A good pillow is just as important as a comfortable bed for getting a restful night’s sleep. Buying the right pillow and positioning it correctly could be one of the most important parts of achieving a good night’s sleep. In addition to providing comfort, the right pillows can also give the necessary support for the neck and spine, alleviating or preventing back and neck pain.

In addition to aggravating and even causing neck and back pain, incorrect pillows can also trigger allergic reactions. After two years of use, one-third of a pillow’s weight comprises of dirt, dead skin, dust mites and their droppings.

Pillows for Different Sleeping Positions

For correct sleeping posture, only your head and neck should be placed over your pillow. Do not place your shoulders on the pillow because this will elevate your upper body much higher than your lower body. Depending on your sleeping position, certain pillows might be better for you than others. Whether you’re a side sleeper, a back sleeper or a front sleeper, discover how to find your perfect pillow.

How often should you replace a pillow?

There is often confusion about when you should buy new pillows. The life expectancy of a pillow varies depending on the type of material it is made from.

If you are unsure whether it’s time to replace your pillow, find out how to test your pillow.

What pillow filling is best for me?

Feather and down pillows give you comfort and adjustability. They can support your head, eliminate pressure points, and increase facial circulation to decrease face squashing. Down is not an ideal option if you suffer from asthma or have allergies.

Wool pillows provide outstanding neck and head support, whilst retaining a soft wool feel that resists flattening and bounces back easily after use. Wool is a great sleep aid, as it draws moisture away from the skin and helps the body to maintain a steady temperature. This means that it’s never too hot or too cold; and it’s also antibacterial and hypoallergenic, as well as being naturally dust mite free.

Memory foam pillows are made of a dense, temperature-sensitive sponge-like material that can easily support your back and neck by conforming to your individual body shape. The memory foam moulds to your neck and head, creating a comfortable cradle for your head while you sleep. This can help relieve pain in your neck while you are sleeping.

Latex pillows are made from a rubber polymer that returns to shape time after time, and offers you unrivalled comfort and support. The latex sponge is very reactive to pressure but, unlike memory foam, it has instant bounce-back. Latex pillows also have the added benefit of being hypoallergenic.

Synthetic pillows are man-made, and usually polyester. They are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. However, they have a shorter life span and do not conform to the head and neck, as well as most other pillows.

Orthopaedic pillows exist in several different shapes and materials, and are most commonly used to relieve neck and back pain. Some promise to keep their shape or mould, and adjust to your head and shoulders. They should always keep spine alignment as the number one focus.

Cover Fabric

Natural cover fabrics, such as cotton, will have far better breathability than polyester and other man-made fibres.

Pillows for different sleep issues

Choosing the right pillow can help alleviate common sleep problems, such as snoring, allergies, and neck and back pain.

Snoring

When your head and neck are not properly supported, your airways can be restricted, which can cause snoring. If your nasal passages are being obstructed, then your snoring may also be caused by an allergy.

Allergies

Anti-allergy bedding is blended with an intelligent fibre with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal additives inside, creating an environment that is unsuitable for dust mites to survive. Not only can anti-allergy bedding prevent allergic reactions, but they can also reduce snoring.

Neck and back pain

If you suffer from back or neck pain, it’s important to look at your pillows. A change of pillow could help alleviate your back or neck pain.