We would like to send you notifications

Enable notifications to get the best news on sales and special offers

Bedding
megaphone-icon

20/11/2024 Congratulations to Zelna Hibbert from Centurion for winning the Cloud Nine Ortho Spine Queen bed valued at R12199!

Save big on our best deals

Select Store

Pillow Talk: Finding the Perfect Pillow for Your Sleeping Style

Author imageThe Mattress Warehouse

Sleep is an important part of our lives, that is why it determines our health and how effectively we will be able to work the next day. Most people pay attention to the mattress ,while it is also important to focus on the choice of pillow. Ā Finding the perfect Pillow can be rather confusing to to choose the right type of pillows that would be suitable for your type of sleep. This guide will provide insight of the aspects that will help to select the right pillow for you.

Understanding your sleep Style

To shop for a pillow, you have to know the type of sleeper you are first. Most people fall into one of three categories. There are people who sleep on their back, those who sleep on their sides and those who sleep on their stomach. There is distinction in the amount of support needed to maintain the spineā€™s alignment in each category and to achieve adequate comfort during the night.

  • Back Sleepers: If you sleep on your back, using average firmness of the pillow is usually appropriate. This type of pillow ensures that the curve of your neck is supported well. Average firmness supports your neck and head while at the same time avoiding any strain on the spine.
  • Side Sleepers: Side sleepers need a firmer, thicker pillow to keep their spine aligned. A higher loft is helpful as it helps fill the space between your head and the mattress, preventing your neck from bending unnaturally. This helps to alleviate potential strain on the neck and shoulders.

  • Stomach Sleepers: Stomach sleepers often face challenges in maintaining spinal alignment. A soft, low-profile pillow is typically best for this position. A low-loft pillow reduces the risk of neck strain by keeping your head close to the mattress, thereby minimizing the angle of neck flexion.

The importance of Pillow Loft

Loft, or thickness, of the pillow is one of the key factors that define comfort and support level. The right loft ensures proper alignment of the head, neck, and spine. This reduces the risk of discomfort and pain:

  • Low-Loft Pillows: Low -loft pillows are mostly around 5-7 centimeters in height and they are best for stomach sleepers. They keep the neck in a steady position which helps in preventing any strain or discomfort to the neck.
  • Medium-Loft Pillows: Medium- Loft Pillows from 3mm to 5mm thick, are used by people who sleep on their backs. They give enough support to help the curve of the neck be naturally supported.Ā 
  • High-Loft Pillows: Ranging from 12-15 centimeters in height, high-loft pillows are best for side sleepers. They fill the gap between the head and the mattress. This ensures that the spine remains aligned and reducing pressure on the shoulders and neck.

Adjustability and Customization

If you value flexibility, adjustable pillows are a great option. Some of the pillows have zippers that can easily be opened.Ā  This allows you to remove, insert or adjusting the fillings. It is helpful if you switch between different nights of sleep and/or if you share your bed with someone who has different preferences regarding pillows.

Properly adjusted pillows are also beneficial to people with certain diseases and illnesses. For instance, If you have a neck problem or sleep apnea, adjusted pillows can be beneficial. It could relieve neck aches and offer adequate sleep.

Considerations for Allergies when Finding the perfect pillow

When it comes to allergies, you have to pay enough attention to the material of a pillow. Hypoallergenic pillows are designed to minimize allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander.

  • Latex: Since latex is naturally allergen free, it is ideal for use. It also does not let in mold and dust mite.
  • Memory Foam: Memory foam with higher density is also preferred over normal pillows because it barely harbors allergens. The covers of most of the memory foam pillows are usually hypoallergenic.
  • Pillow Covers: Get pillows that have the outer layer that can be washed or that come with washable covers. These can be well washed often so that there is reduction in the amount of allergens present. Pillow covers also keep the pillows clean from sweat and spills. Certain covers may be made to be anti microbial or hypo allergic.

Maintaining Your Pillow

To prolong the life of your pillow and ensure it continues to offer optimal support, proper care is essential:

Fluffing: Never leave your pillow flat for too long because this will lead to formation of lumps; always fluff your pillow. This helps in that it allows support and comfort to be more consistent.

Cleaning: Wash according to the manufacturerā€™s instructions given on the garmentā€™s label. Most finishes are easily washable, but some may be zipped to allow washing of the outer layer only, or they are washed by professional cleaners only.

Replacement: Pillows are to be changed every 1-2 years, depending on their appearance: them getting flat and developing various lumps being sufficient reasons for a change. An old pillow can have weak functionality and become a source of discomfort and bad nightā€™s sleep.

Pillows in our store:

    • Sealy my memory pillow-Ā  The pillow should provide your head with the support it needs for the most comfortable sleep possible. It is very similar to choosing a mattress because you will get different materials and firmness you need to take into consideration when choosing one for yourself.
    • Tempur Sonada Pillow-The curved design serves to enhance the quality of your sleep in two ways.It leaves a space for your shoulder, unlike conventional pillows, so that your neck can get more and better support from the pillow.
    • Combo Dual Pillow – If youā€™re having trouble deciding between Memory Foam and Latex, try this Combo Dual Pillow. Both foams are high-density, durable and hypoallergenic.Ā  They offer great support and relief to tense muscles.Ā  The combo Dual Pillow also retains its original shape.

Bullet points for quick reference of Finding your perfect pillow:

  • Back Sleepers: Medium-firm pillows that support the natural curve of your neck and maintain a neutral spine alignment.
  • Side Sleepers: Thicker and slightly higher loft pillows to ensure there is a gap between the head, neck and the mattress in order to maintain the spineā€™s neutral position.
  • Stomach Sleepers: Small, low-profile pillows for your neck to alleviate pressure and keep the spine in the correct alignment.
  • Memory Foam: Conforms to the shape of your head and neck, providing personalized support and pressure relief.

  • Latex: This has a firm feel with slight bounce and the fabric is hypoallergenic.
  • Down: Plush and adjustable but may lack firm support; good for those who like a softer feel.
  • Buckwheat: Provides firm, even support with adjustable height and shape.

Finding the perfect pillow: Conclusion

Selecting the perfect pillow is an important step to achieving a good nightā€™s sleep. By understanding your sleeping style, you can find a pillow that supports your overall health and well-being. The right pillow not only enhances comfort but also plays a significant role in maintaining spinal alignment and reducing the risk of neck and back pain. Investing time in choosing the right pillow is an investment in your quality of sleep, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to face the day.

Now that you know what to look for when shopping for your new pillow, you can shop in-store at any of our 15 nationwide warehouses or shop online from the convenience of your home or office and get free delivery in main city hubs, Ts and Cs apply.Ā 

Select a Category
Select a Category

Loading