We accept an impossible mission: find the perfect pillow. When you go to the stores, they all seem comfortable, but will they also be comfortable at night? And, most importantly, will they help you wake up rested and without back or neck pain the next morning?
The pillow is one of the most decisive elements to have a restful sleep every night. In order not to spend money on a thousand and one equally uncomfortable cushions, it is worth doing an analysis of all the possibilities. Take note of the following tips to choose the perfect pillow and sleep better every night.
Is there the perfect pillow?
- Yes, there is the perfect pillow, the one with which you breathe every time you lie on it. However, the ideal model is different for everyone, depending on their needs or preferences.
- Taking into account that, although we are not aware, we change position several times during the night, we need a pillow that makes sure that our neck is always well positioned.
- There are a few things to keep in mind when trying to choose a good cushion for your bed.
The pillow according to your sleeping position
The pillow you choose depends a lot on the position in which you usually sleep.
If you sleep lying on your back
If you sleep facing the ceiling, you will feel more comfortable and you will avoid back and neck pain with padded pillows. For this reason, those that are filled with feathers or those that are ergonomic are recommended.
If you prefer to sleep on your side
Side sleepers, whether in the fetal or upright position, will go for firmer pillows that support their necks well. These will help them wake up with more rested and relaxed muscles. Latex or foam pillows are good options.
If you love to sleep on your stomach
When you sleep on your stomach, the best pillow is one that is very low and flat. There are even people who prefer not to use a pillow. In addition, you will feel much more comfortable if you use a soft pillow, for example, one filled with feathers.
The thickness of your pillow
Before you buy a pillow, try trying it out in the store. If possible, lie down on a mattress with the cushion under your head and pay attention to the position your back takes. You should try to keep the head, neck and spine in good alignment.
- Low pillows. Low pillows are considered when they measure less than 10 centimeters.
- Medium pillows. Those that are medium measure between 10 and 15 centimeters.
- High pillows. They are those that are more than 15 centimeters thick. You have to be careful because there are some that are excessively high and can make your neck tense all night. As a consequence, you can suffer certain pains.
What is the best pillow insert?
The filling of your pillow will make it more or less firm.
Feather or down pillows
In general, feather pillows are made of goose and duck. They are the softest so they sink more than others. However, they quickly recover their natural position. During the winter they keep the heat well and in the summer they let the air pass through to sleep better. If you change your position a lot during the night, avoid these types of pillows. On the other hand, there are doctors who advise against using this filler if you are allergic.
Latex pillows
Pillows made of this material are perfect for heavier people or for those who sleep on their sides. Latex pillows are among the most hygienic and breathe very well, although they should not be put in the washing machine. In addition, they are usually the most expensive pillows.
Synthetic filling pillows
If you like soft pillows, this will be the most comfortable for you. They are filled with different polyester fibers, which makes many people find them very comfortable.
Foam pillows
You know those pillows that you lean on and, when you get up, they still have the shape of your body? The foam ones are perfect for those who do not stop still during the night.
The most ecological option: cereal pillows
There are pillows filled with buckwheat or spelt that support the neck well at night. The problem with these pillows, in addition to their considerable weight, is that they can produce an unpleasant odor.
Some vital care for your pillow
If you want your cushion to last much longer and always be very clean to ensure the sweetest dreams, you must take into account some care. The useful life of some pillows can reach 5 years, as long as they are in perfect condition. These are some of the essential hygiene tips that you should keep in mind.
- Do you air the pillow frequently? Every time you change the sheets, which should be once a week, take the opportunity to air out the pillow by opening the window.
- Every day, shake it vigorously so that the filling is redistributed throughout the pillow and, incidentally, remove any dust that has accumulated.
- To prevent it from warping on the side you always wear it on, turn it over often. You can do it, for example, just before you go to sleep.
- Not all pillows are washable, but it is convenient to wash it once or twice a year. It is advisable to use mild detergents so as not to damage the fillings. And above all, make sure it dries well before using it again.
- Buy a good cover to protect your pillow from mites and other dirt. Don’t forget to put it in the washing machine at least every two months! On this layer directly in contact with the cushion, you must put your usual cover, which you must wash every time you change the sheets.
