Pillow Buying Guide
Finding the right pillow can make or break a good night’s sleep. Everybody’s bodies are different meaning we all need varying levels of neck support during sleep and when factoring in the varying positions we sleep in, things can get extremely confusing. The first step in choosing a pillow is deciding what type of sleeper you are. This will determine which type of pillow is best for you.
How many pillows should you sleep with?
Most experts recommend using one pillow as stacking them can lead to alignment issues and discomfort during the night. Whether you choose a super soft pillow or extra firm, you should only need one for proper support.
Best pillow for Sleeping Position
Pillows for Front Sleepers
Front sleepers will benefit from synthetic pillows such as microfibre or hollowfibre with a soft rating, or soft down pillows. Sleeping on your front can bend the neck and spine backwards into an unnatural position so a softer pillow will reduce the tension placed on the neck.
Pillows for Back Sleepers
Back sleepers can benefit from a medium rated pillow. This ensures your head is supported and that the angle of your neck is neither too far forwards nor backwards during sleep. Feather and down pillows will have the same effect.
Pillows for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers will generally need a firmer pillow. It’s important that the neck and spine are aligned correctly and firm pillows can achieve this by providing firm support to your keep your neck and head in place.
Pillows for Upright Sleepers
People who sleep upright should consider purchasing a memory foam pillow. Sleeping in this way puts the body in an unnatural sleep position so it’s important for your neck and head to be fully supported, a feature which a memory foam pillow can offer.
Best type of pillows for different needs
Best pillows for neck pain
We'd recommend sleeping with memory foam pillows to provide extra cushioning for your neck and ensure it isn't uncomfortably arched during the night.
Best pillows for shoulder and back pain
If you suffer from neck or back pain, we'd recommend sleeping with firm and springy pillows such as our Hotel Firm Boxed pillow with polyester fibre filling.
Best pillows for allergies and asthma
The best pillows for those who suffer from allergies and asthma are those that deter dust mites and irritants.
Choosing Pillow filling
Natural Or Synthetic Pillows?
Once you have decided on a suitable firmness, it’s important to consider what type of filling you want your pillows to have. Although there are various options in terms of material composition, all pillows fall into one of two categories, Natural or Synthetic. Although the choice is often just a matter of personal taste or budget, each have their own qualities which need to be considered before making a purchase.
Synthetic pillows most commonly use a mixture of polyester, cotton and microfibre. They are ideal for allergy sufferers as they are non-allergenic and great for children who can become allergic to natural products. They have a lighter, softer feel to natural filled pillows and are easier to care for, being able to withstand washing on a more regular basis.
Natural pillows usually consist of feather or down or a combination of both. Feathers have a natural ability to retain heat which means naturally filled duvets can be much thinner than synthetic ones, whilst still matching their insulating capacity. They are generally warmer yet allow your skin to breathe due to the exclusion of synthetic materials. They are generally not suitable for allergy sufferers.
Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam is a malleable synthetic material that reacts to pressure but returns to its original shape once pressure is removed. It was developed in the 1960s by NASSA for use in aeronautics however in recent years has been adapted to provide a solution to supporting the body whilst sleeping.
Memory foam is especially effective when used in pillows as the material contours itself to the shape of your head and neck, keeping them fully supported and thus maintaining a straight spine. It is especially effective for people who sleep upright in bed.
Pocket Sprung Pillows
Pocket sprung pillows contain multiple springs contained in pockets of hollowfibre or memory foam in just the same way as a sprung mattress. This means a sprung pillow bounces back to it's original shape after use. Pocket sprung pillows provide excellent support for the neck and back resulting in superior spinal alignment. Being pocket sprung also means the pillows will maintain their shape and fullness for longer.
Pillow Care Guide
How often should you buy new pillows?
Pillows should generally be replaced every 1 to 2 years. This ensures they remain supportive and hygienic. Over time, pillows can lose their shape and accumulate allergens such as dust mites, mould, and bacteria. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the type of pillow and how well you care for it:
- Feather Pillows: Every 1-2 years.
- Memory Foam Pillows: Every 2-3 years.
- Polyester Pillows: Every 1-2 years.
How to wash pillows
Proper washing of pillows depends on their material. Here are some general guidelines:
Feather Pillows
- Use a gentle washing cycle with a mild detergent.
- Wash two pillos at a time to balance the load.
- Use warm water and an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap residue.
- Dry thoroughly on a low heat with a clean tennis ball, or dryer balls, to help fluff the pillows.
Memory Foam Pillows
- Do not machine wash or dry.
- Spot clean with a mild detergent and a damp cloth.
- Allow to air-dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Polyester Pillows
- Machine-wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and a mild detergent.
- Dry on a low heat, with dryer balls to keep the pillow from clumping.
Always check the care label on your pillow for specific washing instructions.
How to dispose of pillows
Here are some options for disposing of old pillows:
Recycling
- Check with local recycling centres to see if they accept pillows.
- Some specialised textile recycling schemes accept pillows.
Donating
- Animal shelters often accept old pillows for pet bedding.
- Homeless shelters or charities might accept gently used pillows.
Repurposing
- Use old pillows as stuffing for pet beds or draft stoppers.
- Convert them into floor cushions or padding for garden kneelers.
Put them in the bin
- If recycling or repurposing isn’t an option, seal the pillow in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the regular trash.
- Be aware that this is the least environmentally friendly option.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your pillows remain comfortable, clean, and properly disposed of when no longer useful.
