Here are a few factors to consider.
It offers the right amount of support
A quality memory foam pillow will yield with the weight of your head but offer enough resistance when you lie on it that it makes you feel safe and supported. Made from polyurethane – memory foam gets its name from the way it changes shape under pressure and returns to its original shape once pressure is released. This lets it conform to the unique silhouette of your head and neck, for greater support with a feeling of softness.
The pros and cons of memory foam pillows you should consider for better sleep.
It's the right shape
Dedicated back sleeper? Seek out a pillow with a cervical spine curve. This means it has a roll or bump that provides support under your neck and a slightly lower or flatter spot to cradle your head. If you’re a side or foetal sleeper, you may also want a pillow with a ‘bump’ to support your neck and keep your head aligned with your spine. For stomach sleepers on the other hand, try sleeping without a pillow at all. Or retrain yourself as a side or back sleeper, if you can, with a pillow moulded to help your body feel safely supported in those positions.
It suits your sleep position
A quality memory foam pillow will help you sleep in a healthy position. In many adults, this is closely linked with supporting the natural curvature of your cervical spine – the first seven bones in your neck. If you’re a back sleeper, sleep experts recommend placing a rounded neck roll under your neck. Of course, a contoured memory foam pillow will provide this shape without having to create your own.
Face first? Foetal? Find out how your position affects your sleep.
It's not too heavy
If you can barely lift a pillow because it’s so heavy and unwieldy, it may be too dense for comfort. Thick, heavy foams can also feel like being sucked into quicksand, rather than create the buoyant feel of support that feels oh so good in a pillow. Lighter weight pillows tend to be made from open cell technology, which also provides better breathability and temperature regulation.
You can take it with you
What happens when you venture out into the world? Can you take your little slice of pillowy comfort with you? Whether on a road trip or in the air, having a pillow that’s portable means you can have better quality sleep wherever your adventures lead you. Look for details that make your potential pillow more portable – from a compact size, to custom-designed accessories like covers and carry bags.
These are the 5 boxes your next travel pillow should tick.
You can sleep on it
If possible while pillow shopping, lie down with the pillow under your head in your favourite sleep position. How does it support your head? Do your head and neck stay at a nice neutral angle? Does the balance between firmness and softness feel both comfy and supportive? Because it’s such a subjective feeling, it can be tricky to select a pillow online. Which is why it’s important to look for a retailer that gives you a chance to road test your potential pillow. Hyoumankind’s 30 night trial offer when you buy a compact, ergonomic Go Pillow sounds like a dream come true – and definitely something to sleep on.
Try these common sense, science backed sleep strategies tonight.
