Which Pillow is Right for Your Sleep Position?

Everyone knows that your mattress is essential to a good night’s sleep, but what about your pillow? Although many people commit substantial time and resources to find the right mattress, it is important to recognize the importance of discovering the perfect pillow.

With the right pillow, you can boost your chances of getting restful sleep. The National Sleep Foundation notes sleeping with a comfortable pillow may help you avoid a variety of physical issues, including:

• Arm numbness
• Headaches
• Neck pain

Pillows come in a variety of sizes and materials and are a crucial factor in determining the quality of your sleep. Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, make sure you have the right pillow for your sleep position.

Best Pillows for Back Sleepers

Those who sleep on their backs need more support than anyone else. Back sleepers should invest in a pillow that conforms to pressure, with medium firmness. You don’t want a pillow that is too thick because it’ll raise your head out of proper alignment. But it’s also important to avoid pillows that are too thin so the head isn’t tilted too far back while sleeping. Find a pillow that comfortably supports the natural curvature of your neck, while keeping it straight. Memory foam pillows are ideal for back sleepers because they mold to the shape of the head and neck and deliver consistent support. The TEMPUR-Adapt ProLo + Cooling Pillow is a solid choice for back sleepers. The TEMPUR® material adapts to your head, neck, and shoulders to deliver personalized comfort and support. The low profile won’t force you to crane your head upward and strain your neck. For back sleepers, it may be a good idea to pick up an extra pillow to place under the knees too. This pillow will help minimize pressure on the lower back and make it easy for you to get the zzz’s you need.

Best Pillows for Side Sleepers

If you sleep on your side, you need a fluffier pillow to fill the gap between your neck and shoulder to keep your spine aligned. If your pillow is too soft, you might find yourself fluffing it all night trying to get the right support for your neck. Pillows with medium support will mold to your body and keep your neck in proper alignment. Anatomic pillows that firmly support and properly align the neck and back are also great for side sleepers.

If you sleep on your side, check out the Technogel Sleeping Anatomic Pillow. It’s especially popular among those who suffer neck, back or shoulder pain. The ergonomically curved surface is great for medium-to-large built back or side sleepers—and those who roll between the two!

Best Pillows for Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers pose a different challenge to pillow hunting. Stomach sleepers put more pressure on the neck and spine, which are being twisted around all night. Extra soft pillows are best for those who choose to sleep prone, because they allow the head to sink down enough to keep your spine healthy. Find a pillow that is flat enough to allow you the extra head space you need. Pillows filled with feathers or down alternatives are good because they are easily compressed down.

Stomach sleepers may want to invest in pillows that consist of synthetic materials as well. These pillows are chemical-free and have been shown to reduce the risk of allergens and dust mites that can cause nighttime sneezing.

The Technogel Sleeping Deluxe Thin Pillow is refreshing choice for stomach sleepers in search of more comfort. It’s designed to support proper spinal alignment. It may even satisfy sleepers who sometimes prefer lying without a pillow.

Other Things to Consider

Look for cooling qualities.
If you tend to sleep hot, look for a pillow with cooling properties. The Hybrid Infinity Cool Pillow features cool touch fibers that offer a calming chill the moment your head hits the pillow. 

The TEMPUR® Adapt ProHi + Cooling Pillow  is another great option for hot sleepers. It comes with a premium knit cooling cover to provide cool-to-the -touch comfort after every wash.  Love the feeling of down but suffer from feather allergies? The PureCare Cooling Fiber Pillow is made just for you. The pillow is filled with cloud-like designer down alternative and wrapped with PureCare’s TENCEL™ Lyocell & FRíO® cooling cover for a chilled sleep surface that lasts throughout the night.

Invest in a pillow protector.
Just like with your mattress, dust mites, dirt and other allergens can collect on your pillow. This can lead to sneezing and even facial acne. That’s why it’s important to get a pillow protector. Look for pillow protectors treated with silver chloride. The antimicrobial inhibits bacteria, mold, and mildew that causes deterioration, stains, and odors.  PureCare pillow protectors are made with silver chloride and feature MiteTight® seams and locking zipper, providing a physical barrier against allergens, bed bugs, dust mites, stains, moisture, mold, and mildew.

Replace your pillow every six months.
After a while, your pillow could lose its shape and not give you the support you need. Try not to go too long with an old pillow, as it could affect your sleep, comfort, and health. If you find your pillow no longer provides you with the support you need, pick up a new pillow as soon as you can. As a rule of thumb, you should replace your pillow every six months.

Everyone is different.
Some people only sleep in one position. Others roll into two or three positions every night. Some of us have a smaller build, while our larger friends may need more support. The point is, there is no one-size-fits-all remedy. Try out different pillows just as you would try out a mattress to make sure that you’re getting the support you need. Visit your local Sit ‘n Sleep and speak to one of our expert sleep consultants to see which pillow is right for your sleep position.