What is the best pillow to buy for sleep. Pillows for sleeping - which one is better for a healthy rest

Sleep is an integral and important part of our life. Sleep problems can be detrimental to your health, so it's important to ensure that you fall asleep comfortably. An important role in this is played by the choice of pillow, because if it turns out to be wrong, complications with the spine may appear. The right choice of pillow, not only allows you to keep your back in order, but also makes it possible to enjoy a sound sleep, gaining strength in a dream.

A high-quality orthopedic pillow has one or more rollers, is made of elastic and safe material and is able to maintain its shape.

Thinking about which pillow is better to buy, you should give preference to one that will serve not only for sleeping, but will also be as useful as possible, that is, the pillow should be orthopedic. What does it mean? This is a pillow that allows you to maintain the neck in the correct condition, which means that it will be possible to avoid the unnatural position of the spine.

From ordinary pillows, the development of such an unpleasant disease as osteochondrosis is easily accelerated, or muscle spasm can occur. Types of pillows can be divided in shape and content. The shape can be in the form of a wave or a familiar rectangle. But the shape of the pillow does not play a big role, the filling of the pillow is much more important, and it can be different: buckwheat, latex, polyester, viscoelastic foam.

Selection criteria should include characteristics. For example, if a person has broad shoulders, then a higher pillow will be needed, as a rule, the width of the shoulders should match the height of the pillow. Also important is the position in which a person is used to sleeping. If you are more accustomed to basking on your side, then you can calculate the parameters of the necessary pillow. How to measure the shoulder length for an orthopedic pillow? To the distance from the beginning of the neck to the end of the shoulders, you need to add a couple of centimeters, the resulting number will become the ideal height of the pillow.

Pay attention to the firmness of the pillow. For the same sleep on the side, a firmer pillow is recommended to keep the neck and head comfortable. If your favorite sleeping position is on your back, then you can pay attention to pillows of medium hardness. Well and soft pillow can be purchased by those who like to rest on their stomach.

There are also memory foam pillows. Such a name, because the pillow correctly repeats the shape of your head and neck, remembers any position of sleep and adjusts. What are these pillows made of? They are made from high quality soft polyurethane foam.

Pillow filler

Pillows are filled with synthetic materials. natural materials animal origin and natural fillers plant origin. The choice of fillers is great and the variety confuses the question: "How to choose the right filler?". In the manufacture of orthopedic pillows, synthetic fillers or combined materials are usually used.

The main condition of these fillers is that they must hold their shape with high quality, be durable and not crumble. Pillows made of polyurethane foam perfectly distribute the load on the cervical spine. The shape, degree of rigidity and density of these pillows may be different, but one thing is unshakable - this is their service life, which reaches seven years.

• Latex pillows are characterized by increased elasticity, in addition, they are elastic and remarkably accept desired shape. The structure of this filler is spongy, due to the pillow is perfectly ventilated. Sleeping on a latex pillow is pleasant, as sleep is deep on it.
• Pillows made of buckwheat husks have a pronounced orthopedic effect. The natural filler of such a pillow provides an invisible acupressure of the cervical region and this is great for scoliosis, problems with the cervical spine and muscle strain. Thanks to sleep on such a healing pillow, pain and insomnia disappear.
• Memorix pillows are one of the most popular purchases among buyers. Love for them is due to the amazing material, because memorix is ​​such an unusual polyurethane foam. The structure of the material is porous, has thermal sensitivity and is hypoallergenic. When the head is lowered onto such a pillow, under the influence of weight and heat, the pillow is pressed in, thereby adjusting to the size of the head and neck. The spine, while sleeping on a memory foam pillow, is in a relaxed state and sleep is sound.
• Bamboo pillows will be a wonderful addition for both men and women and children. Bamboo material provides a comfortable microclimate, ideal humidity and excellent air exchange.
• The silicone pillow is also in demand among buyers, and that's all, because its characteristics satisfy the needs. This pillow has excellent resilience, suitable for allergy sufferers and durable in quality. Such a pillow can, without any difficulties, be washed in a washing machine.

How to get used to an orthopedic pillow

At first, an orthopedic pillow can cause a feeling of disappointment, and this is absolutely normal, because over the years of sleeping on a soft regular pillow, addiction occurs, and the transition to a new pillow causes discomfort.

After about a couple of weeks of sleep, and sometimes even after a few days, a new addiction appears and along with it, at the same time, a feeling of benefit from its acquisition begins. After it has become comfortable to sleep on an orthopedic pillow, and having noticed positive changes in the state of one's health, a person is unlikely to want to return to the old pillow.

