A pillow that would suit any person has not yet been created. After all, when choosing, it is very important to take into account the individual characteristics of the anatomy of the body and even your favorite sleeping position.
If you sleep all night on an uncomfortable pillow, in the morning, instead of vigor and lightness, you will be plagued by pain in your neck, head, arms and back. If the quality of sleep decreases, there can be no question of feeling good. Painful sensations will be complemented by a state of weakness and fatigue. And that is not all. Using an incorrectly selected product can lead to curvatures in the cervical and thoracic spine, as well as to the development of osteochondrosis. But a quality bedding with the right firmness and height helps support your neck and relax your body. A correctly chosen and comfortable pillow is the key to health and good night.
Comfortable pillow parameters
Do you suffer from insomnia or snoring, do your shoulders go numb in the morning, does your neck and back hurt? Pay attention to your pillow. It is possible that its hardness or thickness is not suitable for you. When a person puts his fist or folded palms under his head while sleeping, this means that he needs to buy a higher product. If your head periodically moves from it to the mattress, you should look for a wider option.
To choose the pillow that is right for you, you must take into account the following criteria:
- Dimensions. As a rule, they are standardized. Therefore, there will be no problems with buying pillowcases. Pillows come in 2 types: 70x70 cm (the most popular size) and 50x70 cm (the so-called Euro size). The choice should be based on the age of the future owner of the product, his personal preferences and the width of the mattress (it should not be too narrow).
- Rigidity. If you have spinal diseases or sleep on your side, it is advisable to purchase the most rigid bedding possible. The medium firmness level is suitable for those who primarily sleep on their back. Soft product Those who like to sleep on their stomach will appreciate it (note that in this case you need a soft mattress).
- Height. If a person has an ordinary build, this figure can range from 8 to 14 cm. Large and broad-shouldered people should pay attention to options from 14 to 17 cm.
The shape of the classic bedding is rectangle or square. However, with diseases of the spine, they are not able to properly support the neck and head.
For those who have back problems, it is advisable to use orthopedic products. They have the shape of a semicircular roller or a rectangle with a special recess intended for the head.
How to choose the right one
After resting on a comfortable pillow, a person should not experience discomfort. A properly selected product ensures proper sleep, morning vigor and restoration of strength. Incredibly, this sleeping accessory can have an impact on your level of performance, well-being and even your mood.
Neck pain and numb shoulders that appear in the morning most often signal that the pillow you are using is not suitable for you in terms of hardness or height.
If you decide to buy a new one, you need to consider the following points:
- the ideal option is when the height of the product is equal to the width of the shoulders of its future owner;
- The height of the pillow should be selected according to the degree of hardness of the mattress (if it is very hard, then you will need a high one);
- How hard the sleeping accessory should be depends on your favorite sleeping position (you can read about this above).
- cozy, comfortable to sleep on;
- retains its original shape;
- does not publish unpleasant odors and does not absorb them from the outside;
- does not contain allergens;
- it is easy to care for;
- strong enough;
- It allows air to pass through well, does not retain moisture, retains heat, and harmful microorganisms cannot develop in it (this item applies to fillers).
Before you buy the bedding you like, remember this list and make sure that it meets all the listed requirements.
Natural fillers
Fillers belonging to this category can be of both plant and animal origin. Vegetables are most often represented by buckwheat husks, various dried herbs (including medicinal ones), latex, eucalyptus and bamboo fibers.
Animal stuffing is material that a person receives from an animal (usually feathers, down and wool). Important point: pillows filled natural material, not recommended for allergy sufferers.
Vegetable filler
These can be dried herbs and buckwheat husks. The “herbarium” inside the pillow is not as popular today as other types of stuffing. But buckwheat husk is in demand. It is considered very beneficial for health. Sleeping materials filled with it are quite rigid.
A grass cushion is not suitable for constant use. It can be used for medicinal purposes (for example, for insomnia) and for no longer than a week.
Latex
This is solidified milky juice rubber plant. It is one of the best natural fillers. It very successfully combines softness and elasticity. Another significant advantage is the long service life.
Bamboo
This is true unique material for stuffing. It is not only natural, but also breathable, antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Additional advantages are durability, ease of care and affordability.
The disadvantage of bamboo fiber is that it is completely unsuitable for use in high humidity air. Such a pillow quickly absorbs moisture and simply does not have time to dry well.
In addition, in user reviews you can find complaints about the increased level of rigidity.
