According to numerous studies, a good night's sleep is a fundamental part of good health. It is therefore crucial to know how to choose your pillow, not only to avoid muscle pain but also to give you the support you need while you sleep. With that in mind, and given the sheer number of options on the market, it is not always easy to know which pillow to choose. That is why, in this article, we give you 5 steps to learn how to how to choose your pillow that matches your needs.
1. Pay attention to your sleeping position.
When you choose your pillow, remember that a pillow that suits you perfectly may not suit someone else. The first thing to consider when you think about how to choose your pillow is the position you sleep in.
For example, if you usually sleep on your stomach, the best option is a thin pillow so that your neck stays aligned with your back and you avoid pain. The best pillow for side sleeping, on the other hand, should be firm and thick so that your shoulders stay parallel to your spine.
Finally, if you sleep on your back, you should also choose your pillow thin so that your neck is not raised too high, as that can significantly affect your back. Our advice for how to choose your pillow in this position is to go for a memory foam.
2. Consider the fill material
As with a mattress, one of the most important factors in how to choose your pillow is its fill. A down or feather fill will be fluffy and soft, which may not be a good option for anyone who wants choose your pillow firm.
Viscoelastic memory foam is quite firm, and is even used as an orthopedic pillow. It adapts to the shape of the neck, but tends to retain heat. So if you get hot when you sleep, it is better to buy a gel-infused pillow.
3. Choose the right firmness
The wrong firmness can completely ruin your sleep and even seriously affect your musculoskeletal system. So if you are wondering which pillow to choose, work out the level of firmness that will support you best.
If you suffer from muscle pain and want a good level of firmness, latex pillows are perfect for you, and they are hypoallergenic too. An orthopedic pillow is another good choice for aches and pains.
4. Work out the size
The size and shape of a pillow are also important to consider when how to choose your pillow. Standard pillows generally measure 20 inches by 26 inches and suit most people. If you are taller, however, you may need a larger pillow. Some people may also prefer a contoured pillow that offers extra support — the popular pregnancy pillows, for example.
5. Durability
Finally, bear in mind that when you how to choose your pillow, it is an investment, and you should go for a pillow that will last you a long time, made with the best-quality materials. A durable pillow also saves money in the long run. With that in mind, latex is quite durable — it is made from natural materials that resist mould and dust mites — but you do need to make sure it is genuine latex and not a blend of other materials.
If you are looking for pillows or mattresses made entirely of latex, we recommend Matelas Avanti in Canada. If you would like advice on choosing a mattress, on the other hand, you can read our article here.
