What To Look For When Choosing A Pillow For Sleeping

If the pillow is selected correctly, it provides the body with the correct position, regardless of the sleeping position. There should be no unnatural curve of the spine and neck - they remain straight.

But it is impossible to say for sure which pillow is best for a particular person. The choice depends on age, favorite sleeping position, the presence of chronic diseases, and personal preferences. Depending on these factors, the desired shape, height, rigidity and filler of the product are selected. Let's consider these criteria in more detail.

Form Pillow

The shape of the pillow determines the degree of support for the head and neck. The most common options are:

• Classic: It can be rectangular or square, have different degrees of rigidity depending on the filler used. The most popular size is 50x70 cm.
• With rollers: On one side, the pillow has a low side, on the other - a high one. The low bolster reduces tension in the neck area, suitable for sleeping on the back. The high one strengthens the support of the neck and is used for sleeping on the side.
• In the shape of a horseshoe or crescent: Such models are suitable for sleeping both on the back and on the side. But they are especially relevant when resting half-sitting: for example, in an airplane or bus seat.
• With a recess for the shoulder: They allow you to maintain the correct position of the body while sleeping on your side.

If you often roll over in your sleep, choose classic pillows. To reduce the symptoms of diseases of the spine or blood vessels, use products with rollers. And you can also buy special beauty models with side notches - they reduce the formation of wrinkles and creases on the skin.

Pillow Height

The height of the neck pillow directly affects the position of the body and, as a result, the quality of sleep. A universal way to determine the appropriate size is to measure the length from the base of the neck to the shoulder joint and add 2 cm.

The choice also depends on the position of the sleeping person:

• On the stomach: In this case, a thinner model is needed to avoid unnecessary tension in the neck muscles. The optimal height is up to 8-10 cm.
• On the back: Choose a model up to 10-12 cm so that it can ensure the correct position of the neck and head. In the lying position, the chin should not go down to the chest.
• On the side: The choice depends on the characteristics of the person's physique. The pillow should fill the space between the head and neck. Big people need taller models.

Pillow Filler

The filling can be of natural or artificial origin. Natural materials are environmentally friendly, moisture and breathable, synthetic materials are hypoallergenic and practical.

The most common fillers are:

• Feathers, down: A traditional natural material that provides softness and elasticity. Not recommended for allergy sufferers.
• Wool: Pillows with natural filling are soft, moisture and breathable. This is the best option for excessive sweating. But it is also not suitable for allergy sufferers.
• Cotton: A voluminous and soft filler that does not cause allergic reactions. But it quickly deforms.
• Silk: The natural material makes the pillow soft and weightless. It has antibacterial and thermoregulatory properties. Such products are durable, the service life can reach 15 years.
• Bamboo fiber: A natural hypoallergenic filler that does not absorb odors, retains its shape for a long time, prevents the appearance of mites and mold. It is often recommended for children.
• Latex: It can be natural or artificial. Elastic hypoallergenic material provides good support for the spine and is often used in orthopedic products. It is durable, does not wrinkle, and is easily erased.
• Buckwheat husk: Eco-friendly material with orthopedic properties. Such pillows are durable, have increased rigidity and elasticity. Before using them, you need to consult a doctor - such products are not suitable for permanent use.
• Synthetic fillers: The materials do not cause allergic reactions, are easy to care for - most of them are machine washable. The most common include polyester, holofiber, ecofiber, microfiber, thinsulate.
• Memory foam: Separately, we highlight the synthetic material that is used for the manufacture of orthopedic and anatomical pillows. It is durable, adapts to the curves of the human body, provides good support for the neck and head, and relaxes muscles.

Products filled with holofiber, polyester, down and feathers are cheaper. But they also have a shorter service life. The middle price segment is models with bamboo, wool, microfiber. High price for products made of memory foam, latex, silk.