Written by Jill Zwarensteyn, Editor
Are you sleeping well at the moment? According to the National Sleep Foundation, at least 35% of Americans, though getting enough sleep, do not get a good quality of sleep. What about you?
What is the solution? How do you ensure that your sleep is as restorative as possible? You start with the basics – a good mattress and decent pillow. The bed is somewhat simpler to find; it’s the pillow that can be a bit of a problem.
In this post, we will check out the Malouf Z Zoned Memory Pillow. It might work for you, or it might not, but at least you will see what you should be considering when you make your own purchase.
Construction
The Z Zoned Memory Pillow is a single layer, molded piece of polyurethane memory foam with a choice of two different removable covers.
What is so unique about Z Foam? Z foam is made using the Dough® formula. It is a type of memory foam but as far removed from your standard lot as you can get. It is supportive, much softer and more responsive. It takes longer to regain its original shape than is the case with the standard stuff.
It has a more open cell structure making it more durable and resilient. The arrangement facilitates better air circulation, and this makes it easier to sleep cool with this pillow. The structure of the cells themselves is optimized to prevent them flattening out over time.
What’s the deal with “Zoned”? This refers to the structure of the cushion itself. The holes in the center are larger to provide optimal support for your head. The holes on the outside are smaller to give optimal support to your neck.
The shape is specially molded to provide support where and when you need it most.
Comfort, Support, and Feel
This is where Malouf has gone a step beyond what most other bedding manufacturers do. You can choose between three different lofts – 5 inches, or low loft, 6 inches, or mid loft, and 7 inches, or high loft. But the customization aspects that make this really cool go beyond that.
You also get to choose the density level that you like – plush or firm. Most of the time with memory foam pillows, you only get to choose one aspect – whether it is standard-sized, king-sized, etc. Here you get to choose whatever combination you like.
You could select the queen-sized alternative with low loft and firm foam. Or you could choose a low loft and plush foam. You get to customize your choice to a level that very few if any of the other manufacturers allow. That’s a significant advantage right from the outset.
From a comfort standpoint, the feel of these is plush and soft. Even the firmer option is still comfortable. There is good air circulation, and you don’t sleep any hotter with it.
This is a quality foam, and you can feel that as soon as you touch. As a nice bonus, it is also hypoallergenic.
Cover
The cover is a blend of 25% rayon derived from bamboo and 75% polyester. The cover feels silky soft and very plush. The design on it is quite elegant and understated, perfect for the bedroom.
The bamboo fibers in the mixture aid in drawing moisture and heat from your body and make the fabric breathe more easily.
The cover is completely removable and can be washed with your regular wash. It holds up to washing and laundry well.
Sleeping Position
Because of the overall level of customization possible, these will work for people who sleep in any position. You would just choose the right amount of loft and how plush or firm it should be:
- Stomach sleepers: You are best sticking to the low loft and a plush finish.
- Side sleepers: You can opt for the high loft and firm finishes.
- Back sleepers: you are better off also sticking to the low loft. Choose the plush or firm finish as you prefer.
Additional Information:
- 5-year warranty on manufacturer’s defects. If it flattens out, you can return it for a full refund.
- The bamboo fiber in the cover also has anti-bacterial properties.
- There is an odor initially, but it will be fine if you air it out well.
You Will like the Iso-Cool Memory Foam Pillow if:
- You want to be able to customize your order as much as possible.
- If you like the support from standard ones of this type but want a touch more comfort.
- You have a little extra money to spend – these are not cheap, but they will last at least five years and barely show signs of wear and tear.
- You are side sleeper looking for an additional loft.
- You are a back sleeper wanting a bit more comfort.
- You are a stomach sleeper and want a comfy, soft place to rest your head.
Conclusion / Summary
All in all, these models do what they were designed to do, and they do it in style. If you cannot get a comfortable night’s sleep on any of the many options available to you, then it’s probably more to do with the type of material used, rather than the brand. You have to love foam for this one to work. If you don’t, other alternatives are discussed here.
Overall, this is not the least expensive option, but you are getting a lot of bang for your buck. These are durable, well-designed and extremely comfortable to sleep on. They will last for a few years and so do rate high on the value for money scale. The company is established and offers a five-year warranty on its products.
Add in the high-quality finishes and exquisite design, and it is clear that you have a winner here.
Jill Zwarensteyn
Editor
About Author
Jill Zwarensteyn is the Editor for Sleep Advisor and a Certified Sleep Science Coach. She is enthusiastic about providing helpful and engaging information on all things sleep and wellness.
Combination Sleeper