You don’t have to stuff this by hand, but you do have to shake it to get the stuff to refluff. It’s really easy, but anyone with upper body physical limitations may have trouble. it fluffs quickly, and it continues to expand over a day! The full-fluffed size is what I expected. The detachable and adjustable neck roll pillow is great! My husband loves to read in bed propped up by this! I got white, which looks true white to me. Love that it’s washable, though I haven’t had to yet.