If you have just purchased the Ostrichpillow Go Neck and are wondering how to wear ostrich pillow correctly, you are not alone. This premium travel pillow features a unique 360-degree design that differs significantly from traditional U-shaped neck pillows. When worn properly, it can prevent head bobbing, reduce neck strain, and support comfortable upright sleep during flights, train rides, or desk naps. This guide walks you through every step of wearing, adjusting, and optimizing your Ostrichpillow Go Neck for maximum comfort.
Position the Pillow Correctly
The foundation of proper wear starts with correct initial placement. Hold the pillow so the blue Ostrichpillow tag rests at the back of your neck, centered at the base of your skull. This tag marks the thickest part of the foam, which is engineered to support your cervical spine and prevent backward head tilt.
The Go Neck features an asymmetrical shape with two distinct sides. One side is taller and more contoured, designed to cradle your chin and jawline. The other side is lower and flatter, ideal for minimal lift or shorter neck positions. Identifying these sides before wearing ensures you can customize support based on your body type and seating position.
Wrap Around Your Neck
Slide the pillow around your neck with the blue tag positioned at the rear. Fasten the wide Velcro strap at the front, pulling it snug but not tight. You want enough pressure to hold the pillow in place without restricting blood flow or causing discomfort.
The Velcro is designed for broad contact, so align the entire strip evenly. Misaligned closure can cause uneven support and pressure points. Once fastened, ensure the foam makes continuous contact around your neck. Unlike U-shaped pillows that leave gaps, the Go Neck’s full-ring design prevents side-to-side head drop.
Cross and Customize the Front
After securing the loop, cross the two front flaps over your chest like a harness. This creates a stable cradle that supports your chin and prevents forward head slump, a common issue with traditional travel pillows.
Now decide your support level based on your needs. For maximum support, rotate the pillow so the taller side faces forward, lifting your chin gently. For lighter support, flip it so the lower side is in front, ideal for shorter necks or reclined positions. Try both orientations during a short test wear to find your sweet spot.
Optimize for Your Seat Position
Window seat positioning requires leaning your head against the plane’s wall or window. Rotate the pillow so the taller side supports your neck laterally, aligning with the fuselage for stability. Your ear should rest flush against the foam, not hang off the edge.
For aisle seats, position the taller edge toward your back to prevent your head from tilting backward. This orientation pushes your head slightly forward into a neutral posture, preventing neck hyperextension. Many tall travelers report this setup eliminates morning neck pain.
In middle seats, center the blue tag and cross the front ends evenly. Use moderate tightness to keep your head upright without over-compressing the foam. Pairing with a hoodie and tucking the pillow inside the collar adds warmth and stability.
Fine-Tune for Maximum Comfort
After initial placement, gently rotate the pillow up or down to find the sweet spot. The memory foam will slowly mold to your body heat and pressure, enhancing comfort over time. If it feels flat, remove and re-fluff it by hand.
The BASF memory foam core responds to warmth and weight. Give it 5 to 10 minutes to fully contour to your neck. Put it on before takeoff so it is fully settled by the time you want to sleep.
Clean and Maintain Your Pillow
To keep your pillow fresh, unzip and remove the outer cover. Machine wash in cold water at 30 degrees Celsius or below using a gentle cycle and mild detergent. Fasten the Velcro before washing to avoid snagging fabric. Air dry only, never tumble dry.
Never wash the foam core. Water can ruin its structure and support properties. For light stains between washes, use a damp cloth with mild soap, wipe gently, and air dry completely, especially in humid climates.
Store for Easy Travel
The pillow compresses up to 60 percent smaller than its original size. Squeeze it into the included travel bag and zip it shut. The nylon bag protects against dust and maintains foam resilience.
Use the integrated carabiner to attach the bag to your backpack, carry-on, or stroller. At just 0.420 kg, it will not weigh you down. Keep it clipped to your bag so it is always ready for unexpected layovers.
Troubleshoot Common Issues
If your head still drops forward, the pillow may be too loose or the low side facing forward. Tighten the Velcro and rotate the taller side to the front to support your chin.
If you experience neck pain at the back, the blue tag may be misaligned or the foam folded. Reposition the tag at the base of your skull and reshape the foam evenly.
If the pillow feels too bulky, it may have been stored compressed too long or worn with the high side forward unnecessarily. Expand the foam fully, then try wearing it with the low side forward.
A slight smell after unboxing is normal off-gassing from memory foam. Air out the pillow for 24 to 48 hours and the smell will disappear quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wearing Ostrich Pillow
Which side of the Ostrichpillow Go Neck should face forward?
The taller side should face forward for maximum neck and chin support. The lower side works better for minimal elevation or shorter neck positions. Try both to find what feels most comfortable for your body type.
How tight should I fasten the Velcro closure?
Fasten the Velcro snug enough to prevent slipping but not so tight that it restricts blood flow or causes discomfort. You should be able to fit one or two fingers between the strap and your neck comfortably.
Can I use the Ostrichpillow Go Neck with headphones?
The pillow works well with low-profile earbuds or on-ear headphones. For over-ear models, try wearing the earcups under the pillow fabric or opt for wireless earbuds to avoid pressure points.
Is the Ostrichpillow Go Neck suitable for tall users?
Yes. At 28 cm tall, it accommodates neck sizes up to 6’3″ and beyond. The adjustable fit and tall support side make it ideal for taller individuals who outgrow regular pillows.
How do I clean the memory foam core?
Never wash the memory foam core. Water damages its structure and support properties. Only remove and wash the outer cover. Spot clean the foam with a damp cloth if needed, then air dry completely before reassembling.
Can I use this pillow for activities other than travel?
Yes. The Go Neck works well for desk naps, meditation, or relaxing on the couch. It provides gentle cervical alignment, reducing strain during prolonged sitting.
Key Takeaways for Wearing Your Ostrich Pillow
The Ostrichpillow Go Neck is not simply worn, it is configured for your specific needs. Position the blue tag at the back of your neck, secure the Velcro snugly, and cross the front ends over your chest. Choose the taller side forward for maximum support or the lower side for lighter comfort. Adjust the orientation based on your seat position, whether window, aisle, or middle.
Remember to put the pillow on before you feel tired so the memory foam has time to adapt to your body. Pair with noise-canceling earbuds and an eye mask for complete sensory control during travel. With proper care, including regular cover washing and correct storage, your Ostrichpillow Go Neck will deliver first-class comfort for every journey.