Category: reviews

Having trouble falling asleep at night due to noise? Earplugs can provide an easy and economical way to block out the irritating noises that disrupt your restful sleep. For individuals living in loud environments, they serve as an effective method to silence traffic noises. Moreover, if a snoring partner or noisy travel situations are causing you distress, earplugs may just be the solution you need.

Earplugs may seem big, but they are designed to compress into a smaller shape, and basically mold (re-expand) according to the unique curves of your ear canal, and create a tight seal that blocks any outside noise. Even though earplugs can easily fit into the user’s ear, for added comfort, manufacturers have designed a wide range of shapes and sizes. When it comes to materials, most models are made from foam or silicone. Some models may be made from wax.

The majority of earplugs are designed for one-time use. Reusable models are also available but have to be regularly and thoroughly cleaned in order to prevent contamination and potential ear infections. Earplugs are typically sold in bulk for less than $10. If we would like to price an individual pair, most models would cost between 15 and 60 cents per pair.

If you are thinking about buying earplugs, take a look at our guide and some key considerations that may be important to first-time buyers. Apart from learning more about earplug shapes and materials, you will also find out what are our top picks. As always, our picks are based on verified customer experience and product research. In order to create our guide, we have consulted with 3 sleep experts and spent 80 hours of research.

Howard Leight MAX-1 Earplugs

Key features: Made from foam, bell shape, 33 dB noise reduction (total silence earplugs), one-time use, rated best earplugs for concerts

The MAX-1 Earplugs from Howard Leight is the perfect choice for first-time buyers- it’s affordable, comfortable, and effectively blocks noise. The model is made from soft, polyurethane foam formed in a twistable bell shape. The contoured bell shape design is perfect for creating a seal and blocking out noise. Unlike other earplugs that easily fall out of the ear canal, the bell shape is also ideal for resisting the tendency to back out of the ear canal and ensuring they stay in place during the entire night. The polyurethane foam not only enhances comfort but it’ especially handy for long-term wear. The closed cell-foam skin prevents dirt build-up.

The MAX-1 Earplugs are the highest rated and most sold earplugs today, mostly because of their affordable price and ability to reduce noise for 33 dB. According to our research, they are considered one of the best earplugs for concerts. They are sold in packages of 20 to 200, and cost per pair is around 20 cents, depending on the quantity.

Recommended for:

•    Sleepers who sleep in noisy and loud environments
•    Sleepers who earplugs tend to fall out of the ear canal

Moldex 6800 Pura-Fit Soft-Foam Earplugs

Key features: Made of foam, cylinder shape, 33 dB noise reduction (total silence earplugs), one-time use

Most earplugs are affordable, but the 6800 Pura-Fit Soft-Foam Earplugs from Moldex are very cheap – only 14 cents per pair when sold in packs of 200. The best thing about this product is that they provide almost the same level of comfort and noise reduction as their costlier competitors. Their NRR is 33db, meaning they have industrial-strength noise cancelling capabilities. The earplugs are made from polyurethane foam, and they are shaped like cylinders. They comfortably fit into the user’s ear, and they are also very easy to remove. The product is designed for single use.

Recommended for:

•    Sleepers who sleep in noisy and loud environments
•    Those who prefer cylindrical earplugs

Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs

Key features: Made from silicone, circle shape, 22 dB noise reduction, reusable, rated best reusable ear plugs, and best earplugs for studying

Mack’s earplugs are not made from foam like most models but from silicone. Silicone earplugs provide certain advantages, such as reusability and comfort. These earplugs stand out from the crowd because of their exceptional moldability. The circular shape can easily be molded to fit into the ear canal and create a secure sound blocking barrier. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs have a noise reduction rating of 22, which is suitable for sleepers who sleep in moderately loud environments. If your surroundings are particularly noisy, this product may not help you because it doesn’t have industrial strength noise blockage.

However, if you are looking for comfortable and reusable earplugs, this may be a perfect choice. Apart from sleeping, these earplugs can also be used for snoring, swimming, studying, travel, and similar. According to our research, they are considered one of the best earplugs for studying, as well as best reusable ear plugs. When it comes to swimming, Mack’s is even recommended by doctors to help prevent swimmer’s ear infections and Surfer’s Ear. Manufacturers have lab tested the product and it’s proven that it relieves airplane ear pressure and pain due to flying. The brand is so entrusted that it’s the official earplugs of US swimming.

In order to keep them clean, all you need to do is to wash them after every use. They are usually sold in smaller quantities, and the average price per pair is 60 to 67 cents.

Recommended for:

• Sleepers who live in moderately loud environments
• Those who seek for additional comfort when wearing earplugs
• Those who prefer reusable earplugs
• Those who need earplugs for mediation
• Swimmers
• Surfers
• Travelers
• Students

Ohropax Wax Earplugs

Key features: Made from cotton-encased wax, round shape, 23 dB noise reduction rating, reusable, rated best earplugs for traffic noise

Wax earplugs are another alternative to foam, and like silicone models, they are highly moldable and easily fit into the user’s ear canal. However, you should know that wax earplugs are very rare, and when they are available, they are usually pricier. The Ohropax Wax Earplugs is still very affordable, and therefore considered one of the best wax earplugs. Their average price per pair is 50 cents, meaning the cost is similar to standard silicone earplugs. Due to cotton encasement around the wax, they are also very comfortable.

When it comes to noise reduction, this product’s rating is 23 dB, meaning they are not ear plugs that block all sounds, but a good option in moderately loud environments but not in exceptionally noisy surroundings. According to our research, they are considered one of the best earplugs for traffic noise. Apart from sleeping, they can also be used for swimming and travel. Ohropax Wax Earplugs efficiently prevent swimmer’s ear infections and Surfer’s Ear. The earplugs are reusable and have to regularly cleaned.

Recommended for:

• Sleepers who live in moderately loud environments
• Those who seek for additional comfort when wearing earplugs
• Those who seek extra moldability
• Those who prefer reusable earplugs
• Those who need earplugs for mediation
• Swimmers
• Surfers
• Travelers

Flents Super Sleep Comfort Foam Earplugs

Key features: Made from foam, cylinder shape, 29 dB noise reduction rating (noise cancelling ear plugs), one-time use

Flents Super Sleep Comfort Foam noise cancelling ear plugs are specially designed to accommodate side sleepers. They come in a very thin, cylindrical shape that perfectly molds to the user’s ear canal. The earplugs are also very gentle and don’t protrude too deep into one’s ear canal. Since protruding is a common complaint among side sleepers who use foam earplugs, the manufacturers have designed a product that is only ¾ inch and length and perfectly comfortable to wear when sleeping on the side. When it comes to noise reduction, their rating is 29 dB. If you need strong ear plugs that block all sounds, but you don’t like silicone or wax models, this product may be a perfect choice. The product is, in most cases, sold in packages of 10 or 20, and the average price per pair is around 65 cents. Apart from sleeping, they are very suitable for traveling. The Flents Super Sleep Comfort Foam Plugs come with a travel case for hygienic storage.

Recommended for:

•    Sleepers who live in moderately or exceptionally loud environments
•    Those who prefer cylindrical earplugs
•    Those who seek additional comfort when wearing earplugs
•    Travelers

Best Earplugs for Sleeping Buyer’s Guide

Unfortunately, outside noise is a significant sleep disruption for many people. In order to get a good night’s sleep despite loud surroundings, most sleepers rely on sleeping headphones, white noise or earplugs. Earplugs may be a helpful sleep aid in a number of occasions. Sleepers mostly use them when they are staying in a hotel with a high noise potential, dealing with a snoring partner, or when they are traveling by plane or another form of public transport for long hours. Of course, earplugs are mostly used when one’s bedroom is located near a busy or loud street.

Compared to other noise blocking devices and products, earplugs are an inexpensive way to get a better night’s sleep. You can easily buy them online or at your local brick-and-mortar store. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can also choose from a wide array of shapes and styles. However, although ear plugs sleeping side effects are rare, prolonged or improper use can lead to health issues and medical conditions such as ear infections and hearing damage. In this short guide, we will take a look at the most popular designs for earplugs, potential health risks, and our picks for the best earplugs sold today.

Earplugs for Sleeping – Designs, Characteristics, and Features

Earplugs are typically made out of three different types of materials – foam, silicone, and wax.

Foam earplugs are the most common type, and they are usually the cheapest. These products are specifically designed to be put comfortably inside the ear canal. Inside the ear canal, they gently expand and create a barrier that should isolate you from all outside sounds. High-density polyurethane foams are considered one of the best materials for earplugs because it effectively blocks noise. However, it may not be so comfortable to wear during sleep. Foam earplugs come in different shapes. In most cases, they are cylindrical.

Silicone earplugs are not inserted into the ear canal like foam models. Earplugs made from silicone are designed to cover the entrance of the ear without causing much penetration. This feature makes them very comfortable to wear at night and also very easy to remove. However, when it comes to price, silicone models are typically costlier. In many cases, they are also reusable, which makes up for their costliness.

Wax earplugs are rare to find on the market, and due to their one-time-use design, they are typically a bit pricier. Many users claim they are the best material for blocking outside noise.

Shapes and Sizes

As mentioned above, earplugs come in many shapes and even sizes. The most common forms are cylindrical, or circular. They can also be bell-shaped or T-shaped. Cylindrical models can be tapered and non-tapered. Lastly, there are special moldable earplugs that match the specific dimensions of the user’s ear canal. When it comes to size, most models are one-size-fits-all, but some also have multiple sizes such as small, medium and large.

Multiple Use

Earplugs can be designed for one-time use, or they can be reusable. Foam models are in most cases meant for one-time use, while silicone and wax styles are designed to be reusable.

Noise Reduction Rating

All earplugs sold today come with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) which is measured in decibels. The NRR typically falls somewhere in between 20 to 34. Higher noise reduction rating means the earplugs are more effective in blocking noise.

Price

When it comes to price, these sleep aids are inexpensive and usually sold in bulk. One set of one-time-use earplugs can that contains 50, 100 or 200 pieces typically costs less than $30. The individual price per pair is around 20 cents. Reusable earplugs are sold in smaller quantities and are a bit pricier. The average cost per pair is 70 to 80 cents.

Ear Plugs Sleeping Side Effects

The general health and safety risks of sleeping with earplugs include excessive earwax build-up, ear infections, and minimized hearing.

Cerumen Build-Up

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a substance normally drained in the ear canal. Its role is to protect the skin and tissue of the inner ear against contaminants and water. Also, earwax provides lubrication to the ear. Wearing earplugs can affect how much earwax is drained every day, and it can lead to an excessive build-up. A common side-effect of earwax impaction is tinnitus, a condition characterized by constant ringing in the ears. Other outcomes may include hearing damage and ear infections.

