Guide to Purchasing and Caring For Sword Pillows

The Rising Trend of Sword Pillows

Sword pillows, sometimes referred to as blade pillows, have become an increasingly popular novelty item and collector's piece in recent years. Their quirky yet sleek design makes them attractive decorative accessories for bedrooms and gaming dens. Several streamers and internet personalities have also sparked interest in sword pillows.

Origins of the Sword Pillow Trend

The exact origins of sword pillows are unclear, but their recent surge in popularity is often credited to gaming personalities on sites like Twitch and YouTube. Streamers like moistcr1tikal and penguinz0 have showcased various blade pillows during their videos and streams.

As fans seek to emulate the setups of their favorite internet stars, quirky specialty pillows like the sword pillow have seen a major uptick in demand. Their soft and plush exterior combined with their “edgy” sword blade design makes them both comfortable and stylish.

Rising Interest and Novelty

Part of the appeal of sword pillows is their novelty factor. The fusion of sharp blades and soft fabric creates an unexpected design that grabs interest. Unusual specialty pillows also allow fans to showcase their personality and interests.

The sword pillow trend has sparked an increase of pillow fight challenge videos as well. Streamers and YouTubers have made compilation videos of sword pillow face-offs and “battles,” dramatically slashing, spinning, and “sword fighting” with the pillows. Fans seek to recreate and riff on their favorite streamers’ antics.

Variations and Customizations

While early sword pillows were relatively basic, featuring a single blade with a hilt and crossguard, there are now many variations on the design. Double-bladed, curved blades, extra pointy tips, and more elaborate sword hilts have all emerged.

Custom and personalized sword pillow options are also now available. Color schemes, fabric choices, embroidered names and phrases allow fans to make their sword pillow truly unique.

Purchasing High Quality Sword Pillows

For those seeking sword pillows of their own, whether for decorative, novelty, or competitive purposes, what should you look for?

Fabric and Stuffing

As pillows intended for play fighting and competitive hitting, sword pillows should be firmly stuffed and made of durable fabric. Polyester or cotton/poly blends are good options, with high density stuffing, often polyester fiber.

Well-constructed sword pillows should feel firm and retain their shape well without excessive flattening during use. Check product details for information on stuffing density and materials.

Construction and Seams

Carefully finished seams ensure a sword pillow’s durability and longevity. Reinforced stitching along the seams prevents premature ripping and tearing during sword fights and competitive hitting sessions.

The sword blade itself may be padded or tightly rolled fabric and should be firmly attached to avoid loosening over time. Inspect images closely checking for tight neat seam lines.

Size Variety

Sword pillows come in an array of sizes, from compact 12-inch letter openers to massive 4-foot odachis. Consider your intended use and space when selecting size.

Long floor pillows work nicely for lounging and cuddling while still showcasing your gamer style. Shorter sword pillows allow for easy wielding in pillow battles.

Caring For and Cleaning Sword Pillows

Like all decorative pillows, proper care and cleaning are key for ensuring your sword pillow stays looking sharp.

Regular Fluffing

Fluff and shake your sword pillow regularly to maintain even filling distribution and fluffiness. This helps the pillow keep its shape better after repeated compression from use and storage.

Surface Cleaning

For surface cleaning, wipe down your sword pillow with a clean damp cloth to remove dust and dirt build up. Allow to fully air dry before storing or using.

Spot Treatment

Check care tag recommendations and test cleaners on an inconspicuous area first. Pre-treat pesky spots and stains before attempting to clean the whole pillow. Let pre-treatments soak in according to package directions before wiping and rinsing.

Proper Storage

Pillow protectors and bags help secure your sword pillow for storage or transport without damage. Avoid overly compressing or tightly packing to prevent deforming the stuffing.

Store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. Excess heat and light can accelerate fabric deterioration over time.

With the right selection, care and maintenance, a quality sword pillow makes a fun novelty addition to any gamer’s collection while also showcasing their fandom and style.

FAQs

What is the appeal of sword pillows?

Sword pillows feature an unexpected fusion between sharp blades and soft plush fabric that many find novel, stylish, and appealing, especially gamers and fans seeking to emulate streamers' decor. Their quirky design works well as decorative bedroom or gaming room accessories.

Are sword pillows good for pillow fights?

Yes, sword pillows' stuffed designs work nicely for pillow fight play. Many enthusiasts enjoy filming dramatic sword battle scenes with them. Just take care not to get too aggressive and damage the seams.

How can I customize a sword pillow?

Many retailers offer customization options for sword pillow color schemes, fabrics, embroidered text, blade shapes, and sizes during purchase. This allows buyers to make their sword pillow truly unique.

Should I fluff or store sword pillows a certain way?

It's best to regularly fluff and redistribute filling inside sword pillows to maintain their shape. When storing them, avoid over-compressing or tightly packing them. Use pillow bags/protectors and store in a cool, dry place out of direct light.

How do I clean sword pillows?

Check the care tag and test cleaners first. Routinely wipe down the outer fabric with a damp cloth. Spot treat stains before attempting an overall cleaning. Allow sword pillows to fully air dry before use or storage to prevent mold.