When shopping for a pillow that will suit the needs of a side sleeper, there are a number of things to consider.
These factors will help you make sure that you’re picking the best product that will match your needs and help you sleep better even if your sleeping position proves to be a challenge in terms of getting ample support.
So, what are the things you need to consider before picking out a pillow for side sleeping? They are listed below:
Material
Pillows come in a wide array of materials nowadays so you always have several choices as to which one to go for. You need to pay close attention to what’s inside your pillow as these things can have a direct effect on your sleep. If you have respiratory issues or allergies, being very particular about your pillow’s material is highly important.
As you put your face directly on top of these things, you’re definitely exposed to what’s inside for long periods of time, so you need to find something that won’t have a negative effect on your health. Various materials also have different ways of supporting your head, so you’ll need to really take note of what pillow make to go for.
Popular Materials for Pillows:
Memory foam – Known to follow the contours of your head, neck, and shoulders, this type of pillow stuffing guarantees ample support for your head. As it follows the shape of your body, you can be sure that it can prop your head up in the right level to achieve proper spinal alignment. However, some brands may get too hot and can sometimes emit a chemical smell that can also affect sleep.
Down feather – One of the oldest types of pillow stuffing, you can find down feather pillows almost everywhere. They’re soft and luxurious and can be a bit pricey. They’re not for those who have allergies, though, especially if your system can’t handle dust as these products tend to be a magnet for them.
Latex foam – If you want to rest your head on a soft and luxurious pillow without sneezing your head off, latex foam can be a great option. Made from natural rubber, these products have the right balance of softness and firmness, making them a highly comfortable option for all kinds of sleepers.
Latex foam is also great for side sleepers because this material provides great support and can follow the contours of your body. It’s a lot like memory foam, but it doesn’t heat up, making it a lot comfier. It’s a bit pricier than other options, though, especially with the rising demand for such products, but there are lots of affordable options if you know where to look.
Polyester-filled – If you want the most affordable options, polyester-filled pillows are the way to go. These are filled with polyester fiber, making them fluffy and soft to touch. They vary greatly depending on the density of the filling, so you’ll want to be very particular when shopping for one.
The polyester filling can accumulate dust and wear out pretty fast, though, so replacement could be necessary every so often. Good thing they’re affordable, so you won’t feel so bad having to get a new pair of polyester pillows regularly.
Buckwheat – Natural stuffing like buckwheat are also pretty common options for pillows. These are actually great for side sleepers because they’re easy to adjust. You can easily add or reduce the amount of fill in the pillow to determine the right height and support you need when you sleep on your side.
Buckwheat is very breathable, guaranteeing that you won’t feel stuffy as the night wears on. As it is also made from natural ingredients, it can be good for your health and the environment. The only disadvantages for these pillows are the noises the buckwheat tends to make, as well as its heavyweight.
Cotton-filled – For a breathable and healthy pillow, a lot of homeowners rely on cotton-filled pillows. Offering the right balance between soft and firm, these pillows are ideal for back and side sleepers with their considerable height. If you also get to find a 100% cotton pillow, you don’t have to worry too much about allergies and getting hot while asleep.
Quality
Not all pillows are made equally, so you need to be very careful in choosing one based on its quality. Aside from making sure that the fills are 100% made from your stuffing of choice, you should also look into the craftsmanship of its casing, so your pillow won’t fall apart after a few uses.
Comfort
Your pillow should also feel comfortable for you, so you can be sure that it can help lull you to sleep. Make sure to test out a few pillows so you know how they feel and make sure to learn about their return policy before making a purchase. This way, you can be sure to get the right pillow that will cater to your needs.