The best way to prevent earwax build-up due to sleeping with earplugs is to thoroughly clean your ear canal every day or at least multiple times a week. Cleaning and replacing the earplugs also minimizes the risk of impaction.

Ear Infections

If you don’t regularly replace or clean your earplugs (in case they are reusable), your earplugs can become infected and contaminate your ear canal. Foam styles are more prone to bacteria build-up than silicone and wax designs. For this reason, most foam earplugs are designed for one-time use.

If you are wearing reusable earplugs, it’s vital to clean them properly after every use. Cleaning them is very easy; all you need to do is to put them in warm water and clean the dirt and earwax buildup. Once you are done with rubbing, rinse them with cold water. It’s important to rinse away all traces of soap because it can affect the structure the earplugs. After you are done, place them on a clean towel to dry.

Minimized Hearing

Since earplugs effectively block outside noise, they may pose a safety risk to people by preventing them from hearing certain activities in their home. Such activities include emergency situations, such as a fire or a home invasion. It may also prevent you from hearing or noticing a potential medical issue involving your family members or roommates. For this reason, people with young children are advised not to use earplugs often.

Considerations for First-Time Earplug Shoppers

If you are a first-time buyer, and you aren’t sure how to select the right earplugs and compare different brands here are some consideration you should keep in mind.

The Size of Your Ear Canal

Most models are designed as a one-size-fits-all, but it’s not unusual or rare that some models may be too narrow or too wide for some users. If you are one of those users, you should look for manufacturers and brands who design earplugs that have different sizes. You may also consider getting a moldable kit to create your own unique pair of earplugs.

The Shape of the Earplugs

The choice of shape mostly comes down to personal preference. Cylindrical models are the most common, but they tend to fall out of the ear often. If that is your case, bell-shaped or circular earplugs may be more suitable.

The Material of the Earplugs

The most common and cheapest option is foam earplugs. However, these are not durable or reusable as many silicone and wax models are. Silicone models are considered equally comfortable as foam earplugs. When it comes to wax models, they are usually encased with cotton for added comfort. Many users find wax earplugs most comfortable. Since our levels of comfort are different and somewhat unique, the choice of material mostly comes down to personal preference.

The Noise Reduction Rating

The NRR is definitely one of the most important considerations you should have in mind when shopping for earplugs. Typically, most earplugs have an NRR between 20 and 34. If you looking for noise cancelling ear plugs, it is best to look for models that have a noise reduction rating of 27 or higher.

Designed for One-Time Use or Reusable?

If you are a first-time buyer, our advice is to get cheaper one-time options and see if they work for you or not. If you find them useful for blocking outside noise and comfortable for sleeping, you can easily invest in reusable earplugs.

How Much Do the Earplugs Cost?

A box of 50 to 200 pairs of one-time-use earplugs will cost you less than $30. A box of reusable earplugs that typically contains 25 pairs costs $20 or less.

How to Block Out Noise without Earplugs?

Some people are unable to sleep peacefully despite wearing earplugs. So, how to block out noise without earplugs? If this sleep aid doesn’t work for you, you should consider other noise-blocking alternatives, such as wearing sleeping headphones or using white noise machines and noise-masking sleep apps. Let’s take a closer look at other effective noise-blocking options.

Sleeping Headphones

Listening to music or other pleasant sounds while you sleep can help block out irritating outside noise. Some studies suggest that listening to music before or during sleep can help you relax, lower your heart and stabilize your breathing. Most sleepers rely on headphones when they are dealing with a snoring partner, traffic noise or a loud roommate.

If you are thinking about getting headphones for sleeping, there is a wide array of options you can choose from. Most popular designs are in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear, but recently, you can also come across innovative models such as headbands or sleep masks. Headphones for sleep are relatively cheap, and decent models cost less than $30. However, there are also high-end and high-tech models that can cost more than $200. Take a look at our best headphones for sleeping guide for more information.

White Noise Machines

White noise machines produce random pleasant sounds that can effectively mask outside noise and enable you to sleep peacefully. Many people utilize these machines to fall asleep at night. Apart from white noise, these machines can produce other colors of noise, such as pink, blue, red and brown noise. All colors of noise decrease or increase volume per tempo to ensure the sleeper has a more balanced listening experience.

Most white noise machines sold on the market today come with speakers and headphone jacks to satisfy the many different needs of its users. The average price of these machines is less than $100, and they can easily be found online or at your local brick-and-mortar store. If you don’ feel like spending money on a white noise machine, you may use some home appliances, such as a fan, to mask unpleasant and irritable sounds, and at the same time, cool yourself a bit. During winter, a heater may also mask outside noise as a fan does in the summer.

Sleep Apps

Another alternative to noise blocking machines is noise blocking apps. Most of them are free and come with various white noise and ambient sounds. If the app is not free, its price never exceeds more than $2. Some of the most popular white noise apps that cost only $2 are Coffitivity, myNoise, Noisli, Sleep Fan, and White Noise. You can download more than one of these to see which one will suit you best.

To wake up feeling refreshed and full of energy each day, selecting the right pillow is crucial for achieving a good night’s sleep. You ought to thoughtfully evaluate a number of elements that impact the quality and duration of your sleep, such as the pillow’s supportiveness, its height, and its capability to keep a comfortable temperature. If you have a preference for incredibly fluffy and soft pillows, choosing a down pillow might be the perfect choice for you. Resting your head on a down pillow could give you the sensation of sleeping on a cloud.

Down pillows are filled with the insulating underside feathers of geese and ducks. Unlike exterior feathers, down is exceptionally lightweight, puffy, cozy, and soft. These pillows are especially popular among people who prefer sleeping on very soft surfaces. Sometimes, the down filling is combined with outer feathers to add support by reinforcing the pillow, but in order for a pillow to be considered a true down, it needs to contain at least 75% down. If it contains less than 75% down, it should be marketed as a feather pillow instead of down.   

On the other hand, pillows that are not supplemented with outer feathers have 100% down filling. It is also crucial to make a difference between down and down alternative. Down alternative is made from polyester and it mimics the soft feel of natural down. When it comes to down vs down alternative pillow, you can expect the down alternative models to be more affordable than natural down pillows. 

Down pillows are considered one of the most comfortable types of pillows that you can have. They offer exceptional softness and excellent support. They are also very moldable, which makes them an excellent option for pillow snuggling individuals. These pillows sleep fairly cool, and they are naturally lightweight and silent when compressed. However, they are more expensive compared to pillows made from other materials. Also, 100% down models are costlier than those that also contain outer feathers, and they are pricier than down alternatives. Additionally, they can trigger allergies. In this case, down replacement from polyester is a better choice as it won’t trigger allergies. 

If you prefer sleeping on soft surfaces, and you are thinking about buying a new down pillow, we can help you choose the right model. Here are our top picks for down pillows, based on verified customer reviews, extensive analysis, and product research: 

Royal Bedding Luxury Down Pillow 

If you are looking for a comfortable and soft pillow, Royal Bedding has got you covered. Their Luxury Down Pillows are sold in the set of two, and they have a very soft and lofty feel. They are an ideal choice for value seekers, as well as people who prefer very soft sleeping surfaces. If you prefer sleeping on your side or back, you should consider getting these pillows as they are considered one of the best down pillows 2018. 

The cover of this pillow is very luxurious, and it is made with 100% cotton. It looks exquisite, and it is quite comfortable and soft to the touch. Luxury Down pillow is filled with 90% down for a lofty and soft feel, and 10% of the fill comes from sturdier feathers that add support to the entire pillow. It is an excellent option for people who want to sleep on a soft surface that provides the right level of support. 

Royal Bedding Luxury Down pillow is a perfect choice for people who sleep mostly on their side or back, as it provides the cushy feel of down, and at the same time, offers the proper support to the sleeper’s head and neck. It is one of the best down pillows for side sleepers. It is also encased in 500TC cotton with thick piping at the seams, which prevents the filling of the pillow to escape. This pillow is very durable, and it has a long lifespan, and it is also considered hypoallergenic. However, you shouldn’t use it if you are allergic to down.  

This pillow is one of the best luxury down pillows, and it is very affordable. In standard size, this pillow is available in a set of two, and the set is priced around $160, which is very close to the average price of one down pillow of the same size. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Want a soft yet supportive pillow 
• Sleep on their side or back 
• Want an affordable pillow 

Parachute Down Pillow 

Parachute Down is another fantastic down model that you should consider when buying a pillow for your bedroom. This pillow is very comfortable, supportive, and breathable, and it is an ideal option for every sleep position. It is the best pillow for combination sleepers. Also, it is made from quality materials and has a long lifespan.  

This pillow has a 100% sateen cotton shell reinforced with a double stitched piping seam which holds the pillow together nicely and prevents the filling from escaping. This cover is very soft and breathable, and it allows people to sleep cool on it, without waking up in sweat. The pillow is filled with luxurious European white down which gives it the luxurious and supportive yet breathable quality. Besides 85% white down, this pillow also contains 15% feathers, and they provide the extra stability to the pillow. This pillow is probably the most supportive down pillow. The Down model sleeps very cool thanks to excellent air circulation throughout its interior, which makes it an excellent option for people who tend to sleep hot. 

The Down can be dry cleaned, and it can also be washed in a washing machine. However, if you opt for machine washing, make sure you wash it cool, on a delicate cycle, using mild liquid laundry detergent. This pillow is available in multiple firmness options. You can choose from soft, medium, and firm settings, depending on your comfort preferences. The soft option is the best for people who prefer sleeping on their stomach as it keeps the neck in a neutral position. The medium firmness has a medium amount of fluff, and it is the best solution for back sleepers. The firm version of the Down is the densest, and it is very supportive. It is recommended for sleepers who prefer side sleeping position as it requires a lot of loft to maintain the proper spinal alignment. The Down is available in two sizes – standard and king. It is quite comfortable and provides the right amount of bounce. Also, it cradles cozily to the sleeper’s head, and it is very lightweight.  

The Down Pillow by Parachute comes with a 60-night sleep trial period and a 3-year warranty. The shipping is free to shoppers in the continental U.S. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Tend to sleep hot 
• Want a breathable pillow 
• Sleep on their stomach, side, and back 

Downlite Extra Soft Down Pillow 

Extra Soft Down model from Downlite is one of the best pillows for stomach sleepers and back sleepers. It is a flat pillow, and it is an ideal choice for sleepers who find most bed pillows too full. This pillow is very comfortable, which is essential to stomach sleepers, but it still provides the proper support and keeps the spine properly aligned, which is critical to people who sleep mostly on their back. It also offers excellent support for people who sleep on their side. 

The pillow has a very breathable cotton damask cover, and this cover allows it to sleep cool, which makes it a perfect option for people who tend to sleep hot. It is very soft and comfortable and feels good on the sleeper’s skin. The fill of the pillow is 100% white duck down, and it is hypoallergenic. Thanks to being all-down, this pillow is highly compressible. 

