COMFYNEST: Assessing the Impact of Raffia Fiber (Raphia Farinifera) on the Design of a 3-in-1 Pillow to Enhance Sleep Quality

This study investigates the impact of Raffia fiber (Raphia farinifera) on the design and effectiveness of an ergonomic 3-in-1 pillow to enhance sleep quality among university students in Manila. Sleep disturbances and discomfort are prevalent issues students face due to rigorous academic demands, irregular schedules, and suboptimal sleeping environments. By incorporating the natural properties of Raffia fiber, renowned for its breathability, hypoallergenic characteristics, and durability, this research aims to develop an innovative solution to address these challenges. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys to evaluate user acceptability with an experimental study involving 10 student participants from different universities in Manila. The experimental study spanned four weeks, during which participants tested the 3-in-1 Pillow and provided detailed feedback on its performance. The primary factors assessed were Comfort, material effectiveness, reduction of sleep disturbances, and durability. Key findings revealed that 90% of participants experienced notable improvements in sleep quality. The Raffia fiber material scored 4.5 out of 5 due to its superior breathability and hypoallergenic properties, contributing to a more comfortable sleeping experience. Lastly, participants were willing to recommend the product, underscoring its market potential. However, some areas for improvement were identified, such as refining the firmness for better support and addressing minor concerns, such as the size of the Pillow.