If you’ve been browsing our pillows and cushions, you may have noticed we use natural kapok as our choice of fill. This natural fiber is widely used in Asia as a filling for bedding and upholstery, but what exactly is kapok, and why is it so sought after?
What is Kapok?
Kapok is a natural fiber that comes from the seed pods of the Ceiba tree. The tree is native to the rainforests of tropical regions like Central and South America, and of course Southeast Asia and Thailand where we are based. The fibers are harvested from the Ceiba tree’s large seed pods, which contain a fluffy, cotton-like material (another term for kapok is ‘java cotton’). Kapok has been used for centuries, stuffed inside everything from life jackets to yoga cushions, due to its lightweight, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant properties.
Benefits of Kapok Filling
- Hypoallergenic: Kapok is naturally hypoallergenic, making it the perfect choice for those who are sensitive or have allergies.
- Lightweight: Kapok is extremely lightweight, which means it won’t weigh down your pillows or cushions.
- Breathable: Kapok filling is highly breathable, which means it won’t trap heat and moisture like some synthetic fillings can.
- Durable: Kapok fibers are naturally resilient, which means they can withstand regular use and maintain their shape over time.
- Eco-Friendly: Kapok is a sustainable and renewable material, which makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
- Durable: Kapok fibers are naturally resilient, which means they can withstand regular use and maintain their shape over time.
Kapok Filling Maintenance & Care
Taking care of kapok is like tending to a low-maintenance plant—super easy, but with a few tricks to keep your cushions comfy and fluffy. (This all sounds like a lot, we know, but honestly, all you need to really do is keep it plump with a fluff up every now and again.)
Fluff it up: Kapok is an incredible fill; we absolutely love it, but like many pillow filling materials, it can get a little bit squished over time. Give your pillows, cushions, or whatever kapok-filled beauties you have a good shake or fluff every now and again to keep them plump.
Spot clean spills: Spill something on your kapok pillow? No worries. Grab some mild detergent, mix it with water, and gently give the spot a dab clean. Kapok is super easy clean, and any stains will come out with just a little scrub. Though we reckon it’s probably easier just to throw away stained kapok and add more.
Sunbathing caution: While everyone loves a bit of sun, kapok isn’t a fan. Keep your kapok away from direct sunlight for long periods; it’s at home in a cool, shady spot.
Moisture-free zone: Kapok and moisture are not a great mix, mainly due to the density of the kapok. It takes forever to dry once wet! Prevent any potential mold issues by keeping your kapok items dry. Good ventilation and avoiding humid spots are all it takes.
Check for wear and tear: Like us all, kapok-filled items can show signs of aging after a while. Maybe less wrinkles involved, but sometimes it can feel like it has lost its bounce. If this happens, just open it up and give the kapok a bit of a fluff with your hands. If that doesn’t do the job, you can always add some fresh kapok as a top-up.
Storage buddies: If you’re stashing away your kapok-filled cushions for a while, use breathable cotton bags. They keep the dust away while letting your items breathe.
A little bit of love and care will keep your kapok happy, fluffy, and ready for all the cozy moments in your life.
Our Kapok – Natural & Hand Picked
Our kapok is sourced locally from Northern Thailand and untreated – not dyed. It is hand picked and gathered, then pieces of pod and seed are removed by hand before the kapok is placed into large bags and sold in natural markets.
As it is hand picked, you may see some specks of pod in amongst the beautiful fluffy kapok – a tell-tale of it’s natural, hand gathered origins.