Downlite Extra Soft Down pillow is cleaned easily as it can even be washed in a washing machine. It can be easily shaped, and even folded for support if necessary. Also, it is perfect for layering with other pillows. This pillow provides the sleeper with the right level of support and comfort, and it has a long lifespan. It has excellent pressure relief on sensitive areas, and when it comes to firmness, it is medium. Additionally, it is available in three sizes – standard, queen, and king, and it is very affordable compared to most of the others 100% duck down pillows. However, the downside of this model is that some sleepers can find it too thin to match their preferences. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Want to sleep cool 
• Prefer medium firmness of pillows 
• Need great pressure relief 

Down Perfect Pillow by Canadian Down & Feather Company  

Down Perfect is a perfect model for people who prefer sleeping on their side, and it can be a luxurious addition to any bedroom. This pillow provides the proper support, and it is very comfortable. It is an ideal option for every sleep position, and it is one of the best down pillows for side sleepers. Also, it is an excellent solution for value seekers. 

The cover of the Down Perfect is made with 100% 255TC fine cotton that is very soft and breathable. It allows the filling to breathe and prevents down and feathers from escaping the pillow. This pillow is filled with small white goose feathers that provide the resilient and firm support that sleepers need, and natural white goose down which provides the softness and luxury. It is one of the best goose down pillows 2018. Also, it has three chambers – one center core chamber which is filled with small feathers, and two outer chambers filled with down. Outer chambers provide the softness to the entire pillow and add comfort, while the core chamber offers the support of feathers. The fill of this pillow is considered hypoallergenic, and it won’t trigger allergies in sleepers.  

This pillow is available in medium and firm option, and both of them offer adequate support. The entire pillow is very breathable and sleeps cool, which makes it a perfect model for people who tend to sleep hot. Thanks to its e chamber design, the pillow maintains consistent and full shape and requires only minimal fluffing. You shouldn’t wash it in the washing machine as it will shrink and may cause the loss of the filling. Also, if the filling stays even a bit damp, it may allow mildew growth. This pillow should be dry cleaned only, and you can spot clean it by holding the fabric away from the filling, and using mild soap and warm water. It is an environmentally-friendly pillow, and it is available in three sizes – standard, queen, and king. The price of this model is below average, compared to similar models. 

The Down Perfect model from Canadian Down & Feather Company comes with a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects, which is very long for down pillows. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Sleep hot 
• Sleep in all positions 
• Want a very comfortable pillow 

The Luxe Pillow 

The Luxe Pillow is a great model for people who prefer sleeping on soft pillow surfaces. It is an excellent option for side sleepers and back sleepers. Premium materials are used in the production of this pillow, and it also has an intricate design. This pillow is a perfect combination of support and comfort. 

The cover of the Luxe is made with 100% 300 TC cotton damask. It is very soft, breathes well, and it allows the entire pillow to sleep cool. It also has double-stitched piped edges. The Luxe is filled with down and feathers, and it provides better support than models made with 100% down. Down adds comfort and softness to the entire pillow, while firmer feathers help stabilize it and prevent the sleeper’s head from sinking into the pillow too deeply. The Luxe Pillow has three separate chambers. The core chamber is filled with feathers, and it provides support and stability to the pillow and prevents it from falling flat. Two outer chambers are filled with white goose down, and they provide buffering and unique softness. Thanks to these chambers, this pillow feels firm and soft in all the right places.  

The Luxe Pillow is crafted from sustainably sourced feathers and white goose down, and it is also one of the best goose down pillows in 2018. Additionally, it is available in standard and king size. Although it contains feathers, this pillow is certified as hypoallergenic, which makes it a suitable option for allergy sufferers as they don’t need to worry about the pillow causing any health issues. This pillow is very breathable and allows sleeping cool. It is also super soft and lightweight, yet strong and durable thanks to its inner-core. It cradles to the sleeper’s neck and head, and it adjusts quickly.  

This pillow comes with a 100-night sleep trial period, free shipping and free returns. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Suffer from allergies 
• Sleep on their side or back 
• Want a comfortable yet supportive pillow 

Available Sizes of Down Pillows 

It is not always easy to choose the right size of the pillow. Sometimes, determining the right size can be a daunting task. Pillows vary in shape and size, and it can sometimes be a bit difficult to choose the size that accommodates the sleeper’s personal preferences. If you are thinking about buying a new pillow but have no idea which size to pick we will help you. We will explain the available sizes in detail so that it is easy for you to make an informed decision when shopping for a pillow. 

Standard 

Standard sized pillows are the most popular and mostly sold. Standard size is the most compact one, the shortest and the cheapest as fewer materials are used compared to larger options. The dimensions of standard pillows are 20” x 26”, and they are an excellent fit for everyone. 

Super Standard 

Super standard pillows are a bit longer than standard options. The dimensions of this size of pillows are 20” x 28” and they are a perfect option for sleepers who think that the standard size is very compact.  

Queen 

The dimensions of these pillows are 20” x 30”. As you can see, they are a bit longer compared to standard and super standard size, and they are an ideal solution for sleepers who toss and turn a lot or change positions while sleeping. Also, they can be used in queen and standard size pillowcases. 

King 

The king size of pillows is also great for sleepers who tend to toss and turn during the night. Pillows of this size can also be used as backrests and headrests for those who work on a laptop, watch TV, or read a book in bed. Their dimensions are 20” x 36”, and they are also excellent for people with broad shoulders as they need additional support. 

Euro 

Euro pillows are available in several sizes, and they have several purposes. They have a square shape and can be used as reading pillows and for décor. In some European countries, people use these pillows for sleeping. They can also be suitable as backrests and headrests. 

Pillow Size	Measurements
Standard	20” x 26”
Super Standard	20” x 28”
Queen	20” x 30”
King	20” x 36”
Euro	26” x 26”  24” x 24”  22” x 22”  20” x 20”  18” x 18”  16” x 16”

What are the Benefits of Down Pillows? 

Down pillows are a symbol of comfort and pure luxury. They are very lightweight, extremely comfortable, and very fluffy. It is not a surprise that many people want to use them. Down pillows can help you sleep comfortably throughout the night and wake up refreshed and full of energy in the morning. However, the same as other types of pillows, down pillows also have their advantages and disadvantages. These pillows may be a perfect solution for some sleepers and not work for other sleepers. Here are the most important benefits that you can expect to get from a down pillow: 

Durability 

One of the most important benefits of down pillows is that they are very durable. They can last for a very long time, even up to 10 or 15 years, depending on whether they were taken care of properly or not. Down becomes finer and softer with time, which helps these pillows outlast models made from other materials, materials that tend to become coarser or degrade over time. 

Softness 

Down pillows are extremely soft and comfortable. They are very pleasant to the touch and are a perfect option for people who like to sleep on soft surfaces. 

Moldability 

This type of pillows conforms to the sleeper’s neck and head and offers adequate support and comfort no matter the weight of the sleeper. These pillows also tend to hold their shape well. 

Noise 

Another advantage of down pillows is that they don’t have any noise. They are virtually silent when the pressure is applied to them. They are silent when the pressure is applied, which makes them a perfect option for people who tend to wake up easily during the night. Also, they are an excellent sleep solution for couples, especially those where one of the partners tosses and turns a lot during sleep. 

Warmth 

Down pillows have superb insulation properties. They retain some warmth, but they don’t get extremely warm. Also, they are very breathable and won’t get unusually cold either. Although the head and neck of the person sleeping on these pillows are kept at a pleasant temperature, the sleeper doesn’t have to worry about feeling sweaty during the night. These pillows remain very close to the ambient temperature, no matter if you are sleeping on it or not. 

Weight 

If you want to buy a lightweight pillow for your bedroom, you should consider pillows made with down. Down is naturally light, and so are pillows made with this material. You can move the pillow or lift it without any effort. 

Hugging 

In case you prefer snuggling with a pillow while sleeping, you should consider getting a down model. They are an excellent option for people who snuggle with a pillow. 

What are the Disadvantages of Down Pillows? 

Some of the drawbacks of down pillows include: 

Support 

Down pillows are very moldable, and they continue to sink around the contours of the head during the night. Something like this can cause the pillow to get too flat and too compressed, which can cause discomfort and, in some cases, contribute to neck pain. Most of these pillows have low or medium loft when compressed, and they may not be an ideal option for some sleepers. 

Maintenance 

These pillows need fluffing on a regular basis so that they maintain a decent loft and consistent shape. Fluffing is also necessary to replenish the pillow with air as well as to help it retain its softness. Additionally, it may be a bit difficult to clean them. Down pillows must be dry-cleaned, or spot cleaned with warm water and mild soap. They can’t be washed in the washing machine as they can shrink. Also, if the filling of these pillows stays dump, it can contribute to the development of mildew. 

Allergens 

Down pillows are made of natural fibers, and it is difficult to make sure that they are entirely hypoallergenic. They may carry microbes that can trigger allergies in some sleepers. However, some pillows of this type are treated during the process of manufacturing to remove the allergens. If you are prone to allergies, you should opt for down pillows that are certified as hypoallergenic. 

Lumpiness 

Some down pillows can get potentially lumpy. Moisture and oils from the sleeper’s body can interfere with the filling of down pillows after a long time of use and cause it to clump together, which can interfere with the smooth consistency of these pillows. 

Numerous people struggle to fall asleep in places with a lot of noise and commotion. Quite a few have found that using sleeping headphones is a soothing remedy. These headphones are designed to block out annoying outside noises successfully. They not only create a peaceful sleeping setting but also offer the benefit of enabling you to enjoy white noise, soothing melodies, or any kind of soft sound stimulations that may aid in lowering your heart rate, controlling your breathing, and, in general, assisting you to relax and unwind before falling asleep.

If you are thinking about buying headphones for sleep, you may be having a hard time opting for the right model. These products come in different styles, can be designed to fit into your ear or to be placed over-ear and on-ear, and so on. In most cases, headphones have wires, but you can also find plenty of wireless models. Prices range from less than $30 to more than $250, and most sleepers find reasonable not to spend more $100 on headphones.

In this guide, we will discuss different styles and functions of headphones, buying tips, and our best picks for headphones for sleeping available today. As always, our choice is based on thorough market research and analysis, as well as customer and owner and experience. In order to create our list, we consulted with 3 sleep experts and spent more than 120 hours of research.

Counting Sheep’s List of Best Headphones for Sleeping

Shure SE215 Sound Isolating Earphones

Key features: Earbuds, can be wired or wireless, 2-year warranty

Headphones for sleeping should be lightweight and able to block loud noise. Shure is considered one of the best headphones brands. Their headphones are known to be very lightweight and comfortable. They can also block up to 37 decibels of noise. If you prefer falling asleep with music, this product offers enhanced bass and high-definition drivers for a perfectly balanced listening experience.

