You've finally found the perfect dakimakura cover — the art is stunning, the fabric is exactly what you wanted. But now comes the question nobody tells you about upfront: do you actually need a body pillow insert, and if so, which one?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about body pillow inserts (also called body pillow inners or cores), so you can make a decision you won't regret the moment your order arrives.
Why the Insert Matters as Much as the Cover
Most first-time buyers focus entirely on the cover — the print quality, the fabric, the size. The insert is treated as an afterthought. But here's the thing: a bad insert ruins even the best cover.
A lumpy, flat, or wrong-sized insert will distort the printed artwork, create uncomfortable pressure points, and make the whole pillow feel cheap. A good insert gives the cover the right shape and tension to display the print beautifully — and actually feels good to sleep with.
Standard Dakimakura Insert Sizes
Before buying an insert, you need to match it to your cover size. The three standard dakimakura sizes are:
- 150 × 50 cm — The classic size. Widely available inserts, great for most body types.
- 160 × 50 cm — The current industry standard. Most popular size among collectors. Inserts are easy to find.
- 180 × 60 cm — The oversized "hug pillow" format. Fewer insert options available; make sure you source the correct size.
Always buy the insert in the exact same dimensions as your cover. A 160 cm cover on a 150 cm insert will look baggy and distorted. A tight mismatch in the other direction can stress the zipper and fabric seams.
Fill Types: What's Actually Inside a Body Pillow Insert?
Not all inserts are created equal. Here's a breakdown of the most common fill materials:
PP Cotton (Polyester Fiberfill)
The most common and budget-friendly option. PP cotton inserts are lightweight, machine washable, and hold their shape reasonably well when new. The downside: they compress and flatten over time with regular use. Expect to replace a PP cotton insert every 1–2 years with daily use.
Memory Foam
Memory foam inserts conform to your body shape, offering superior support — especially if you're using the pillow for sleeping rather than display. They're heavier, not machine washable, and more expensive. But if long-term comfort is the priority, memory foam is worth the investment.
Down / Down Alternative
Soft, fluffy, and naturally temperature-regulating. Down inserts feel luxurious but can cluster unevenly inside the pillow over time. Down alternative (synthetic) inserts offer similar softness without the allergen concerns.
Dual-Fill (Outer Shell + Core)
Some higher-end inserts use a combination — a firmer inner core for shape retention and a softer outer layer for tactile comfort. These are the best of both worlds, though they're harder to find in dakimakura-specific sizes.
How Firm Should Your Insert Be?
- For display purposes — You want a firmer, well-stuffed insert so the cover holds its shape and the print looks its best.
- For sleeping / hugging — A medium-firm insert is ideal. Soft enough to be comfortable, firm enough to maintain form.
- For the 180 × 60 cm size — Opt for a slightly firmer fill. The larger format needs more structural support to avoid looking deflated.
Does the Insert Affect the Cover's Print Quality?
Yes — more than most people expect. When a cover is properly filled, the fabric is taut enough to display the artwork with sharp detail and vibrant color. An under-stuffed insert leaves the fabric loose and wrinkled, making even high-resolution prints look muddy.
The ideal fill level is snug but not overstuffed. The cover shouldn't be stretched to the point of distorting the seams, but there should be no visible slack anywhere on the surface.
Our Recommendation
For most collectors and first-time buyers, a good-quality PP cotton insert in the correct size is the right starting point. It's affordable, widely available, and performs well for both display and casual use.
If you plan to use your dakimakura as a regular sleeping pillow, consider upgrading to a memory foam or dual-fill insert for long-term comfort.
At DakiCustomize, we carry body pillow inserts in all three standard sizes — designed to pair perfectly with our custom dakimakura covers. Browse our insert options here.
Quick Reference: Insert Buying Checklist
- ✅ Match insert dimensions exactly to your cover size
- ✅ Choose PP cotton for budget-friendly display use
- ✅ Choose memory foam for daily sleeping comfort
- ✅ Opt for firmer fill if you prioritize print display quality
- ✅ For 180 × 60 cm covers, prioritize structural support
Have questions about sizing or compatibility? Feel free to reach out — we're happy to help you get the complete setup right.