Numerous factors must align for one to have a restful night’s sleep. In addition to a good mattress and comfortable sheets, other factors that affect how well you sleep include the environment, lighting, and mental distractions.

You may notice a difference in how well you sleep if your pillow is accommodating. Finding one that accurately accommodates your preferred sleeping position and needs is crucial. Here are some things to think about when choosing your next pillow.

Firstly, Find your Sleeping Position

Aligning your body with a solid support is necessary for good sleep posture. So that you don’t wake up with aches and pains, the head, neck, spine, hips, even knees and ankles should be supported and aligned. Choosing the ideal pillow requires first determining your preferred sleeping position. What level of support your body requires from a pillow depends on how you sleep.

Stomach Sleeper

Try sleeping on a very thin pillow if you typically sleep on your stomach. The position of your neck should be neutral and in line with your spine. Your neck shouldn’t tense up like it does when you sit in the front row of a theater. Sleep on your side with a body pillow for comfort because sleeping on your stomach puts a lot of strain on your lower back.

Back Sleeper

Think about using a thinner pillow if you prefer to sleep on your back. Your neck won’t be too far forward if you keep the pillow on the thin side. When you lie on your back to sleep, you want your neck to have a C curve. Your pillow is too tall if you’re looking at the wall in front of you. Your pillow is too low if you’re looking straight up at the ceiling.

Consider a pillow with extra loft in the bottom third, which is that peculiar bump on contemporary memory foam pillows that you’ve always been curious about. That bump allows your head to rest with its head in a normal alignment while supporting your neck. This is where memory foam excels because it will conform to the contours of your head and neck. To relieve pressure on your lower back, place a pillow beneath your knees.

Pillow Material

If you have allergies or are sensitive to certain materials, the filling of your pillow can have a significant impact. If real feathers are not an option for you, think about substitutes for down. Most pillows made of polyurethane or polyester fiber are hypoallergenic and shouldn’t aggravate those who have sensitive skin.

The same is true for some models made of memory foam and buckwheat hulls. Check the packaging carefully and keep in mind that each filler has a distinct feel. Don’t be afraid to give the pillow a test run to feel how soft, firm, lumpy, or solid it is.

Temperature

To keep you comfortable, some pillows combine cooling gel with memory foam or breathable polyester.

If you’re serious about maintaining a cool pillow, think about high performance pillows or pillow cases made of fabric that wicks away moisture. These fabrics are intended to ward off heat and moisture, much like athletic apparel fabrics.

While there are many different things that can affect how well you sleep, it helps to have a pillow that suits your preferences and sleeping habits. The ideal pillow will have you drifting off to sleep quickly.