Pooh
This is a time-tested classic filler. It is soft, pleasant and light. Down carefully retains heat and keeps the shape of the pillow. At the same time, this material is extremely attractive to dust mites.
To prevent bedding from becoming hazardous to health, you should have it cleaned and restored every 5 years.
Camel and sheep wool
Like down, it retains heat excellently. It also has a healing effect on the body (many have probably heard about the often advertised belt made of sheep wool). A wool pillow can be used not only for sleeping, but also for warming sore areas of the body.
However, it must be borne in mind that it is just as attractive to dust mites as down or feathers.
Artificial padding
Artificial (also called synthetic) fillers are a man-made product. Most often, padding polyester, silicone, holofiber and comforter are used in pillows. Pillows stuffed with such materials are very light, soft, pleasant to the touch and, most importantly, hypoallergenic. They do not harbor dust mites. Caring for synthetic products is extremely simple. You can even wash them yourself. A significant drawback is considered to be severe sagging.
Sintepon
Pillows filled with it are the most affordable. Perhaps this is their only advantage. The synthetic winterizer quickly wrinkles and loses its shape. The head sweats on it, as it does not allow air to pass through well.
Silicone
Combines elasticity and softness. Thanks to him the pillow long time retains its original shape and volume. Silicone allows air to pass through well and is easy to care for. There are products on sale with different heights and densities. Thus, everyone can choose the right option for themselves.
Minor minus of this material- ability to accumulate static electricity.
Comforel
Today it enjoys the highest popularity among artificial fillings. What does he look like? These are soft, non-creasing balls that allow the pillow to maintain its original shape.
Holofiber
Excellent replacement for feathers and down. The composition of this material is 100% polyester. It has good thermal insulation, does not emit an unpleasant odor and does not contain toxic substances. A pillow with holofiber can be washed at temperature conditions 40°C. The disadvantages are relatively high rigidity.
Orthopedic products
Many are firmly convinced that an orthopedic pillow is healthier and better than ordinary ones. Indeed, it is so. But not for every person. Let's try to figure out whether it is worth giving preference to such bedding.
When a person sleeps on an orthopedic pillow, his head and spine are supported in the correct anatomical position, blood circulation in soft tissues is not disturbed, and the neck is also unloaded. True, if you are used to sleeping on your stomach, you don’t even have to spend money on it. IN in this case she is completely unsuitable.
Today on the market such products are represented by two rollers of different heights:
- a rectangle with a central recess for the back of the head;
- a classic square with a “puff filling” (following the example of a mattress).
Note that orthopedic models always harder than usual. This doesn't suit everyone. However, the degree of hardness and rigidity also depends on the filler. Thus, you can choose the most comfortable option. It is important that the shape of most models does not change during sleep.
If the sleeping accessory was chosen incorrectly and the cushion turns out to be too hard, instead of the expected cheerfulness and surge of strength, the person suffers from a morning headache and a stiff neck.
Such a product will not save you from insomnia either. After all, even those who don’t have sleep problems will have to get used to it within a week. So don't buy orthopedic pillow, if you do not have an appropriate appointment
If you have any problems with the spine, then before purchasing orthopedic sleeping equipment, you should consult with your doctor. He will help you choose exactly the model that will alleviate the condition in your case.
Making a pillow with your own hands
First of all, you need to decide on the style of your future pillow. Appearance should be presentable and evoke only pleasant emotions. You can browse online stores to find examples. But it is much better to go to several real stores and examine in detail the models that interest you from all sides. There you will not only choose a design, but also understand what size your new bedding will be.
When the dimensions and style are finally approved, we move on to choosing the fabric for sewing the cover. It is better to prefer natural textiles. It is very pleasant to the body, hypoallergenic and perfectly breathable. Since you will use the pillow every day, the fabric must meet these criteria.
During the cutting process, do not forget about seam allowances. When all the parts of the product are carefully cut, you can begin to connect them with each other. It should be remembered that on both sides (where there will be small and large bolsters) you need to leave space to fill the pillow with filler. It is advisable to sew a zipper here. Then you can, if necessary, unfasten it and update the roller (add or remove padding).
When filling the rollers with filler, you need to make sure that they are not too high. To ensure an even position for your neck, you need to focus on the shoulder width of the person for whom the pillow is intended.
Well, of course, before using the finished bedding, you need to sew a pillowcase for it.
After the fact
It is impossible to give a clear answer to the question of which pillow is most comfortable for sleeping. The comfort of this product is a purely individual concept. Basically, it depends on the characteristics of physiology and health status, which, as you know, are different for everyone.
