Pillows

What is the best pillow?

To prevent back and neck aches, it is best to keep your spine as straight as possible while you sleep. The best pillow for you will be one that allows you to lay in your preferred sleeping position while maintaining a straight spine.

Sleeping position

The way you sleep will impact the type of pillow you need. Your pillow fills the gap between your head and the mattress. This gap is wider or smaller depending on how you orientate your body when you sleep.

Body shape will also play a part in your decision. People with a larger frame tend to sink further into a mattress, decreasing this gap.

The firmness of your pillow will affect how far your head sinks down. Consider this when choosing the comfort level of your pillow.

Here is some information to think about around sleeping positions:

Side sleepers - Side sleepers need to fill the gap between their head and their shoulders. Those with larger frames sleeping on medium or soft mattresses will sink down, reducing that gap. Light-framed sleepers on firm mattresses will not sink very far, leaving a wider gap that may require more pillows, or deeper pillows, to fill.

Average side sleepers tend to require deeper, firmer pillows.

Back sleepers - Back sleepers form a smaller gap between their head and the mattress, as the distance is the space between their back and the back of their head.

Average back sleepers often prefer thinner pillows.

Front sleepers - Front sleeping can be problematic as it tilts the head back and up, putting unwanted pressure on the spine. Many front sleepers sleep with their arms around the pillow, shifting position to face either side throughout the night.

Front sleepers might want to use softer, more malleable pillows that can be shaped according to their need.

Filling

The material of the filling used in a pillow can affect how firm and deep a pillow is. Other factors relating to filling include cost, ease of washing, and allergies.

Below is some information on filling materials:

Hollow fibre - Hollow fibres are the standard fillings found in many pillows. The material is lighter, less expensive and easier to wash. Hollow fibres are better for many allergy sufferers.

Foam, gel & latex - These materials offer enhanced pressure relief. Memory foam pillows are thought to be the best for people suffering aches and pains. Gel offers cooling relief. Latex - like memory foam - provides support and pressure relief. This natural foam-like material is also quite durable.

Natural fibres - Fibres found naturally in nature come with fewer chemicals. Feathers are a more affordable option, while down is luxurious and soft. Wool has excellent thermal insulating qualities, making it breathable on warmer nights.