5 Benefits of Choosing the Right Pillow

Sleep is important, so it’s only natural that we spend plenty of money and time picking out the perfect mattress for deep sleep. However, the pillows you use aren’t given the same attention, even though pillows are just as important for a good sleep, if not more.

The firmness, height, and wear and tear on your pillow all have a significant effect on your body, and pillow needs vary greatly from person to person. Below, we have found five health benefits to make sure your pillow is a good fit for you.

1. Deeper Sleep

If your bed is uncomfortable, you’ll have a hard time staying asleep. The same goes for the pillow you rest your head on. If you toss and turn all night, you’re guaranteed to wake up tired; not a great way to start the day.

For example, hotels choose their pillows carefully because their business model depends on customers getting a good night’s sleep. This Marriott pillow brand is the premium of pillows, and the Marriott Hotel is an international favorite. 

Your ideal pillow firmness and height ratios may be unique to you, so try different brands to see what keeps you feeling refreshed in the morning.

2. Improves Posture

Improving your sleeping posture can improve your posture during the day, too. 

A pillow needs to support your head, neck, and shoulders while you sleep. If one or more of these are out of alignment, you could wake up with stiff, painful joints and muscles. Pain makes it more difficult to sleep, too, so the longer the cycle goes on, the more the poor pillow choice affects your daily life.

To combat this, you must choose a pillow that works with your sleeping position. For example, back sleepers will need something thinner, while side sleepers should get a shoulder-width pillow that keeps their neck in alignment with their spine.

3. Reduces Headaches

An uncomfortable pillow can worsen headaches. It makes sense, since your pillow is in contact with your head all night. Too firm or too soft, in conjunction with poor sleeping posture, can increase tension on your head.

To fix this, find what pillow supports your head in the best way. Don’t be afraid to try pillows in the store before you buy them, because losing money on a bad pillow is an even bigger headache.

4. Better Breathing

The wrong pillow combined with your sleeping position can cause breathing issues during the night. Having your head forcibly tilted at an unnatural angle can make sleep apnea worse. Sleep apnea is not only obstructive to getting enough rest, but can also be dangerous if you stop breathing for too long.

On the other end, pillows that are too thin can lead to acid reflux. This can be uncomfortable enough to disrupt your sleep, and you can wake up with an especially nasty or painful taste in your mouth.

5. Alleviates Allergies

After a year or so, it’s time to replace your pillow. Like mattresses, pillows pick up whatever’s in the surrounding air: skin cells, mold, dust mites, and other irritants. Your nose and mouth are touching your pillow while you sleep, and you inhale all of that. 

This can make allergies much worse, so do yourself a favor and change out your pillows every so often. You’ll notice the difference as soon as the next morning.

The Bottom Line

Picking the right pillow is important for your sleep, your health, and your general wellbeing. There are plenty of fillings, sizes, and covers to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for you. There are even specialty pillows for specific needs. 

Whatever you choose, pillows are a great investment for your future sleep.