Do you know what kind of filling is inside your pillow? Often we buy a pillow that suits our size or price but ignores the composition. And the wrong pillow causes migraines, neck and back pain, insomnia, and so on. Is it worth mentioning that all these problems will inevitably affect our appearance? From now on, we suggest treating the issue of healthy sleep more responsibly. The first step is to study this guide.
Types of Pillow Fillings
Pillows for sleeping have long ceased to be just feather pillows. Today, there are dozens of different materials, but in general, fillings can be divided into three types: natural animal origin, natural vegetable origin, and synthetic. Manufacturers most often use the following materials to produce modern pillows:
- Down. Pillows filled with down are light and soft. It is comfortable and pleasant to sleep on them. Down provides good ventilation and even heat distribution, so sleeping on such a pillow is not hot. Of course, for comfort will have to pay well. Down pillows are some of the most expensive. In addition, they should be regularly taken to the dry cleaner, as down is a breeding ground for mites and germs. Before buying a pillow with a down filling, ensure you do not have allergies.
- Wool. Most often, manufacturers use sheep or camel hair. This material is soft, elastic, and famous for its warming properties. You will find it helpful to sleep on such a pillow if you have problems with your cervical vertebrae. Wool pillows are breathable and absorb moisture. But like the down pillows, they need regular care to prevent moths, mites, and other germs. Not suitable for allergic people.
- Silk. The only disadvantage of this pillow is probably its cost. Silk pillows are considered one of the most expensive. But in return, you get a soft, elastic pillow. It will hold its shape for a long time. Silk does not create an environment for microbial growth, so this material is absolutely safe. It has antibacterial properties and is suitable for people prone to allergies.
- Polyester. It is a synthetic filling characterized by softness, lightness, and hypoallergenic. These pillows are easy to care for, and you can even wash them in a washing machine. They have a relatively low price but must be replaced every couple of years.
- Bamboo. That is a relatively new filler, but it has already become best-selling. Due to the properties of bamboo, the pillows are soft and resilient. The filling is safe, as it has antiseptic and hypoallergenic properties. Breathable, absorbent, and easy to care for—are the qualities of the best bamboo pillow, which will cause your healthy sleep.
- Latex. That is one of the few natural fillings with hypoallergenic properties. For its manufacture, the sap of the Hevea tree is used. The filler can be a solid piece or pellets. Some latex pillows have orthopedic properties.
- Orthopedic foam. These pillows have become popular among people with neck and back problems. But even those who do not have such issues often buy orthopedic models. All thanks to the memory foam, which instantly takes the body shape and restores its shape after contact. Such pillows support the neck and head, which is essential in treating and preventing pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.
- Gel pillow. This product combines the properties of an orthopedic pillow, memory foam, and a cooling gel. It is an innovative development that is gradually gaining popularity. In addition to being suitable for people with musculoskeletal problems, it will be an indispensable item for sleeping in hot weather. The unique gel layer will cool the skin, which is essential for healthy sleep. It is a real find for people who suffer from excessive sweating, especially at night.
Now you know the properties of traditional fillers. All you have to do is consider the pros and cons and choose the best one. Take note of our additional recommendations.
What Your Perfect Pillow Should Be
The pillow filling is essential, but there are a few other details you should pay attention to so as not to be disappointed with your purchase.
- Height. You may have a habit of putting your hand under the pillow. That only tells you that your actual pillow is too low. Consider the position in which you usually sleep. People who sleep on their side need a higher cushion than those who sleep on their back or stomach. If you have doubts about the pillow height, you can buy a model that allows you to adjust the amount of filling.
- Shape. As a rule, sleeping pillows are square or rectangular. An orthopedic pillow may have a special roller for the neck, a recess for the head, and so on.
- Stitches. This advice may seem trivial, but people usually don't pay attention to the quality of the seams. Whatever the product properties, poor-quality seams will cause the pillow to tear quickly.
- Stiffness. It should match the firmness of your mattress. A cushion of optimum firmness allows your head and neck to be in the appropriate position to ensure proper blood circulation. That will save you from morning aches and pains, as well as prevent premature wrinkles and morning puffiness.
The only way to ensure that the pillow fits you is to lie on it. It's good if you have a chance to lie down in the store to evaluate how you feel. If this is not possible, you can test it at home. But check beforehand if you can return or exchange it if it doesn't fit you.
Take Care of Your Sleep Health
Taking care of our health, we exercise, take vitamins, and stick to a proper diet. But we completely forget that such an object as a pillow can significantly affect our well-being. If you feel wrecked in the morning, don't blame it on lack of sleep. Check if your pillow suits you. Now you have a guide that helps you to choose the correct model.