Details on the criteria for choosing a suitable pillow - in the video:

Top rating of the best orthopedic pillows

10. Magniflex memoform comfort pillow

In tenth place in the ranking of quality orthopedic pillows is Magniflex memoform comfort. The filler of such a pillow is memoform, which is a microporous structure with a memory effect. The pillow is suitable for allergy sufferers.

Thanks to this filler, there is precise protection against dust mites and other pathogens. The pillowcase of this pillow is made from premium 100% cotton and has a zipper, so it can be easily removed and washed when it gets dirty. The average price is 8000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Ideal for allergy sufferers and asthmatics;
• memory effect;
• Relaxes muscles during sleep.

Disadvantages:

• High price.

9. Orthopedic pillow with Fosta memory effect for a child

Taking care of the health of your child, you should pay attention to the pillow, which will provide him with a calm and deep sleep. The Fosta pillow is perfect for growing bodies. Its shape is anatomically thought out, it consists of two rollers, which allows you to support the head and protect the cervical spine. Filler - flexible polyurethane foam. The average price of a pillow is 1600 rubles.

Advantages:

• The presence of a memory effect;
• Caring for the health of the child;
• Normalizes muscle tone.

Disadvantages:

• Small size.

8. Orthopedic pillow Liomma Lum F-510 for travel

An excellent option for motorists and travel enthusiasts will be this pillow, which carefully supports the spine. Inflatable pillow. Shown as a prophylaxis when it torments cervical osteochondrosis. The average price is 370 rubles.

Advantages:

• budget;
• With anti-pressure effect;
• Hypoallergenic.

Disadvantages:

May deflate quickly.

7. Orthopedic head pillow for newborns, Lum F-505.

It is not necessary for newborn babies to have an orthopedic pillow, but there are cases when doctors, for example, a neurologist, prescribe such a pillow for a newborn. For this purpose, the orthopedic head pillow for newborns, Lum F-505, is wonderfully suitable. Its size is 23x25 cm. There is a memory effect. In the center of the pillow there is a miniature dimple for the baby's head. The filler is 100% polyurethane. The average price is about 1000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Prevention of diseases of the spine;
• The absence of any smell;
• Hypoallergenic.

Disadvantages:

• Takes a long time to dry after washing.

Before purchasing an orthopedic pillow for a newborn, be sure to consult a doctor.

6. Orthopedic pillow Light from the company "Ormatek"

studying budget options in the ranking of quality pillows, you should pay attention to the products of the Ormatek company. Their orthopedic pillow Light with dimensions of 37 x 50 cm has medium firmness, is compact and has a comfortable ergonomic shape. The filler of such a pillow is Ortofoam, it is created from various polyesters by foaming. The pillow comes with a satin cover. The average price of a product is 1400 rubles.

Advantages:

• Thanks to the different heights of the rollers, you can choose a more comfortable sleeping position;
• The pillow does not lose its shape, elastic and without "failures";
• There is support for the cervical spine.

Disadvantages:

• The product takes some getting used to.

5. Trives TOP-208 orthopedic latex cushion ring

For women who have recently given birth, the Trives TOP-208 latex orthopedic ring pillow for the seat is perfect. It is made from natural latex, has antiseptic properties and can reduce the risk of diseases such as colds or allergies.

The pillow material is breathable. The pillow is placed on a chair and sit on it. In addition to women who have given birth, it is recommended for people suffering from hemorrhoids and for those who need postoperative rehabilitation of the pelvic organs. The average price of the product is 1700 rubles.

Advantages:

• When used, it does not deform;
• Breathable.

Disadvantages:

• May take a long time to get used to;
• It may seem too soft.

4. Orthopedic pillow under the back TRELAX PO4 SPECTRA

For those who often sit at a computer or spend time driving a car, the TRELAX PO4 SPECTRA orthopedic back pillow will come in handy. Its purpose is to increase comfort and provide orthopedic support during long periods of sitting. Its filler is polyurethane foam. The pillow perfectly relieves the tension that occurs during prolonged sitting. The average price is 2300 rubles.

Advantages:

• Suitable for both travel and computer;
• Prevention of osteochondrosis;
• Holds its shape, doesn't shrink.

Disadvantages:

• Dust particles stick.

3. Orthopedic pillow Tempur Sonata

One of the most comfortable pillows to sleep on is the Tempur Sonata. Its filler is an incredibly soft viscoelastic material that is excellent at providing head support. This pillow is suitable for people who like to sleep, both on their side and on their back. The average price is 10,000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Convenient form;
• There is a removable cover;
• Gives complete relaxation during sleep.