For example, a teenager will not be able to feel comfortable on a medium-sized pillow. An allergy sufferer will not be able to sleep on a product with natural filling. Some people are disgusted by the subtle smell of sheep's wool.
The most common mistake made is buying the same pillows for all family members. If you choose bedding for each person separately, taking into account age and physiological characteristics, a comfortable and healthy sleep will be provided.
The ancient Egyptians knew that it was necessary to sleep with your head on a hill. They put a special wooden stand, which helped maintain the anatomical position of the body during sleep. Today, pillows are used for this. A good product provides reliable support for the head, holds the cervical vertebrae in a natural position, and helps relax the muscles of the neck and shoulder region. This provides the brain with a constant flow of blood and, as a result, improves sleep, attention, memory, and increases performance.
A good pillow helps get rid of migraines, pain in the spine, and neck if they were caused by an incorrect position during sleep. So which pillows are best to sleep on to ensure a healthy sleep?
How can you support your head while sleeping?
There is no single generally accepted classification of this sleeping attribute. But we can distinguish the following main varieties that are offered on the market:
Taking into account poses
Your favorite position that you take while sleeping will help you decide which pillow to sleep on. Some people find it much more comfortable on their backs, others feel more comfortable on their stomachs, and some people toss and turn all night. By the way, doctors recommend lying on your side.
For those who sleep on their side, it is important to choose a pillow based primarily on height. It should correspond to the distance from the tip of the shoulder to the neck plus a few centimeters, which are added by pushing the mattress.
Another unique position during sleep is taken by office workers who like to take a nap during their lunch break right at their workplace. For a comfortable sleep, it is recommended that they put special pillow on the table and already on her - the head. This accessory is made of latex or polyurethane and has small sizes, and the height depends on the height office desk and a chair.
Product dimensions
When choosing this sleeping attribute by size, you need to focus on everything described above, as well as convenience. The classic parameters are:
- square 50x50 cm, 60x60 cm, 70x70 cm;
- rectangular 50x70 cm, 50x80 cm, 40x60 cm;
- medium with a height of 6-14 cm.
In addition to these options, pillows can have round or oval shape. There are also orthopedic options in which you can adjust the dimensions in height and width. If you need to take into account the individual characteristics of a person, you can make pillows non-standard sizes to order.
Product filler
Another important parameter, according to which you should choose a pillow filler. It can be natural or synthetic. In the first case, down, feathers, wool, horsehair and others are most often used. Popular synthetic ones are ecofiber, padding polyester, holofiber, latex, polyurethane and others. If we talk about the orthopedic or anatomical effect, then the latter is preferable. They reliably support the head during sleep, are durable, hypoallergenic, but do not absorb moisture well, which is always released with sweat during sleep.
Natural materials cake faster and lose their shape; they can cause allergies; various microorganisms and insects. Therefore, it is often recommended to choose pillows with a combined filling: natural on the outer parts and synthetic on the inside.
An interesting option is herbal fillers. Aroma forest plants helps to remove nervous tension, improve sleep and produces healing effect, if used special mixtures. In any case, the preventive effect is guaranteed.
For example, chamomile and hops will calm the nerves; for acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to use yarrow or thyme; St. John's wort will strengthen the immune system.
A popular natural material today is buckwheat husk. It does not cake, does not harbor microorganisms, is environmentally friendly and easy to care for. It is enough to periodically clean it with a vacuum cleaner and steam the pillow to dry once a year.
Softness and hardness
Different fillers have different hardness, which also needs to be taken into account when choosing a pillow. The quality of sleep and well-being after waking up also depend on this indicator. For example, a pillow that is too soft does not support the head when lying on its side; it sag greatly and bends the neck. And if it’s too hard, it doesn’t allow your head to naturally fall. In any case, the morning can be met with severe pain in the neck or shoulders.
Those who prefer to lie on their side are advised to take a product of medium hardness, so that when lying down the angle between the neck and shoulder is 90°. Please note that if lying on your side you constantly want to put your hand under the pillow, it is probably either too low in height or insufficiently rigid.
And you also need to pay attention to the case and the quality of its execution. The fabric should have a tight weave so that the filler does not come out through it, while remaining breathable and light. It is sewn with small and strong seams using a thin needle, which does not leave large holes in the place of the stitching. Strength can be checked by slightly pulling the seams in different directions.
