Pillow:
A pillow is a soft, usually rectangular or square cushion that is primarily designed for sleeping or resting one’s head. Pillows are typically placed on beds and are an essential part of bedding. They come in various sizes, shapes, and materials to accommodate different sleep preferences and provide neck and head support.
Pillows can be filled with a variety of materials, including:
- Feathers and Down: These natural materials provide a plush and soft feel, often found in higher-end pillows.
- Synthetic Fill: Pillows filled with polyester or other synthetic materials are more affordable and are often hypoallergenic.
- Memory Foam: Memory foam pillows conform to the shape of the head and neck, providing excellent support and comfort.
- Latex: Latex pillows are resilient and durable, offering both support and a hypoallergenic option.
Cushion:
A cushion is a padded, often square or rectangular, object designed for sitting or adding comfort to chairs, sofas, benches, and other seating surfaces. While cushions can be used for resting one’s head or back, they are not typically associated with sleep in the same way pillows are. Cushions are primarily used for sitting or lounging comfort.
Cushions come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and they serve different purposes, including:
- Seat Cushions: Placed on chairs, benches, or other seating surfaces to provide comfort and support while sitting.
- Back Cushions: Designed to provide lumbar or back support, often used on office chairs or in cars.
- Decorative Cushions: Often smaller in size, these cushions are used for decorative purposes on sofas, beds, or chairs. They may also be referred to as throw pillows.
- Outdoor Cushions: Designed to withstand outdoor conditions, such as patio cushions used on outdoor furniture.
- Floor Cushions: Large, flat cushions placed on the floor for seating or lounging.
In summary, while pillows and cushions share some similarities in terms of being padded objects designed for comfort, the main difference lies in their primary function and usage. Pillows are primarily for sleep and head support, while cushions are used for sitting and seating comfort, back support, or as decorative elements in home decor.