Disadvantages:

• High price.

2. Orthopedic pillow Trives premium class TOP-111

This pillow is characterized by amazing functionality. It includes a memory effect, a comfortable microclimate and normalization of blood supply, eliminating fatigue and relieving exhausting headaches. Filler - viscoelastic polyurethane foam. Form with large and small roller. The average price is about 2000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Soft enough;
• No foreign odors;
• Helps to eliminate health problems associated with poor sleep.

Disadvantages:

• The pillow takes some getting used to.

1. Orthopedic pillow TRELAX Respecta

The first place is rightfully occupied by a pillow with a memory effect TRELAX Respecta. It is made of viscoelastic polyurethane foam and can perfectly adapt to the head of a sleeping person. It takes 5 seconds to hold the contour of the head. The pillow is wide enough and soft to the touch, plastic. Over time, eliminates health problems associated with sleep. The average price is 5500 rubles.

Advantages:

• Prevention of osteochondrosis;
• Improves the quality of sleep;
• Hypoallergenic.

Disadvantages:

• High price;
• Habituation can be about two weeks.

Conclusion.

The most valuable thing in our life is health, and in order to increase it, it is important to ensure proper sleep. Orthopedic pillows allow you to perform this task.

A variety of models allows you to choose an orthopedic pillow for sleeping, for spending time at the computer, for traveling, for women, for newborns, for those suffering from diseases of the cervical spine and for other needs. The shelf life of pillows is from five to ten years, and after reading the top rating of the best orthopedic pillows, you can choose a comfortable model that will please you for more than one year.

From this article you will learn how to choose the right orthopedic pillow for sleeping for yourself or your child.

Now it is hard to imagine that not so long ago a feather pillow had no competitors and was considered the best. But the achievements of modern progress have touched all spheres of human life, not disregarding the main attributes of sleep. The variety of pillows with different fillers can confuse unprepared buyers. Let's try to figure out which filler is better to buy pillows.

Feathers and down

They have the ability to pass air, regulate heat transfer and absorb moisture. It is believed that the best filling is goose and duck down, as it provides the greatest comfort.

Disadvantages: not suitable for people prone to allergies. Dust mites, harmful microorganisms or fungi can breed in a down pillow. Even thorough drying and washing does not guarantee their complete destruction. In addition, after five years, pillows with this filler become unusable due to the destruction of the feather. And a high-quality down pillow is far from cheap.

Sheep or camel hair

They have good hygroscopicity, moisture resistance and thermal conductivity. They are breathable, very healthy and equally comfortable in winter and summer.

Disadvantages: can cause allergies, require dry cleaning. Also, such a pillow can quickly lose its shape (fell) if it is filled with low-quality wool.

Silk

Disadvantages: high price.

natural latex

They have a filler made of foamed resin of hevea - a tree growing in the tropics. This filler has the ability to adapt to the shape of the body, providing complete comfort during sleep. Natural latex does not lose its elasticity and softness, and therefore.

Disadvantages: high price.

Vegetable fillers

Vegetable pillow fillers are very diverse. Most often this buckwheat husk, corn fiber, hop cones, herbs, rice shell and bamboo fiber. The main advantages of such fillers are the effect of aromatherapy and massage, as well as the ability to pass air well.

Now quite popular and. The massaging action of the buckwheat pillow helps to improve blood circulation and tone the muscles. Bamboo fiber has a cooling effect, regulates humidity well, is antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Bamboo pillows are machine washable.

Disadvantages: all vegetable-filled pillows, with the exception of bamboo pillows, are characterized by their ability to produce rustling and relative rigidity. In addition, they require special care (dry cleaning and disinfection) and last only 2 years.

Despite environmental friendliness, pillows with natural filler are not suitable for everyone, because:

Synthetic fillers

Synthetic fillers are more durable, affordable and have many other advantages.

Sintepon

The cheapest and most popular filler. It's durable hypoallergenic, does not have and does not retain smell, pillows can be washed in a typewriter.

Disadvantages: the ability to stray, form lumps and lose its original shape.

Comfortel

Represents balls from soft synthetic fiber. The filler passes air well, does not cause allergies and retains the appearance of the pillow after washing.

Perhaps the only significant drawback is its "unnaturalness".

holofiber

It is polyester treated with silicone. It is an artificial substitute for fluff, combines all the advantages of this natural filler, but does not cause allergic reactions.

A small minus of holofiber is that it is not lush and soft enough.

