it to “on” and it will run until it runs out of water, at which point it will cleverly shut itself off automatically.

The Verdict

The only downsides, and to me, they aren’t really downsides but it should be noted that

  • The instruction manual hasn’t been translated very well, it’s still better English than any second language I could speak and it is readable, just not very clear. This has no bearing on the quality of the diffuser, though.
  • The beautiful wood you see in the photo is only a wood effect, not real wood, it is actually made from plastic.
  • Once you have filled the unit with water and your oil/oils, don’t attempt to move it, as it will spill very easily.
  • It’s quiet but not silent. I actually find it quite soothing but it may put those off who need total silence to sleep.
  • The lid, which just sits on top of the base, can sometimes be a little tricky to lift off.

View the Zen Breeze Essential Oil Diffuser, here.

Nebulizing Diffusers

Nebulizers use only pure essential oils. Since you do not add any water to these devices, they create a powerful aroma that is usually emitted at intervals preventing them from becoming too overpowering. They will use a lot of essential oil relatively quickly.

How Do Nebulizing Diffusers Work?

Nebulizing Diffusers have two small glass tubes inside them. Basically, when you turn the device on, an air current is forced through one of the small tubes, creating a suction that causes the essential oils in the bottom of the glass chamber to rise up through a separate feeding tube.

A stream of pressurized air then hits the essential oil and causes it to atomize into microscopic particles that fill the glass chamber and disperse into the air.

You generally add around 20 -25 drops of your essential oil directly into the reservoir at bottom of the diffuser and then switch the device on.

Not all essential oils are suitable for Nebulizing Diffusers, Sandalwood, for example, has a thick viscosity and so would need to be blended with a thinner oil – you cannot use a pre-diluted oil or carrier oil to do this.

The 2019 Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser For Aromatherapy By Organic Aromas


This Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser is quality-made from real, solid plantation hardwood and hand-blown pyrex glass. It will fill your home with the wonderful aroma of pure essential oils up to 800 sq ft. But don’t worry if you think this would be a little too overpowering – you can limit the amount of essential oil emitted with a handy volume control button.

It measures approximately 7-10″ x 4-6 ” wide and has a durable, energy-efficient electric pump that is whisper quiet, but not silent.

This diffuser also features rainbow-carousel LED lighting that can be turned off if you prefer. It operates for 2 mins “On,” 1 min “Off,” for 2-hours then conveniently shuts itself off. The scent that it emits after shut-down, should last around one hour.

How to care for your Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser 

Organic Aromas suggest you keep a small bottle of rubbing alcohol so that you can regularly give your glass reservoir a clean.

If you don’t regularly do this, residue oil will harden and build up, clogging the tubes and preventing the pump from working properly. They provide you with pipettes for regular cleaning.

To clean the device once a week, or if you want to change oils and don’t want any of the previous essential oil to remain, add some plain rubbing alcohol to the reservoir using the dropper provided and turn on the diffuser for 5 – 10 minutes to diffuse the alcohol.

When the diffuser is dry the process is complete. Once a month you should give your diffuser a deep clean. Organic Aromas suggest you soak your glass in boiling hot water, with a tiny amount of dishwashing soap for about 30 minutes to remove any remaining residue. Full instructions are provided to guide you through this process, though.

The Verdict
On the plus side, the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser comes complete with a one-year free parts and service warranty.

If you live in an area of high humidity and don’t want to add more moisture to your room, a nebulizing diffuser would be your best choice.

The device is made from ‘Plantation Hardwood’ or ‘Rubberwood,’ as it is sometimes known. It is eco-friendly in that it comes from plantation trees that have already served their useful purpose.

Some downsides are, that the aroma may be too intense for some when the scent is first emitted, but the fact that this model has a volume button will certainly help.

Being made from glass, the device is quite fragile. You will have to be careful when handling it. If you knock it, it may break.

However, if you do, all is not lost, fortunately, you can buy a Glass Cap Replacement for your Organic Aromas Essential Oil Diffuser.

Because nebulizing diffusers are more difficult to clean than ultrasonic diffusers, more maintenance time is required to look after them.

Organic Aromas are obviously very proud of their Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser and have taken steps to ensure a good relationship with their customers. They have taken the time to answer more of Amazon customer’s questions than most companies do. I have to say I am greatly impressed, and for this, they get a full 5 stars from me! 

