Many people like to listen to music, radio or audiobooks last thing at night to help them wind down and drift off to sleep. Using headphones has never been an easy or comfortable option, so does the Sound Asleep Pillow offer a better alternative?
What is the Sound Asleep Pillow?
Filled with hollow-fibre for comfort, it looks just like an ordinary pillow but has a speaker built in. A small lead from one corner connects to music sources such as iPods, mp3 players, cd players and radios, as long as they have a 3.5mm stereo plug connection. This wire is detachable for tidiness and safety when not in use.
The makers state clearly this pillow is not suitable for children under 5 years of age.
The pillow is designed to provide a way to listen to your chosen sounds directly but in privacy and comfort without the need for headphones.
My Experience with the Sound Asleep Pillow
Having received the pillow as a gift, I was keen to try it out. Insomnia is the bane of my life so nights can be long and boring.
There is no doubt the pillow is comfortable: soft and spongy but not too thick. I was surprised I could not feel the speaker inside.
Connection to my mp3 player was easy and, unlike with headphones, being able to lay on my left or right side and still hear the music was a bonus. Using relaxing, sleep inducing music I drifted off into a reasonable night’s sleep.
The next test was to try the pillow out staying at a relative’s house overnight. My husband was with me; so, I knew there would be no creeping off to a spare room in the night to escape his snoring.
Through the ear not on the pillow, I could still hear his snoring, but the music in my ear on the pillow distracted me enough to get a reasonable sleep. Normally, I would have to wear earplugs which I hate doing.
My husband could just hear the music at full volume but not enough to disturb him.
Disadvantages
One disadvantage of the Sound Asleep Pillow is it not being washable which must mean a limited life. A pillow case will give some protection just like an ordinary pillow. However, most people are used to the modern pillow being up to an average wash cycle in a washing machine. The Sound Asleep Pillow must be spot cleaned only.
Also, the ear not on the pillow can hear other noises. However, it is still more comfortable than wearing headphones.
What do Other Users Think?
I know three others who have a Sound Asleep Pillow so asked them what their views were. They were all quite positive,- and think they make great gifts. One friend suffers from tinnitus and has found the pillow especially helpful as he finds it relaxing and a distraction from the usual annoying noise of his condition.
Prices and Availability
Prices begin at around £15 and there are other similar products available with two built-in speakers and some in different colours and fun shapes.
These and other sound listening devices are readily available in many stores or online.
Daphne Green - Daphne Green is a freelance writer of articles and short stories. Among her interests are horse riding, health and fitness, travel and ...