The headphones are available as wired and wireless. The wired model can be connected to stereos or smart devices, and the wireless model is Bluetooth-compatible with smart devices. The earbuds come in three different sizes (small, medium, and large) and should easily fit inside the user’s ear. The connector also easily snaps into place and allows 360 degrees of rotation for added comfort. If you opt for the wired model, you should know that the cable is very durable and allows fast replacement and easy customization. Formable connective wires ensure secure placement, while over-the-ear style makes sure cables are out of the way. The Shure SE215 Sound Isolating Headphones come with a two-year guarantee.

Recommended for:

• Sleepers and listeners who prefer earbuds
• Those who look for noise cancelling sleep headphones
• Wired or wireless headphone users
• Sleepers who sleep in a very loud environment

CozyPhones Sleep Headphones

Key features: Headbands, wired, comfortable, 100% money back guarantee

If you are looking for a quality but budget-friendly headphones, you should consider the CozyPhones Sleep Headphones, available for less than $20. This product offers almost the same noise-blocking and listening experience as some of their much pricier and higher-end competitors, and that is why it has won our best headphones under 100 dollars category. The CozyPhones come with a durable cord that stretches up to 1.5 meters in length. Since they are over-ear headphones, some users may find them more comfortable to sleep with than earbuds.

The CozyPhones Sleep Headphones are very light and easy to carry anywhere you go. Apart for sleep, they can also be used for sports, yoga, meditation, and travel. Their comfortable and light design is ideal for children and students, as well as when you have to deal with a snoring spouse or noisy roommates.

Many users find them particularly suitable for running and other athletic activities. The headband style also efficiently blocks outside noise and offers an immersive listening experience. Lastly, you should know that if you opt for these headphones, your purchase is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.

Recommended for:

•    Sleepers who prefer over-ear/headband headphones
•    Wired headphone users
•    Travelers
•    Those who like to listen to music while running
•    Meditation

Bose QuietComfort 20 Headphones

Key features: Earbuds, wired, 1-year warranty

Earbuds typically block out noise more effectively than other types of headphones because they are designed to fit into the user’s ear perfectly. The Bose QuietComfort 20 comes in three sizes (small, medium and large) and is considered one of the best noise-canceling headphones sold on the market today. QC20 headphones are specifically designed to work with Apple, Samsung and Android devices. According to user experience, this model is also considered best wired in ear headphones.

The buds are made from soft silicone, and this material fits comfortably into the user’s ear and then gently expands within the ear. Thanks to the built-in Active EQ and TriPort technology, the audio quality is excellent.

Apart from using these headphones to block outside noise or listen to music, you can also use QuietComfort 20 Headphones to make hands-free calls. The connecting core has in-line controls that allow you to toggle between music and calls. You also have an exclusive option called ‘Aware mode’. When turned on, it momentarily reduces the playback. The Bose QuietComfort 20 Headphones have a built-in, rechargeable battery and come with a 1-year warranty.

Recommended for:

•    Sleepers who prefer earbuds
•    Wired headphones users
•    Those who look for noise canceling sleep headphones

beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones

Key features: Over-ear headphones, wired, professional- quality sound playback, 2-year warranty

Over-ear headphones are not suitable for all users because they tend to be bulky and sometimes heavy. Although most of the times, these type of headphones are used for professional recording and monitoring, they could also be used for sleeping. DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones are not only considered one of the best headphones for music, but also best over-ear headphones for snoozing.

If you don’t mind the bulkiness and the extra weight, the DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones are definitely a model you should consider. These headphones are hand-assembled in Germany; they block noise very effectively and deliver quality and balanced audio playback. The product is available in 3 sizes based on audio output. The smallest size, 32 ohms is perfect for sleeping.

These headphones are wired, and the cable can stretch up to 1.6 meters. Ear pads are made of velour; they are very soft and can be replaced easily when needed. The velour earpads gently cushion the ears and allow users to listen to music for hours without experiencing any discomfort. The headband is flexible and can be adjusted according to your head size. Lastly, it’s worth noticing that the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones come with a two-year warranty.

Recommended for:

•    Those who prefer over-ear headphones
•    Wired headphone users
•    Those who look for noise canceling sleep headphones

AcousticSheep SleepPhones

Key features: Headbands style, wired and wireless options, flexible design, 30-ft. wireless range offers a 1-year warranty

The AcousticSheep SleepPhones can be wired or wireless. The wired model has a stereo jack with a four-foot cord, while the wireless options are Bluetooth-compatible with many stereo and smart devices and offers a range of up to 30 feet. The battery is rechargeable, and last up to 10 hours.  These headphones are considered very high-tech and exceptionally comfortable due to their soft fleece construction. In bright sleeping environments, they can even be used as a sleeping mask.

According to verified customer experience, the AcousticSheep SleepPhones efficiently block outside noise as earplugs would. The product comes in three sizes – small, medium and large. All three options are lightweight, suitable for traveling, sleeping and athletic activities like running. If you opt for this model, you can also download the SleepPhones sleep app to access a wide range of pleasant ambient sounds, white noise, and other sleep aids. It’s worth mentioning that this product was designed by a family physician who aimed to help patients to fall asleep faster and sleep better without using harmful sleep drugs. SleepPhones come with a one-year warranty and a 1-year satisfaction guarantee.

Recommended for:

•    Those who prefer headbands headphones
•    Wired or wireless headphone users
•    Travelers
•    Runners

Bluetooth Sleeping Eye Mask Headphones

Key features: Eye mask with built-in headphone speakers, wireless, very comfortable, Bluetooth-compatible, high-value option

The Bluetooth Sleeping Eye Mask Headphones is definitely a very innovative product and sleep aid. This device blocks not only outside noise but also reduces visual sleep disruption. The eye mask is made of velvet and elastic cotton. It’s very stretchy and comfortable to wear during the entire night. The built-in headphone speakers can be used either to block disrupting noise or to listen to soothing music. Apart from quality sound, and noise cancellation capabilities, this product also has adjustable positioning. You can quickly move them around until you find the right and most comfortable angle for your head and ears.

The wireless headphones come with a battery that lasts up to 15 hours before requiring to be recharged. Sixty hours of backup time is also available. You can easily connect the headphones with any Bluetooth phone or portable device, and you can also use them for hands-free calls. A very interesting fact about these headphones is that they are washable. If you want to clean your Bluetooth Sleeping Eye Mask Headphones, you simply need to remove the speakers, and then you can wash it. All materials are of high-quality, so you don’t have to worry about the mask shrinking or deforming. You may think that an innovative device like this is very expensive; however, these headphones are widely available for less than $25. Could this be the best cheap wireless headphones for sleep you were looking for? Due to their price and features, this product won our sleep headphones best buy category.

Recommended for:

•    Listeners who prefer headband-style headphones
•    Wireless headphone users
•    Travelers
•    People who suffer from insomnia
•    Sleepers who are easily awakened by light
•    Value seekers

Best Headphones for Sleeping First-Time Buyer’s Guide

Many people who have troubles falling asleep at night due to many reasons (for example noise or stress) rely on headphones to wind down for bed. Listening to music, ambient sounds or white noise can help you to alleviate stress, lower your heart rate, relax and simply, prepare yourself to sleep. When it comes to sleep-friendly headphones, you have a vast array of wired and wireless models to select. Depending on your preferences, you may opt for earbuds or headband headphones. Some users prefer earbuds because they fit around or inside the ear easily and comfortably. Other users prefer headbands or look for more innovative devices such as sleep masks outfitted with audio speakers. Sleeping headphones are available for every budget, and you can get them for less than $30. If you have a larger budget, you may consider high-end options that are pricier, but also come with additional features. If you are a first-time buyer, you may have troubles deciding what headphones model suit you best. Here are some shopping and safety considerations that will help you to select the best headphones for sleeping.

Common Designs and Characteristics

Headphones for sleeping look very similar to the ones that are designed for everyday use. You can use them to play music, white music or other sounds, make hands-free calls and so on. However, there are a few things that set apart sleeping headphones from regular headphones. The first difference is nighttime comfort. Headphones for sleeping are particularly designed to remain in the user’s ear during the entire night without causing discomfort or irritation in the ears. The second significant difference is the ability of headphones to block outside noise.

There are four common designs for sleeping headphones – over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, headbands, and sleep masks.

Over-Ear Models

Over-ear headphones refer to traditional models we have used at least once in our lives. These headphones mold around the outer ear for a close fit. Typically, they are larger and connected with a solid band that fits around the top of the head.

On-Ear Models

On-ear headphones are also known as clip-on headphones. They are smaller versions of over-ear models and don’t enter the ear canal of the user. On-ear models may be suitable for individuals who find over-ear headphones bulky or uncomfortable for sleeping.

In-Ear Models

In-ear models, commonly known as earbuds, fit comfortably into the user’s ear canal. The sound quality is always considered above average, and every model has excellent noise canceling potential. However, depending on the model, some users may experience discomfort with prolonged use. Some consumers simply find them uncomfortable for sleeping

Headbands and Sleep Masks

If you find headphones generally uncomfortable for sleeping, you can check out noise canceling headbands and sleep masks. Noise blocking headbands and sleep masks don’t have headphones are innovative sleep aids that don’t fit around or in the ear but come with built-in audio speakers. These sleep aids typically have a layer of cushioning between the headphones and the user’s pillow, making them very comfortable for side sleepers or combination sleepers.

Wired and Wireless Designs

Sleeping headphones usually have wires and cords that connect them to the music players. Depending on the way you sleep, this may be a bit uncomfortable. Many models can also be wireless, meaning they play music without a physical connection, by receiving signals from the music-playing device.

Sound Playback

When it comes to sound playback, quality headphones for sleeping have to be noise-canceling. This means they have to reduce or completely eliminate noise efficiently. Noise is typically reduced or eliminated of the headphones have a proper design. They should either fit snugly into the ear or around it.

Additionally, you should know that some sleep headphones can also provide high-quality white noise and ASMR sounds. White noise can refer to sounds that are not irritating, but rather soothing and relaxing. White noise helps to block outside noise. ASMR sounds create a tingling sensation in the ears that help the listeners to relax and block out irritating and unpleasant outside noise. Headphones designed for ASMR playback typically come with high-quality microphones that reduce crackling or sounds of popping.

Volume Controls

Most sleeping headphones are similar to everyday headphones. However, when listening to loud music, you should have in mind that listening to music at a volume higher than 60 dB for long periods of time can damage your hearing. Most music players and smart devices will warn you when the volume is too high.

Are Headphones Safe for Sleeping?

