Pillow Buying Guide

We spend a third of our lives in our beds and how well we sleep in that time affects the other two-third. The pillow and mattress are the most important influencers that decide how well we sleep. ” Most of the patients that come to me with neck pain, start feeling better when they change their pillow,” says Dr. Ranjit Nair, chiropractor practising in Yeshwantpur, Bangalore.

What pillow is good for you? What to look out for when buying a pillow? What fill should you opt for?

We are here to help answer all your questions

When to buy a new pillow?

Once the pillow starts becoming lumpy and saggy, you should definitely buy a new one. Try using this trick to see if your pillow is still supportive: fold the pillow in half and then place a book on top of the folded pillow. Let it stay that way for some time. A good quality pillow will spring back to its original

shape.If the pillow stays folded in half and or you can see the crease, it’s time for it to go.

Consider your sleeping position before you buy a pillow

A good pillow will reduce neck pain and keep you sound asleep through the night. It has to keep your spine aligned in a neutral position, while also being comfortable enough so that you enjoy resting on it. An easy test: When you are lying down on it, your neck should not tilt in any direction.

Side sleepers need a thick and firm pillow to “keep ears in line with shoulders” to prevent their neck from extending in either direction when sleeping on their side

Stomach sleepers should choose a soft, thinner pillow to allow their neck to stay in a neutral position. Some experts recommend placing a pillow under your shoulder for correct spine alignment.

Back sleepers should opt for medium thickness to keep their neck aligned without arching their head forward.

 If you switch positions throughout the night, look for a plush pillow where the fill can be moved around. This way, you will be able to find the best position as you toss and turn.

Types of pillows:

You can buy pillows that are filled with removable shredded latex/foam. That way you can custom design your pillow’s thickness.

Traditional soap shaped pillows can also be very comfortable

If you experience neck pain, opt for a contour shaped cervical pillow. They conform the shape of the skull and neck when you lay on it.

Types of fill available:

Cotton: Filled with pure or synthetic cotton.

Latex: If certified by Oeko-Tex & eco-Institute, this latex made from the sap of rubber trees is 100% natural.

Memory foam: This is made of polyurethane – a chemical compound.

Other factors to consider:

Natural & Chemical Free: Memory foam releases carcinogenic gases over its lifetime. Opt for natural and chemical free fill.

Temperature regulated: Memory foam does not let air circulate and hence gets heated up.Cotton and latex breathe and hence stay cool

Bacteria and Dust mite resistant: Only latex is naturally bacteria and dust mite resistant. Say goodbye to allergies!

Latex is the best pillow that ticks all the boxes:

• Comfort balanced with proper spinal support
• Relieves neck pain and de stresses sore muscles
• Available in all shapes and types
• 100% natural
• Bacteria and dust mite free
• Temperature regulating – cool pillow

 Remember to choose a pillow that enables you to wake up refreshed, rejuvenated and full of energy!