The pillow shell is washable. Just keep in mind that because it's made
of 100% cotton, it will shrink a bit. If you use a pillow case to
protect it like you would any other pillow, then you might not even have
the need to clean the shell. However, if you choose to, be sure to
remove all the buckwheat hulls before doing so, and to make sure the
pillowcase is completely dry before replacing the hulls. The buckwheat
hulls shouldn't be washed in water, but could be freshened up just by
leaving them outside in the sunlight for a few hours. 

Our buckwheat is thoroughly cleaned so there is no noticeable smell when
you are sleeping on the pillow. Moreover, the sturdy cotton twill we
use to make the pillow shell keeps everything contained. If you open up
the pillow and directly smell the buckwheat hulls, some people are able
to notice a faint, earthy smell. 

Much longer than a traditional pillow would. With good care, the pillow
will last most people around 10 years or more. Of course, this will vary
depending on how you use it (pillow fights, fort building, etc.). Over
time, the hulls will begin to settle and you'll find that they will have
become more compact. Although it will still offer the same support, you
may feel that there are less hulls in your pillow. That is why we fill
the pillows with extra hulls so you can remove some when you first
receive it and keep the rest to refill as needed. If the time comes when
you run out of hulls, don't worry! We sell them separately so you can
re-freshen your pillow whenever you feel the need to.

After the buckwheat is harvested, the buckwheat hulls are separated from
the inner seed, called the groat. Then the hulls are cleaned by a
series of screens and forced air to remove dust and fragments. No
chemicals are used in this process. 

That isn't a problem! Our standard 30 day return policy means that
you can return your pillow for any reason during that period. So don't
be worried to try out the pillow.