Finding the right pillow can greatly improve your quality of sleep because it helps your sleeping posture. Do you ever wake up in the morning and say, “I must have slept funny,” as you try to massage out the kink in your neck? We’ve been there, too. Good sleeping posture helps you sleep better and wake up without those aches and pains.
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Why Does The Right Pillow Matter? Best Face Down Pillow
The right pillow will help keep your spine stay in alignment while you sleep (a.k.a. help with your sleeping posture), regardless of your preferred sleeping position. With a pillow that supports healthy posture, your neck, shoulders, back, and hips will get the support they need so you wake up pain-free.
While the pillow you choose is largely based on your personal preference, finding the right pillow also depends on the sleeping position you prefer. Are you a back sleeper, side sleeper, or stomach sleeper? This will determine the amount of support you need from your pillow.
- For back sleepers, your pillow should support your neck and head, but not so much that your neck is propped up at an unnatural angle. Remember, you want your spine and neck to stay aligned while you sleep, so back sleepers probably want a medium-thick pillow—something that’s not too full, but not too flat.
- If you’re a side sleeper, your pillow should support your head in a neutral position, keeping it aligned with your spine. Because your shoulder takes most of the pressure when you sleep on your side, you may want a fuller, firmer pillow to give your neck the support it needs and take some of the weight off your shoulder.
- Sleeping on your stomach is the most stressful position for your back and neck, so many experts recommend trying to train yourself to sleep in another position. We know that you can’t change your sleeping habits overnight, so if you do sleep on your stomach, you’ll want a pillow that’s softer and a little less full. This will help keep your spine as neutral as possible.
How to Pick the Right Pillow:
There are so many pillow options available, so when it comes to choosing the right pillow for you, it can be a little overwhelming. What criteria should you consider when you’re trying to find the perfect pillow? We’ve broken down some of the most important pillow-picking criteria to help you make the decision.
Fill
Some fill options include memory foam, down, synthetic down, polyester fill, latex, cotton, and wool.
Weight
Memory foam or latex pillow is going to be heavier, while a down or synthetic pillow will be a little lighter.
Fabric
Even though you’ll cover it with a pillowcase, you want your pillow fabric to be breathable and durable.
Size
Pillows generally come in two sizes: standard and king. For most people, a standard pillow is big enough, but if you prefer something bigger, a king pillow may be right for you. (A king-size pillow also fits a king-size bed better.)
Quality
A quality-made pillow will last longer and help you sleep better. Once you’ve decided on the type of pillow you prefer, do your research and read reviews to choose the right pillow for you.
Science Behind the Build
It may sound silly, but it’s something to consider. The premium comfort foam in the Leesa pillow, for example, is hole punched to promote airflow and specifically engineered for the perfect combination of comfort and cooling.
The Best Pillows for Stomach Sleepers
- Best Overall – Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow
- Best Value – Vaya Pillow
- Best Luxury – The Saatva Pillow
- Best Adjustable – Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
- Best for Athletes – Zoma Sports Pillow
- Most Comfortable – Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow
- Best for Neck Pain – Layla Memory Foam Pillow
- Best Cooling – Bear Pillow
- Best Pressure Relief – Belly Sleeper Pillow
- Contour sleeping CPAP pillow