To view the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser, Click here.

Glass Cap Replacements for Organic Aromas Essential Oil Diffusers are available, Click here.

Lavender A Natural Remedy For Anxiety and Insomnia?

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Yes it is, and here’s a handy guide to how you can use it if you’re struggling with anxiety or insomnia:

Top 5 Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep with Lavender

Make Your Own Lavender Massage Oil with This Easy Recipe To Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep


A great way to relax with a little ‘you’ time is to make your own natural lavender massage oil. This easy free recipe is wonderfully soothing and very easy to make yourself!

First, you will need a few drops of pure essential lavender oil. Tisserand is an excellent well known and trusted brand, but there are other high-quality brands out there too.

Choose an Essential Oil Diffuser

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Use an Essential Oil Diffuser to fill the air around you with the sweet natural scent of Lavander.

Both the Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze and the Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser by Organic Aromas will ensure that the molecular structure of your favorite essential oils remains unaltered when you diffuse them.

However, they work in very different ways.

I will be taking a look at what each has to offer and including full reviews of the 2017 Models of the Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze, and the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser by Organic Aromas.

Vacation Organic Flax Seed Filled Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation


What better way to relax, and relieve the tension and stresses of the day, than with this soothing lavender eye pillow.

It’s like having a mini eye massage. Lie back, close your eyes and let the soft, sweet, natural scent of lavender fills your senses.

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation is filled with a combination of organic flax seeds and pure lavender flowers and is suitable for warming or cooling therapies.

You can choose from either a silky soft satin or a 100% organic cotton casing and it comes in a fabulous selection of colors.

Click below to view price and color choices on amazon:

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation

or continue to full review...

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray



This Works is a company that specializes in quality skincare products but they regard their Deep Sleep Pillow Spray as their ultimate beauty secret. Why?

Because a good night’s sleep will do more for you than any face creams.

Made only with ingredients that are kind to you and your home.

This Pillow spray not only gives you a most heavenly scent, but it really does help to reduce anxiety and help you to relax and sleep.

Click below to view the price on amazon:

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

Or continue to full review…

Sensacare Lavender Eye Pillow  


Last, but by no means least, this brand new plush sleep mask is ideal for cooling and warming therapy – and what’s more – it blocks out light to help with melatonin production which aids sleep.

The super-soft cloud-like feel of its velvet casing will help to gently soothe and relax you, while the heavenly scent of Lavender flowers will send you off into a land of peaceful slumber.

Click below to view the price on amazon:

Sensacare Lavender Eye Pillow

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase Review

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You’ve just woken up, the sun’s shining and you’ve got that “bring it on” attitude having had your best night’s sleep in weeks.

Feeling fresh, alert and ready to take on the day, you catch a glance of yourself in the mirror and see crumpled pillowcase lines across your face and bed hair so bad, you look like you’ve been working on a felting project all night and got tangled up in it while you were asleep.

Not only that, but your face seems to have been busy all night working on a brand new pimple that you can feel brewing somewhere under the surface and ready to break out like a Broadway star onto your face the minute you walk through the front door.

Better than face creams and hair serums to combat the damage, is a pure silk pillowcase.

Simply apply to your pillow the night before and unlike creams and serums it won’t run out.

We’ll now take a closer look at the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase and because we know you’ll love that feeling of silk against your skin so much, we’ll show you some more beautiful silk stuff so your whole body can feel as soft and luxurious as your face.

The Alaska Bear Silk Collection

Click below to jump to topic:

Why You Need a Silk Pillowcase in Your Life.

It is estimated that the average woman spends $15,000 on beauty products over the course of her lifetime.

It simply doesn’t make sense to spend on average 8 hours a night with your face in a cotton pillowcase which sucks the moisture out of your skin and hangs around in the material, creating a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially causing acne breakouts – not to mention the extra lines and creases you are adding to your face on a nightly basis.

The long, smooth fibers of pure silk don’t retain moisture, keeping your face and hair cool and comfortable. Silk is also naturally hypoallergenic.

In a 2004 study, wearing silk against the skin was found to significantly reduce the incidence of dermatitis.

