Pillow talk

Expert advice for choosing the right pillow for the best night's sleep. 

Don’t take your pillows for granted. They provide cushioning and support for your head, neck, shoulders and upper back while you’re resting; help to align your spine so that you maintain a healthy posture; and reduce strain on your muscles.

But not all pillows are created equal. Some are firmer and taller than others, some are filled with down while others are constructed from latex and foam, and some are designed for allergy sufferers or side sleepers.

So, when you’re shopping for the perfect comfy pillow that gives you the support that you need all through the night, what are some features to keep in mind? Gain City expert Ronald Lim, Director of Furniture/Bedding/DIY, breaks it down for us.

Pillows are stuffed with various materials like memory foam, latex, down, and so on. Can you describe how these fillings differ from one another?

Memory foam pillows have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to mould to the contours of your head and neck, and thereby providing personalised support. The viscoelastic material conforms to your upper body, relieving pressure points and promoting proper spinal alignment. This type of pillow is especially beneficial for people who suffer from neck and back pain.

Down pillows are known for their luxurious feel and exceptional softness. Filled with the fluffy undercoating of waterfowl feathers, these pillows can make you feel like you’re resting your head on a cloud. While luxurious, however, they may not be the best choice for people who suffer from allergies as the down can harbour dust mites and allergens.

Latex pillows are crafted from natural or synthetic latex materials. They offer a balance between support and comfort, with a resilient feel that provides consistent support through the night. Latex pillows are highly durable and resistant to dust mites and allergens, making them a suitable option for allergy-prone individuals.

 

Is height important when choosing a pillow? How do you know if you need a higher pillow?

The height of your pillow is important in maintaining proper spinal alignment while you sleep. Your preferred pillow height depends on factors such as your sleeping position, body type, mattress firmness and pillow firmness. Ideally, your pillow should be high to ensure that your head is aligned with your spine, so as to neck
and back pain.

What type of pillow do you recommend for people who suffer from stiff neck?

We recommend a memory foam/latex pillow that is contoured. This will give you pain relief as well as neck support.

What type of pillow is best for someone who has chronic back pain?

A memory foam pillow is good for back pain, because it offers firmness and support. The kind of mattress you sleep on is also important as it has to give your body the right support.

There are many pillows for allergy sufferers on the market. What are these made from and how exactly do they help allergy sufferers?

These pillows have materials with specific features, such as “ultra-fresh technology”, for example, which help prevent dust mites from growing in the various unfinished materials as compared to the exact same untreated articles.

Can you recommend the best pillows for different sleeping positions?

For side and front sleepers, we recommend down, fibre or gel pillows. These have a lofty feel and come in various levels of firmness. They support your upper body and align with your body comfortably.

Back sleepers may benefit from “down alternative” pillows. These, too, are available in various levels of firmness. This type of pillow is designed to relieve pressure in your head, neck and shoulders, and supports the natural curvature of your spine.