There is nothing like a good night's sleep with whatever sleeping position you are used to. The feeling of your head sinking into a cloud of fluffiness as you slowly drift into dreamland. Ahhh…
But what if that feeling could be even better? What if you could find the perfect pillow to support your head and neck, regardless of your sleep position?
Some might say there is no "perfect" pillow, but pillows are suitable for all sleeping positions.
This article will explore the top seven factors when choosing bed pillows.
How To Choose Bed Pillows: Top 7 Factors To Consider
1. Sleeping Position
The first factor to consider is your sleeping position. For example, are you a side
sleeper, stomach sleeper, or back sleeper?
Side sleepers need a thin and firm pillow to support the neck in alignment with the spine. Stomach sleepers need a skinny pillow, or no pillow, to keep the head from being pushed too far forward. Finally, back sleepers need a thick, firm pillow to support the neck and maintain proper spine alignment.
2. Pillow Fill
The next factor to consider is the pillow fill. Pillows can be filled with down, feathers, synthetic fibres, wool, or latex.
Down and feathers are the most common type of pillow fill. They are soft and fluffy, but they can be a bit pricey. Synthetic fibres are a cheaper alternative to down and feathers, but they don’t have the same level of softness or fluffiness.
Wool is a natural fibre often used in pillows for people with allergies. It is resistant to dust mites and mould and helps regulate body temperature.
Latex is a material that is made from rubber trees. It is firm and supportive but can be too firm for some people.
3. Pillow Height
Pillow height is another important factor to consider. Pillows come in different
heights, from ultra-thin to extra-fluffy.
Side sleepers need a thinner pillow so their head is not pushed too far forward.
Stomach sleepers need an ultra-thin pillow, or no pillow, to keep their head from
being pushed too far forward. Finally, back sleepers need a thicker pillow to support their neck and maintain proper spine alignment.
4. Pillow Firmness
Pillow firmness is another important factor to consider. Pillows can be soft, medium, or firm.
Soft pillows are suitable for side sleepers because they provide extra support for the neck. Medium pillows are suitable for stomach sleepers because they provide some support without pushing the head too far forward. Firm pillows are suitable for back sleepers because they provide extra support for the neck and maintain proper spine alignment.
5. Pillow Material
Pillow material is another vital factor to consider. Pillows can be made from natural materials, such as cotton or wool, or synthetic materials, such as polyester or microfiber.
Natural materials are breathable and hypoallergenic. Synthetic materials are cheaper but can trap heat and cause skin irritation.
6. Size
Pillow size is another important factor to consider. Pillows come in different sizes, from standard to the king.
The best pillow for you is the one that fits your bed and sleeping positions. For
example, if you sleep on your side, you might need a smaller pillow. On the other hand, if you sleep on your stomach or back, you might need a giant pillow.
7. Shape
Pillow shape is another essential factor to consider. Pillows come in different shapes, from rectangular to contoured.
The best pillow for you is the one that fits your sleeping position and personal
preferences. For example, if you sleep on your side, you might prefer a rectangular pillow. On the other hand, if you sleep on your stomach, you might prefer a contoured pillow.
What Not To Do When Choosing a Pillow
There are a few things you should avoid doing when choosing a pillow.
1. Don't choose a pillow based on looks alone.
Just because a pillow looks good doesn't mean it will be comfortable. You need to consider the material, the firmness, and the loft before you make your decision. Many people find pillows that look the best are often the least comfortable.
So don't make your decision based on looks alone.
2. Don't choose a pillow that is too soft or firm.
If a pillow is too soft, your head will sink in, and you won't be able to get the support you need. It will be uncomfortable and won't conform to your head and neck if it's too firm.
The best pillow is one that is somewhere in the middle. It should be soft enough to be comfortable but firm enough to offer support.
3. Don't choose a pillow based on price alone.
There are good and bad pillows at all price points. So don't make your decision
based on price alone. Instead, please take into account all of the factors we've talked about.
4. Don't choose a pillow that is too high or too low.
The ideal pillow should be about 4-6 inches thick. If it's too high, your head will be tilted up, and you won't be able to breathe correctly. If it's too low, your neck will be strained.
When choosing a pillow, avoid making these five common mistakes. By doing so, you'll be sure to find the perfect pillow for you.
What Is The Best Pillow For You?
The best pillow for you is the one that meets your needs, and whatever sleeping
position suits you. Consider all the above factors, and choose a pillow that is right for you.