No wonder dermatologists recommend it.

How to Choose the Best Silk Pillowcase – What’s a Momme?

Now you’ll, no doubt be familiar with how thread count in cotton works. A higher thread count in cotton sheets is generally a good indicator of quality, so you’d easily tell which cotton sheets to choose.

But silk is a little different. The first thing you should look for is the momme count. Momme (mm) is a measurement of the weight and tells you how much density of silk is actually in there. You can see how it’s measured in the example below:

If a piece of silk fabric measuring 100 ft by 45 inches, weighs 19 pounds, the weight would be 19 momme.

…And it’s 19, 22, and 25 mommes that set the standard for high-quality silk.

A 19 momme will feel soft and luxurious to the touch and it’ll also be durable.

That said, if you were to compare a 19 momme with a 25 momme. The 25 momme would feel thicker and denser.

But that doesn’t always mean better, because you really don’t need to go that high in order to get all the benefits that a silk pillowcase has to offer.

22 Momme 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase by Alaska Bear

And a genuine, good quality and well-made 100% pure mulberry silk pillowcase with a 19 or 22 momme is way better than a poorly-made or finished 25 momme one or one that’s not made from genuine mulberry silk – and that’s because silkworms fed with white mulberry leaves produce the finest, best-quality silk in the world.

As you’d expect, a genuine 22 momme silk pillowcase does cost more than a 19 momme one, so it’s pretty much a judgment call on whether you want to treat yourself to a high-end ultra-luxurious silk pillowcase or a standard luxury pillowcase.

But what about thread count?

Well, thread count doesn’t matter to quite the same degree as cotton because silk thread doesn’t have a uniform thickness. That said, anything over 400 is the benchmark before you should consider making a purchase.

So we’ve pretty much set the standard for quality, so let’s take a look at how the ALASKA BEAR, Natural Silk Pillowcase 19|22 Momme|600 Thread Count measures up.

ALASKA BEAR, Natural Silk Pillowcase – 19 | 22 Momme

Both the 19 and the 22 momme silk pillowcase from Alaska Bear are a genuine, 100% pure mulberry silk single pillowcase, with a high thread count of 600. And each comes at an affordable price.

As we’ve already talked about in the section above, once you get above the standard of quality you should look for in a silk pillowcase, you can either choose to go for a 19 momme that’s lighter in momme weight and therefore a little less long-lasting but nevertheless good quality or a denser 22 momme that’s more durable and luxurious but costs a little more.

Whichever one you choose, the Alaska Bear ones are equally well made and have the same features, one is just a higher momme.

So I’ll talk about their similarities together.

The first thing you’ll notice is just how beautifully they are made, there are no wobbly rectangles here.

Unlike others out there that have cotton or polyester on the back, the Alaska Bear one has silk on both sides.

That means that you can turn the pillow over without compromising on the fabric of your pillowcase.

I love this pillowcase because it comes with a concealed zipper that is positioned on the short side of the case. This helps keep your pillow smooth and neat looking so even if you have very high-end existing bedding that you’ve carefully and lovingly chosen, this pillowcase won’t let down your style.

…And, it’s available in a choice of more than 30 different colors including a few different patterns too, so you can match or contrast with any of your existing bedding.

Most importantly though, the zipper will keep the pillowcase from bunching up so it will feel smoother and softer against your face.

But the best thing is this pillowcase is chemical-free.

It has Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification. This means the fabric has been tested and certified to be free from more than 100 substances known to be harmful to health.

The dyes are all-natural and won’t shade or fade.

This is a great choice, and if you can stretch to it, I recommend you go for the higher quality 22 momme.

High-quality silk is, in fact, one of the strongest natural fibers available and a 22 momme one, in particular, will give you years of luxury and comfort.

I think this pillowcase would also make a fabulous gift for someone.

Why not pair it with a natural silk sleep mask, in the same 19 momme, 600 thread count 100% mulberry silk quality, to keep the light out of your eyes and give you or your friend a restful night’s sleep?

Your face and hair will thank you and after a good night’s sleep you will wake up looking refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Click below to view price and color options:

We’ll next take a look at how to care for your pillowcase, but first, while you are here, I just want to show you these beautiful silk pajamas by Alaska Bear. If you send your measurements to them, they’ll tailor-make them especially for you.