Signs of a “wrong” pillow
The main signs that you have chosen the wrong pillow for yourself will be pain in the neck, shoulders, and back that occurs in the morning. This is also indicated by migraines, spasms of the neck and back muscles. But this is an extreme manifestation of inadequate choice. It can be recognized earlier by other, less painful signs:
But you must understand that not a single sleeping accessory will save you from problems with musculoskeletal system. She can only alleviate the condition, and treatment should be prescribed by a doctor.
In this article we will talk about pillows - one of the main bedding items, along with a mattress and a blanket, which serve as support for a person’s head and neck during the night’s rest.
General criteria for choosing the right pillow
Except decorative aesthetics, the pillow must faithfully serve the person, providing the correct physiological posture in a horizontal position. A good product simultaneously supports the head, neck and spine.
What happens if you sleep without a pillow? The cervical spine will not relax, as a result of which it will begin to bend over time, causing a person a lot of trouble and pathological symptoms.
How to Know if a Pillow Is Right for You? Try to analyze your daily sleep. In the morning your neck hurts and your shoulders become stiff, and at night you keep wanting to put your palm or arm under your head? Most likely the product is too low.
Formation muscle tension after a night's rest indicates that the head support is too high and therefore uncomfortable.
General requirements for a high-quality and useful product that will improve rather than worsen sleep:
- Preservation of product shape a long period time;
- No odor absorption;
- Normal microcirculation air masses, moisture, heat;
- Hypoallergenic;
- Strength, practicality, durability.
- Product shape;
- Its filler material;
- Pillow height;
- Product rigidity.
Each of the criteria is extremely important and together affects overall quality sleep.
Additional criteria for choosing a pillow its value may be considered outer covering(the presence of a good cover), as well as other parameters important for the pillow and the person using it.
Dimensions, shapes and firmness of the pillow
The “three pillars” of evaluating a modern pillow are its size, stiffness and shape. The quality of the product as a whole depends on them, as well as its functionality when used during sleep.
Height
Height modern products fluctuates between 5-16 centimeters, while the parameter is calculated for straightened products.
For the vast majority of users, options of 9-15 centimeters are suitable, but if you sleep uncomfortably, then you should evaluate your needs yourself - the height of the pillow should be approximately equal to the width of the shoulder.
Dimensions
Modern products have standardized dimensions for which pillowcases are simply selected.
Children's version– dimensions are 50 by 50 centimeters, while the optimal parameters for adults are 50 by 70 and 70 by 70 centimeters.
Rigidity
The right pillow for sleeping, according to this criterion, primarily depends on your favorite and most frequently used position during night rest. A person sleeping on his side, optimally suited hard pillow with reliable, tight support for the head and neck.
This article is often read with:
Forms
Classic products from the group described above have a rectangular or square simple form. It is recommended to use them only if there are no health problems.
If a person has musculoskeletal diseases, any injuries to the spine and other pathologies of this spectrum, it is better to use orthopedic pillows with special recesses for the head, channels for the neck or products in the form of cushions.
From specialists No consensus on the advisability of using orthopedic pillows for healthy people - large-scale studies do not provide a clear picture or clear relationship between the quality of sleep and the structural features of such structures.
Some professionals argue that such a pillow is only suitable for short rest or reading in a horizontal position of the body, since the rigid structure, hard side and other special characteristics of the product can cause pain and problems with the spine in the medium term.
At the same time, conservative medicine insists on the daily use of such pillows and the absence of harm to a healthy person.
The truth, apparently, is in the middle and depends not only on the shape of the pillow, but also on the quality of execution, filler and other parameters, which together determine the basic consumer properties products.
Sewing features
Another factor that is not often paid attention to when purchasing a pillow is the features of its tailoring.
Be sure to check the strength and quality of the seams, the density of the outer fabric, as well as the detailing of the tailoring, for example, the size of the punctures from the needles - some should be small to provide protection against the passage of the filler outside the product.
Which pillow filling is better to choose?
The most important parameter of a pillow is its filler. General hygiene and quality of night's rest directly depend on the contents of the product's padding.
All modern pillows according to this criterion are divided into 2 large subgroups - synthetic and natural materials. Which option to choose? which pillow is best for sleeping and daytime rest?? Let's look at all the possible fillers available in stores.
Down and feather
Classic natural materials of animal origin, constantly used in the production of pillows for many hundreds of years. The cost of such products directly depends on the percentage of filler and the density of the packing - the more of it and fluff is better, the more expensive the product.
