Horsehair vs Water
Professional Material Comparison
Horsehair
Natural Horsehair (Mane and Tail)
Premium luxury filling material from horse manes and tails, used for centuries in high-end bedding
Average Price
$250
Lifespan
20-40+ years
Water
Water-Filled Pillow
Adjustable support pillow using water chamber to provide customizable firmness and contouring
Average Price
$60
Lifespan
1-3 years (water chamber), 3-5 years (overall)
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Horsehair | Water |
|---|---|---|
| Support Level | High | Medium to High (Adjustable) |
| Firmness | 6-8/10 (Medium-firm to Firm) | 1-9/10 (Fully Adjustable) |
| Temperature | Cool | Cool to Neutral |
| Durability | 20-40+ years | 1-2 years (water pouch), 3-5 years (outer layer) |
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Avg Price | $250 | $60 |
Physical Properties & Feel
Horsehair
Support Level:
High
Firmness:
6-8/10 (Medium-firm to Firm)
Durability:
20-40+ years
Bounce:
High
Contouring:
Low to Medium
Water
Support Level:
Medium to High (Adjustable)
Firmness:
1-9/10 (Fully Adjustable)
Durability:
1-2 years (water pouch), 3-5 years (outer layer)
Bounce:
Low to Medium
Contouring:
High (Dynamic)
Temperature Regulation & Breathability
Horsehair
Temperature Rating:
Cool
Breathability:
Exceptional breathability - among the best of all pillow materials. Each horsehair strand functions as a hollow tube with microscopic capillary action that channels away moisture while constantly funneling fresh air through the material. The natural curl of processed horsehair creates spacing between fibers allowing unobstructed air circulation. Horsehair is so effective at moisture management that if soaked with water and shaken, it dries almost immediately. This superior ventilation keeps the pillow cool and dry throughout the night, preventing the growth of fungi, bacteria, and dust mites that thrive in damp conditions. Temperature regulation is excellent - cool in summer, dry in winter.
Water
Temperature Rating:
Cool to Neutral
Breathability:
Limited breathability due to non-porous water chamber. The outer layer (typically polyester fiberfill or foam) determines surface breathability. Water itself does not breathe but has excellent heat dissipation properties, conducting heat away from head and neck. Generally sleeps cooler than memory foam or solid latex due to water's thermal properties, but not as breathable as natural materials like wool or kapok. Air circulation depends entirely on outer layer materials.
Certifications & Standards
Horsehair
Water
Advantages & Disadvantages
Horsehair
Advantages
Disadvantages
Water
Advantages
Disadvantages
Expert Recommendation
Both Horsehair and Water are excellent pillow materials with distinct advantages. Your optimal choice depends on your individual sleep needs, physical requirements, budget constraints, and personal preferences.
Choose Horsehair if you:
- •Hot sleepers and night sweaters
- •Dust mite allergy sufferers
- •Those seeking long-term investment
- •Luxury bedding enthusiasts
Choose Water if you:
- •Chronic neck pain sufferers
- •Headache and migraine sufferers
- •Post-injury recovery
- •TMJ disorder
Ideal Use Cases
Horsehair
Hot sleepers and night sweaters - superior moisture-wicking prevents damp, uncomfortable sleeping surface
Dust mite allergy sufferers - processed horsehair creates inhospitable environment for mite colonization
Those seeking long-term investment - 20-40+ year lifespan justifies high initial cost over time
Luxury bedding enthusiasts - appreciate premium materials with centuries of aristocratic heritage
People with chemical sensitivities - natural material processed without synthetic chemicals or additives
Those with neck and shoulder pain requiring firm support - maintains proper cervical alignment
Humid climate sleepers - moisture-wicking properties prevent mildew and maintain dry environment
Water
Chronic neck pain sufferers - clinical evidence shows improvement in cervical pain symptoms
Headache and migraine sufferers - proper cervical alignment may reduce tension headaches
Post-injury recovery - healthcare providers often recommend for neck injury rehabilitation
TMJ disorder - proper neck support can reduce jaw tension and pain
Hot sleepers - water's cooling properties help regulate temperature
Dust mite and allergen sensitivities - sealed water chamber prevents allergen accumulation
Those with cervical spine conditions requiring specific support levels
Snorers - maintaining proper alignment can reduce airway obstruction
Allergen Resistance & Health Concerns
Horsehair
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Properly processed horsehair is considered hypoallergenic and suitable for most allergy sufferers. The manufacturing process involves washing in boiling water, then steaming at 284°F (140°C) at four times atmospheric pressure with high humidity. This thorough sanitization removes proteins, allergens, and bacteria that could trigger allergic reactions. Multiple manufacturers report they have not encountered customers experiencing allergies to properly processed horsehair. The material has earned NOMITE certification, indicating suitability for house dust mite allergy sufferers. However, individuals with specific horse protein allergies should test before purchasing. Always verify the horsehair has undergone proper high-temperature processing rather than simple washing.