Silicone

Gives pillows splendor and volume, perfectly retains its shape and combines all the advantages good filler pillows.

One small flaw- the ability of silicone to accumulate static electricity.

In order to sleep on the chosen pillow was comfortable, you need to consider the following:

1. The softer the mattress, the less bulky the pillow should be.
2. Those who prefer to sleep on their side need a firmer pillow, those who like to sleep on their stomach need a soft one, and if their favorite position is on their back, they should choose the middle option.
3. The height of the pillow should fit the width of the shoulders of the one who will sleep on it.
4. It is important that the cover is made of breathable, but thick fabric so that the filler cannot come out.
5. If you notice that you often put your hand under the pillow, it means that it is low for you.
6. If your shoulders feel numb in the morning or your neck hurts, it's likely that a pillow isn't right for you.

And finally: what is the use of an orthopedic pillow

A regular pillow is shaped like a rectangle or square and the average size 50 by 70 cm. But there are also orthopedic pillows that help relieve tension from the muscles of the neck and relax the cervical spine. This pillow differs from the usual one in that it has a special cushion for the neck and a recess for the head. According to doctors, an orthopedic pillow is the prevention of diseases of the spine. But before buying such a product, you need to make sure that it suits you.

It is advisable to try to lie down on it in order to understand whether its shape, height and rigidity suit you. Sleeping on it at first will not be very comfortable, but if it suits you according to all the parameters described above, you can quickly get used to it.

There has not yet been created such a pillow that would suit any person. After all, when choosing, it is very important to consider individual characteristics body anatomy and even your favorite sleeping position.

If you sleep all night on an uncomfortable pillow, in the morning instead of cheerfulness and lightness, pain in the neck, head, arms and back will annoy. With a decrease in the quality of sleep, good health is out of the question. Pain complemented by a state of weakness and fatigue. And that is not all. The use of an incorrectly selected product can lead to curvature 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. Properly chosen and comfortable pillow is the key to health and good sleep.

Comfort Pillow Options

Do you suffer from insomnia or snoring, do you have numb shoulders in the morning, neck and back pain? Pay attention to your pillow. It is possible that its rigidity or thickness does not suit you. When a person puts a fist or folded palms under his head during sleep, this means that he needs to buy a higher product. If your head periodically slides out of it onto the mattress, you should look for a wider option.

To choose the right pillow for you, you must take into account the following criteria:

1. Dimensions. As a rule, they are standardized. Therefore, there will be no problems with the purchase of 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).
2. Rigidity. In case of diseases of the spine or sleeping on the side, it is advisable to purchase the most rigid bedding. Middle level firmness is suitable for those who mostly sleep on their backs. A soft product will be appreciated by lovers of sleeping on their stomachs (note that in this case you need a soft mattress).
3. Height. If a person has an ordinary physique, this figure can be from 8 to 14 cm. Large and wide in the shoulders, you need to pay attention to options from 14 to 17 cm.

The shape of the classic bedding is a rectangle or square. However, in 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 designed for the head.

How to choose

After resting on a comfortable pillow, a person should not experience discomfort. A properly selected product provides a good sleep, morning vigor and recuperation. Incredibly, this bedding can have an impact on performance levels, well-being, and even mood.

Morning neck pain and numb shoulders are most often signals that the pillow you are using is not the right size or firmness for you.

If you decide to buy a new one, you need to consider the following points:

• ideal 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 rigidity of the mattress (if it is very hard, then you will need a high one);
• how rigid the bedding should be depends on your favorite sleeping position (you can read about this above).

• cozy, comfortable to sleep on it;
• retains its original shape;
• does not emit unpleasant odors and does not absorb them from the outside;
• does not contain allergens;
• easy to care for;
• strong enough;
• it passes air well, does not retain moisture, saves heat, 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 vegetable and animal origin. Vegetable are most often represented by buckwheat husks, a variety of dried herbs (including medicinal ones), latex, eucalyptus and bamboo fibers.

Stuffing of animal nature - material that a person receives from any animal (as a rule, these are feathers, down and wool). Important point: pillows filled natural material not recommended for allergy sufferers.

vegetable filler

It 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. The bedding filled with it turns out to be quite rigid.

Grass pillow for permanent use is not suitable. It can be applied in medicinal purposes(for example, with insomnia) and not longer than a week.

Latex

It is the hardened milky sap of a rubber plant. It is one of the best natural fillers. It has a very good combination of softness and elasticity. Another significant advantage is a long service life.

Bamboo

This is a truly unique stuffing material. It is not only natural, but also breathable, antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Additional advantages are durability, ease of maintenance and availability.

