Picking the Perfect Bed Pillow

If you're suffering from neck or back pain, it may be your pillow that's to blame. Too many beds are occupied by flat, flimsy, worn out pillows that offer insufficient physical support. Our guide to picking the perfect bed pillow takes on the "expired pillow" crisis. Squeezably Soft? Pillows don't come with expiration dates, though we might be healthier if they did. Your bed pillow should be replaced at least once every two years, but many people go on using the same pillow for years, wondering why they're having neck or back problems, yet never suspecting their pillow. Following these simple guidelines will help you pick the pillow that's perfect for you - and then replace it with another when it's 'expired.'

Back, Side, and Stomach Sleepers
Everyone has a favorite sleeping position. Choosing the perfect bed pillow requires you to know what that position is. Stomach sleepers are best served by soft pillows, which will reduce neck strain in that position. Medium pillows are best for back sleepers. Side sleepers require the most neck support and therefore firmer, higher bed pillows are recommended for them.

There are always exceptions to those rules. For example, smaller-framed side sleepers might prefer a medium pillow for a more natural neck placement. In all cases, personal comfort should be the most important criterion when choosing a pillow.

Fill Counts and Thread Counts
Fill counts and thread counts are frequently overlooked by pillow shoppers, but both are important in measuring your pillow's quality. Fill count refers to how much "fill" is in the pillow, i.e. how firm it will be. A pillow with a 750 fill count will be bouncier and more resilient than a softer pillow with a 650 fill count. Thread count refers to the pillow cover stitching. The most expensive pillow covers have a thread count of 310.

We've Got Your Back
Another way pillows can enhance physical well being is by providing back support. Placing a small pillow or lumbar support pillow in the arch of your lower back can help your spine retain its natural position. Orthopedic pillows can also be used for neck support, and knee pillows will further alleviate strain on your back. If you suffer from musculoskeletal pain, be sure to consult your doctor or chiropractor as to which bed pillows will provide you with the best support.

Inside Stuff
Lastly, the material used to make your pillow plays an important role in the quality of your sleep. Read our article on choosing the pillow material that is best for you to help decide if you're a memory foam pillow person, down pillow person, or if you'd prefer an alternative pillow material.