Yoga Bolsters

Rectangular (25 x 12 x 6 in) is the one to buy if you're buying one. Flat top, stable, and the right height for supported forward folds, reclined bound angle, and under the knees in savasana. Round (27 in long, 9 in across) sits higher and rolls slightly, which is what you want for backbends draped over it, under the ankles, or under the knees when you need more lift. Pranayama (28 x 6 x 7 in) is long and narrow: it runs the length of the spine for breathing practice and chest opening without lifting the hips.

Which cover

• Cotton duck (10 oz) is the default: heavy, washable, fiber-reactive dyed so the color survives washing, 14 colors.
• Hemp is the toughest and the one studios pick for props that get dragged across the floor daily. Textured, softens with washing.
• Organic cotton for anyone who wants the duck cover without conventional cotton.
• Vinyl for studios, physical therapy and massage: wipe with sanitizer, no laundering.

Five ways to use one

1. Lengthwise under the spine in reclined bound angle, to open the chest.
2. Under the knees in savasana, to take the strain off the lower back.
3. Under the torso in supported child's pose.
4. Across the thighs in a seated forward fold, so you can rest your chest on it.
5. Under the hips in supported bridge or legs up the wall.

Why firm matters

A soft bolster collapses under you and your muscles quietly take over the work the prop was supposed to do. The foam core here doesn't compress; the cotton batting around it takes the bounce out so it feels like a cushion rather than a block. That's the difference between a studio bolster and a decorative one.

Care

Unzip the cover and machine wash cold; tumble low or hang. Spot-clean the core. Vinyl covers wipe clean.