The obvious advantages of feather pillows usually include good air exchange, excellent thermoregulation, softness of the product, as well as its hygroscopicity with microcirculation of moisture in the process of absorption and evaporation.
Potential Cons– difficult care, high price, short service life, as well as a high allergic hazard due to the frequent settlement of dust mites and other microorganisms in the product.
Sheep and camel wool
These two types of filling began to be used even earlier than their goose and duck counterparts in the form of down and feathers. The first was actively used by residents of the mountainous regions of the planet, and the second dominated in eastern countries.
Pros of pillows from camel hair : They also “breathe” well, are hygroscopic, have high level thermal conductivity, however, they are very difficult to maintain - they cannot be washed, and the only cleaning method is chemical treatment.
Minuses: Also, camel and sheep wool filler pursues eternal problem materials of animal origin – high allergic hazard for the user;
Horsehair
A special type of filler is horsehair, a by-product of horse breeding. Horsehair pillows are cheaper than down and wool, at the same time perfectly absorb and remove moisture, and also keep their shape perfectly, while having good performance microcirculation of air masses. In addition, products made from this filler are easy to maintain and operate.
The disadvantages include low thermal conductivity, strong rigidity of the pillow, as well as its increased allergenicity.
Silk
Silk is a special type of filler of natural origin, which is extracted from silkworm cocoons. Unlike other natural animal-based analogues, it is hypoallergenic, mites and other pathogenic microorganisms do not grow in the structure of the material.
Also, products made with silk filler are elastic, do not wrinkle, last a very long time, have good thermal conductivity and hygroscopicity.
Of the minuses can be noted the presence of a static effect when used, as well as the very high cost of such a pillow.
Vegetable fillers
This broad group of materials includes buckwheat husk, rice hulls, herbs, hop cones, etc. Very cheap to produce, such pillows have excellent air circulation activity, are elastic, hypoallergenic, have a weak aromatherapy effect on the human body, and quickly and easily take the shape of the neck and head.
Obvious disadvantages– problems with maintenance, short service life (wear and tear within 1-2 years), high rigidity of the structure, as well as the presence of extraneous rustling sounds during regular use.
Bamboo
Bamboo fiber, regardless of its chemical or mechanical origin, has a number of useful properties, which makes this herbal natural filler one of the best options choice for a quality pillow.
To the advantages of products based on it they include environmental friendliness, hypoallergenicity, the possibility of simple and comfortable washing, excellent hygroscopicity and air exchange, comfort regardless of the season, and relatively low cost.
Of the minuses– too active absorption of moisture, short service life, as well as some rigidity.
You can read more about choosing a pillow filled with bamboo fiber in a separate article.
Latex
The filler is made from natural foam rubber. It is very springy, has good orthopedic properties, does not cause allergies, quickly restores its shape after use, is easily washed, and can last up to 20 years in one product. Their only disadvantage– high cost compared to the closest analogues;
Sintepon
One of the cheapest synthetic pillow fillings. It does not absorb odors, is quite practical to use, does not cause allergic reactions, and there are no mites or other microorganisms in the structure of the material.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the short service life and rapid deterioration of the filler due to its internal rolling, bad thermal conductivity properties(the pillow may be hot).
Comforel
A more expensive analogue of padding polyester, which is small polyester balls made of synthetic fiber, having additional thermal and antibacterial treatment. Their external structure is coated with a thin silicone layer to ensure elasticity.
Pros of a pillow based on Comforel– hypoallergenic, good heat capacity, retains shape during use, excellent breathability.
Of the minuses, it is worth noting zero hygroscopicity– the product is not suitable for people with excessive sweating, and it is also inconvenient to use in summer.
Holofiber
Premium version of synthetic filler. It has good thermal conductivity and orthopedic properties. The filler does not cause allergic or toxic reactions, is easy to wash even in an automatic washing machine, does not absorb odors, and ensures a high level of air exchange and microcirculation. Minuses– high rigidity, poor absorption and release of moisture.
Silicone
One of the most famous synthetic materials is often used as a filler for modern pillows. Has very good elastic properties, provides durable orthopedic effect, easy to wash. In addition, silicone has excellent air permeability and does not cause allergies. The disadvantages include poor hygroscopicity(does not evaporate moisture), as well as a strong static effect.
It is not possible to definitely say which pillow filling is better, because... Each option has its own scope of application and has both advantages and disadvantages.
Which pillowcase to choose and does it matter?