Sleeping with headphones can help you to sleep better, especially if you struggle with sleeping in a noisy environment. However, there are some health risks you should have in mind, such as earwax buildup, otitis externa, hearing problems, and so on. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

Earwax Buildup

Some headphones, especially earbuds style models, form a tight seal over the ear canal, therefore reducing circulation. Due to decreased blood flow, earwax can accumulate a lot faster around the eardrum than usual. The excessive buildup is not healthy; it can be painful and may even require a doctor’s visit.

Otitis Externa

Headphones that go deeply into the ear canal may lead to inflammation, but generally speaking, it rarely occurs. The swelling occurs when the skin in the ear canal becomes irritated, and fluid begins to leak. Listening to music at a volume that is damaging for your hearing may also cause this condition.

Hearing Problems

Listening to music at a high volume, can as mentioned before, cause hearing problems. According to experts and doctors, listening to music at a volume higher than 60 decibels for a prolonged period of time can cause damage or even lead to hearing loss.

Strangulation Hazard

Wired headphones may pose a safety risk if you tend to toss and turn the entire night. If you continuously switch sleep positions, the wires may wrap around our throat during sleep. There is little chance to significantly block the airway or cause asphyxiation, but users should still be careful and keep this safety consideration in mind.

Distraction Potential

Since many headphones are designed to block outside noise efficiently, there is a risk that sleeper may not hear other sounds in their home, such as when a fire, a medical issue or a home invasion occurs. This is particularly important no matter whether you live alone, with family members or roommates.

Despite all the mentioned risks, it’s also important to note that severe injuries like this occur very rarely. By listening to music at a reasonable volume, removing the headphones when you feel discomfort and monitoring wire placement, you can at the same time, easily prevent these issues from occurring, and sleep at peace.

Considerations when Buying Sleeping Headphones

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the most important factors you should keep in mind when buying sleeping headphones and comparing different brands and models. Among the most important factors you should consider is price, comfort (including size and weight), your sleep position and warranty length.

Price

As mentioned in the beginning, a new pair of sleeping headphones can cost less than $20, but also more than $200. High-tech models with multiple functions and wireless models are typically more expensive. Simpler earbuds, wired models and clip-on headphones are more affordable.

Comfort

Comfort is an essential consideration when shopping for sleeping headphones. Whether you select over-ear, on-ear or in-ear is completely based on your personal preferences. Some people find headbands and over-ear models too bulky, while others find earbud styles and sleep mask devices to invasive. Before buying a specific model, it’s recommended to try them or to at least, try a similar model to see how it feels.

Weight

Weight is also linked to comfort preference. Over-ear and clip-on headphones are bulkier and weigh more than earbuds, headbands and sleep masks. Over-ear styles can weigh up to one and a half pounds, while other models weigh six ounces or less.

Size

Size, similar to comfort and weight, also comes down to your personal preference. Typically, all models come as one-size-fits-all or are available in at least three different size – small, medium and large. Most women find the small or medium size comfortable for their ears, while men typically opt for medium or large sizes. Of course, it all depends on the shape, unique curves and depth of your ear canal. Sometimes, the size of the headphones can be based not on physical measurements and similar specifications, but rather on their electrical resistance. If the size is based on electrical resistance, then it’s measured in ohms.

Sleep Position

If you prefer to sleep on your back or stomach, any type of sleeping headphones should be comfortable for you. If you are a side sleeper, you will most likely find comfortable using a headband or a sleep mask, because over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear models may cause discomfort with prolonged use, especially when they come between your ear and the pillow.

Tossing and Turning

If you tend to toss and turn a lot during the night, constant movement can put a strain on headphones and quickly lead to damage or deterioration, especially if the model you are using has thin and delicate wires. In that case, it is better to opt for wireless headphones, headbands or sleep masks. If you prefer wired headphones, we suggest choosing models that have a durable and reinforced cord.

Wired or Wireless?

As mentioned before, if you tend to toss and turn a lot, it’s best to opt for wireless models. If you sleep peacefully and in a sleep position that reduces the risk of strangulation (for example, if you are sleeping on your stomach or back), you can comfortably use wired headphones. However, keep in mind that in case you opt for a wireless model, you also must get a wireless speaker or a music playback device.

Cord Length

Depending on the layout of your bedroom, the length of the cord may be relevant to you. It’s essential that the cable can stretch enough to connect the wired headphones to your playback device with ease.

Warranty Length

Not all headphones come with a warranty. The length of the guarantee also depends on multiple factors. On average, the buyer should expect one or two years of coverage. In rare cases, some headphones offer a lifetime guarantee. Before buying sleeping headphones, make sure you inquire about the coverage.

Additional Tips for Blocking Noise and Sleeping Better

If sleeping headphones didn’t help you to fall asleep properly, or if you simply don’t like to wear them in bed, you should consider other strategies for blocking unpleasant sounds and sleeping without any external audio disruptions. Alternatives to sleeping headphones may include earplugs, white noise machines, sleep apps and similar. Let’s take a closer look.

Earplugs

Earplugs can either be conventional or specifically tailored to your needs. Standard foam earplugs are very affordable and may be the perfect solution for isolating yourself from noise at night. It’s also a good and cheap alternative to sleeping headphones. To use earplugs, you need to twist them and put them into your ear canal. Once in place, they will gently expand and create a tight, noise-blocking seal. A box of 100 pars may cost as little as $10.

In case you are interested in getting customized earplugs, you can buy an earplug molding kit. These molding kits allow the user to create a personalized pair based on the unique curves and contours of their ear canal. These kits are a bit more expensive, and you will probably have to pay $10 to $20 for a molding kit with one pair of customized earplugs. Typically, all packages come with how-to guides and step-by-step instructions.  

White Noise Machines

Sometimes, masking the unpleasant noises with white noise may help you to fall asleep peacefully. Apart from white noise machines, some models can produce other noise colors, such as pink. Pink noise is characterized by gradually decreasing in volume per octave, which creates a balanced listening experience. White noise is simple and constant volume-per-octave. Apart from white and pink, you can also get blue, red and brown noise machines.

All sound producing machines are equipped with speakers, as well as headphone jacks for more private listening. These machines are quite affordable and can be bought for less than $100. You can easily purchase one online or at your local brick-and-mortar store. In case you don’t want to invest in a white noise machine, you should consider using home devices that create white noise, such as a fan.

Sleep Apps and White Noise Apps

Another way to save money you would otherwise spend on a white noise machine is to download an app compatible with your smartphone, tablet or other portable devices. In most cases, these apps are free. If you need to pay for them, they usually never cost more than $2 or $3. All sleep apps and white noise apps come with a variety of ambient sounds and noise that will accommodate sleepers with different preferences. Some of the most popular white noise white noise apps that are free or cost $2 or less are Coffitivity, myNoise, Noisli, Sleep Fan, and White Noise. Sleep apps like these are handy because, apart from containing white noise, they also nature sounds such as rainfall and ocean waves. Many people find nature sounds more relaxing and pleasant to sleep with than white noise. In some cases, people can’t fall asleep with white noise because the repetitive, consistent sounds are easy for the brain to ignore. However, this does not apply to machines or apps that feature ocean sounds with intermittent fog horns, or forest sounds with intermittent animal and bird calls.

Apart from using white noise as a sleep aid, when you have insomnia, these machines can also be used to help people with a condition called tinnitus, which is characterized by ringing or buzzing in the ear. Tinnitus mostly affects older adults, and it is more noticeable at night when there is less everyday noise to distract the individual from it. White noise, as it helps to block outside noise, can also help with masking the ringing.

ASMR Noise

If you don’t like to use white noise or it simply can’t help you to fall asleep, we encourage you to try ASMR sounds.  You can easily find ASMR sounds on Youtube; there are actually playlists and channels with a vast array of ASMR videos and programs. These are free to use, but they typically last only an hour, making them unsuitable for sleepers who would like to listen to these sounds all night. Like white noise apps, you can also find ASMR apps for smart devices. Some of the most popular apps of this kind are Tingles and Love ASMR.

Latex pillows have become increasingly popular worldwide, with numerous people opting for them due to their comfort levels. Latex, a natural product extracted from the sap of rubber trees, serves as an eco-friendly material option because it can be collected for up to 100 years without harming the tree. The sap from the Hevea-Brasiliensis rubber tree is transformed into a foam filled with tiny air pockets, giving latex pillows their signature soft and springy texture. Although initially praised for their natural composition, it’s important to mention that synthetic latex alternatives have gained more attention in recent years.

Latex pillows have many benefits. They are very responsive and provide the right level of contouring. These pillows also provide instant bounce back, instead of allowing the sleeper to sink into them. Another benefit of latex pillows is that they are very durable, and they have a long lifespan. They won’t break down, and they can be permanently compressed with ease. Latex pillows are an ideal solution for people who suffer from allergies as they are antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, resistant to mold and dust mites. 

Types of Latex Used in Pillows 

Many people choose latex pillows because of all the benefits that they offer. Two types of latex commonly used in pillows include: 

• Natural Latex – The substance derived from Hevea-Brasiliensis rubber tree is pure green, and friendly to the environment. There are no chemicals added during the processing. Natural latex pillows have a rigorous manufacturing process, are better at handling heat and moisture compared to their synthetic counterpart, and they have a minimal smell. Also, they are healthier and more long-lasting and durable, compared to synthetic models. These pillows are an excellent long-term investment, and they are a perfect option for people who live a natural lifestyle and who want to remove most synthetic materials from their households. Pillows made from natural latex offer unsurpassed elasticity and healthiness, and they provide excellent pressure relief. Natural latex can also be organic, which means that it is 100% natural and free of chemicals. 
• Synthetic Latex – This type of latex is usually made from styrene-butadiene rubber, and it goes through a polymer transformation process. Synthetic latex pillows have a quite similar feel to models made from natural latex. However, they are less durable compared to their natural counterpart. They are easier to make as they are man-made in the laboratory, and they are more affordable. However, they may have an off-putting smell.  

Latex Processing Methods 

There are two types of latex manufacturing methods that describe how latex is foamed and heated: 

• The Dunlop Method – It is the most energy efficient latex production method. The latex is poured into the mold with one go, while it is in liquid form. After that, the mold is closed up and moved into a vulcanization oven. The next step is to remove the latex foam from the mold and place it into a washing station. Once the foam is thoroughly washed, and soaps and excess materials are removed, it is dried at a high temperature to remove any moisture. This method results in denser latex. 
• The Talalay Method – It is a more energy intensive latex production method. Some steps are similar to the previous method. The latex is also foamed and poured into a large mold. However, the difference is that the mold is only partially filled. After that, it is sealed, and latex is expanded by vacuum to fill the mold completely. The next step is to flash freeze the mold and push carbon dioxide through the latex, which causes it to gel. After this step, it is time to heat the mold to vulcanize the latex. The last step of this process is the same as with the Dunlop method – thoroughly washing the latex, removing excess materials, and drying it to remove moisture. This method results in fluffier latex. Talalay latex pillows are fluffier compared to dunlop latex pillows. 