ALASKA BEAR Customized 100% Mulberry Women Silk Pajama Set

So now your whole body can feel as soft and luxurious as your face.

Click below to veiw the price:

How to Care For Your Silk Pillowcase

The Laundress – Delicate Wash

You’re probably expecting to find the big downside to choosing silk in this section but there are no complicated instructions or trips to the dry cleaners involved.

Silk is really easy to care for.

You can either hand wash it using lukewarm water and a ph neutral soap or if you prefer, machine-wash it on a delicate cycle, again, with a ph neutral soap. A good tip is to place it in a zippered lingerie bag to protect it if you are washing it with other things.

You should never wring silk out but silk dries quickly so you can just hang it and leave it to dry naturally.

Silk is naturally crease-resistant but you can use a very cool iron if you have a silk setting, use it, to bring the sheen back and you are good to put the pillowcase back on again the same day.

And just remember…

High-quality silk is, in fact, one of the strongest natural fibers available, so treat this pillowcase with a little love when you wash it and it will be there to love you right back for years to come.

Why These Are the Ultimate UK Hygge Socks

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There is a very odd-looking pair of wool socks in the V & A Museum: Ankle socks with a split toe. What makes the socks so strange to look at, is the fact that they are old. Very old. In fact, 1,600 years old.

They do look old, yes, but not that old. In fact, they look barely worn at all.

What strikes you though, is that they are bright red. Really bright red. There’s something so satisfying to think that someone in Egypt some time between A.D. 250 and A.D. 420 was about to start work on a new pair of socks and thought, mmm let’s go for red.

So yes, socks have been around for a really long time, yet we barely take notice of them.

Considered the most boring of Christmas presents, they’re dismissed as just something to fiddle about with before you can get your shoes on and go.

They are most annoying when in their singular form; they hang around and keep offering themselves up to you when you are rooting about in a draw looking for a complete pair – you having hung onto one, in the vain hope that the other will eventually turn up.

My favourite socks the lighter color is available from Amazon UK

Yet you only need to snuggle up in a comfy chair with a pair of warm, hand-knitted socks on a cold winter’s afternoon to appreciate them.

Being at home, drinking coffee with friends or family, and good conversation, or just relaxing with a good book or watching a black and white movie, will give you that feeling.

A feeling of contentment, inner peace; that sense of well-being. The Danes have a word for it, Hygge pronounced “heu-gah”.

I am sure you will have seen it everywhere, it’s the latest trend. But the feeling it describes is timeless and universal, something that dates back to the beginning of mankind.

If I could knit – and believe me I’ve tried – I’d knit a pair of warm socks. A special pair: ones reserved only for the pure joy of wearing them.

Socks that would warm my toes when the temperature outside has dropped and I can see frost beginning to form through the window.

Although I can’t knit – well, not anything that goes around corners – I am happy to say I do have such a pair: my favorite Riobamba Sofa Socks by Pachamama.

There is something special about these socks and it’s not just that they look so different from the standard mass-produced ones that you can pick up on any high street. They actually are special.

They have been skillfully hand-made by home-workers in Nepal, who supplement their farming incomes by knitting, working around their planting and harvest times.

Pachamama, the company, who employs them, either pays the knitters (above average) wages in advance or supplies them with their raw materials, ensuring that no one incurs any debt through their working relationship with the company.

Pachamama, meaning “Earth Mother” in Quechua, also places year-round orders despite the seasonal nature of their products, providing a much-needed steady income for the knitters throughout the whole year – and of course, they ensure that no children are exploited.

So you see, these are feel-good socks in every sense of the word. They come in an assortment of styles and patterns, all super cute and very chic, and they are just so cozy and comfortable to wear.

They also make fabulous bed socks for those frosty nights when your ice-cold toes make it hard to fall sleep.

They are the ultimate in comfortable attire when working from home or after exercise.

I love the stripy ones. I have two pairs. Mine are the ones in the top image. Some long Chamonix ones in “oat” below are on my Christmas wish list.

I mean what could be more hygge on a Christmas morning than coffee, mince pies, and warm, cute hand-knitted socks?

Of course, it can get just as chilly at just about every other time of year too, so you will always want to keep them close by.

