Benefits of Sleeping with the Right Pillow
Just like your mattress, your pillow plays a significant role in providing you with a better night’s sleep. The right height helps maintain proper spine alignment by supporting the natural curve of your neck. If your pillow is too thick or too thin, it can misalign your head and spine, potentially leading to neck pain, back pain, or shoulder tightness.
The Importance of Pillow Height
While you may have already considered the type of pillow and its filling material, have you given thought to its height or "loft," as it's called by manufacturers?
The loft of your pillow is crucial.
Finding the Right Pillow Loft for Your Sleep Position
There’s no one-size-fits-all pillow, but your sleep position plays a key role in determining the best loft for you. Here’s a guide based on your preferred sleeping posture:
- Side Sleepers: To properly fill the space between your neck and mattress, choose a high-loft pillow (around 5 inches) for optimal alignment.
- Back Sleepers: With a smaller gap to fill, a medium-loft pillow (3.5 to 5 inches) provides proper support.
- Stomach Sleepers: To minimize head elevation and reduce neck strain, opt for a low-loft pillow (3.5 inches or less).
Additional Considerations Beyond Sleep Position:
- Pillow Firmness: Softer pillows (down or down alternatives) compress more than firmer pillows (such as foam). Take this into account when choosing your pillow loft.
- Mattress Firmness: Softer mattresses tend to cause you to sink in more, requiring a lower-loft pillow for proper alignment. Firmer mattresses need a higher loft to fill the gap between your neck and shoulder.
- Body Type: While not as significant, your body type can influence your pillow loft choice. Smaller individuals may prefer low-loft pillows, while those with larger builds or broader shoulders may need a medium or high-loft pillow, or even an extra-high loft if you're a side sleeper.
These are guidelines. Ultimately, the best pillow is the one that offers you the most comfort.
Maximizing Your Pillow’s Lifespan
The lifespan of a pillow varies depending on its type and use, ranging from a few months to several years. To extend its life, protect your pillow with a hypoallergenic, breathable, waterproof pillow protector. Regularly wash the protector in hot water to maintain its freshness and help your pillow last longer. There is no cleaning necessary for the pillow itself!
Limited Time Dream Deal!
Double the Savings!
Buy One Dreams to Go Pillow, Get One FREE!
Remember... Sharing is Caring!
Sweet Dreams!