Remember when we were kids and we prefer to skip nap time? Well, that’s a wrong move. As adults, nothing else sounds more appealing than a quick afternoon break just to catch some zzz’s.
Are you a fan of sleeping? I know I am. Unfortunately, I do not have enough time to load up on some sleep during daytime. The only thing I can do is to make sure I get a restful sleep at night, so I can face the next day with ease.
But, alas, as fate would have it.. a restful sleep is just not written in the stars for me on some nights.
Maybe you can relate to my experience, as well. This may have happened to you on several occasions. I know how extremely annoying it is to wake up in the middle of the night and find yourself struggling to go back to dreamland.
Well, guess what? I have some great news…
You can actually do something about this problem. Or at least, to reduce it.
Most people neglect the importance of pillows because it seems like a trivial thing.
Looks fluffy? Check.
Looks comfy? Check.
Looks clean? Check. *Heads to the check out counter to pay for the first pillow you saw inside the store*
No one ever really made a big fuss about the materials used for the fills and covers. No one ever really considered if these purchases fit their sleeping profile.
Then, the struggle becomes real. Interrupted sleeps from time to time. Or worse, waking up to an unexplainable body soreness.
Understanding the importance of using the right pillow can ensure proper sleep and help reduce or eliminate body pains the next day.
This article will help you get insights about the two of the most popular foams used as pillow fills. Who knows, just by reading this article, you might end up drastically improving your sleep quality.
In the topic of pillows, foam is the current catchword. Memory foams and latex foams are the most in demand. And with good reason: they are both supportive and helpful in ensuring that your body is properly aligned as you sleep. Both comes in a single foam or as shredded foam.
If you are wondering, how long do memory foam pillows or latex foam pillows last, here is a quick answer: Synthetic pillows (memory foam and some latex foams) usually lasts two to three years, and the natural latex pillows can probably last up to five years.
While these types tend to be more expensive, they certainly are up to the job. Cheap pillow is a waste of money. In just a short span of time, you will have to replace them because they lose the support and loft required in a comfortable pillow. Well, in all honestly, they probably have very little to begin with.
For a quick look of the performance levels of both pillows, feast on the below table:
Comparison Chart
| Viscose Rayon Covered Pillow with Shredded Memory Foam | Bamboo Derived Rayon and Polyester | |||
| Combination Shredded Style Memory Foam Pillow | ||||
| Shredded Memory Foam Pillow for stomach side sleepers | ||||
| Conforma Firm Responsive Memory Foam Pillow | ||||
| Standard Memory Foam Pillow with PCM Beads |
Comparison Chart Ranking
1 – POOR, 2 – FAIR, 3 – GOOD, 4 – GREAT, 5 – EXCELLENT
Judging by the chart, you might say, “Fine. Ill go purchase a natural latex pillow, then”. But wait, please hold your horses. You still have to read more to find out which one is best for you.
What Are Memory Foam Pillows?
Memory Foam pillows are designed for NASA use. Yup, you read that right. NASA, the one responsible for sending Neil Armstrong to the moon, invented the memory foam.
Why?
It was created for the airplane seats and for the mattresses, mattress toppers, and pillows of the aircrafts to be used by astronauts. They needed a material that easily conforms to the body that can protect the passengers leaving and entering different atmospheres. It can keep the spine aligned and is exceptional in lessening or eliminating body aches and pains.
A memory foam pillow comes with a lot of features. Of course, apart from its ability to ensure spine alignment, a memory foam can also prevent you from damaging your neck area. It is the reason why most travel pillows have memory foam as their filler.
Other notable features of a memory foam pillow, include:
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Malleability
Memory foam pillows follows the shape of your head. This is the reason why it is called a memory foam. It seems to have the ability to record the positioning of your head. It will remain in that shape unless you . It guarantees that you will get support for your neck and back all night long.
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Hypoallergenic
Unlike down filled pillows (that got its fill from ducks or geese), memory foam pillows do not stimulate any environmental allergies from those who are prone to it.
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Dust Mite Resistant And Anti-Bacterial
You do not have to worry about the formation of dust, dust mites, or bacteria inside the pillow. It naturally repels anything that will lead to any of these unwanted stuff.
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Comfortable
Pillows of this type can provide adequate support. You will feel like your head is being cradled by the foam, since it fits so perfectly. Waking up might get a little difficult because its comfort level is amazing.
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No More Body Pain.
Neck pains are not the only problem when it comes to using incorrect pillows. Back pain (even headaches) often go with neck pains. It all boils down to support.To avoid these body aches, your body should be properly aligned.
Why Should You Use A Memory Foam Pillow?
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It Reduces Snoring.
A memory foam pillow can lessen your snoring because it keeps your head tilted upwards. If you or your partner is a loud snorer, do yourself a favor and grab a pair.