The best thing about these socks is that unlike slippers, they are perfect for tucking your feet up on the sofa, but they are practical too because they are so hard-wearing.

This makes the longer ones ideal wellie socks, warming your toes on cold, rainy, or snowy days.

Don’t think these are just for the ladies, though, they are also available for men!

All Pachamama socks are made from 100% wool, are available in most sizes and because they are designed to be roomy, they can easily be worn over a normal pair of socks.

So what could be better than these cute warm sofa socks to help you relax at home, and when you fall in love with them – and you will – why not check out the hats?.

Click on any of the photos on this page, to view that style on Amazon.

Alternatively, click here to view the full range of socks and here for the full range of gloves and hats.

The Best Memory Foam Seat Cushions for 2021

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Having spent five months trying to acclimatize myself to sleeping on a bed that was so hard that an elephant couldn’t break it in, I ended up with quite serve pain in my lower back.

Sitting at my desk working long hours was agony, seriously marring the enthusiasm and love I have for what I do.

My desk chair while being the latest in tasteful office furniture, was a bit of a brick wall to sit on.

Cushions softened the seat but they didn’t take the pressure of my spine well enough to ease the pain.

They kept sliding about and falling off when I stood up and I usually ended up tilted over to one side or the other at an odd angle making my back pain worse.

Having existing pain rather than just wishing to prevent it did, however, make me an ideal candidate to test out some good quality orthopedic support seat cushions.

So do they work?

For my own experience, my back today is so much better than it was just over a year ago.

I would say that the cushion may not have been the sole reason for the improvement; a memory foam mattress topper to correct the rock-hard mattress that caused my problems in the first place went a long way to helping my back recover.

My memory foam seat cushion, however, does take first prize for taking the pressure off my lower back while I work.

It helps me maintain a good sitting posture and it has continued to keep me comfortable and pain-free.

Not only that but knowing that in using one of these cushions, I am less likely to have any future problems has made it, for me, an excellent investment.

Click below to jump to each topic:

Our Top Picks for The Best Memory Foam Seat Cushions

A good coccyx support cushion could make a world of difference to you.

Choosing the right one could help relieve pressure points and keep your spine and nerves compression-free.

I’ll now guide you through the best ones out there.

The Best Memory Foam Seat Cushion for Office or Everyday Use: ComfiLife Premium Comfort Seat Cushion

This one is just the right size and thickness for everyday use, especially if you’re planning on using it at the office.

You see there’s a minimum thickness that you should aim above when choosing one of these seat cushions.

Unlike, for example, a memory foam mattress topper where your weight is distributed over a wide area, a cushion that is designed for you to sit on, will have to be able to take the full impact of your whole body weight over a small area.

Therefore the cushion has to be thick enough to support you or you will just squish it flat.

That means you should choose one that’s at least 2.5″ high.

A quick mention, here. Although this option will take your weight. If you are heavier than around 168lbs, I would recommend you go for our next option instead of this one.

But if you are around this weight or under:

This one with a depth of 2.8″ is a good choice.

It’s thick enough to prevent it from flattening. So you won’t lose any of the cushion’s pressure-relieving qualities.

But it’s not so thick that you’ll look taller than everyone else in the office, and your feet can’t touch the floor.

The ComfiLife cushion has an ergonomic design that holds you in the most natural spine-friendly sitting posture possible.

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You will notice that the support cushion is designed to be thickest at the sides.

This will prevent you from tilting over to one side or the other, keeping your weight evenly balanced and your spine straight.

But don’t expect to feel like you are just sitting on a soft comfy cushion.

This support cushion is firm. It has a task to perform and that is to improve your sitting posture while relieving your pressure points and pain.

You see this is not regular foam that feels soft to start with but then flattens to a pancake over time. These cushions are made from memory foam.

Memory foam is made from viscoelastic polyurethane foam meaning it has a high viscosity and density; it works by softening and molding around you when it comes into contact with your body heat.

When you move, it cools down and returns to its original shape. This makes it ideal to sit on, offering you support while relieving your pressure points.

What stands out about this pick is the extra attention to details that it has.

For example, you are not going to knock it off your chair every time you stand up or find it moves around every time you change position and that’s because it has a non-slip rubber bottom.

