Much like in Goldilocks and the Three Bears, some pillows are too hard, some pillows are too soft and some pillows are just right! Finding the perfect pillow is a very important aspect of our overall well being. When choosing a pillow, pick one with a chemical free fill. Pillows are made from a variety of products from memory foam to buckwheat. Some are made eco-friendly, from tree fibers, wool, down, cotton, and from latex.
Why is a pillow so important? Pillows have a tremendous effect on the quality of our sleep and how well rested we feel. The better our sleep, the better recharged we are to handle our day. The right pillow can do a lot of good for the body, mind and soul. The wrong pillow can make headaches worse, create neck and backaches, cause numbness in our shoulders and arms. A bad pillow can exacerbate other health conditions too.
Beware of Old Pillows
Old pillows can also be a health risk. Your unsuspecting pillow may contain old skin cells, mildew, mold, fungus and dust mites.
Generally it is good to replace your pillow with a new one every year to year and a half. After two years, a pillow is usually past its prime.
When you pick out your new pillow, think about your personal sleeping style and the position you sleep in. A pillow should keep your head in line with your shoulders. Your head shouldn't be too far forward or backward.
Your sleeping style and the right pillow
- Back sleepers need flatter, thinner pillows
- Side sleepers need firmer pillows
- Stomach sleepers may not even need a pillow for their head or use a thin pillow. Tucking a pillow under the stomach will help avoid lower back pain
Types of Pillows
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Pillows Stuffed With
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Pillow Description
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Type of Sleepers
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What it Does for You
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Pillow Care
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Firm and contoured shape
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Side sleepers
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Good support for the neck and keeps your spine aligned
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Hand wash warm water and mild soap, air dry
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Flat pillow gets thinner over time
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Stomach sleeper
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Works for people with twisted necks
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Cotton will shrink when wet. Spot clean with vinegar and water
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Firm and made from sheep
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Side sleepers
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Gives good support for the neck and provides elevation for your head
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Spot clean 1/3 vinegar 2/3 water. Can be fluffed in cool setting dryer with a tennis ball for about 15 minutes
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Made from silky fibers of ceiba trees
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Back sleepers
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Softer than cotton, emulates down, is fluffy and little resistance
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Machine wash 2 at once with warm water, gentle cycle. Dry with tennis balls
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Come in soft, medium and firm
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Best for stomach sleepers
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Can be crunched into perfect position for your sleeping style
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Machine wash 2 at a time delicate cycle, dry with tennis balls and let sit in sun
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