Do Buckwheat Pillows Attract Bugs?
Despite the rumors circulating online, buckwheat hull pillows do not attract or harbor bugs when they are new.
The likelihood of bugs in your buckwheat pillow is extremely low and primarily depends on two factors:
1.) Cleaning of the Buckwheat Hulls
Bugs naturally search for food, so if the buckwheat hulls are not properly cleaned and still contain grain debris, they could become an unintended food source. However, quality buckwheat pillows are filled with thoroughly cleaned hulls that offer no nutritional value for bugs.
2.) The Storage Environment
If the pillow or its loose hulls are consistently exposed to moisture, bugs may seek refuge in them—even if they’re not attracted by food.
In humid climates, pests such as rice bugs might settle in improperly stored pillows. Keeping your pillow dry is key.
What about bed bugs?
Rest assured, buckwheat hull filled pillows are not a breeding ground for bed bugs. This misconception is often promoted by companies pushing expensive memory foam alternatives.
Buckwheat pillows are designed with naturally resistant materials that help keep bed bugs at bay.
How to Keep a Buckwheat Pillow Bug-Free?
Quality of Buckwheat Hulls:
Bugs are far less likely to infest pillows that use properly cleaned and processed buckwheat groats.
A high-quality buckwheat hull pillow is filled with hulls that have undergone stringent cleaning procedures, minimizing the risk of any infestation.
Manufacturers often employ techniques like screening, heat treatment, and washing to ensure the hulls are free from debris and bug eggs. While some may also use fumigation, many avoid it to preserve the pillow’s natural qualities.
Maintaining a dry pillow is essential—especially in humid regions. Regular cleaning helps preserve the filling’s freshness and prevents moisture build-up.
For detailed guidance, check out our article on how to clean a buckwheat pillow, complete with a step-by-step video tutorial.
Proper Maintenance and Cleaning:
Regular maintenance is vital. We recommend cleaning your buckwheat pillow every week or two to keep it fresh and moisture-free.
This is particularly important for those in humid climates, where extra care can prevent unwanted pests from finding shelter in your pillow.
What to Do If Your Buckwheat Pillow Has Bugs?
Option 1 (Sunlight):
Empty the buckwheat hulls into a wide, open container and spread them out in direct sunlight for a couple of days. The natural heat and UV exposure will help eliminate any bugs present.
Option 2 (Freezer):
Place the pillow (with the hulls intact) in a freezer for one day. To protect the pillow, wrap it in a plastic bag before freezing.
This method uses low temperatures to safely eradicate any bugs.
What Not to Do:
Avoid microwaving your buckwheat pillow. Microwaving can damage the integrity of the hulls and the pillowcase, and if the pillow contains a metal zipper, it may even lead to a fire.
CAUTION: Never microwave a pillow with a metal zipper.