I use one year-round at home because of neck problems. Whatever you make it out of, please consider making a pillowcase to fit it so that the pillowcase can be washed. My favorite neck "u-pillow" is made of flannel and filled with some type of beans or rice, so it is microwave-able (and is sooo comfortable when heated!). I still haven't made a pillowcase for it, and I wish I had done so many years ago, as it is wearing thin.