How to Choose the Best Pillow For You

The different types of pillows

There are many different fillings when it comes to pillows. However the main two types are natural fillings and synthetic, both of which offer comfort and support.

Natural pillows:

• Feather and down pillows are a type of natural pillow which contain 85% duck feather and 15% duck down, which is the soft fluffy feathers from its chest. These pillows also have cotton covers to create a light and soft feather pillow.
• Wool pillows contain thick natural fibres which offer firm support. Hypoallergenic and breathable, these are a great organic choice.

Synthetic pillows:

• Hollowfibre pillows are made from a 50:50 blend of classic polyester and spring-like hollowfibres. This special blend ensures comfort and support plus a springy and extra plump pillow appearance.
• Memory Foam pillows are made from high quality visco-elastic material that has unique pressure relieving qualities. The best memory foam pillows allow your head, neck and shoulders to rest in a natural position.
• Anti-Allergy pillows are specially treated against the allergens caused by house dust mites. These are ideal for those who suffer from allergies or are prone to sensitive skin.
• ActiGel pillows, also known as cool pillows, are specially designed with a layer of acti gel and breathable materials which help regulate a healthy temperature and keep you cool overnight.

How often should you replace your pillow?

The average pillow should be replaced every 2 years, due to the persistent weight and movement from your head. However, if you wake up with a stiff or sore neck, it can mean that your pillow's fillings are either too flat or lumpy to support your neck as you sleep, therefore it’s time for a new pillow.

Also if your pillow is discoloured, or you find yourself wheezy or with a blocked nose, then chances are it’s housing lots of dust mites or sweat and it might be time for a renewal.

How to choose a pillow

There are so many types of pillow it’s difficult to know which pillow is best. A helpful tip is to choose your pillow based on your mattress. For example, if you have a memory foam mattress, a memory foam pillow will support you head and neck in the same way as the rest of your body. As well as this, the best type of pillow for you is based on your sleeping position and any medical conditions, i.e. neck pain or pregnancy.

Which is the best pillow for your sleeping position?

Firstly, think about how you sleep; identifying your primary sleeping position and your pressure points can influence the type of pillow recommended to provide you maximum comfort and support. The right pillow should cradle your pressure points and allow a natural spine curve.

The best pillows for side sleepers

For side sleepers, it’s best to choose a firm or medium firm support pillow. These pillows will provide you with height, whilst supporting your head and neck for optimal spinal alignment. It’s also worth considering pillows with added neck support, so memory foam might be a good option.

The best pillows for front sleepers

For stomach sleepers it’s best to choose a soft support pillow. Natural fillings such as feather and down would be the perfect option for you, as the fillings are softer and will help prevent you arching your spine out of its natural alignment.

The best pillows for back sleepers

A medium support pillow is recommended for those who sleep on their back, so consider hollowfibre or wool fillings. These pillows have deeper sides providing fullness right to the edge. They will provide you with gentle support to help maintain a natural sleeping position without pushing your head forwards.

The best pregnancy pillows

There are specially designed body pillows for pregnant women that usually come in a long C or U shape to mould around your bump. These can support your head and go in between your knees to provide support to your whole body.

If you don’t fancy such a large pillow taking up your space, there are regular pillows that can help ease your pregnancy. For example, the best pregnancy pillow is one that can help you avoid overheating. That is why we recommend an ActiGel pillow to keep you cool and relaxed throughout the night.

The best pillows for neck pain

The best pillows for neck support are memory foam pillows. These contour pillows mould around your head, neck and shoulders, instead of pushing against them. This means your neck will be supported and cradled without being uncomfortably arched. This is the best pillow for neck pain in side sleepers, front sleepers and back pain.