How to Pick the Perfect Pillow?
Choosing the right pillow is important for a good night's sleep. A pillow that suits you can help you sleep comfortably and wake up feeling refreshed. A wrong pillow is not only a sleep thief that steals away your comfortable sleep, but can also trigger headaches, arm numbness, and neck pain.
Your preferred pillow will vary depending on how you sleep, the kind of pillow you use, how much fill it has, and other elements. You should get new pillows every 18 months to ensure that you continue to sleep comfortably. Typically, memory foam pillows have a three-year lifespan. It's likely that the natural pillows will survive longer than the synthetic ones.
If you are looking forward to updating your old pillow with a new one, here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect pillow.
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Know Your Sleep Position
Everyone has their unique sleep positions which they find the most comfortable to sleep in. Your sleep position can affect what kind of pillow you need. The same pillow won’t work for everybody.
- Back Sleepers: Back sleepers require flatter pillows that can keep the head and neck in perfect alignment. If you are back sleepers and suffering from back pain, then you may want softer pillows that can give additional support to the neck pain while still maintaining the softness. A medium thickness pillow is often best.
- Side Sleepers: If you are a side sleeper, you can look for pillows to fill the space between your head and the mattress, keeping your spine straight. Side sleepers require a firmer pillow with a thicker side.
- Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers require soft pillows underneath the head. Placing a pillow under the pelvis and stomach helps prevent awful back pain. This position is the least recommended.
Pick the Right Pillow Fill
Pillows come with different types of fillings. Each type has its own benefits:
- Memory Foam: This is the most popular option amongst people suffering from neck and back pain. This material molds to the shape of your head and neck. It provides good support and is great for people who need extra cushioning.
- Feather or Down: If you like pillows that are soft and fluffy and feel like clouds when you lay your head on it. These pillows are soft and fluffy. They can be adjusted to your preferred shape but might not offer as much support as other types.
- Latex: Latex pillows are firm and offer good support. They are also resistant to dust mites and mold. These pillows are more firm as compared to down, but still, Latex pillows are very comfortable.
- Synthetic: The pillows that you find in the local market that are cheap in price are usually synthetic. These pillows are often made from polyester. They are usually less expensive and can be good for people with allergies.
Consider Pillow Size
Pillows come in different sizes. The majority of the people prefer standard-sized pillows. It is also fine if you prefer a large pillow, provided you maintain a proper sleep posture.
Pillows are made with specialty shapes, in order to provide good support as well as stability for the neck and head. Contour and cervical pillows can help with back and neck pain, while contour body pillows provide stability, support, and pressure relief along the body.
The most common sizes are:
- Standard: A standard pillow is 20 x 26 inches. It fits most pillowcases and is good for single beds or smaller beds.
- Queen: A queen pillow is 20 x 30 inches. It offers more space for people who move around a lot during sleep.
- King: A king pillow is 20 x 36 inches. It provides plenty of room and is great for larger beds.
Check Pillow Firmness
Pillow firmness affects your comfort level.
- Soft: Soft pillows are good for people who like a plush feeling. They are usually better for stomach sleepers.
- Medium: Medium firmness offers a balance between softness and support. It works well for back sleepers.
- Firm: Firm pillows provide strong support. They are often best for side sleepers who need more height to keep their spine aligned.
Look for Good Quality
Investing in a good quality pillow can make a big difference. Look for pillows with good reviews and ones made from durable materials. Remember to check if the pillow is easy to clean or has a removable cover. The most recommended good quality is a memory foam pillow.
Try Before You Buy
If possible, try out the pillow before buying it. Many stores have pillows on display so you can test them. This helps ensure that the pillow feels right for you.
Replace Old Pillows
Pillows don't last forever. Replace them if they become lumpy, flat, or lose their shape. A good pillow can last between 1 to 3 years depending on its quality and how often you use it.
Conclusion
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a pillow that helps you sleep well and wake up feeling refreshed. If you don’t like visiting store to store to find the pillow of your dreams, you can shop online from Sleepsia. The most popular and recommended pillow is a memory foam pillow. It is great for every sleep position and for people suffering from neck and back pain.
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