Cushiony comfort will bring sleep relief faster than you can say snooze.
But finding the perfect pillow can be a nightmare, especially when there’s so many possibilities to choose from.
So, sleepyheads, take some tips with you when you go pillow hunting.
Firstly, consider your sleeping position. Stomach and back sleepers will generally prefer a flatter, thinner pillow, as these will reduce neck and back strain.
Side sleepers will prefer a thicker pillow to increase neck and head support.
Body types should be considered as well with petite sleepers generally needing a smaller, flatter, thinner pillow too as larger ones can result in spinal difficulties.
For the opposite reasons, larger sleepers should aim for an oversized, more supportive pillow.
Then there are the pillow materials to be considered; and these days, there are plenty to choose from.
Memory foam pillows are all the rage now with these savvy sleep promoters learning your preferred shape and posture when asleep. These pillows can cushion pressure points and ensure spines, heads and necks don’t stumble on their sleep journey.
Latex pillows are similar to memory foam ones and, with the latex produced from rubber trees, are more environmentally sustainable while also being durable and hypoallergenic.
However, they can be costly.
If you suffer from allergies or are simply sensitive to some materials, you may prefer polyurethane or polyester fiber pillows, which are hypoallergenic.
Down pillows with infills of goose, duck or swan feathers can be beautifully soft but can also retain body heat, may develop lumps if not taken care of, and are likely to be expensive.
They should also always be ethically sourced.
Budget sleepers who love these but want a cheaper option can settle on synthetic down pillows which come with a polyester infill.
Gel-infused memory foam or polyester pillows can help “hot” sleepers enjoy a cool night’s slumber
Unsure if a pillow hunt is necessary?
The Sleep Foundation recommends buying a new pillow every 18 months as they can quickly become overlaid with dead skin cells and dust mites.
Test current pillows by folding them in half.
If they spring back in seconds, a pillow hunt can wait but vice versa if they don’t.