What Should You Look For When Shopping For The Right Pillow
When it comes to shopping for the best pillow for your needs, sleep specialist Michael Breus, PhD, advises asking yourself three questions: Whats your preference when it comes to how squishy or firm the pillow is? What position do you start sleeping in? Do you have significant upper-shoulder or neck pain?
Next, consider the fill/fiber of the pillow . Down-filled pillows are usually light and soft and made from goose or duck fibers, though note that pure-down and all-down pillows may still contain other types of fill. Latex pillows tend to be firmer and hold shape, as do memory foam pillows, which soften and counter to the lines of your head, neck, and shoulders.
Other factors to consider are the fill weight, quality of fill, size of the pillow , breathability of fabric in case youre a hot sleeper, and how your pillow was made .
Below, weve broken down the best pillows for back sleepers, best pillows for side sleepers, and best pillows for stomach sleepers . Youll find great, expert-recommended sleep picks from brands and retailers such as Casper, Brooklinen, Layla, Coop Home Goods, Amazon, Parachute, Tuft & Needle, Purple, and more.
The Importance Of Getting A Good Nights Sleep
Here are five reasons why taking care of your sleep is significant for your health.
- Good quality sleep is beneficial for the functioning of the brain. This includes concentration and productivity. Additionally, good sleep can also improve problem-solving skills.
- Getting a minimum of eight hours of sleep can improve the functioning of your immune system and reduce the chances of getting the common cold.
- People with poor sleep habits are prone to the risk of type 2 diabetes. As a result, taking care of your sleep is essential for controlling your blood sugar levels.
- Lack of sleep is also linked to many heart-related problems. People with poor sleep habits are at a higher risk of stroke and heart disease. Thus, getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep is important to maintain heart health.
- Poor sleep can also increase the risk of inflammation or disease recurrence in your body. If youre getting enough sleep at night, your inflammation will also reduce.
The Best Pillows To Buy Now
The Coop Home Goods Original Adjustable Pillow is the best choice for anyone who wants to create a custom pillow without spending much money. It’s packed with CertiPUR-US certified, non-toxic memory foam and microfiber, and you can add as much or as little fill as you need to achieve the perfect loft for your sleeping position .
The pillow also has a removable cover made from a naturally cooling, bamboo-derived viscose rayon material called Lulltra. Coop Home Goods recommends this pillow as the best choice for side sleepers because it can be made deep and plump, but because it’s adjustable you can tailor it to suit any sleep position. You can also buy it in queen size or king size to better suit your bed.
In terms of reviews, The Original Coop Home Goods Adjustable Pillow is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, generated from over 48,000 Amazon customer user reviews, and 4.6 out of 5 stars on the brand’s own website. Customer praise its ability to hold shape well, though some said the washable cover bobbles after a while.
For added peace of mind, the Coop Home Goods Original Adjustable Pillow comes with a five-year warranty, plus a 100-night trial, so you’ll have plenty of time to make sure that this really is the best choice for you.
Before you buy, check our Casper promo codes page for the latest discounts and offers.
The Casper Foam Pillow with Snow Technology easily achieves its one goal of keeping your head cool while you sleep.
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Sleeping In A Neutral Position
Before we go into detail, its important to consider what goes into ideal sleeping positions and how to properly set yourself up for a good nights rest. Essentially, you should try to have your spine in a neutral position where its free of twisting, flexing, or any tension. When you correctly identify this position you will have the best chance of reducing muscle and joint pain as well as improving the quality of your sleep. This is easiest to achieve when sleeping on your back, but it can also be possible as a side sleeper, and with a lot of fine-tuning, even on your stomach.
Why Trust Verywell Health
An experienced health writer, Brittany Loggins understands how important it is to have a comprehensive understanding of the products she’s recommending. All of the products found in her pieces have either been tested by her first hand or have been recommended by trusted medical professionals.
Additional reporting to this story by Stephanie Valera
Stephanie Valerahas written and edited articles for Mashable, Everyday Health, Weather.com, HuffPost, and CBSNewYork.com, among other publications. She was previously editorial director at the environmental organization NRDC, content director at Ziff Davis, and deputy editor at The Weather Channel Digital, where she covered breaking weather news and reported, wrote, and edited features on climate, environment, health, travel, and lifestyle. She has also held editorial positions at CBS, NBC, and BBC America.
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Other Factors Affecting Sleep
The reduction of stress will normally enable those who have difficulty staying asleep, to sleep for longer periods. This will restore sleep to what it is truly meant to be: a fully remedial and refreshing experience.
The average number of movements in sleep is approximately 50-80, although this can be reduced to 18-20 on the correct sleep surface. The human body has approximately 700 muscles, most of which need to relax during sleep! Certain muscles, such as calf muscles act as blood pumps and assist circulation during sleep, but most muscles associated with the spine should relax when sleeping.