Organic Textiles All Natural Latex Pillow 

All Natural Latex from Organic Textiles is an ideal solution for people who lead a natural lifestyle and want to reduce the amount of synthetic materials in their households. It is organic, which means that it doesn’t contain any chemicals, which makes it completely free of any potential health risks. Also, it doesn’t contain synthetic latex or any other latex materials. Another thing that makes this pillow an excellent choice for any household is that it is friendly to the environment.  

The cover of this model is made with 100% cotton that is organic, which means that it doesn’t contain toxic materials. It is removable and can be washed in a washing machine for easy care. It is soft to the touch and provides free air circulation thanks to its breathability, which allows the pillow to sleep cool. The pillow itself is designed with the highest quality 100% natural latex that provides excellent airflow and sleeps cool. This model is one of rare purest latex pillows that are available on the market.  

Organic Textiles All Natural latex pillow is available in multiple firmness settings, and in three sizes – standard, queen, and king. It has a pin-core ventilation system, which prevents the pillow from retaining body temperature. Sleepers don’t have to worry about sleeping hot and waking up in sweat with this pillow. It is responsive and offers excellent pressure relief, and it is a perfect model for people who suffer from back pain and neck pain. This model is very durable, retains shape, and it is free of off-gassing. Although it may be expensive for some people, it is worth it as it is made with completely natural materials, and it will last for a long time. Also, it is resistant to bacteria, dust mites, and mildew, and it is a fantastic choice for allergy sufferers. Additionally, it is a fantastic pillow for every sleep position and sleepers of any weight.  

All Natural Latex model comes with a sleep trial period of 30 nights, and a 5-year guarantee. The company Organic Textiles sells the pillow through third-party distributors, and return and shipping policies depend only on the retailer from which sleepers purchase it. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Suffer from allergies 
• Suffer from back pain and neck pain 
• Want an all-natural pillow 
• Want to sleep cool 

Malouf Z Zoned Talalay Latex Pillow 

If you are looking for a pillow made with 100% natural materials, you should consider this model. It was designed to fit the needs of sleepers in all weight groups and for every sleep position. It comes in two sizes – queen and king, and in two firmness settings – firm and plush. Extra firm latex pillow is the best pillow for heavier sleepers, while the plush option is suitable for lightweight people. Also, this pillow has four loft options. Due to a variety of options in this pillow, it can provide excellent comfort and support for many types of sleepers. 

The cover of the Z Talalay Latex Zoned pillow is very soft, and it is made with 100% cotton. It has a notable thickness for added comfort and a very smooth texture, with patterned Zoned print. It is removable and can be washed in a washing machine, which makes it easy to take care of. The pillow itself is built from 100% Talalay latex, and it doesn’t contain any synthetic additives. Larger holes are on the inside of the pillow and they were designed to cradle the head, while smaller holes are on the outside and they have the purpose of supporting the neck. These holes are also designed to improve the breathability of the pillow by increasing air circulation. 

This model is responsive and moldable, and it cradles the sleeper’s head. It offers close conforming and zoned pressure relief. It also sleeps exceptionally cool, which makes it an ideal solution for people who are hot sleepers. It is also very breathable and offers fantastic pressure relief. Additionally, it is naturally resistant to mildew, bacteria, and dust mites, and it is hypoallergenic. 

This pillow comes with a warranty of 5 years, and free shipping anywhere in the continental United States. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Want a natural latex foam pillow 
• Want to sleep cool 
• Suffer from shoulder pain and neck pain 

Malouf Z Shredded Latex Pillow 

Z Shredded Malouf latex pillow is a perfect model for people who like to sleep on pillows with traditional feel and resiliency of latex. It is stuffed with shredded natural latex that was cut into small pieces for a consistent filling that doesn’t clump. It is a fantastic latex side sleeper pillow, great for back sleeping, and it is the right option for sleepers of any weight.  

The outer cover of the Malouf latex pillow is made with 100% cotton. It is a very soft latex pillow, comfortable, and it can be easily removed and washed in the washing machine. It is also very breathable and provides excellent air circulation. The inner cover of this model is made with 100% polyester. Z Shredded is filled with shredded natural latex, with an approximate thickness of 7”, and it is quite breathable thanks to the filling that contains small chunks of latex which allow the proper air circulation. 

This pillow is a perfect combination of the moldability of a traditional pillow and the resilient responsiveness of latex. It is breathable, soft, and provides close conforming to the sleeper’s neck and head. It also has excellent shape retention without clumping, doesn’t require frequent fluffing, and it provides superior pressure relief.  

Z Shredded Latex pillow comes with a 3-year warranty and free shipping to customers in the continental United States. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Want to sleep cool 
• Suffer from neck pain and/or shoulder pain 
• Want excellent pressure relief 

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Natural Pillow 

Easy Breather Natural is a rare all-natural pillow. It has shredded latex filling and the cover made entirely with organic cotton. It is a fantastic pillow for people who don’t want to sleep on products made from synthetic materials. It is a high-quality pillow that feels great on the sleeper’s skin, it is very soft and provides fantastic support thanks to the bouncy latex foam. 

The cover of this pillow is 0.5” thick, and it is made with certified super soft organic cotton. It creates a breathable and lush feel, and it is very comfortable. The interior of this pillow is 8” thick, and it is filled with a proprietary Oeko Tex Certified shredded all-natural latex with a fluffy texture. This material is well-known for its cooling benefits and quick response to pressure, and it is also moldable.  

This pillow is a perfect combination of plush comfort and superior support. It conforms closely to the sleeper’s body without excessive sinking, and it helps improve the spinal alignment. Easy Breather Natural has a fantastic pressure point relief, it is very breathable latex pillow and allows the sleeper to sleep cool. It is suitable for all sleep positions and sleepers in all weight groups. When it comes to its firmness, it is a medium latex pillow, and it comes in three sizes – standard, queen and king. Additionally, it is an excellent option for eco-friendly shoppers as its carbon footprint is minimal, and it doesn’t contain any chemicals and fire retardant materials.  

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Natural comes with a trial period of 100 nights, lifetime warranty, and free returns. The shipping is free for customers in the continental United States, and it arrives compressed in a box.  

Recommended for people who: 

• Want a lifetime warranty 
• Want a natural rubber pillow 
• Need excellent pressure relief 
• Sleep hot 

Organic Sculpted Latex Pillow by Naturepedic 

Organic Sculpted pillow is another excellent organic pillow, and it is made by Naturepedic. This pillow was designed and manufactured with the health and well-being of the sleepers in mind. It is a perfect solution for people who lead an organic lifestyle and who don’t want to use synthetic products. It is very comfortable, provides excellent support, and it is a fantastic latex cooling pillow. 

The cover of this pillow is made with Naturepedic’s signature stretchy organic knit material, and it has a nice aesthetic to it. Also, it has a subtle textured feel that adds to the feel and the style of the cover. It is very breathable and aids in temperature regulation. However, the cover is not removable and can’t be washed in the washing machine; it is only possible to spot clean this cover. This pillow features a solid latex core made with extra soft 100% organic latex, and it doesn’t contain any chemicals or flame retardants. 

This model provides a fantastic level of support and comfort, and it cradles to the sleeper’s neck and head for proper spinal alignment. It also has excellent pressure relief, and it reduces aches and pains throughout the shoulders and neck. This pillow is designed to deliver great cooling benefits as it absorbs minimal body heat. It is a very durable and long-lasting pillow that is friendly to the environment, and it comes in two sizes – queen and standard. However, the pillow is a bit on the heavier side, but most shoppers don’t consider it to be a problem. 

Organic Sculpted pillow by Naturepedic has a trial period of 30 nights.  

Recommended for people who: 

• Want to sleep cool 
• Look for an environmentally friendly pillow 
• Need excellent pressure relief and comfort 

Things to Consider When Buying Latex Pillows 

If you are searching for the perfect latex pillow for your bedroom, you should take into consideration a few things. Latex pillows are created in multiple ways to provide a variety in comfort, support, and feel. You should take your time and determine your needs and preferences first before you go shopping for a new pillow.  

• Firmness – One thing that you need to take into consideration when buying a pillow is its firmness level. You need to determine whether you like firm or soft pillows. The firmness of this type of pillows is determined by latex density. Make sure you know what you consider comfortable before going shopping. 
• Thickness – Another factor that can have an impact on your quality of sleep is the thickness of the pillow. Your choice of thickness should depend on your preferences and your sleep positions. 
• Allergies – If you are suffering from allergies, latex pillows are an excellent option as they have natural hypoallergenic properties, and are resistant to dust mites, mold, mildew, and other allergens. However, if you are allergic to latex, you should avoid these pillows at all cost. 

What are the Benefits of Latex Pillows? 

If you are thinking about buying a latex model for your bedroom, we will explain some latex pillow benefits that you can expect to get from this type of pillows: 

Support 

Latex pillows offer the ideal combination of support and firmness. These pillows are very cushioning, and you can rest assured they will provide your back and neck with excellent support, and avoid putting too much pressure on these sensitive areas. Latex is a fairly firm material, but it is not too firm. Latex pillows can provide the support that you need to have a comfortable sleep without waking up to neck pain and headaches. No matter if you sleep on your back or your side, these pillows will provide fantastic support for a good night’s sleep, and they will adjust to your movements. You should also know that they won’t go flat for many years, and they will remain in their original shape. 

Comfort 

Many sleepers choose latex pillows because of their fantastic comfort level. Although latex is a fairly firm material, it is very comfortable and provides the right cushioning. Latex pillows spread and diffuse pressure, and shape the body evenly. They conform to the shape of the sleeper’s body and allow the sleeper to float comfortably on them. Due to its density, latex can hold its shape for longer compared to other materials, and it allows a good night of undisrupted sleep. 

Hypoallergenic 

No matter if they are made from natural or synthetic latex, latex pillows are hypoallergenic, and they are an ideal solution for allergy sufferers. Many people suffer from allergies and they need to be careful when choosing the right products for their home, especially bedroom. Potential allergens are everywhere, and some of them are hiding in our pillows. We bury our heads in these allergens without being aware of their presence, and before we know it, we start experiencing allergic reactions. Some of the allergens commonly found in pillows include dust mites and mildew. Luckily, latex pillows can help us avoid allergic reactions as they are resistant to mildew and dust mites. Thanks to them, people who suffer from allergies can sleep comfortably and securely throughout the night. However, if you are sensitive to chemical smells, you should choose pillows made from organic latex instead of its synthetic counterpart. Of course, you should avoid latex pillows altogether if you are allergic to latex. 

