Choosing a pillow is a very personal process. When it comes to choosing the right pillow, there really isn't one pillow size, shape or material that fits all. The best way to find the right pillow for you is to determine your personal criteria - using the following six elements as a guide - and then use your intuition to judge which pillow is best for you and which is best for you.
1. Fill/Fiber
Pillows come in a range of filling options. No one is the best - all have pros and cons, depending on your needs and preferences. Let's look at the most common types:
Down. These pillows are light and soft - if you like to rest in a soft spot at night, you might like a down pillow. Down pillows are usually made from goose or duck fibers. Goose down tends to be softer than duck down - and more expensive - although goose down varies in softness. Down pillows are made from different combinations of down, feathers and other fillings. Note that "pure down" and "full down" pillows may still contain feathers and other fillings.
Many people worry about allergic reactions and sensitivity to down. Some people are allergic to down and feathers. However, allergic reactions to down often come from poor-quality down fillings that are not adequately cleaned. Dirt left on the down, not the animal fiber itself, can cause allergies and discomfort. You can look for hypoallergenic down, commonly referred to as "hypodown," which is a blend of strictly cleaned pure down and a natural substance called syriaca, which helps enhance the down's anti-allergic properties and extend the length of the pillow. Longevity. Quality down pillows are expensive, but worth it if this is the type of pillow you prefer.
Synthetic down and polyester filling. Synthetic down pillows are less expensive than natural, hypoallergenic natural down and require more frequent replacement. Polyester-filled pillows are a relatively inexpensive pillow option compared to other pillow types. They tend to be medium to soft, although not as soft as down. They flatten over time and usually need to be replaced more frequently than other types of pillows.
How's the filling power?
Here's what you need to know: The higher the number, the better the pillow and the longer it will last. A fill power of 600 or more is a sign of a high-quality synthetic or natural down pillow. But the power of the filling force is limited. Filling power over 800 doesn't mean your pillow will last ten years, no matter what the sales pitch says.
wool. These pillows are naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and dust mites. Wool pillows wick moisture away from your head and neck, helping to regulate the temperature while you sleep, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Wool pillows tend to be very sturdy. They also have longevity. If you want the benefits of wool without all the sturdiness, look for alpaca wool, not cashmere fibers.
cotton. Similar to wool in many ways, cotton pillows are also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold. Cotton pillows tend to be somewhat flat and firm. For people with allergies and chemical sensitivities, cotton pillows are often a wise choice.
emulsion. Latex pillows tend to be stronger than down but still very comfortable. These pillows keep their shape. This is not the kind of pillow you can squeeze into your preferred position. Latex resists mold and dust mites. Typically, contoured pillows designed to provide extra support for the head and neck or limit movement during sleep are made of latex.
memory foam. These pillows have become very popular in recent years. Memory foam conforms to your personal shape. Based on your weight and body temperature, the memory foam softens and conforms to the lines of your head, neck and shoulders. It also distributes the weight evenly across its surface. These qualities make it a popular choice for people with head and neck pain or pressure points that cause discomfort during sleep. Memory foam retains heat, which can lead to discomfort and sweating. These days, high-quality memory foam pillows often have ventilation built into the pillow—but make no mistake, this is still an insulation. These pillows also emit chemical odors -- especially when they're brand new -- which can be troublesome for some people.
2. Fill weight
Down and synthetic pillows are lightweight options, while memory foam and latex are heavier. The weight of the pillow depends on personal preference. If you want to reshape and move your pillow while you rest, a lighter pillow may be a better choice.
3. Filling quality
For every type of pillow, quality is important for comfort, support and longevity - and will be reflected in the price. Once you've decided on the type of pillow filling that's right for you, choose the highest quality pillow your budget allows. Remember, you will spend thousands of hours on this pillow throughout its lifespan.
4. Dimensions
For most people, a standard-sized pillow is large enough. If you prefer a larger pillow, that's fine, as long as you can keep your sleeping position aligned. The thickness or thickness of your pillow should align your head, neck and shoulders with your spine for sleeping and provide you with comfort. Make sure the pillowcase and pillowcase fit. Don't tuck a large pillow into a small quilt cover, or let a full-sized pillow swim in a king-sized pillowcase.
The pillows are also specially shaped to provide extra support and stability to your head and neck. Some of these may be useful: neck and contour pillows may help relieve neck and back pain, and contour pillows can provide support, stability, and relief for pressure points on the body. But be warned: Many special-shaped pillows involve a marketing element.
5. Fabric
Cover the pillow with a natural, breathable fabric. Pillowcases under the pillowcase help extend the life of the pillow and protect it from stains and perspiration. Decorative pillows look great on the bed, but should be removed before going to bed.
6. Chemistry
Synthetic materials such as memory foam and polyester are made through chemical processes, and many pillows have an antibacterial treatment. Know the chemistry of making pillows, be willing to invest in a well-made product, and consider your allergies and chemical sensitivities when choosing a pillow type.