Pillow Types For You to Know

Intro

There are many pillow types to choose from, but don't be overwhelmed by what's in front of you. Picking the first pillow you see on the store shelf is probably the biggest mistake you can do. Without knowing what's out there, the wrong pillow can seriously affect your quality of sleep. Furthermore, it can hurt your neck and back in the long-run. Jonathan Stevens is here to help you avoid that, and to help you understand the different pillow types available, including unique pillows for unique situations.

Pillow Types

Not many people know that pillows play a crucial role to your sleep experience. Did you know your sleep position determines what pillow you should sleep with? It's true! Pillows are just as important as your mattress, so don't ignore the fact pillow's help you stay comfortable as you sleep

A pillow's loft (thickness) and comfort level are your two main concerns when shopping for a pillow. These are determined by the filling of each pillow type. What they provide to the sleeper is important because what one person prefers may not fly for you, so just keep that in mind.

Memory Foam

These pillow types conform to the natural curves and shape of your head, neck and shoulders. Typical memory foam is made out of viscoelastic polyurethane material that enables it to expand back to its original shape, which makes it great for most sleep positions without sacrificing support.

Shredded Foam

These are really popular on the market since their foam filling can be adjusted to fit individual needs. Unlike regular memory foam, which are made in layers, shredded foam is less firm due to its cluster of foam bits that make it malleable to the sleeper.

Latex

Latex pillows offer a balance of comfort and structure. Latex can either be natural and synthetic, the difference being its manufacturing process. Natural latex comes from the sap of the rubber tree, whereas synthetic latex mimic the properties of natural latex through added chemicals. In either case, latex pillows will last you quite a while.

Down

If you're looking for a soft and supple surface to lay your head on, Down is your best option. Although Down and Feather come from birds, such as geese or duck, there are key differences. Down comes from the soft underbelly of geese, which resemble cotton. The material is incredibly soft and lightweight, but it can be expensive.

Feather

Feather comes from the back of a duck, but unlike Down, they come with quills. Feather offers a good deal of fluff, which provides excellent support for your head and neck. Some Feather pillows are mixed with Down to provide the best of both worlds.

Polyester

Polyester fiber is a synthetic material that is naturally hypoallergenic. It holds well under stress and will retain its shape after many nights. The durable fiberfill makes it long lasting, and the polyester material resembles that of Down, which makes it a good Down alternative on the market.

Cotton

Cotton is incredibly soft and "cloud-like". 100% cotton is hypoallergenic, being one of the few pillows offering a stress free night for your nose and sinuses. The material is thin and lightweight, and can also keep you cool as you sleep. Cotton pillows require occasional fluffing however, and will lose its shape over time.

Buckwheat

Did you know seeds can be used as pillow filling? This particular pillow type uses small grain seeds that conform to the shape of your head, neck, and shoulders. This kind of filling is popular in Asian countries, but it has made its way to the western world in recent years. The material does not retain heat and is hypoallergenic, keeping you cool and allergy free through the night. You can read more about Buckwheat here.

Gel

If you like to sleep cool, then Gel pillows are your pick. Gel fibers are made with tiny holes that allow air flow between its layers. The material functions the same as memory foam, but not quite as firm. Gel pillows will keep their shape throughout its lifespan, which makes it an excellent pillow to keep around. These pillows can also be molded to fit your specific style as well, depending on the brand you buy.

Unique pillows

Pregnancy pillow

Pregnancy pillows come in all shapes and sizes. They can be as large as your body, or as small as a simple wedge to support the womb. In its most basic function, these pillows allow the expecting mother to sleep on a 45 degree angle while keeping the fetus safe and comfortable in the womb. This avoids compression of the mother's internal organs, including major blood vessels that could cause low blood pressure during sleep. For more information, Jonathan Steven's has written more about pregnancy pillows here.

Sleep apnea pillow

Sleep Apnea is a serious condition, but there are pillows out there than can help you sleep despite the respiratory equipment by the bedside. The most important tip about buying this pillow type is to try it out first to make sure it fits your particular set-up at home. Some pillows can be custom made, but the general rule is to accommodate the tubes and mask for the sleeper. Sleeping Culture goes more in-depth for sleeping with sleep apnea.

So, you know your pillow types?

Remember, don't grab the first pillow you see in the store, odds are it won't be the right one for you. Each pillow is unique, so take time to learn what each one provides to sleepers. If you sleep in a particular position, pick a pillow type that suits that position. If you're pregnant, maybe look into pregnancy pillows. Pillows are meant to keep you comfortable, so if you keep that in mind, you'll find the right type for yourself in no time.