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The Variety Of Shapes And Sizes You Can Choose From Are Plenty
Memory foam pillows comes in many sizes and shapes. It would not be hard to find a perfect match. Some memory foam pillows even have extra on the neck and shoulder regions for more support.
Yes, there are many amazing things a memory pillow can provide. But, as with all things, it also has a downside.
It retains heat.
This is a common issue when it comes to using memory foam pillows. They do not just absorb heat, they retain it, as well. Discomfort may be experienced, if you find yourself waking up all sweaty at midnight. Breathability ensures quality sleep.
Thankfully, though, with the help of some materials and technology, this memory foam problem has been remedied. Using bamboo or cotton covers can stimulate air flow within the pillow. Others place a cooling gel in the middle of the memory foam fill to make sure it does not get too warm at night.
How a Memory Foam Pillow Can Benefit You Based on Your Sleeper Type
As A Combination Sleeper
A memory foam pillow can help with the usual neck and back problems by following the shape of your neck and head, no matter how many movements you make during the night. It can easily adapt to your different positions without waking you up from your slumber.
As A Side Sleeper
Its plush nature provides the thickness necessary to avoid neglecting the space in between your neck and the mattress. If you opt for pillows with less loft, you might need to fold it to ensure that your neck is properly aligned. Of course, you know how that can ruin a pillow.
As A Front Sleeper
Since thin pillows are suitable for people who sleep on their stomachs, thin memory foams can secure your head while keeping it in proper alignment with the rest of your body. It also helps lessens the strain your neck experience from having it twisted to one side.
As A Back Sleeper
Aside from the firmness and resilience, a memory foam pillow can also provide corrective measures. This can help people who are having trouble with back issues.
This may get you thinking, are memory foams better? In some cases, yes. But, latex foams are slowly making a name for themselves. Read on to find out why?
What Are Latex Foam Pillows?
Latex foam pillows have not been around for as long. However, they are slowly making their way to becoming one of the most recognized pillow materials available in the market. If you are wondering what is latex pillow made of, here are some of its varieties:
- Natural latex foam which originates from rubber tree sap.
- Synthetic latex that have been created from a various blend of chemicals.
- Blended latex is a combination of natural and synthetic latex.
There are a lot of favorable attributes associated with latex foams. Whatever variety you go for, they are extremely comfortable, partly due to its incredible softness. And even with it, latex is a bit dense and can retain its shape. Below are other features that make latex an ideal choice for your pillow needs.
Why Should Your Choose A Latex Pillow?
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It provides adequate support.
Latex pillows are firm. They give enough support to the head and neck, so aches and pain rarely becomes a problem. They also adapt to your movements.
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No more fluffing.
The loftiness of the pillow needs no adjustment. Even if you are a shifty sleeper, you do not to fluff it like a regular feather pillow.
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Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial.
All types of latex pillows, natural latex foam pillows, synthetic, or mixed, can resist mildew, dust mites, and allergens.
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These last for a long time.
Latex foams are very durable. A typical pillow needs to be changed after two years. But, latex foam pillows can last up to five years.
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These are easy to clean.
Latex is very sterile, so maintaining it for a long time is not that hard. All you need to do is to spot clean it with water and soap. Leave it to dry afterwards.
Of course, despite its plenty of pros, there is a downside to latex pillows, as well.
Why You Should Not Purchase A Latex Foam Pillow?
It is too expensive.
You will be over exceeding your budget with latex pillows. It is probably the most pricey one in the market. But, if you have the means, why not? It does have a lot of amazing features that are well worth the purchase.
How A Latex Pillow Can Benefit You Based On Your Sleeper Type
As A Combination Sleeper
Latex have contouring properties, so there will not be any issue about it lacking in support. Its bouncy nature will not make you question its firmness or loftness. This is perfect for those who move around a lot.
As A Side Sleeper
These pillows are soft, but supportive enough to reduce neck or shoulder discomfort that most side sleepers experience.
As A Front Sleeper
Natural latex foam pillows are breathable and prevents accumulation of heat. This is the number one problem of those who likes sleeping on their belly.
As A Back Sleeper
Latex foam pillows are on the spotlight because they help address issues involving back, neck, and shoulder pains.
On that note, let us address the main differences between the two:
- Latex are either natural or synthetic, while memory foam is purely created by men for a reason.
- Memory foam takes a longer time to bounce back after use. Latex is incredibly soft and easily springs back when touched.
- Memory foam pillows are may be a bit pricey, but by comparison to latex foam, they are cheaper and offers more variety.
Conclusion
Before, buying a pillow is super easy. All you need to do is go to a department store and grab whatever you fancy. With the numerous selections out there (we only discussed two, but there are several more), it can get overwhelming. Whatever you choose between latex foam or memory foam, you will get sufficient support necessary for a pain-free and well-rested sleep anyway. Hopefully, this article was able to provide you important points to identify which one is better for you.
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