The disadvantage of bamboo fiber is that it is completely unsuitable for use in conditions high humidity air. Such a pillow quickly absorbs moisture and simply does not have time to dry well.

In addition, in user reviews, one can find complaints about elevated level rigidity.

fluff

This is a time-tested classic filler. It is soft, pleasant and light. Down carefully retains heat and keeps the shape of the pillow. However, this material is extremely attractive to dust mites.

To ensure that bedding does not become hazardous to health, it should be given for cleaning and restoration every 5 years.

Camel and sheep wool

Like down, it retains warmth superbly. It also has a healing effect on the body (for sure, many have heard about the often advertised belt from sheep wool). A woolen pillow can be used not only for sleeping, but also for warming up diseased areas of the body.

However, keep in mind that it is just as attractive to dust mites as down or feather.

artificial padding

Artificial (they are also called synthetic) fillers are a product made by man. Most often, synthetic winterizer, silicone, holofiber and comforel are placed in pillows. Pillows stuffed with such materials are very light, soft, pleasant to the touch and, most importantly, hypoallergenic. They don't harbor dust mites. Caring for synthetic products is extremely simple. You can even wash them yourself. A significant drawback is considered a strong failure.

Sintepon

Pillows filled with it are the most affordable. Perhaps this is their only merit. The synthetic winterizer quickly rumples and loses its shape. The head sweats on it, as it does not pass air well.

Silicone

Combines elasticity and softness. thanks to him pillow long time retains its original shape and retains its volume. Silicone is breathable and easy to care for. On sale there are products with different height and density. Thus, everyone can choose the right option for themselves.

Minor minus this material- the ability to accumulate static electricity.

Comfortel

Enjoys today the highest popularity among artificial stuffings. What does he look like? These are soft non-creasing balls that allow the pillow to retain its original shape.

holofiber

Excellent replacement for feathers and down. This material is 100% polyester. It has good thermal insulation, does not exude bad smell and does not contain toxic substances. The pillow with holofiber can be washed at a temperature of 40°C. Of the minuses, relatively high rigidity is noted.

Orthopedic products

Many are firmly convinced that an orthopedic pillow is healthier and better than ordinary pillows. Indeed, it is. But not for every person. Let's try to figure out whether it is worth giving preference to such a 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 may not even spend money on it. In this case, it is completely unsuitable.

Today, such products are represented on the market 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 are always harder than usual. This does not suit everyone. However, the degree of hardness and rigidity also depends on the filler. Thus, you can choose the most comfortable option. It is also important that the shape of most models does not change during sleep.

If the bedding was chosen incorrectly and the roller turns out to be too hard, instead of the expected vigor and burst of energy, a person suffers from a morning headache and a stiff neck.

Such a product will also not save you from insomnia. After all, even those who do not have problems with sleep will have to get used to it within a week. Therefore, do not buy an orthopedic pillow if you do not have an appropriate appointment.

If you have any problems with the spine, then before buying an orthopedic bedding, you should consult with your doctor. It will help you choose exactly the model that will alleviate the condition in your case.

We make a pillow with our 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. In search of examples, you can stroll through online stores. But it is much better to go to several real stores and examine in detail the models you are interested in 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 proceed to the choice of 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 daily, the fabric must meet these criteria.

In the process of cutting, do not forget about seam allowances. When all the details of the product are neatly cut, you can begin to connect them to each other. It should be remembered that on both sides (where there will be small and large rollers) you need to leave a place to fill the pillow with filler. It is advisable to sew a zipper here. Then you can, if necessary, unzip it and update the roller (add or remove padding).

When stuffing the rollers with filler, you need to ensure that they are not too high. To ensure that the neck is in an even position, it is necessary to focus on the width of the shoulder of the person to whom the pillow is intended.

Well, of course, before using the finished bedding, you need to sew a pillowcase for it.

post hoc

It is impossible to give a clear answer to the question of which pillow is the most comfortable for sleeping. The comfort of this product is a purely individual concept. Basically, it depends on the characteristics of physiology and health, which, as you know, each has its own.

For example, a teenager will not be able to feel normal on a medium-sized pillow. An allergy sufferer will not be able to sleep on a product with a natural filler. In some people, the subtle smell of sheep's wool causes persistent disgust.

The most common mistake made is buying the same pillows for all family members. If you choose a bedding for each separately, taking into account age and physiological characteristics, comfortable and healthy sleep will be provided.

Dear friends, today I propose to talk about what pillow to choose for sleep from a huge variety of shapes, heights, degrees of rigidity and quality of the filler.