Many people, when purchasing a quality pillow, forget about choosing a good pillowcase for this sleeping accessory. The pillowcase acts as a product additional protection The selected pillow protects against sweat, dirt and dust; in addition, it provides additional air exchange and microcirculation of moisture.
How to choose good product ? Buy products from the maximum quality material, preferably with an antibacterial coating - we are talking about natural material, with a small addition of synthetic fibers.
Pay attention to the cut and seams– the latter must be ideal, smooth, without burrs and threads sticking out to the sides, as small and dense as possible. In addition, select the product exactly according to the size of the pillow, otherwise sleeping will not be very comfortable.
Final choice of pillow before purchasing
You have carefully weighed the pros and cons, studied the available assortment in the store, taken into account all the above recommendations and are almost ready to make the right purchase. We'll give you a few more general advice by choosing a really good pillow for a comfortable sleep, which will provide the most comfortable and safe rest, and will also last a long time:
- Choose a product according to the season. IN summer period It is better not to purchase pillows made from materials that have low thermal conductivity - they quickly accumulate heat, but do not release it properly, as a result the person will experience discomfort;
- Don’t be carried away by orthopedic structures. Orthopedic pillows are not a panacea for all ills, but a necessity in case of problems with spinal column. In some categories of users who do not have health problems, in the medium term such products can cause a number of pathologies;
- Price is not the main thing. There is no direct relationship between the quality and functionality of a pillow, as well as its cost - each product is unique in its own way and is intended for specific purposes. Comprehensively evaluate the proposed options, choosing the best ones for yourself.
Good luck with your choice and good sleep!
Good sleep is the key to success, vigor, lightness, good mood during the whole day. In order to have a sound and healthy sleep, you need to decide which pillows are best suited for such sleep. This is not to say that a certain pillow will suit every person.
Pillow height options
It's difficult to sleep without a pillow. In this case, the neck takes an unnatural position and in the morning the person feels disgusting. High pillows guarantee a strong curvature of the neck, wrinkles on it, and also compress the arteries that supply the brain with oxygen and nutrition. The veins are unable to promptly clear the brain of waste products, which leads to chronic headaches, fatigue and bad mood.
First you need to decide on the height of the pillow. It is uncomfortable to sleep on a low pillow, especially if you get used to a higher one. There is an opinion that a low pillow is better.
In fact, a pillow should first of all be comfortable. If you constantly put your hand under it while sleeping, then we can say with confidence that it is uncomfortable, since it is too low. These pillows are suitable for people with narrow shoulders or for children over one year old.
By the way, children under one year old need it, but very low. If you do not add anything, the formation of the cervical spine will be incorrect.
As for high pillows, they are suitable for those with wide shoulders who like to sleep on their sides. If they sleep on a low level, their neck will take an incorrect position and become stiff. In this case, full sleep cannot be achieved.
Fillers are also different
Pillows are not only made from down or feathers. Although this is the most common type of filler, due to allergies this material cannot be used.
Natural fillers that can be used include bamboo, silk, camel and sheep's wool, but allergies or pests may prevent their use.
Vegetable fillers are a great option. These include buckwheat hulls, rice hulls, corn fiber, hop cones, and various herbs.
An alternative can be cotton wool. Its disadvantage is the rapid churning and absorption of odors. Afterwards you will need to buy a pillow again.
Synthetic fillers: synthetic winterizer, comforter, holofiber and silicone are famous for their durability, resistance to odors and the absence of mites.
It is better to choose a pillow that is comfortable. The material can be for every taste. The main thing is to get enough sleep.
Video on the topic
What promotes good sleep? Nice comfortable pillow. It can be large or small, made of feather, down or artificial filler. The main thing is that it gives you the opportunity to relax while resting or sleeping.
There are several types of pillows:
For sleep with a variety of fillings;
- orthopedic for proper fixation of the head and neck;
- orthopedic for sitting (“donut”, etc.);
- decorative for interior decoration.
For sleeping, pillows with natural and artificial fillings, as well as orthopedic ones, are used. But they may also have another purpose. For example, serve as a decorative element for a bedroom or living room, or decorate sofas or armchairs. Little ones decorative pillows add the finishing touch to the interior.
Some types of pillows are used by drivers or people with spinal problems while working. No matter how many options there are for these products, they have one thing in common - creating comfort and convenience.
Pillows with natural fillings
Everything related to sleep should be comfortable, help you relax and relieve tension. A common type are pillows with natural fillings of animal origin.
