At BedsRus, we believe great sleep starts with the right support, and pillows play a far bigger role in that than many people realise. Whether you’re waking up with a sore neck, can’t quite get comfy, or are simply tired of your old, lumpy pillow, we’ve got 4 helpful tips for finding your perfect new upgrade.
1) Why Your Pillow Matters More Than You Think
Your pillow should do more than just feel soft under your head - it should help align your neck and spine and support your head and shoulders while you sleep. If your pillow is too flat or too high, or too firm or too soft, both your sleep and your body will feel it. Over time, the wrong pillow can cause:
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Restlessness and difficulty falling asleep
- Poor quality sleep
If these issues sound familiar, your current pillow may be due for an upgrade.
2) Understanding Different Sleeping Positions
Everyone sleeps differently, which is why there’s no such thing as a perfect, one-size-fits-all pillow. The ideal pillow for your individual sleep needs largely depends on the position in which you sleep, with different positions requiring different types of support. As a general rule of thumb, most sleep experts recommend the following combinations:
· Back Sleepers
As a back sleeper, you’ll want a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck. If your pillow is too high, it’ll you’ll push your head forward, causing strain, and if it’s too low it won’t provide the necessary support that your body needs. Typically, most sleep experts will recommend a Mid-Profile pillow with a ‘Medium Support’.
· Side Sleepers
Side sleepers often benefit from a thicker, firmer pillow to fill the gap between your shoulder and head. This helps to keep your spine straight and prevents the shoulder you sleep on from compressing, avoiding shoulder pain. As a side sleeper, you’ll benefit most from a High-Profile pillow with a ‘Firm Support’ feel.
· Stomach Sleepers
Considered to be the most uncommon sleep position, those who sleep face-down typically require a thinner, softer pillow to help to reduce strain on your neck and lower back. We recommend stomach sleepers try a ‘Soft Support’ Low-Profile pillow for a better night’s sleep.
3) A Guide to Pillow Materials & Technologies
Just like our mattresses, our range Sleepyhead and Protect-A-Bed pillows feature natural New Zealand materials and the latest pillow technologies. With unique features designed to help you wake up feeling fresher, here’s a quick guide to some of our materials and tech.
· Memory Foam Pillows
Supportive and contouring, memory foam pillows are designed to mould to the shape of your head, neck and shoulders, providing superb support and pressure relief.
· FusionGel Pillows
The perfect option for those who prefer the cool side of the pillow. FusionGel foam is specially designed to absorb excess heat, helping your body to regulate its temperature as you sleep.
· Natural Fibre Pillows (Tencel, Bamboo)
Pillows made with natural fibres such as Tencel or Bamboo are a fantastic option for those sleepers who run hot. Designed for breathability, the natural fibres help wick moisture, regulating your temperature through the night.
· Latex Pillows
Sourced from sustainably managed rubber plantations, our Latex pillows are durable and hypoallergenic and are crafted with a naturally supportive bounce.
4) How Often Should You Replace Your Pillow?
Even the best pillow has a shelf life, and it is recommend to replace your pillow every few years. Generally speaking, a high-quality pillow should remain optimal for approximately 3 years, whereas a cheaper, lower-quality pillow may start to feel more uncomfortable after just 1 year.
If your pillow is beginning to display any of the following symptoms, it may be time to upgrade:
- Lumpy or flat
- Yellowing or stained
- Giving you neck or shoulder pain
- Causing sniffles (hello, dust mites).
If you’re waking up with aches and pains or suffering from restless nights, your old pillow might just be the culprit to blame. With the right targeted support, you could turn those restless nights into a deep, uninterrupted sleep. After all, you spend a third of your life in bed, so why settle for anything less than ultimate comfort? Visit your local BedsRus store today, or explore our range of NZ-made pillows online to find the perfect match for your sleep style.