From the right choice depends on our mood, performance, health in general. After all, a pillow is the most important attribute of our night's rest.

Very often, the cause of insomnia, back pain can be an incorrect position during body sleep. The pillow allows us to take a comfortable position and gives comfort, our forefathers understood this.

For example, the ancient philosophers, wanting to prolong their wakefulness and reduce their sleep to a minimum, first of all abandoned the pillow and replaced it with a stone.

But we all know that sleep deprivation is injurious to health, so we will provide for him best conditions and choose the right pillow.

First, answer the question: is your pillow right for you?

If you constantly put your hand under your head or under the pillow, then it is low for you.
Does your neck hurt in the morning and your shoulders go numb? Perhaps the stiffness or height of your night helper doesn't suit you.

When choosing the right pillow, consider:

The width of your shoulders. Cushion height and shoulder width should be directly proportional. Ideal option: the height is equal to the width of the shoulder.
Beloved by you. Those who prefer to sleep on their side need a firmer pillow, those who sleep on their stomachs need a softer one, and medium hardness is suitable for those sleeping on their backs.
Mattress firmness. The pillow is needed the lower, the softer your mattress.

PILLOW SHAPE may be:

classical- rectangular or square

orthopedic- has one or two rollers under the neck and a recess for the head.

Is an orthopedic pillow useful? The opinions of experts on this matter are divided:

1. Some believe that it can only be used for short-term rest, their rigid, unchanging shape and high roller can cause neck pain.
2. Others claim that the shape of the pillows provides good support for the neck and head during a night's rest, and therefore they are especially useful for people suffering from diseases of the spine.

Anyway, When choosing an orthopedic pillow, it does not hurt to consult a doctor and also test it: lie down and determine whether its shape, height and rigidity are right for you. Now many sleep supply stores offer this service: lie down on a mattress and pillow.

special- for relaxing in a sitting position, for pregnant women, for cars, under the lower back, for singles and so on.

Pillow fillers are natural and synthetic.

natural fillers

Not all natural fillers, despite their environmental friendliness, are suitable for people prone to allergic diseases. In addition, they require special care and can be expensive. Let's take a closer look at natural fillers.

Down and feather are classics, our great-great-grandmothers slept on down pillows and feather beds. Duck and goose down are considered the most comfortable, they regulate heat transfer well, are hygroscopic and breathable, which ensures the comfort of the body during sleep. Down pillow easily restores shape.

The ratio of feather and down in pillows determines its rigidity, elasticity and cost: the more feather, the more firm, elastic and cheap the pillow.

The modern market offers a decent selection of pillows from inexpensive to elite three-chamber pillows. Three-chamber pillows: the core is filled with feather tips, which provides elasticity to the pillow, and in the two outer chambers there is down, which gives softness.

Almost all feather pillows are machine washable. To save volume, toss a couple of tennis balls into the drum.

Minuses:
down and feather are contraindicated for allergy sufferers, as they are a favorable environment for the reproduction of dust and feather mites, fungi (up to 16 species), and harmful microorganisms. Ticks are especially dangerous for people, their excrement is a strong allergen. It is almost impossible to destroy ticks: when washing and drying feathers and down, adults die, and their eggs, having high immunity, survive.

They require special care: regular drying (at least once a year), dry cleaning.

Fragility (after 5 years of service, the pen begins to break down).

The high cost of quality down pillows.

Horsehair is a classic natural filler. It absorbs and releases moisture well, which is important for people who sweat a lot; on such a pillow, even in the hottest season, the head will be dry. Horsehair gives the pillow elasticity and rigidity, it is recommended for people with a large weight and those who like hard pillows.

Usually horsehair is used to stuff the core of the pillow, the outer chamber is made of quilted woolen cloth (camel or sheep).

Minuses: special care- dry cleaning, use with caution for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

Sheep and camel wool useful for general human health: moisture resistant, hygroscopic, breathable, do not accumulate dust, conduct heat well, surpass down and feather in many respects. In summer you will not be hot on such a pillow, and cold in winter.

The wool of sheep and camels has been used since time immemorial for muscular, rheumatic, and joint pains. For the manufacture of pillows, the fleece of camels, sheep and alpaca llamas is used. Wool fibers have a natural crimp, which contributes to long term pillow services: high-quality wool does not cake in them.

Minuses:
low-quality wool quickly falls off, it is quite difficult to return it to its original state. Buy woolen pillows from trusted manufacturers.

There are contraindications for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

Cannot be machine washed, dry cleaning required.

