Your 2025 End-of-Year EDC Check-Up: Is Your Holster Wedge Kit Still Optimized?

We get our cars tuned up and our smoke detector batteries changed—but how often do we give our Everyday Carry (EDC) gear the same care? As 2025 winds down, it’s time for your annual EDC check-up to make sure your Cloudster Pillow and holster wedge kit are still optimized for comfort, concealment, and performance heading into 2026.

Step 1: The Foundation Check – Holster and Hardware

Before inspecting your wedge, ensure your base setup is sound.

• Inspect your holster shell: Look for cracks or stress marks near the trigger guard or clip attachments.
• Tighten all hardware: Daily movement can loosen screws. Tighten clips, retention screws, and wings; apply non-permanent thread locker if needed.
• Audit your Velcro panel: Check the adhesive loop that attaches the pillow. Clean lint or debris with sticky tape or a lint roller for a stronger bond.

Step 2: The Comfort Engine Audit – Your IWB Holster Pillow

The Cloudster Pillow is engineered for longevity, but a quick inspection keeps it performing flawlessly.

• Inspect the Pillow: Ensure the bamboo cover has no tears and the foam hasn’t compressed unevenly.
• Clean it: Hand-wash the removable cover with mild detergent and air dry. Avoid heat to preserve the fabric.
• Clean the Hook Backing: Remove lint with a stiff brush or another piece of Velcro for maximum grip.

Step 3: The Human Factor – Have You Changed?

Your gear may be constant, but your body isn’t. Adjust for changes:

• Lost weight? Move your pillow lower to increase leverage and grip tuck.
• Gained weight? Shift the pillow slightly higher to stabilize and prevent belt roll.

That’s the power of an adjustable IWB holster pillow—adaptable comfort for every body type.

Step 4: The Wardrobe Review – Have Your Clothes Changed?

Your carry setup should evolve with your wardrobe and lifestyle.

• Started a new job requiring tucked shirts? Slightly cant the pillow for smoother concealment.
• Switched climates? Adjust placement for thicker winter layers vs. lightweight summer tees.

See our Winter Carry & Driving Guide for seasonal adjustment tips.

Step 5: The Dry-Fire Re-Verification

Once you’ve cleaned and adjusted your setup, verify performance through structured dry-fire training:

• Check your draw: Ensure a clean, full master grip with your new wedge position.
• Test stability: Move through daily motions—standing, sitting, bending—to confirm your system remains consistent and secure.

Conclusion: Enter 2026 with Confidence

Your EDC setup is a living system. Taking time to clean, inspect, and adjust it ensures that your Cloudster Pillow and gear evolve with you. Unlike disposable foam wedges, our gel-infused memory foam maintains its resilience year after year—making your investment pay off in reliability, comfort, and performance.

FAQs

1) How often should I perform a check-up?
Annually at minimum—plus a quick monthly screw and clip inspection.

2) My Velcro is peeling—how can I fix it?
Clean both surfaces, warm the adhesive gently with a hairdryer, and reapply pressure. If it still fails, contact Cloudster support for a replacement panel.

3) I changed to a smaller firearm—what now?
Move your pillow higher on the holster to reduce leverage. Smaller guns require less tuck force for comfort.

4) How should I clean the Velcro?
Use sticky tape or a lint roller for the loop side; a toothbrush works great on the hook side.

5) Why is a Cloudster Pillow a better long-term wedge?
It’s built from high-density gel memory foam that doesn’t compress or warp like cheap blocks, giving you consistent performance for years.

Further Reading

• How to Clean and Maintain Your Cloudster Pillow
• Concealed Carry for Big Guys: Comfort Guide
• USCCA — Annual EDC Gear Maintenance Tips