Breathability 

Another excellent characteristic of these pillows is breathability. Many factors can cause the pillow to feel cold or hot, such as the sleeper’s preferences and room temperature. Latex pillows are a perfect option for people who sleep hot or those who live in hot climates. They have a unique structure that allows the air to flow smoothly. Microscopic air bubbles in latex aid air circulation and make the entire pillow breathable. Thanks to these bubbles, pillows stay dry, and they transport moisture instead of retaining it. Not only they are very breathable, but they also allow people to sleep cool thanks to their ability to disperse body heat instead of trapping it. 

Durability 

Latex is a very durable material, and latex pillows have a longer lifespan compared to pillows made with other materials. No matter the type of latex, if you opt for these pillows, they will provide you with many years of restful sleep. You will surely get your money’s worth if you decide to buy latex pillows. Thanks to their durability, they are very reliable for longer use, and they can hold their shape for up to a decade, sometimes even longer. Of course, if you want your pillow to last for this long, you need to maintain it correctly.  

Easy Maintenance 

Since latex is a sterile material, it is easy to care for it. It is not necessary to clean latex pillows frequently, and when the time comes, you can clean them easily. However, you should keep in mind that you shouldn’t soak them in water. Never wash your latex pillow in a washing machine. Instead, you should spot clean it with water and soap, and dry it completely before putting the pillowcase on, but keep in mind that you shouldn’t dry it by exposing it to direct sunshine. You can also keep your pillow fresh and clean by putting it in a cool and ventilated place every month or two. Another reason why the maintenance of these pillows is so easy is that they require minimal fluffing, compared to other types of pillows. One-piece latex models don’t need to be fluffed at all. 

Little to No Noise 

Another benefit of opting for latex models of pillows is that little to no noise is produced from them when they bear weight. Something like this is very beneficial to people who are easily woken up, and those sleeping with a significant other. Thanks to the lack of noise you will be able to sleep well throughout the night as you shift positions. 

Besides all these latex pillow benefits discussed above, natural and organic pillows have additional advantages: 

Natural Source 

Natural and organic latex pillows come from a natural source. Unlike synthetic latex, which is human-made, natural latex is derived from the sap of a rubber tree. The sap is harvested by removing the bark of the rubber tree, and this liquid is used for the production of latex mattresses and pillows. Thanks to being a natural material, it decreases the risk that you will be exposed to harmful chemicals. 

Eco-Friendly 

The process of producing natural latex pillows is very eco-friendly, and they are an excellent option for people who focus on preserving the environment. The entire process is straightforward, and it is mostly about transforming liquid latex into solid latex. A minimal carbon footprint is associated with the production of natural and organic pillows. 

Free of Chemicals 

You should keep in mind that this benefit applies only to organic latex pillows. If you see that a pillow is labeled as organic, it means that latex used in the production of that pillow is made out of rubber trees that grow in plantations where pesticides are not being used. If you choose to get an organic latex pillow, you can sleep comfortably throughout the night knowing that your pillow is completely free of chemicals. 

What are the Disadvantages of Latex Pillows? 

Every type of pillows has its benefits and drawbacks, and so do latex models of pillows. These drawbacks include: 

Smell 

When they come out of the package, latex pillows have a smell that some people find unpleasant, but this rubbery smell usually disappears after several days of usage. However, you should keep in mind that this applies only to pillows made from synthetic latex. If you don’t like fairly strong smells, even if they disappear relatively quickly, you should avoid these pillows, or opt for organic or natural latex instead. 

Price 

Latex pillows can be a bit expensive, and they are not an ideal solution for people with a very limited budget. Synthetic latex pillows are not as affordable as other pillows available on the market. However, due to their durability and long lifespan, they are worth the price. Natural or organic latex models are even more expensive, but they are made from natural materials, and organic ones are also free of chemicals. It is worth spending more money on a quality pillow that doesn’t contain any chemicals. 

Weight 

Another drawback of this type of pillows is their weight. They are dense and tend to be somewhat heavy. Some people may have troubles moving and adjusting them during the night. However, most sleepers don’t consider this a problem at all. 

Memory foam, also known as viscoelastic polyurethane foam, is all the rage when it comes to comfy mattresses and pillows. Believe it or not, NASA first whipped up this material to boost cushion safety. What’s super cool about memory foam is how it can fit you like a glove, shaping up just right in no time flat. It’s like a magic sponge that eases pressure and makes achy spots feel better. Plus, this stuff gets softer with your body heat and then snaps back to its initial shape afterward. If you’re after the kind of sleep that feels like a warm hug, memory foam might just be your ticket to dreamland. Stick around to find out why turning to memory foam could be the best move you ever make for a good night’s rest.

 

Types of Memory Foam Pillows 

Different types of memory foam are used in pillows, and each type has its unique benefits. Many people opt for these models because of memory foam pillow benefits that they provide, such as improved quality of sleep, the proper back and neck support, pressure relief, and ability to shape to the sleeper’s body. These pillows are very comfortable, soft, durable, and easy to look after. Here are the types of memory foam that you will come across when searching for the best pillow for your bedroom: 

• Natural Memory Foam – This type of memory foam is used in hypoallergenic pillows. These pillows are antimicrobial, which means that they reduce the number of dust mites, bed bugs, and other unpleasant things that can trigger allergies. Natural memory foam contains a high percentage of natural ingredients, which helps provide a healthy sleeping environment, and it is the right choice for sleepers who focus on preserving the environment as it is eco-friendly.  
• Gel-Infused Memory Foam – It is infused with a gel that aids the proper heat dispersion and helps sleep cool. It is a perfect solution for everyone who likes to sleep cool as they don’t have to worry about heat retention with gel-infused memory foam pillows. Gel-infused foam is also anti-microbial, which makes it an excellent choice for sleepers who suffer from allergies.  
• Shredded Memory Foam – Some pillows have the filling of shredded pieces of memory foam, which makes them very moldable and more flexible than the average memory foam pillow. These pillows are very easily shaped, and they conform to the sleeper’s body very well, which makes them ideal for all sleep positions. Additionally, they are quite breathable which means that they allow the proper air circulation. 
• Multi-Foam – Another type of pillows are multi-foam pillows. Based on their name, it is easy to conclude that they utilize the combination of multiple types of foam so that they amplify the benefits of each type of memory foam, such as conformity, pressure relief, and cooling while minimizing the negative sides of each type. 

 

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Pillow 

In case you are in a sleepless search for a fantastic memory foam pillow, Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Pillow is an excellent choice. It is a cooling memory foam pillow that provides support, lasting comfort, and it will help you sleep through the night. Although it is very soft, it will never go flat. It is an excellent pillow for  all weight groups, and every type of sleeper. No matter if you prefer sleeping on your side, stomach, or back, you will be satisfied with Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Pillow. It is the best memory foam pillow for side sleepers. 

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo contains shredded memory foam mix, and it has two covers. The outside cover of this pillow is made with the combination of 56.4% polyester, 43% viscose from bamboo, and 0.6% lycra. It has a textured pattern, gives a soft feeling, and it is breathable. It also has micro vents for better air circulation. The inside cover of the pillow is very thin, and it holds the pieces of shredded memory foam. When it comes to the filling, the pillow is made with a proprietary mixture of Biogreen and Certipur-US certified memory foam, and it helps create an excellent sleeping experience. These materials are also hypoallergenic, which makes this pillow an ideal choice for sleepers who suffer from allergies. 

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Pillow offers fantastic breathability and keeps the sleeper cool throughout the night. Although it is an all-foam pillow, it is bouncier than many other memory foam pillows. It also allows a moderate amount of sinkage, but sleepers don’t have to worry about bottoming out on this pillow. Additionally, it is possible to adjust it by removing a part of the filling.  

The entire pillow is completely washable and easy to clean. When it comes to firmness, it is medium. It offers excellent conforming and pressure relief, and it provides great support. This model is the best memory foam pillow for neck pain. Three sizes of this pillow are available: standard, queen, and king. 

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo comes with 120-night trial period, warranty of 20 years, and free shipping to all 50 states. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Suffer from allergies 
• Like to sleep cool 
• Suffer from neck pain or shoulder pain 
• Want a bamboo infused pillow 

 

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow 

If you are looking for a comfortable shredded memory foam pillow, Nest Bedding Easy Breather is an excellent choice. The breathability of this pillow is great, and it has a very soft cover. You can add or remove the filling to your liking, and it is a perfect option for every sleeping position. What makes it stand out is an excellent warranty – this pillow comes with a lifetime warranty. Also, it was voted one of the best memory foam pillow 2018. 

The cover of the Nest Bedding Easy Breather is made up of Tencel-blended fabric. The popularity of this material is increasing rapidly, and it is a plant-based cotton substitute. It is delicate and sensible, and it is widely known for its moisture-wicking properties. This fabric helps it stay dry and cool throughout the night. The cover of this pillow also comes with a very durable and reliable zipper, which eliminates the need for worrying about faulty zippers. The interior of the pillow is filled with 8” of shredded memory foam. It delivers coolness similar to latex pillows, but with enhanced contouring and molding capabilities. This pillow has a slow response to pressure and provides excellent pressure relief and comfort. It is also very breathable thanks to being filled with small chunks of memory foam, which allows air circulation throughout the pillow. 

Nest Bedding Easy Breather is a medium when it comes to firmness, and it is an excellent choice for lightweight sleepers, those who have an average weight, and heavier sleepers who prefer less firm pillows. It is available in three different sizes – standard, queen, and king, and it provides great support and cushioning. You can also adjust it by removing some of the filling, which makes is a good option for every sleeping position. The only downside is that it can’t be washed in the washing machine, so you may want to consider getting a pillow cover.  

Nest Bedding Easy Breather has a 100-night trial period, free shipping in the continental United States, and free returns. Nest Bedding also offers a lifetime warranty on their Easy Breather pillow.  

Recommended for people who: 

• Like to sleep cool 
• Want excellent pressure relief 
• Want a lifetime warranty 

 

Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow 

Coop Home Goods Eden is a gel-infused shredded memory foam pillow. This pillow sleeps very cool in comparison with other memory foam options as it doesn’t retain body heat. Air circulation is excellent thanks to being filled with small chunks of memory foam, which allows the proper airflow. It is adjustable which means that sleepers can add or remove the filling to adjust the thickness of the pillow. Eden is an excellent pillow for every sleep style and all weight groups, and it is very durable, with a longer lifespan than the average pillow. 

The cover of Coop Home Goods memory foam pillow is made with very soft, smooth, and super breathable Lulltra fabric. It is 60% polyester and 40% viscose rayon derived from bamboo. It is hypoallergenic, which makes it an excellent option for allergy sufferers. Also, it is a machine washable memory foam pillow. This pillow is filled with the combination of cooling gel-infused memory foam and microfiber fill, and its firmness and thickness can be adjusted. Its memory foam filling is CertiPUR-US certified, and shredded, which allows excellent breathability. In case sleepers want to add even more firmness and loft, Coop sends extra filling with every pillow. 

