How To Choose A Pillow – The Perfect Guide

Have you ever felt strained soon after you wake up?

Instead of feeling energized the following day, you just feel sore and more tired.

While many factors can contribute to your difficulty sleeping, there is a huge chance that incorrect pillow choice is to blame.

Choosing the wrong pillow is considered a pain in the neck, both literally and figuratively.

The good news is that through this article, you will learn all that you need to know regarding the selection of the right pillow that can bring you a good night sleep.

A Comprehensive Guide On How To Choose The Pillow Made For You

Honestly, there are many types of pillows available. So, it can be really confusing which one to select, especially if you have no clue what these are.

Here is a quick step-by-step guide on how to determine the proper pillow that will suit your liking:

Step 1: Familiarize yourself with your sleeping position.

While most people will argue that the perfect pillow should be able to accommodate all sleeping positions, this is not at all feasible. There are many specifications each position requires and for this reason, it is best to purchase one designed ideally for your type.

• For Back Sleepers

A thin pillow is a perfect choice for those who prefer laying on their backs. This is to promote proper alignment of your neck, spine, and head. If you use a more lofty pillow, your head might be placed at a certain angle that will just bring you that unwanted soreness and strain the next day. You can look for one that has an extra padding in the bottom part near the neck area for increased support.

Memory foam pillows is a good material choice. It cradles the head and neck and adjusts accordingly. It fits snuggly and comfortably. Another pillow type worth looking into is the water pillow. This type can provide an all around support to your neck and back.

• For Stomach Sleepers

The thinnest pillow you can find might do the trick for all stomach sleepers out there. Some even prefer sleeping with absolutely no pillow at all. When you sleep on your belly, it puts a lot of strain on the lower back.

Word of advice, though, if the idea of having something pressing on your belly is comforting. Try sleeping on your side, instead. Use a separate pillow to hug and press against your body.

• For Side Sleepers

Firm pillows are wise choices for side sleepers. Buying one with a wide gusset can can help limit the distance in between the ears and the shoulder. Gusseted pillows has a panel that is sewn onto the bottom that adds to the thickness. If you want, you can add another pillow in between the knees to improve spine alignment.

Before proceeding to make a purchase, make sure that you observe your sleeping positions first.

Even though, you probably have a feeling regarding what type of sleeper you are, you might want to check a few nights to really confirm it.

How?

1. Before going to bed, explore the different positions. Lie on your back, side, or stomach. Check out the most comfortable position for you. If you have been on a certain position for quite some time and still cant catch some zzz’s, maybe it is not your ideal sleeping position.
2. Always check your sleeping position when you wake up every morning. If it differs from time to time, record it for reference. Go over it once your experiment phase is over.

After a considerable time, when you have discovered your preferred sleep position, it is time to make a decision what pillow to use. Read on some guidelines:

• As a stomach sleeper, you should go for a soft, relatively flat pillow. Others might not even need a pillow. Soft pillows ensure that your neck does not feel forced and is kept in line with your spine.
• As a back sleeper, looking for a pillow that has medium thickness is perfect to avoid putting your head too far forward. This avoids potential stress on your neck, head, and back. If the pillow is too soft, your head might sink too low onto the pillow. Again, this will put your head and neck at a bad angle from the rest of your body.
• As a side sleeper, look for a thicker and more firm pillow to provide neck support.
• As a combination sleeper, meaning you can sleep at any position or changes position through the night, a pillow that has moderate thickness and softness can easily adapt to any position.

Step 2: Learn about the various different types of filling materials available in the market.

There are many different types of pillows available in the market and every single one has an edge over the other.

Here are some of the most sought after pillow types you should definitely check out.

1. Down Or Down Feather Pillow

These are good pillows that are derived from the plumage of either geese or ducks. Down feathers are always soft and light. These are found beneath feathers that are stronger. In comparison, feather pillows are harder.

Both of these types, however, are not advised for those who are asthmatic or prone to develop allergies. Thankfully, there are synthetic alternatives available.

2. Cotton Or Wool Pillow

Your best bet if you suffer from allergies, these types are perfectly suitable for you. These are resistant to molds and dust mites, as well. The downside is that these are pretty firm pillows that are less than ideal for those who lay on their stomach and back. If there are thin wool or cotton pillows, you might find it a good option.

3. Latex Pillows

You can depend on this comfortable pillow‘s elasticity and resilience. Its ability to resist molds makes it a good choice for people who suffers from allergy.

These came from rubber tree’s sap, but comes in different consistencies. Some are made of solid foam, while others are comprised of shredded ones. These can do a great job of conforming to the shape of the neck and head. Plus, these pillows can retain cool temperature.

4. Memory Foam Pillow

Polyurethane that comes in any shape or size. When it comes to support, this pillow type tops the list. It is perfect for people who have injuries on their neck, jaw, and shoulders.

These are great in flattering the shape of the head and neck, securing it well. No matter what movement you make, it will always cradle your head and neck like a baby. It also has high density, so you can use it for a long time because the material does not break down easily. The only drawback is that it can be a little too hot, since it is not breathable.

5. Specialty Pillows

If you find that none of these materials seem to work for you, you might want to try specialty pillows. Although, be mindful. Most of these products have no adequate researches that can back it up.

• Cervical pillows have additional firmness located on the bottom part of the pillow to provide more support in the neck. They are designed for you to say goodbye to neck tensions and headaches.
• Positional pillows is shaped like a small “n”. These pillows aim to provide solution for those people who have sleep apnea and reduce the number of movements you make during your sleep at the same time.
• Anti-Snore pillows, as the name implies, reduces the snoring by helping you find the right position of the head to maintain an open airway. It lifts the chin and far off from the chest.
• Oxygen pillows promote air circulation. You can breathe easily while sleeping. It also has claims of being able to relieve pain.
• Cool pillows are perfect during the summer. A proper pillow you can count on to fight off the heat. These pillows reduces head heat and keeps you cool while sleeping. For women suffering from hot flashes, this is such a treat.

Bear in mind that pillows are ideal for replacement in every one to two years. Investing in pillow protectors can help prolong the life of your pillows.

Even if I was able to provide you with all your information on how to choose the pillow you can truly call “my perfect pillow”, you still need to to test your choices out.

First, read reviews about pillows that appeal to you before heading to the store. Thanks to Google, you can easily conduct researches about pillows you suspect are right for you.

Do not think that the more expensive the pillow is, the better choice it will be.

Be familiar of where to buy pillows that are of high quality and made by a manufacturer with good reputation.

Test the pillow out by laying down on it or standing close to a wall with the pillow.

Inquire about guarantees and trial periods.

Conclusion

Finding the right pillow really depends on you. Being familiar of your needs can get the ball rolling as you look for the pillow that you can really count on.

Do not get frustrated if at first you did not end up with a pillow that you like. Not everyone gets it right the first time. You need to be patient. Trial and error is normal. But, of course with the right knowledge (like those that you learned here) you can come up with a more sound decision hopefully at a lesser cost.