And if you’re carrying it to and from the office, there’s a handy carry strap sewn into the cover on one side.

At 17.5 inches by 13.7 inches it has a good size surface area.

Don’t worry if that’s smaller than your chair seat size. Just remember the cushion isn’t supposed to cover your chair seat edge to edge, just you.

What We Like:

  • Removable Washable Cover – It has a concealed zipper so the cover is easily removable and washable.
  • US Made – It’s made from good quality high-density memory foam. What you are getting is a high-quality product made by a US company.
  • Size – This one is just the right size and thickness for everyday use, especially if you’re planning on using it at the office. It’s not so chunky it draws attention to itself and it has a handy carry-strap.

Things to Consider:

  • Thickness – It’s not as thick as our next choice, so if you are heavy or would simply like a like more padding for whatever reason, you should opt for our next choice.

Dimensions:
17.5″ x 13.7″ x 2.8″

Click to view price below.
ComfiLife Premium Comfort Seat Cushion

The Best Memory Foam Seat Cushion – Extra Thick: FOMI Extra Thick Memory Foam Seat Cushion

The main difference between this one and our last pick is that this one is much thicker and it’s bigger too.

If you’d like something with that bit extra cushioning for whatever reason or simply because you are either heavy or you have a boney butt, this is the one you should go for.

That’s the thing, you can’t really go too thick on these cushions.

Though there’s a minimum depth you should aim above, generally speaking, the deeper the memory foam the more comfort and relief you’ll get.

This cushion is way above that minimum size of 2.5″ and at 3.5″ high it’ll give you the maximum amount of support you’re ever likely to need.

Like our last choice, it also has that ergonomic shape and a cut out for the coccyx area so that no part of your spine ever comes into contact with the cushion – even if you choose to lean back in your chair.

The cushion is made from thick, high-density memory foam.

It will feel comfortable but firm to sit on it.

Remember it’s there to support you so it will let you sit forward, upright or back as the memory foam molds to your shape, discouraging you from slouching or tilting over to the side.

This cushion, like our previous choice, also has a handy carry-strap sewn into the cover to one side. You can see it the photo to the left.

And it has a nonslip base, so it won’t move around or slide off your chair every time you stand up.

Dimensions:
18″ x 16″ x 3.5″

What We Like:

  • Thickness – This one is the maximum thickness you’ll ever likely need. It’s suitable for the heavier amongst us. But whatever your size, this one will give you ultimate comfort and support.
  • US Made – This one is also made from good quality high-density memory foam. As I’ve said before, what you are getting is basically a quality product made by a US company.

Things to Consider:

  • Cover – That’s the only thing that I personally don’t like. I like that it’s black and there’s nothing wrong with the quality. It’s just that those tiny breathable holes show the inner cushion through. Maybe that’s just me. But I’d like it to look a little plusher. That said, it’s a small trade-off for the ultimate comfort and support that this one will give you.

Click to view price, below.
FOMI Extra Thick Memory Foam Seat Cushion

The Best Gel Memory Foam Seat Cushion: ComfiLife Gel-Enhanced Memory Foam Seat Cushion

At 2.8 inches high this Gel ComfiLife Seat Cushion is thick enough to give you a support that won’t flatten with wear.

This one is basically a variation of our top choice – it’s by the same US brand.

It has all the same features as our top choice.

So it’s the same ergonomic design and it is also made from premium quality memory foam which makes it feel comfortable but firm to sit on.

Remember firm support will ensure that you are properly supported.

What makes this seat cushion stand out, though, is its layer of cool gel.

What this does is give the cushion a cool to the touch feel and it’s designed to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days.

Though memory foam doesn’t hold on to heat, it quickly cools when you move away from it, if you are sitting still for a long period of time, this gel layer will remain just that bit cooler than regular memory foam.

Like the non-gel version, this one also has a cover with a non-slip bottom and the built-in carry handle.

What We Like:

  • Gel Layer – It gives the seat pad a cool to the touch feel and it’s designed to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days.
    Removable Washable Cover – It has a concealed zipper so the cover is easily removable and washable.
  • US Made – It’s made from good quality high-density memory foam. What you are getting is a high-quality product made by a US company.
  • Size – This one is just the right size and thickness for everyday use, especially if you’re planning on using it at the office. It’s not so chunky it draws attention to itself and it has a handy carry-strap.

