LET'S TALK PILLOWS

Have you ever been to a hotel and been offered a pillow menu?

Leading hotels are beginning to offer this service, and perhaps they could be onto something. Experts all agree that the right pillow is vital for optimum spinal health and a good night’s sleep.
My husband has even threatened to take his own pillow away with us because of the uncomfortable pillows in some hotels.

However if you are desperate for a good nights sleep, you may need to have a good look at the pillows in your own home...

You need to take time to determine what the best pillow is for you based on your sleeping habits and personal needs. This will help ensure that you wake up refreshed and ready for the day.

How to choose the right pillow:

Different sleeping positions require different firmness and thickness for optimal head and spine alignment.

• Stomach sleeper: Soft, fairly flat pillow. Or you may not need any pillow at all! Having a soft pillow will allow your neck to stay more in line with your spine.
• Back sleeper: Medium thick pillow. You don’t want it to be too thick, or it will push your head too far forward. You also don’t want it to be too soft, or your head will simply sink down to the mattress. In this case, you may want a pillow which is thicker and firmer on the bottom, to provide a bit of neck support.
• Side sleepers: Thicker, firmer pillow to help support the neck.
  This is the best position if your pregnant or are a snorer!

If you find that you are a mixed sleeper and you find many positions comfortable throughout the night, look for a pillow that is of medium thickness, and a bit softer so that it can be used comfortably in different positions.

How to care for your pillow:

Before using it:

Consider buying a pillow protector, available in most homeware and bedding shops. The pillow protector can be easily washed, helping to keep your pillow fresh and clean. The protector will also keep your pillow away from moisture and oils left by your skin, and protect your pillow from staining.

Daily:

Give your pillow a good shake and fluff it up. This will help kill any dust mites and keep it fresher and cleaner.

Monthly:

Air them out to expose them to fresh air and sunlight, this helps to kill germs and reduce odours.
I put my pillows in the warm sunshine to freshen them up and dry them out.

Proper pillow care can do wonders for your sleep, which has knock-on effects on your energy levels, stress levels, productivity, and much more. Take care of yourself by taking care of your pillows!

Buying and using the correct pillows can do wonders for your sleep and avoid getting those painful neck and back aches.

Sweet dreams!