Insomnia, a total lack of sleep, can be attributed in many cases to a poor or unsuitable mattress, or even something as simple as an incorrect pillow. Many insomniacs are simply over-sensitive to poor skeletal support, shoulder compression, or dysfunction of the cervical spine . Stress related insomnia can be relieved when the muscular system is allowed to recover during sleep, which will normally give longer periods of sleep to these sufferers.
What You Should Know About Pillows For Back Sleepers
Pillows are arguably the second most important piece of bedding after your mattress, even though you should get new pillows far more frequently. In fact, you should replace your pillow every one to two years, says John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Limited and spokesperson for The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America .
Back sleeping is the second most popular sleep positionin one study, people spent nearly 40% of the night on their back. This position is generally considered healthy for your spine and neck because it distributes weight well. For back sleepers, pillows are integral in maintaining alignment throughout the night so that you dont wake up with neck pain. Back sleepers should look for a pillow that provides the right amount of thickness to maintain neutral spinal alignment and support the natural curvature of your neck.
When shopping for a pillow, its important to consider the materials, shape, and construction. The first attribute is to look for pillows labeled mid-plush or mid-density, or that fall in the middle of a lines offerings . Heres what else you need to know.
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How To Choose A Pillow If You Sleep On Your Back
If youre looking for a pillow but dont know where to start, here are some things to consider:
- may reduce sinus congestion
- helps avoid wrinkles, creases, and irritations to the facial skin
But for all its benefits, back sleeping still isnt for everyone. People who are pregnant may find this sleep position puts too much pressure on their bellies. Those with back pain or sleep apnea may also need to avoid sleeping on their backs.
How you sleep is a matter of preference, but there are some ways to help improve your sleep quality if youre a back sleeper.
You Deserve A Great Nights Rest
When you think of how often and for how long you use a cushion, it makes sense to invest in a good one. Eight hours is a long time to be uncomfortable, but it is wonderful to wake up well-rested. Treat yourself to a pillow that will give you a soothing slumber.
Remember when choosing your pillow, you need a firm pillow that still feels soft and inviting at the end of the day. If you choose a molded form pillow, coolness is going to be especially important to you. Ones with a non-descript shape can be fluffed, but sometimes lacks the firmness back sleepers need.
The Classic Brands Cool Sleep is our top-rated choice for that reason. It is firm, yet has just enough softness to be inviting. With its innovative materials that will keep you cool at night, its sure to become your favorite as well.
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How We Test Pillows
All pillows are evaluated in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab. First we check the care labels to see how easy they are to clean , then we wash them five times to see whether they’ll actually hold up to laundering. We also look at how well they fit into a pillowcase and we perform support and recovery tests that mimic the pressure from your head lying on it all night: A weight is left on the pillow for an extended period then we measure how quickly it returns to its original shape.
In addition to Lab testing, we also have real consumer testers try them out for in-depth feedback on things like comfort, support, temperature regulation and more. Testers are assigned a pillow based on an initial survey to make sure they’re getting a good match, then they’re given weeks to sleep on it before providing both scored and open-ended responses.
Benefits Of Jsb Bs34 Bed Wedge Pillow
- This Bed Wedge Back Cushion Support can help reduce post operative problems following surgery or injury including swelling, pressure, muscle tension and pain in upper part of body
- Keeping an injured part elevated on a bed can help reduce throbbing and swelling. Relaxing operated muscles decreases tension and strain
- The Bed Wedge Back Cushion is designed with an inclined design that keeps your effected swollen area comfortably elevated in an angle which is optimal for reducing swelling
- Highly Recommended for Post Surgery Swelling Relief, Breathing Comfort, Snoring Pressure Relief, Acid Reflux Disease, Hiatal Hernia.
- Dimensions : 30″ X 24″ X 7.25″. Weight : 6 Kgs. With Washable Cover Can Also be used as a Leg Elevator Cushion
Relief in Acid Reflux
The bed wedge pillow for sleeping is design for relieve muscle tension and pain from the upper part of the body. If you are facing acid reflux in the lower chest area, the pillow can reduce the throbbing and swelling issue. Regular usage of the pillow can help to bring huge relief in the body and relieve acid reflux.
Helps Prevent Snoring
If you or your partner have snoring issues, this pillow is the right one to invest. It can help to avoid snoring while sleeping on it daily. Plus it lets you sleep in a relaxed position which helps in decreasing tension and strain in neck and back area.
Relieve Neck & Back Pain
Best Solution for Maternity Sleeping
Improve Blood Circulation & Digestion
Biggest Size Bed Wedge
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Ishowstore Therapeutic & Ergonomic
Another thrifty choice, The IshowStore Therapeutic and Ergonomic brand lives up to its name by providing a butterfly-shaped pillow that is not only comfortable, but helps heal your back while you sleep. Made with memory foam, it helps with snoring, head and neck pains, insomnia, and many other issues.
Its shape is low and straight on one side, while the other has raised sides with a concave area in the center for your head.