Typically a fine pen is used for this purpose. poultry or fluff. Wool from goats and sheep is also used. These products are rectangular in shape and standard sizes according to Russian GOSTs 65 X 65, 70 X 70 or others. Foreign versions have a narrowed shape.
Wool filling has a beneficial effect on the sleep of people with inflamed joints, osteochondrosis and rheumatism. It warms and reduces pain.
The next type of natural filler is plant derivatives. These include cotton wool and buckwheat husks. They are environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic, they allow air to pass through well.
An interesting option is a combination of ocean algae that has undergone ionization with eucalyptus and cellulose fibers. These products are soft and pleasant to the touch. Convenient for a good rest.
Pillows with artificial fillings
Synthetic filler is the most common among this type. It is used as a single piece or in the form of small cylinder-shaped segments. The lightweight material is easy to wash, light, non-toxic and retains the voluminous shape of the product well.
Another filler is Comforel. It consists of large quantity small silicone fiber beads. Their diameter barely reaches seven millimeters. They are non-toxic, envelop the head and neck, and have the effect of a micromassager during sleep.
The new kind pillow filling – natural latex. It is most often used for orthopedic purposes.
Orthopedic pillows
Latex is used in special orthopedic donut-type seating pillows for the prevention of spinal diseases and hemorrhoids. Elastic material allows you to comfortably fix your head and neck while sleeping. The product can be made in a regular rectangular flat shape or embossed. May have a “memory effect”. In this case, the foam contained inside follows the shape of the lying body.
Orthopedic pillows also include pillows for pregnant women. They are made in a special shape of a large letter U from a pair of rollers with a jumper.
Decorative pillows
This category includes products that serve to improve the interior. They can be various shapes: small or large, rectangular, roll-shaped, heart-shaped or resembling soft toy. The filling composition can be either natural or artificial content. Most often, foam rubber is used for this purpose. Among these pillows, it is convenient to sit in front of the TV on the sofa or take them with you on a picnic.
Video on the topic
One of the conditions for good sleep is right choice pillows. To choose a good pillow, you need to decide on the shape, size, and internal filling.
Instructions
Pay attention to the size. U good pillows square or rectangular shape. Nowadays there are almost no products whose size is 70x70 centimeters. You can find square 40x40 or 50x50, or elongated pillows (40x60 or 50x70) in stores. Pillow manufacturers in Russia are now focusing on European ones. Concerning bed linen, then more and more sets are now being produced with pillowcases for pillows of accepted standards.
You can get a good night's sleep on an orthotic. It supports anatomically correct position both the head and the spine. Thanks to it, you will take the load off your neck, and the blood flow in the soft tissues will not be disrupted. There are orthopedic pillows different heights: rectangular with a recess under the back of the head, with a multi-layer “filling” and so on. However, it is still better not to use an orthopedic pillow without consulting a doctor. If you have insomnia, falling asleep will be even more difficult.
Great importance has pillow filling. For example, the highest quality and luxury sleep products are made from granulated wool, which, as a rule, never wrinkles. Camel and sheep wool pillows are also good. Wool pillows are quite practical - they can be washed, and they will dry on their own without any additional ventilation.
The worse the pillow, the worse the material from which it was made. So, the models themselves are made of synthetic filler, which tends to pill. Pillows filled with holofiber provide free air circulation and keep their shape perfectly. You can safely wash pillows with synthetic filling. In addition, they will last quite a long time - about nine to ten years. True, they have one drawback - they will not immediately take a shape that is convenient for you due to their elasticity, and some also squeak slightly. You can sleep well on expensive down pillows, but they also have their own. These pillows do not dry well, so they often harbor mites. Silk pillows are considered the best - they easily restore their shape and always remain dry. Silk cannot act as an independent filler; it is mainly combined with other materials.
The quality of a pillow directly depends on the filling inside. Therefore, when choosing a pillow, you need to have a good understanding of what is right for you.
Choosing a pillow is a very important moment, to which few people attach due importance.
It is known that not only the comfort of sleep, but also health depends on the quality and shape of the pillow, so such a purchase must be taken extremely seriously.
How to choose the right pillow for sleeping: what to look for ^
Many people do not attach importance to the choice of pillow, considering it a simple rectangle of fabric that is used for sleeping. In fact, everything is not so simple: there are certain types pillows that affect health.
For example, this includes orthopedic pillows used for osteochondrosis and scoliosis: they slow down or even stop the development of diseases, and the next morning after sleeping on them your back does not hurt, which is important for those who are faced with such diseases.