Things to Consider:

  • Thickness – It’s not as thick as our FOMI choice, so if you are heavy or would simply like a like more padding for whatever reason, you should opt for the FOMI one instead.

Click to view the price, below.
ComfiLife Gel-Enhanced Coccyx Memory Foam Seat Cushion

Why Stacking up Pillows to Stop Acid Reflux Doesn’t Work

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If you are reading this at 3 a.m. Then you are looking for answers and you have my sympathy.

Although acid reflux is a common condition, it’s not much of a consolation when you are propped up with every pillow in the vicinity hoping it will give enough relief to let you drop off.

Unfortunately, trying to sleep with all your pillows propped up is not only lumpy and uncomfortable but is likely to make you feel worse putting your head at an angle that can increase pressure on the stomach making your reflux worse.

Once acid reflux kick in, you will feel miserable, your heartburn or acid indigestion can last for hours and while over the counter medication is usually the first thing you will want to reach for, they can make you feel nauseated and often aren’t 100 percent effective.

Prevention is key

So what steps can you take to avoid acid reflux and get a good night’s sleep?

According to a study in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology ‘Elevation of the upper body at night is generally recommended for all patients with GERD’ – ‘the height of the bed head elevation is critical and it must be at least 6–8 inches to be at least minimally effective to prevent reflux of gastric contents.’

So it’s a choice of either a full mattress elevator like the one shown below or opt for a foam wedge bed pillow.

Mattress Elevators

Full-length mattress elevators are the perfect solution – if you sleep alone or have a partner who would appreciate the benefits of a sloped mattress.

You won’t find yourself sliding off it as you might with a wedge pillow, but as we’ve said, they may not be practical in all circumstances.

Wedge Pillows

Wedge Pillows have the advantage of being easily portable, and you can easily just remove them if you find you don’t always need one.

They are more suitable if only one partner requires elevation, though you can find yourself sliding down in the night if the angle is too steep or too sudden.

But don’t worry we’ll take a look at those that will minimize the chances of this happening.

7″ MATTRESS ELEVATOR from Amazon and Avanacomfort.com

There are, of course, many other reasons you may need to sleep with your head elevated apart from acid reflux, if you have problems breathing, poor circulation, back or neck problems, are post-surgery or snore, for example, a mattress elevator or foam wedge bed pillow may help you enormously.

We’ll now take a look at the best ones out there.

Editor’s Award Brand Click Image to read review
Best Mattress Elevator – New Review Avana Mattress Elevator
The Best 12″ Wedge Pillow InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow
The Best 7.5″ Wedge Pillow InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

Also in this Guide:

Sleep-Support Bed Wedges, Elevators & Pillows | Avana Comfort

Best Mattress Elevator: Avana Mattress Elevator

Best Mattress Elevator

Avana Mattress Elevator

If raising the whole mattress is a practical option, then this is your perfect solution to a more comfortable night’s sleep.

The Avana mattress elevator is designed to go underneath your mattress.

Although it’s comfortable enough to be used as an elevated mattress pad, the supportive, high-density polyurethane foam, won’t compress under the weight of your mattress so you’ll feel less like you’re being propped up and more like you would, just lying in bed naturally.

Check Price on Amazon

So you can basically sleep with your whole body completely flat (just not horizontal) in any position that feels comfortable for you – without rolling off, sliding down, or crunching over at the waist.

Made in the US at the Avana factory in Atlanta, by the same company who make Jaxx bean bags, this mattress elevator meets CertiPUR-US® standards for content, emissions, and durability, and has been analyzed by independent, accredited testing laboratories.

What this actually means is that it is made without ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants, formaldehyde, phthalates, mercury, lead and other heavy metals and is regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The mattress elevator we have featured here is the 7-inch version which slopes down to a 1 – inch depth, – the perfect sweet spot between the 6 and 8 inches you need for the slope to be effective, but you can choose a gentler 5″ version if you prefer.

Half King from Amazon Half Queen size available from Avana Comfort

What We Like:

  • Elevates the Whole Mattress | So you can sleep completely flat without being horizontal – in any position that feels comfortable for you.

