Do I need a new pillow?

Embrace Life

How to choose the right Pillow?

We are regularly asked what pillow is best used for sleeping, and it’s often find it hard to answer. We are all different shapes and sizes, and certainly have different needs in regards to support for our neck and body, however, there are some guidelines that make it easier to find the correct pillow for yourself, and hopefully save you a few dollars in the process from experimenting. Pillows certainly are not cheap these days, but a good investment for the comfort and support your neck needs.

Firstly, how do you know you need a new pillow?

  • If your current pillow is heading towards 2-3 years old – the material of the pillow is affected by moisture over time and it loses height, therefore being less supportive.
  • If you find yourself adding more pillows, or folding over your 1 pillow in the night because you feel like you need more support.
  • If you are regularly waking up with a stiff/sore neck and/or headaches in the morning.

What qualities should I be looking for in a pillow?

  • A pillow that is made from a density foam, memory foam or latex material – these provide more support in the right places for the neck, as compared to a pillow filler material from a ‘tontine’ pillow that squishes easily in a short period of time.
  • Contour pillows can be a great way to get the support you need for your neck when you side or back sleep – however, make sure you get the right size for you and the correct density. There is nothing worse than having a firm contour pillow that is too large!
  • A pillow that fills the gap between your shoulder and head when you are side sleeping, and the curve of your neck when you are back sleeping – not too high so your head pushes away from the pillow, and not too long that your head sinks down.

It can take a few weeks for your body to get used to a new pillow, so it’s always a good idea to keep your old pillow handy by the bed in case you need to swap it out to get a full nights sleep.

Every few months it can be advantageous to air your pillow out in the sun, to get rid of any bugs and to dry it out properly.

Embrace Life stock a range of high quality pillows for children and adults, to support your neck and head – ask our friendly team for information about our pillows next time you visit.