What are the dangers of choosing the wrong pillow?
If the next morning after waking up you feel discomfort and pain in the neck, lower back or upper spine, it is probably due to an incorrectly selected pillow. If you continue to sleep on it, a variety of diseases may begin to develop due to the uncomfortable position of the back or neck: osteochondrosis, scoliosis, and in some cases even joint diseases, because When sleeping on your side, most of the pressure is placed on them.
To maintain your health, it is important to pay attention to several important details when buying a pillow:
- Size: It should be such that the head does not slip off during sleep. The best option– slightly wider than shoulder width;
- Height: It should be medium. If it is too low, it can lead to the development of cervical osteochondrosis and kyphosis. High pillows are also undesirable: because of them, your back may hurt in the morning, because... at night the spine takes an unnatural position;
- Rigidity: As with the height, it should be average. If the pillow is too soft, the spine will simply sink into it, resulting in possible curvature of the cervical spine over time. If it is very hard, the same thing happens to the vertebrae, and the neck muscles are stretched;
- Filler pillows: preferably natural. Feather pillows are not recommended for asthmatics and allergy sufferers, while synthetic pads are perfect for those with hypotension.
It is worth noting that a pillow can affect not only health, but also the condition of the skin: if you sleep on one that is too soft, blood circulation worsens at night, which leads to premature aging and withering of the epidermis.
- The price of the product varies depending on the material, size and additional functions, because There are pillows with a “memory” effect, special shapes or fillers to improve sleep.
- On average, the cost of one pillow is at least 2,000 rubles, but it will be made with high quality and will last for many years.
Pillows with polyester fibers
Such pillows began to be produced back in the 1930s. based on padding polyester, but now you can find materials derived from it. They will be better in quality, and holofiber, ecofiber, comforter can be used as filler, and they all have common advantages and disadvantages:
- pros: hypoallergenic, odorless, not prone to dust accumulation, quickly evaporate accumulated moisture on the surface without absorbing it; easy to maintain, their price is low;
- Minuses: not suitable for people with orthopedic diseases, can cause pain in the neck, have low thermoregulation, can change shape when washed, short service life - no more than 3 years.
Feather pillows: harm and benefit
This classic version, made from down and feathers of ducks and geese, less often - swans:
- pros: high ability to thermoregulation, quickly evaporate and absorb moisture, easily restore its previous shape after sleep, long service life - more than 5 years;
- Minuses: they can harbor bedbugs and ticks if appropriate treatment has not been carried out during manufacture. Also, if you use low-quality filling, the pillow may smell, and quality options characterized by high cost.
Pillows with camel or sheep wool
Such products are less common than the above, but people suffering from headaches prefer to buy them:
- pros: they support the neck and spine well, have a high degree of thermoregulation, are inexpensive, and help cope with migraines and joint diseases;
- Minuses: short service life, because in just a few months, the wool can simply mat; They can harbor dust mites and can only be washed by hand.
Buckwheat husk pillow: benefits and harms
Pillows made from buckwheat filling have the following qualities:
- pros: have a light massage effect, are environmentally friendly, have high breathability and orthopedic properties;
- Minuses: noise, weight (about 2.5 kg), short service life.
Pillows with shape retention effect
Such pillows, under the influence of the temperature of the human body, retain its contours, and after waking up they return to their previous shape:
- pros: high orthopedic properties, help get rid of neck pain, silent, uninteresting for ticks, easy to care for;
- Minuses: poor thermoregulation, rigidity, short service life, high cost.
To choose the right pillow, you should pay attention not only to its material and filling, but also to your own wishes: if you have diseases of the neck or spine, then it should be of a suitable shape and quality.
Experience of our readers
Alina, 25 years old:
"I have cervical osteochondrosis, so in the mornings I used to have terrible pain. I bought myself a “memory” pillow, and now I don’t know grief: I wake up in a great mood!”
Valentina, 47 years old:
“Due to back problems, the doctor advised me to buy an orthopedic pillow with padding polyester filling. At first it was uncomfortable to sleep on, because... it’s quite low, but now that I’ve gotten used to it, I appreciate the purchase: thanks to it, my back really almost stopped hurting.”
Tatyana, 43 years old:
“I thought for a long time about what filling to choose a pillow with. On the advice of a friend, I bought myself a pillow with buckwheat filling, which also contains soothing herbs. I used to be, but now I sleep on a comfortable and pleasant-smelling pillow, I fall asleep in literally 20 minutes.”
Eastern horoscope for March 2019