The pillow is an item that remains close to our head and shoulders for approximately 8 hours a day through 365 days in the year. However, most people don’t attach a lot of thought while choosing the right Pillow. But choosing the wrong pillow can lead to body pain and other health problems in the long run. Pillows are available in the Australian market for as little as $20, but this could turn costly in the long run. Products such as memory foam pillow, latex or alpaca pillows may seem a little costly at first but it is indeed a valuable investment towards a good night’s sleep every day.
Types of Pillows by Fill
Down and Feathers – As the name suggests these are pillows made out of bird (goose or duck) feathers. While down refers to material from undercoating of the bird, feather comes from outer layers of the bird and is flat like quills. They shape your neck well. They should be replaced every year or once they flatten or don’t provide support anymore.
Latex – Made out of natural rubber these pillows are soft yet solid in terms of bounce. These pillows have more structure since the material is arranged in a cluster. Due to the same reason, it might not completely take the shape of your head. However, they are long-lasting. They are also hypoallergenic (meaning the tendency to develop allergy is very less).
Memory Foam – Memory foam pillows are filled with a synthetic material called polyurethane that is modified to remain highly elastic and viscous (resistance to deform). The foam has cells that are open which leads to easy movement of air within the entire material. Hence the pillow flexes to body contours and adjusts with every movement. Unlike feather or latex pillows, they come back to their original shape after use.
Gel – Gel pillows do not indicate that the pillows are filled with gel rather, the gel is infused into memory foam. The gel is intended to give a cooling effect to the sleeper. It gives great comfort to people who naturally have warmer body temperatures.
Pillows to choose based on Sleeping Positions
If you Sleep on your Side – For side sleepers, the ideal pillow is tall enough such that the ears are in a straight line with the shoulders. This ensures the spine to be aligned with the neck. Ensure no gap between the neck and the memory foam pillow.
If you Sleep on your Back – The pillow should be chosen such that the head is again aligned with the upper spine. Ensure that neither the head sinks in nor the head is pushed forward. Medium pillows are ideal for back sleepers.
If you Sleep on your Stomach – Firstly, it is not recommended to sleep on the stomach since it causes the neck to get pushed upwards in this position with the pillow. However, if sleeping on the stomach is of comfort, then it wise to choose a flat or soft low pillow.
Things to look out for in Pillow Casing
The Pillow casing is the part of the pillow that encases the filling. Cotton is usually the go-to casing by manufacturers and it is comfortable, however, they easily absorb water and are not suitable for persons who sweat. Other materials that are used include viscose and polyester blends. Viscose is semi-synthetic and made out of natural fibres from bamboo and then chemically processed. They are soft and smooth. Polyester blends on the other hand are synthetic hence more durable and cheaper.
Author’s Bio – Agnes John is a copywriter and content strategist. She helps businesses stop playing around with content marketing and start seeing the tangible ROI. She loves writing as much as she loves the cake.
