In winter we sleep more. Make sure to do it right!

Today we will speak about your choice of a pillow and why it matters.

Most people focus on their mattresses, neglecting the quality of their pillow. Mattress is indeed a serious investment. However, changing your pillow to more appropriate may significantly improve your sleep and health. And it is not a big financial commitment, so it is easy to purchase.

Why does a good pillow matter?

It supports a good sleeping posture. What does it look like? A body in alignment, from the hips and knees, through the spine to the shoulders and chest, neck and head. Thus, you sleep soundly and avoid the feeling of pain and stiffness during a day.

The best pillow is the one that provides support and comfort.

How to choose the best pillow?

It is an individual process. When it comes to picking the right pillow, there really is no one pillow-size, shape, or material that fits all. Here are some criteria you can take into consideration and find what’s the most appropriate for you.

Fiber

Choose the filling depending on your preferences:

Down.

Light and soft pillows made from goose or duck fibers. The first one tends to be softer and more expensive. These pillows are made of different combinations of feathers, down, and other fillings. Be aware that lower-quality down filling that hasn’t been properly cleaned may cause allergies. Good quality down pillows are quite expensive.

Synthetic down/polyester fill.

They are less expensive than hypo-allergenic natural down. These pillows are less soft than down and they will flatten with time. You will need replace polyester pillows more frequently than other types.

Wool.

Wool pillows are hypo-allergenic, and resistant to dust mites and mold. They regulate your temperature during sleep, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. These pillows are quite firm.

Cotton.

Cotton pillows are similar to wool in terms of  resistance to dust mites, mold and being hypo-allergic. They are flat and firm. If you have allergies and chemical sensitivity, this is a great choice.

Latex.

Latex pillows are very comfortable but more firm than down. They hold their shape. Latex is also resistant to mold and dust mites.

Memory foam.

These pillows have become very popular recently. Memory foam material conforms to your individual shape. Depending on your weight and body heat, memory foam contours to the lines of your shoulders, head, and neck. It can distribute weight evenly across its surface. So, memory foam pillows are a popular choice for people with neck and head pain. However, memory foam retains heat. It can lead to sweating and discomfort. When new these pillows also have a distinctive chemical smell.

Fill weight

Lightweight choices: down and synthetic pillows

Heavier choices: memory foam and latex pillows

The weight of your pillow is about personal preference.

Quality of fill

Whatever you choice is, its quality matters to support, comfort, and longevity. Select the highest quality pillow your budget allows. Remember, that you will spend hours on this pillow over the duration of its life.

Size

The most important is to keep your posture in alignment. Choose the size of your pillow accordingly. If you prefer a larger pillow, that’s fine, provided you can keep your sleep posture in alignment. The thinness or thickness of your pillow should enable you to sleep with your head, neck, and shoulders aligned with your spine.

Fabric

It is better to use natural and breathable fabrics. Pillow covers help extend the life of the pillow.

Be ready to invest into a good-quality product. A decent pillow will be stay with you for years, so make sure it is comfortables and provides necessary support.