Dust Mites:
Horsehair provides excellent resistance to dust mite colonization when properly processed. The high-temperature steaming process (284°F at four times atmospheric pressure) kills any existing mites and removes allergens. More importantly, horsehair's superior moisture-wicking properties create an inhospitable environment for dust mites, which require warm, humid conditions and human skin scales for survival. The constant air circulation and rapid moisture removal prevent the damp conditions dust mites need to thrive. Many horsehair products earn NOMITE certification, the anti-allergen standard indicating suitability for house dust mite allergy sufferers. This makes horsehair significantly better for dust mite allergies than organic materials like down, wool, or cotton which retain moisture and provide favorable habitats.
Chemical Concerns:
Minimal chemical concerns when purchasing from reputable manufacturers. Quality horsehair processing involves only water, steam, and high heat - no bleaching or chemical treatments. The entire sanitization process at high temperatures and pressure is completed without addition of foreign substances or synthetic chemicals. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification ensuring horsehair has been tested and verified free from harmful chemicals and substances. No VOC off-gassing or synthetic processing. However, be cautious of very cheap horsehair products which may undergo inferior processing or use chemical treatments. Always verify the manufacturer uses proper steaming methods at 284°F+ temperatures.
Water
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Excellent for allergy sufferers. The sealed water chamber cannot harbor dust mites, mold, or allergens. The outer fiberfill or foam layer can be washed regularly to remove allergens. Water itself is inert and non-allergenic. However, if water is not changed regularly, bacterial growth or mold can develop inside the chamber, particularly if using tap water. Always use distilled water and empty/refill every 3-6 months to maintain hygiene.
Dust Mites:
Water chamber provides complete barrier against dust mites - they cannot penetrate sealed plastic/vinyl chamber. However, dust mites can colonize the outer fiberfill or foam layer just like any pillow. Regular washing of outer components (every 2-3 months) and use of allergen-proof pillow protector prevents dust mite accumulation. Overall excellent choice for dust mite allergy sufferers when properly maintained with washable covers.
Chemical Concerns:
Water chamber typically made from vinyl, polyurethane, or medical-grade plastic which may contain plasticizers like phthalates. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified materials ensuring no harmful chemicals. Some cheaper water pillows use PVC containing concerning additives. Higher-quality medical-grade chambers are safer. Outer fiberfill usually polyester which is generally safe but may have chemical treatments. No VOC off-gassing from water itself. Water chamber in contact with skin should be free from BPA and harmful plasticizers.
Care & Maintenance
Horsehair
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
NOT MACHINE WASHABLE. Horsehair pillows cannot be washed in machines as water and agitation damage the natural curl and resilience of the fibers. Spot clean only with damp cloth and mild soap for stains. The processed horsehair itself is inherently clean and antimicrobial after high-temperature steaming, so washing is rarely necessary.
Drying Instructions:
If pillow becomes damp from spot cleaning or humidity, air dry completely in well-ventilated area before use. Horsehair dries remarkably quickly due to water-repellent properties - when soaked and shaken, it dries almost immediately. Never use heat sources like dryers which damage fiber structure. Ensure 100% dryness before returning to bed.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Air out pillow outdoors in fresh air and indirect sunlight monthly for 2-3 hours to eliminate any trapped moisture
- •Fluff daily by grabbing opposite corners and shaking vigorously to redistribute fibers and maintain loft
- •Use tightly woven pillow protector (200+ thread count) to prevent coarse hairs from poking through fabric
Water
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
Empty water completely from chamber before washing. Remove water pouch if detachable. Wash outer pillow cover and fiberfill layer in cold water on gentle cycle with mild detergent. Some water pillows have non-removable chambers requiring spot cleaning only. Wash outer materials every 2-3 months. Clean water chamber exterior with damp cloth and mild soap.