Natural silk. The pillows are hypoallergenic, odorless, do not fall off and are very soft. They are filled with a weightless cloth obtained from silkworm cocoons. Sometimes silicone fiber is added to the pillows to increase rigidity.

Minus: high price.

Vegetable fillers(buckwheat husk, rice shells, hop cones, corn fiber, herbs) have a number of advantages: aromatherapy, relaxing, massage effect, good air permeability.

Minus:
a rustle with every movement can interfere with light sleep.

The fragility of pillows, on average they last about 2 years (- even less).

Buckwheat husk very popular lately. Dithyrambs are sung to buckwheat pillows at every step. Like any vegetable filler, it has both advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:
the pillow easily takes the contours of the neck and head, at the same time has a massage effect on the skin, which improves blood circulation and strengthens muscle tone. Therefore, it can be attributed to orthopedic.
Environmentally safe (conditionally: in order to prevent insects from starting in the husk, manufacturers use chemicals to treat it, the content of which in the finished product “does not exceed the norm”).

Minuses:
causes discomfort at the beginning of use, an adaptation period is required to get used to the stiffness and rustling.

Special care is required: drying and airing, dry cleaning and disinfection.

The maximum service life is 3 years, the husk turns into dust during this time.

bamboo fiber creates a good microclimate, regulates humidity, equalizes temperature, has a cooling, anti-allergic, antibacterial effect. The pillow can be machine washed.

natural latex rubbery, elastic, but at the same time soft material, which has orthopedic, hygienic, bactericidal properties. To obtain it, foam rubber is used (the resin of the evergreen subequatorial tree of Hevea). Latex pillow repeats the contour of the head and neck, easily takes the original shape.

The undoubted advantage is the durability of latex: the pillow will last up to two decades, remaining soft and elastic. Recently, latex pillows have gained particular popularity ( orthopedic base), down (outer shell) or wool. Delicate washing of a latex pillow is allowed.

Minus: the relatively high cost of the pillow.

cotton wool the cheapest natural filler. The cotton pad is short-lived, it quickly loses its shape and suitability.

Synthetic fillers

Synthetic fillers have gained their popularity due to their lower cost, simple care(some can even be washed) and good qualities. Synthetic pillows almost do not cause allergies, have good heat-shielding and ventilating properties, soft and breathable fiber structure.

Sintepon the most popular of the cheap fillers. It is durable (the pillow will last up to 10 years), does not retain odors and does not smell itself, does not cause allergies, is easily washed and restores its shape.

Comfortel- synthetic fluffy balls. This filler is very popular due to such qualities as hypoallergenicity, breathability, easy care(machine washable), low cost, it easily maintains and restores the shape of the pillow.

holofiber- one of the best substitutes for feathers and down, is a 100% polyester impregnated with silicone. For the manufacture of orthopedic pillows, a mixture of sheep wool with holofiber is used.

Advantages: good ones thermal insulation properties, holofiber is non-toxic, does not cause allergies, does not retain moisture and odors, does not burn. Pillows with holofiber can be washed (water temperature up to 40 degrees).

Silicone gives the pillows elasticity, makes it easy to restore the shape.

Memory materials they react to pressure by slowly adjusting to the shape of the body, without “pushing” it out. When the pressure stops, they restore their shape also slowly, in 1 or 2 seconds.

"Remembering" material can be soft and hard, it is made from natural latex or synthetic foam (polyurethane). Tempur is considered the best, it has the highest density and the most durable.

Minus: can not be washed, the high cost of the pillow.

Be sure to test the pillow, lie down on it, make sure that the height, stiffness, and shape suit you.

Pay attention to the quality of the seams: so that the filler does not spill out, the stitches should be frequent.

Pay attention to the pillow cover: it should be made of high quality natural silk or cotton.

Prefer pillows with a cover that has a zipper: you can adjust the height and firmness of the pillow by removing excess filler. In addition, access to the filler will facilitate its drying, cleaning, replacement.

Smell your chosen one. A pillow with synthetic fillers should not have an unpleasant and pungent odor. It is no secret that manufacturers are not always conscientious, they can use harmful materials for the production of filler (unfortunately, they may not smell at all). When buying a pillow with natural filling, also feel free to sniff it, bad smell can talk about low-quality raw materials.

Having bought a new pillow, it is quite possible that you will experience discomfort for some time. It is not necessary to immediately conclude that it does not suit you. In order for the body to get used to the new conditions, you need to sleep on the pillow for at least three nights.

I hope this article will help you choose a pillow for sleep that suits you in terms of height, firmness, shape and safety. Correct pillow should also promote relaxation.

