Buying a Pillow? Tips on choosing the best pillow for you
There is nothing quite as refreshing as a great nights sleep. After a grueling day at work, a hot shower pulsing down on all those tired muscles, the sight of your bed is an inviting one. Laying your head down on that comfortable pillow is relaxing in itself.
What happens, however, when your pillow begins to show its age? A lumpy pillow or a pillow that has become old and flat just isn't conducive for a good night's rest. Regular foam pillows break down every two years or so while other, higher-end pillows like down pillows or memory foam pillows can actually last up to ten years. It's time to head to the store to purchase a new one. You shouldn't, however, just grab the first pillow you find. Since we spend a good portion of our lives in bed, why not buy the right pillow?
When you walk into a store, there are pillows in all shapes, sizes, and varieties. There are pillows to suit almost every preference, need, and budget. It's best to shop around, feel the different models, and compare them. You'll be surprised at the subtle differences you may have not previously noticed.
The first thing you need to consider when buying a pillow is your pillow size. Most people buy the size suited to fit their bed meaning a standard, queen, or king. The truth is that it is up to your personal preferences. Some people prefer to use two smaller pillows. It all depends on what is most comfortable to you.
The real reason for buying a pillow isn't because it's soft or fluffy. It has to do with posture. By supporting your head, a pillow keeps your spine straight when you are sleeping. For this reason, people who sleep on their back should buy flatter pillows while people who sleep on their sides need something that offers a bit more support. Side sleepers benefit greatly from contour pillows that allow them to sleep with the correct posture.
You also want to check your pillow for firmness and filling. Depending on how much filling the pillow contains, it will be softer or flatter. Find out what type of filling is used. Buying a regular foam pillow isn't as good of an investment as purchasing a down pillow or a top quality memory foam pillow, since regular foam pillows only last about two years. Down pillows are great for people who tend to shift from one position to another during the night and memory foam pillows are highly recommended by Chiropractors and Physical Therapists.
When you bring your new pillow home, make sure not to tear out the manufacturer's label with washing and dry cleaning instructions. Simply throwing your pillow into the washing machine with no regard for the instructions can actually ruin it. You will have a lumpy pillow and end up having to replace it again. Read the instructions carefully and follow them for a longer pillow life. Make sure to always protect your pillow by covering it with a pillow case. This may sound trivial, but it will actually help protect the filling of your pillow, and it will lessen the need for frequent cleanings that will cause your pillow to break down before its time.
Written by Dr. Joseph J. Berke, M.D., Ph.D.
Discover how sleeping on The Better Sleep Pillow can change your life.
Order your Better Sleep Pillow today: http://www.bettersleeppillow.com
Dr. Joseph J. Berke is an author and inventor dedicated to helping people get a better nights rest
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