Those who purchased this very affordable pillow enjoyed the firmness and its ability to keep its shape without going flat. It has corrective properties, specifically for people who suffer from back troubles. A 100% polyurethane product, the memory foam is also anti-bacterial, dust mite-resistant, and comes with a removable, washable pillowcase.
Some buyers found the multiple heights of the loft confusing. With those many choices, each sleeper can find a preferable height, suitable just for them. It comes in several different colors: white, navy blue, grey, and purple.
How Thick Should A Pillow Be For Side Sleepers
Generally, side sleepers should aim for a pillow thats 3 to 6 inches thick the goal is to keep your head and neck in a straight line with your spine. That said, your pillow shouldnt be so high that it makes your head tilt, nor should it be so low that it collapses toward your shoulders.
If youre unsure or if your preferences change, adjustable pillows are a smart choice for all sleepers. These include the Leesa Hybrid, the Drift Side Sleeper Pillow, the Layla Kapok Pillow and the Coop Adjustable Loft Pillow, all on this list.
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Jy Hotel Collection Bed Pillows For Sleeping
One of the best pillows for sleeping for neck pain is the JY Hotel Collection pillow. This pillow is one of the best for head and neck support because of its super plush hollow fibre, making it soft and comfortable for sleeping. The pillow feels as good as 5-star hotel room pillows. Made with a breathable fabric, the pillow has a ventilated core to prevent sweating during sleeping. The strain on the neck and spine is prevented by the orthopaedic design of this pillow. The 100% cotton casing around the microfibre interior makes the sleeping experience cool and comfortable.
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Pros |
- Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 5 cm
- Weight: 500 g
- Primary Material:Microfibre
How To Choose The Best Pillow
There is no one single best pillow for every person as our bodies are different, but you can narrow down the list by pinpointing your sleep style. Do you sleep on your stomach, back or side, or a combination of all three? Knowing this will help you choose a pillow easily. With that in mind, here are three key criteria to be aware of:
- Pillow loft This refers to the height of a bed pillow. Side sleepers receive the most support from a high loft . Back and stomach sleepers are usually fine with a low loft.
- Firmness This describes a pillow’s give when weight is placed on it. Soft pillows are usually best for stomach sleepers. Side sleepers often feel better supported by a firm pillow that keeps their neck and back in alignment. Back and combo sleepers do well with a medium-firm pillow.
- Fill This dictates the loft and firmness, but there are health issues to consider here too. For instance, if you suffer from allergies, stay away from feather fills and choose a down alternative pillow instead.
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Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow Contour Pillows For Neck And Shoulder Pain Ergonomic Orthopedic Sleeping Neck Contoured Support Pillow For Side Sleepers Back And Stomach Sleepers
- REMOVABLE BREATHABLE PILLOWCASE: A breathable surface lets air circulate to keep the pillow cool while you sleep.
- REDUCE NECK & BACK PAIN: Proven contour design perfectly supports and aligns your head, neck, shoulder, and back. Bringing a reduction of stress in the cervical vertebra and spine. Improving sleep and relieving neck and shoulder pain, discomfort rejuvenating your body.
- 100% PREMIUM MEMORY FOAM PILLOW: Elviros ergonomic sleeping pillow core is made of high- density slow rebound memory foam. That will provide sleeping firm support with amazing comfort and softness.
- TWO HEIGHTS—DESIGNED FOR BACK & SIDE SLEEPING: SIZE 64**38cm/25.2 x *15inch .
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Elviros contour pillows are well designed to support by following the curve of your body keeps air passages optimal for less snoring and more restful sleep.
Best Memory Foam Pillow For Back Sleepers
Nectar Resident Pillow
Price: $
This supportive, conforming, pressure-relieving pillow is made with a two-in-one, adjustable design. The outer shell comes overstuffed for loft and comfort, and you can remove some of the fill to find the right feel. The inner shell is made with two types of foam for support and durability.
Because of its adjustability, the Resident pillow works equally well for back and side sleepers.
There are close to 300 reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8 stars. People praise the soft support and customized feel.
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How To Choose A Pillow
If you sleep on your back, you already know that you should have a pillow in the medium-soft to medium-firm range. This will give you both a comfortable, cushiony feel while still providing the support you need on your head and neck. When it comes t0 the fill however, there are generally three options: memory foam, down, and fiberfill, each with their own benefits and disadvantages.
Memory Foam: This fill can come in two forms: either a single piece of foam or shredded memory foam. Single-piece pillows are generally higher-quality than those made of shredded foam, and provide a firmer, more supportive feel. However, unlike single-piece memory foam pillows, shredded memory foam pillows are often adjustable, allowing you to add or remove foam reach your desired pillow height and firmness.
Down: If you want cloud-like softness, down may be the best type of pillow fill for you. While down pillows are not as supportive as ones made of memory foam, they are super pliable and fluff up to perfection. These are a great option if you tend to shift around when you sleep or change positions during the night. However, they’re not always a great option for people with allergies, as the down can sometimes hold onto allergens within the pillow.