Good luck with your choice and healthy sleep!

I will be glad to comments and additions. What pillow do you sleep on?

Elena Valve for the Sleepy Cantata project.

A pillow is such a necessary item for sleeping that it is difficult to do without it. This is a special item, because in order to feel comfortable, everyone chooses it in accordance with their individual preferences. Here the physiological structure of the body, favorite position during sleep, as well as the degree of softness, size, etc. matter. In a word, the pillow helps us to sleep well, improves the quality of sleep and provides a good rest. Look at your pillow. Maybe it's time to change it? Then you will face a difficult question - which pillow is the best? You can answer it by carefully studying the modern and such a diverse range of this product on store shelves.

So, first of all, pillows differ in the type and composition of the filler. This is perhaps their main and most important characteristic. By the way, the degree of their hardness or softness, as well as allergenicity or hypoallergenicity and possible medicinal properties also depend on the filler. Fillers are made from natural or artificial materials. And there are quite a few of those. The former include fillers made of down-feather, wool and vegetable raw materials, and the latter include holofiber, synthetic winterizer and silicone. Which pillows are better, with natural or synthetic filling?

Down and feather filler is a classic look that is already long time used in the manufacture of pillows. The down-feather of geese and ducks is used for its splendor, elasticity, density, hygroscopicity and softness. The higher the down content in relation to the feather, the softer, better and, accordingly, the more expensive the pillow will be. Goose down-feather is thicker, larger than duck down, such a pillow lasts longer, but it is also more expensive.

The most expensive is considered to be a filler made of eider down-feather. high share manual labor in the production of this filler makes such a product almost piece-by-piece, which affects the price of the pillow, but also, accordingly, its quality.

Down-feather pillows - soft, fluffy, last a long time. After 5-6 years, they must be sent for cleaning, where the filler will be restored, cleaned and dried. Restoring pillows will extend their life by a few more years.

Sheep or Such a filler, in addition to softness, fluffiness, hygroscopicity, also has a healing effect. Lanolin, which is found in animal hair, has a beneficial effect on human body. Healing is also the warmth that keeps the wool filler for a long time. Such pillows are recommended for patients with arthrosis, cervical sciatica, osteochondrosis. Wool pillows quickly lose their elasticity and shape. Therefore, the filler is often combined, combining wool with synthetic winterizer. These pillows are medium price category, they are cheaper than down-feathers, but they are also much smaller.

The disadvantages of down and feather and wool filler include a rather high price and the ability to cause allergies. Therefore, it is not recommended for hypersensitive people to sleep on them. Which pillows are best for allergy sufferers? These are pillows filled with natural plant fibers or synthetic.

Natural vegetable fillers include bamboo or soy silk, as well as buckwheat or rice husks.

Bamboo or soy filler - "know-how" of the 21st century. These materials are remarkable in their characteristics, which have healing, antibacterial properties. They are very soft, hygroscopic, retain heat well and do not cause allergies. In a word, they perfectly combine the properties of natural and artificial fillers. These pillows belong to the middle price segment.

Another very popular filler is natural silk fiber. These pillows are soft and elastic, perfectly keep their shape. Silk is moisture and steam impermeable, does not roll down and retains all its properties for a long time.

Pillows made of rice or buckwheat husks have medicinal properties. They help to relax, the unusual filler completely takes the shape of the head and massages the skin. True, the husk makes a characteristic rustle, and the service life of such pillows is short - about 2 years.

Which pillows are better with artificial or natural filling? As for pillows with artificial filler, here, first of all, it is necessary to single out products with holofiber, which completely replaces down and feather in their properties. To positive characteristics These pillows should include hypoallergenicity, low price, the possibility of washing at home. They are perfect for those who prefer elastic rigid forms for sleeping.

Another novelty is a pillow with viscoelastic polyurethane foam. This material is for lovers of experiments and everything new. It has shape memory. When heated from human body the filler softens and envelops the head, taking its shape. After cooling, it straightens out, and the pillow takes on its original appearance.

Finally, the silicone filling, which consists of small balls that roll under the arm inside the pillow. It is considered very high quality and, like any synthetic filler, it has hypoallergenic properties. However, it is capable of accumulating static electricity.

Which filler for the pillow is better is difficult to say. Each has both characteristic advantages and disadvantages. If it speaks about the price, then synthetic fillers are cheaper than natural ones, but they are also less durable. For lovers of everything new and modern, we can recommend newest species fillers, and for more conservative people, stick to traditional classics. In any case, which pillows are better, everyone determines for himself.