Undoubtedly, pillows have been useful inventions throughout history, improving people’s lifestyles and sleep habits. But where did they come from, and who invented them?
Before diving into the details, remember that history is filled with contradictions. Various factors influence how historians interpret, analyze, and present past events, resulting in historical inconsistencies.
This guide aims to introduce you to the history of pillows and let you know more about how they began.
How pillows were invented ?
The pillow’s invention dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, around 7,000 BCE. The people of Mesopotamia (today’s Iraq), who lived in modern-day Iraq, were the first to use pillows, but these early pillows were not as comfortable as modern pillows.
The Mesopotamia pillow (7,000 BCE)
The Mesopotamians used stone pillows to keep their heads elevated during sleep and protect their mouth and ears from insects. Only rich Mesopotamians can afford these pillows, while poor people cannot. This means that it was a big sign of wealth in Mesopotamia.
Egyptian Stone Pillows
The ancient Egyptians also used these pillows, but they were more concise to protect their head, which is considered a central part of the human body. The ancient Egyptians used pillows of stone and wood, it was not as luxurious and comfortable as best pillows.
Chinese Pillows: Unique approach to health and comfort
China also has a long history of pillow use. As early as the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), Chinese pillows were typically made of hard materials such as wood, jade, bronze, or porcelain. Unlike in other cultures, comfort was not the primary concern; pillows were believed to have health benefits and even mystical properties.
When were modern pillows invented ?
As we know it today, the pillow took full shape during the Industrial Revolution. After the invention of synthetic materials, pillows became more comfortable and affordable than feathers; after the invention of synthetic materials, pillows were filled with cotton, polyester, and other soft materials that were more comfortable and easy to clean and maintain.
The scientific advancements In the 20th century led to the development of specialized pillows, such as memory foam pillows created by NASA in 1960. Since the 20th century, modern pillows have become more advanced and comfortable. Nowadays, there are hundreds and thousands of pillows to fulfill the needs of different sleeping positions.
Final Words
The history of pillows shows how they change from hard to soft. The starting pillows were used for protection and status, meaning the pillow was a sign of wealth. But now we use pillows for better comfort and support to get restful sleep. Whether using a memory foam or a feather pillow, both are important for restful sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did humans invent pillows ?
Humans invented pillows to address the problem of shoulder, neck, and back pain while sleeping.
Why did humans start using pillows ?
The ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians started using pillows to protect their heads and necks from pain. A vital function of the pillow was to prevent insects from crawling into their mouths and ears.
When was the pillow found ?
The pillow’s invention dates back to ancient Mesopotamia around 7,000 BCE. The people of Mesopotamia, who lived in modern-day Iraq, were the first to use pillows.
Who invented feather pillows?
The ancient Romans and Greeks designed pillows made from feathers and wool to improve comfort and support.
Who designed the pillow?
The ancient Egyptians designed pillows using stone, focusing more on protecting their heads than providing comfort.