Drying Instructions:
Air dry water chamber completely - never put in dryer as heat can damage seals and plastic. Tumble dry outer fiberfill layer on low heat or air dry flat. Ensure all components are completely dry before refilling water chamber. May take 24-48 hours for complete drying.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Empty and refill water chamber every 3-6 months to prevent bacterial growth and mineral deposits
- •Use distilled water only - tap water contains minerals that build up and promote algae growth
- •Add 1-2 drops of algaecide designed for water beds if storing filled for extended periods
Price Range & Value
Horsehair
Low
$150
Average
$250
High
$400
Expected Lifespan:
20-40+ years
Water
Low
$40
Average
$60
High
$90
Expected Lifespan:
1-3 years (water chamber), 3-5 years (overall)
Durability & Longevity Factors
Horsehair
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Quality of horsehair processing - properly steamed and cleaned hair lasts significantly longer
- •Distinction between horsehair and horsetail - horsetail (from tail) is longer, stronger, springier and more durable
- •Quality of cover ticking - tightly woven fabric prevents fiber migration and protects fill integrity
- •Frequency of airing and maintenance - regular outdoor airing prevents moisture buildup extending lifespan
- •Storage conditions - keeping pillow in dry, well-ventilated environment prevents deterioration
- •Manufacturing quality - hand-teased loose horsehair outlasts cheaper rolled horsehair pads
- •Combination with other materials - pure horsehair often more durable than blends with shorter-lived fibers
Water
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Quality of water chamber material - medical-grade vinyl lasts longer than standard plastic
- •Frequency of filling and emptying - repeated manipulation stresses seams and seals
- •Type of water used - distilled water prevents mineral buildup and extends chamber life
- •Care of outer fiberfill layer - washing frequency affects outer material longevity
- •Storage conditions - extreme temperatures can damage water chamber integrity
- •Manufacturing quality - reinforced seams and high-grade materials resist punctures better
- •Usage patterns - aggressive movement during sleep increases leak risk
Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Horsehair
Sustainability:
Highly sustainable when sourced from reputable manufacturers practicing ethical collection. Horsehair is gathered during routine grooming that horses require anyway for health and hygiene - the mane and tail are trimmed regularly whether hair is collected or not. No horses are farmed specifically for hair production by ethical manufacturers. Quality suppliers verify horsehair is "acquired at the end of life" or from regular grooming, never from living horses farmed for hair. The material utilizes what would otherwise be grooming waste, creating beneficial circular economy. Processing requires only water and steam - no chemical treatments or energy-intensive manufacturing. Horses are not harmed, distressed, or killed for hair collection by ethical producers.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Relatively low environmental impact for luxury material. Processing involves washing in boiling water, steaming at 284°F at four times atmospheric pressure, rinsing, spinning, and natural drying. The entire process uses only water and heat - no chemical additives, bleaching, or synthetic treatments. Traditional hand-teasing methods (separating and curling individual fibers) are labor-intensive but require no machinery beyond basic equipment. Most environmental impact comes from transportation and the labor hours (150-160 hours for premium mattresses). At end of exceptionally long 20-40+ year lifespan, horsehair is completely biodegradable and decomposes naturally, returning nutrients to soil. The extended lifespan significantly reduces replacement frequency compared to synthetic alternatives lasting 2-5 years, ultimately reducing long-term environmental burden despite higher initial resource investment.
Water
Sustainability:
Poor to moderate environmental profile. Water chamber typically made from petroleum-based vinyl or polyurethane plastic. Short lifespan (1-2 years for chamber) means frequent replacement and plastic waste. Outer fiberfill usually polyester - also petroleum-derived and non-biodegradable. Manufacturing plastics requires significant energy and generates emissions. However, water itself is renewable and non-toxic. Some manufacturers use recycled polyester for outer layer. The adjustability feature may reduce waste by eliminating need to purchase multiple pillows.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Water chamber manufactured through plastic extrusion or molding processes requiring petroleum-derived materials and significant energy. Heat-sealing or radio-frequency welding creates water-tight seams. Outer layer typically involves polyester fiber production from petrochemicals. Manufacturing process generates plastic waste and emissions. Quality control critical to prevent defective chambers that leak prematurely. Some brands prioritize medical-grade materials and cleaner production methods, but overall environmental impact remains significant due to plastic components.