Buying Factors to Consider:

If you have a partner to take into consideration, this may not be the most practical solution. You could go for the half mattress version or choose a bed wedge pillow – we’ll be looking at those next.

Check Price on Avant Comfort

The Best 12″ Wedge Pillow: InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

The Best 12″ Wedge Pillow

InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

So you do everything right (usually) but one late-night snack and you are guaranteed to be up half the night feeling miserable. Sleeping on this bed wedge is going to save you hours of discomfort by keeping your upper body elevated at an angle that will keep you comfortable and reflux free.

Check Price

At 12″ in height, it more than meets the minimum inches required in height to be effective against acid reflux.

What makes this foam wedge stand out from most, though, is its 1″ memory foam top layer for added comfort.

However, it does have a firm base made from highly resilient polyurethane foam and so the wedge feels medium-firm to lie on. Don’t expect to sink right into it.

As with all wedge bed pillows, you should think of it more as an extension of your mattress and you should add a pillow for head support.

Another great feature of this wedge is that it has built-in channels between the top memory foam layer and the base foam to enhance air circulation and give you a cooler sleeping experience.

The only downside is that because the pillow is quite steep, you may find yourself sliding down it a little in the night, but the fact that it has 1″ of memory foam means this is less likely since it will mold around you, keeping you more supported and in place than an ordinary wedge pillow of the same dimensions.

The Best 7.5″ Wedge Pillow: InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

The Best 7.5″ Wedge Pillow

InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

If you like what this wedge pillow has to offer and would like all the features that go with it, but still feel it is going to be a little steep for you, then the 7.5″ height, InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow would be your perfect choice.

Check Price

Either 12″ or the 7.5″ wedges can be used in a number of ways, they are suitable for raising the legs by simply placing the wedge at the bottom of the bed to provide relief from varicose veins or swollen ankles, etc. and both make a perfect backrest when placed in the upright position for reading, watching tv or just relaxing in bed.

Although both the wedge pillows come with a machine-washable white cover, an optional 400 thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton pillowcase is also available in both white and dark blue.

Dimensions:
12″ wedge pillow 25″ x 24″ x 12″
7.5″ wedge pillow 26″ x 25″ x 7.5″

Click to view price and accessories for the 12″ wedge pillow:

Click to view price and accessories for the 12″ wedge pillow:

The Aidapt Foam Bed Wedge

Don’t expect to sink into the Aidapt like a large soft wedge-shaped pillow. You have to think of this wedge in terms of a mattress extension. Memory foam lets you sink in, high-density foam doesn’t and this bed wedge is medium/firm. You are going to need your pillow if you don’t want your head to roll over to one side or the other but if you like a firm mattress, this may be the one for you.

At almost nine and a half inches in height, this foam bed wedge is reasonably steep. It more than fulfills the minimum requirement of at least 6-8 inches required to be minimally effective’ so will keep your upper body elevated enough to keep acid reflux at bay. The light-weights amongst us, however, may find ourselves sliding down it a little in the night. If you feel this bed wedge might be a little too steep for you, please do check out the Flex Foam Bed Wedge.

The fact that the angle is substantial, does mean that the cushion may be used very effectively in the upright position, as a backrest while reading, etc. Another advantage is that unlike some wedges, spare washable covers are also available to buy separately.

View the Aidapt Foam Bed Wedge on Amazon UK.

View the spare pillowcase for the 9.45″ x 23.62″ x 2.44″ Aidapt wedge here.

Is A Foam Wedge Bed Pillow Right For You?

What if you never had to sleep on lumpy stacked up pillows that crick your neck and hunch you over, just to get enough relief from gastric reflux to let you sleep?

Remember, one ruined night’s sleep spoils the following day too so even if you are one of the many occasional sufferers of acid reflux, a foam bed wedge will make you so much more comfortable helping you and your stomach to relax.

A Note About Gassing Off

As with all new foam products, there is going to be some degree of ‘gassing off’ (that chemical smell that dissipates over a period of hours to days) and so it is advisable to let the wedge air, preferably outside on a dry day or at least in a ventilated area or room for at least 24 hours. The amount of odor seems to vary between different brands and even between the same brand. Some people are more sensitive to this than others but it is sensible not to spend several straight hours in close proximity to any new foam product without first airing it out.