In addition to comfort, there are many factors to consider when buying a new pillow. With so many options available on Amazon, it can be difficult to figure out which one is the right fit for you. Here are a few things to consider before adding a new pillow to your cart.
How you sleep
The best pillow for you largely depends on your sleeping position, which is usually the one you wake up in.
“Side and back sleepers can benefit from having a good medium-firm pillow that provides neck support [and] helps fill the space between the neck and the shoulder, while also giving comfort and not putting too much pressure on the shoulder or arm that’s being slept on,” explains Weiss. “For stomach sleepers, I recommend getting a memory foam pillow that is on the medium to soft side, so they can adjust how they put their arms underneath or to the side of the pillow during the night, and stay comfortable.”
Pillow type
A brand new pillow can range from about $10 to more than $400, depending on the fill material and quality. Down pillows tend to be pricey, but they are oftentimes more soft, fluffy, and luxurious-feeling than other pillow types. However, they’re not ideal for summers because they retain heat. Memory foam and latex are similar because they contour to your body’s shape and are usually firm and dense, while pillows made from organic cotton or buckwheat are odor-free and good for people with sensitive skin. Down alternative pillows are a budget-friendly version of a traditional down pillow and offer a similar level of softness and quality. Finally, polyester pillows tend to be a cheaper and less durable option.
“Usually, I recommend a hybrid or foam fill material, because with those, you can maintain the quality better,” says Weiss. “For people with allergies, I would stay away from latex and pillows with feathers.” If you run hot or sweat a lot while sleeping, “choosing a pillow that has temperature control can help you stay cool through the night, regardless of the season.” It’s also important to remember that different body types will respond differently to certain pillows.
Adjustability
If you’re still unsure about your preferred sleeping position, or if you’re a combination sleeper, consider buying a versatile pillow that allows you to adjust the fill quantity. This is a great way to customize your pillow to your personal sleep preferences and body frame.
“Two things are really important: Finding a good pillow that adjusts to body weight and provides comfort so you can sleep through the night, and making sure the pillow that you’re choosing is the best match if you have a sleeping disorder to help stay compliant with the treatments,” explains Weiss.