This pillow is available in three sizes – standard, queen, and king, and it is very soft. It is not a good choice for sleepers who prefer firm pillows. Although its firmness is adjustable, it is simply not an ideal option for those who love very firm pillows. The Eden is very comfortable, and its gusseted sidewall ensures edge-to-edge support. Additionally, it provides close conforming to the sleeper’s head, which allows the proper spine alignment and reduces the pain and pressure on the shoulders and neck. Coop Home Goods Eden is fairly easy to clean as the cover can be washed in the washing machine. 

The Eden comes with a 100-night trial period, 5 years of warranty, extra filling, and free shipping to 50 states. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Have changing loft preferences 
• Prefer soft pillows 
• Suffer from neck or shoulder pain 

 

Malouf Z Zoned Gel Dough Pillow 

Another great memory foam model is the Zoned Gel Dough. It is a single-piece memory foam pillow that provides excellent pressure relief and close conforming to the sleeper’s head. It is great for sleepers in all weight groups and those who prefer denser memory foam pillows. It is well-ventilated and provides fantastic air circulation, which allows is to sleep very cool. This pillow is the best cooling memory foam pillow. The dense foam infused with gel offers the proper support to the sleeper’s head and neck and doesn’t lose its shape nor starts sagging. It is a medium soft pillow that comes in multiple loft options.  

The cover of this pillow is made of 75% polyester and 25% rayon from bamboo. It is very breathable and helps it stay cool. It is made of materials that won’t irritate the sleeper’s skin, and it is hypoallergenic, which is excellent news for those who suffer from sneezes and runny nose caused by allergies. It is also resistant to dust mites and easily cleaned. It can be washed in the washing machine. This pillow model has gel-infused memory foam made of polyurethane, and it is very durable and has excellent shape recovery. 

Gel Dough has excellent cooling features thanks to which sleepers don’t have to worry about waking up in sweat. Its temperature stays pleasant even in summer. Heat from the sleeper’s body is naturally dispersed, and the pillow doesn’t retain it. It is also quite breathable which aids in cooling as it provides the proper air circulation. This pillow cradles the head while giving the right support to the neck. Additionally, it has a long life expectancy and excellent shape retention. It is available in standard, queen, and king size, and even comes in scented options, if you want to pay extra. 

Malouf Z Zoned Gel Dough comes with a 5-year warranty and free shipping within the continental U.S. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Want a hypoallergenic pillow 
• Want to sleep cool 
• Want to buy a long-lasting pillow 

 

Layla Pillow 

The Layla pillow is a shredded memory foam pillow with excellent breathability and cooling features. Due to being filled with chunks of shredded memory foam it allows great air circulation. Also, it closely conforms to the sleeper’s unique head shape, and it offers the right amount of support. It is an excellent pillow for lightweight people, and those in average weight group, and it is suitable for all sleeping positions. 

The cover of the pillow is super soft, and it is made from a knit blend of polyester, viscose, rayon, and lycra. It is also infused with copper fibers woven into the fabric, which adds coolness to the pillow and provides the antimicrobial features. It is an excellent pillow for allergy sufferers, and it is very durable and soft. The pillow is filled with a mixture of 70% responsive CertiPUR-US certified memory foam, which means that it is more eco-friendly than conventional materials, and 30% natural Kapok fibers. The memory foam is resilient and dense, whereas the Kapok fibers are airy and very soft, which results in a unique combination of support and plush feeling. Kapok fibers are also hypoallergenic and are recommended for people with down allergies.  

The Layla is a perfect balance of softness and support, and it provides pressure relieving benefits and soft contouring. It offers great breathability and excellent cooling benefits as it doesn’t retain body heat at all, and it is an excellent choice for people who don’t want to worry about waking up in sweat. Besides being hypoallergenic, it provides additional health benefits thanks to copper-infused fibers, including better blood circulation, reduced inflammation, snoring, sleep apnea, and clean skin. This pillow is also highly shapeable and very comfortable. When it comes to firmness, it is medium soft. 

Layla pillow has a trial period of 120 nights with free returns and a 5-year warranty. The shipping is free in the continental United States. If you want this model delivered to Hawaii or Alaska you have to pay $20, which is cheaper than average. The delivery rate for Canada is $40. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Suffer from allergies 
• Are vegans 
• Want to sleep cool 

 

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow 

TEMPUR-Neck pillow is another great memory foam pillow, and it is the best memory foam pillow for neck pain. It is extra firm memory foam pillow available in three loft options and it is beneficial for people with chronic neck pain and aches. It is extremely durable and maintains its shape longer than other single-piece memory foam pillows. Also, it has an above-average lifespan.  

The cover of the TEMPUR-Neck is made of 100% polyester, which protects the pillow from dust and allergens. It has a durable zipper, and the cover can be removed and washed in the washing machine. Beneath the cover, there is a polyester netting which represents an additional layer of protection when the cover is being washed, and it encases the foam beneath the cover. This pillow is made with visco-elastic memory foam made by Tempur-Pedic, and it conforms to the sleeper’s head quickly. 

This Tempur Pedic memory foam pillow has a unique curved design which allows the proper alignment of neck, head, and shoulders and enables maintaining the correct posture while sleeping.  It is very responsive to the sleeper’s temperature and weight and provides optimal support and pressure relief. It is available in three sizes – small, medium, and large, and the sleeper’s choice should depend on his or her height, sleep position, and body type. TEMPUR-Neck pillow is the best memory foam pillow for side sleepers and back sleepers. However, it is a bad choice for people who sleep on their stomach as it simply wasn’t designed for this position. It has deep compression and very slow response time, and it is perfect for heavier sleepers and sleepers with average weight.  

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck pillow comes with warranty of 5 years and free shipping in the continental United States. However, there is no trial period nor allowed returns. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Need specialized neck support 
• Want a firm pillow 
• Are side sleepers or back sleepers 

 

Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose Pillow 

All-Purpose Pillow from Tempur-Pedic is a travel-sized memory foam pillow. Thanks to its size, it is suitable for trains, planes, cars, and more, where travelers are in the upright sleeping position. It is shaped like a peanut, which provides adequate support for the head and prevents it from falling to the side. Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose pillow has other purposes as well, besides being excellent for traveling. It is a great pillow for camping and it can be used as a neck roll, leg spacer, and a lumbar cushion.  

The cover of this pillow is removable, washable and very convenient thanks to strap for carrying. It is made with 75% cotton and 25% polyester, it is hypoallergenic, which makes it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, and resistant to dust mites. The All-Purpose pillow is made with proprietary Tempur-Pedic memory foam which provides exceptional pressure relief and contours to the sleeper’s head and neck.  

This travel-sized pillow provides excellent ergonomic support, comfort, and it responds to body weight and temperature. It is firm and extremely portable as it can be stored in any backpack or suitcase. It is an ideal option for people who experience frequent neck pain or shoulder pain as it provides pressure relief on these sensitive areas. 

Tempur-Pedic All-Purpose pillow comes with a 5-year warranty and free shipping in the continental U.S. Trial period and returns are not available. 

Recommended for people who: 

• Travel frequently 
• Suffer from neck pain or shoulder pain 
• Use support pillows for lower back or legs 

 

Available Sizes of Memory Foam Pillows 

Sometimes, it is easy to get confused when hunting for the perfect pillow for your bedroom due to different sizes and dimensions available. Sleepers often have troubles determining which size of a pillow to choose. We will explain the pillow sizes in detail so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing a new model. It is easier to determine what you need if you know more about the different sizes available. Many companies offer various sizes of pillows, but there is an acceptable size standard within the sleep industry to help sleepers in their search for the ideal pillow. The most common pillow sizes include: 

Standard 

This pillow size is the most common, and a significant percentage of sleepers use it. It is the shortest option, and the most compact one, and it is the cheapest due to the use of fewer materials, compared to larger-sized pillows. Dimensions of standard sized pillows are 20” x 26”, and they are a good fit for everyone, from children to people with larger body frames. These pillows can be used in pillowcases of standard or queen size. 

Queen 

Sometimes people use standard size and queen size synonymously despite the fact that the measurements of queen-sized pillows are 20” x 30” – they are 4” longer compared to standard pillows. They are a perfect fit for people who think that the standard size is too compact, and those who tend to shift their positions a lot while sleeping. These pillows can be used in pillowcases of a queen and standard size. 

King 

King size pillows are the largest pillows offered. Their dimensions are 20” x 36”. As you can see, they are 6” longer than queen size pillows. In general, they are used on beds of king size to fit across the width of the bed. A king size memory foam pillow is an excellent option for sleepers with broad shoulders who need additional support and restless sleepers. Pillows of this size can also be great as backrests for sleepers who like to sit up in bed and watch television or read a book. 

Body 

This size is a very popular choice among people who prefer sleeping on their side or stomach as these pillows support their legs, hips, head, and neck and provide the proper spinal alignment. They are a perfect option for sleepers who like snuggling with a pillow. Their dimensions are, in most cases, 20” x 54”. 

Travel  

Travel pillows are generally used to support the neck while the sleeper is in the upright position. They are an excellent choice for traveling and camping, and can also be used as leg spacers or lumbar cushions. These pillows are ideal when traveling long distances. Their dimensions are 11” x 16” and they can be easily stored in suitcases and backpacks. 

Pillow Size	Measurements
Standard	20” x 26”
Queen	20” x 30”
King	20” x 36”
Body	20” x 54”
Travel	11” x 16”

 

Features of Memory Foam Pillows 

It is not easy to choose the right pillow that fits your needs and preferences. Here are some of the most important features of memory foam pillows: 

• Temperature Regulation – Earlier memory foam pillows tended to sleep hot, which was a major problem. Luckily, nowadays the new models of pillows have embraced the cooling technology to release body heat instead of trapping it. 
• Temperature Sensitivity – Many memory foam pillows respond to temperature. They get softer as a reaction to the sleeper’s body heat and return to their initial shape afterward. 
• Breathability – Memory foam pillows are very breathable thanks to the open cell technology, which allows the proper air circulation and aids cooling. 
• Response Time – Memory foam softens when the pressure is applied to it and returns to its original shape once the pressure is removed. The response time of pillows varies, depending on the resilience, composition, and elasticity. 
• Durability – When it comes to pillows, their durability mostly depends on memory foam density. The greater the density of memory foam used in a pillow, the more durable they are. 

 

What are the Benefits of Memory Foam Pillows? 

More sleepers are opting for memory foam pillows, and it is all for good reasons. Many people have reported the improvement in sleep quality and duration after getting a memory foam pillow. Of course, many factors have an impact on whether a particular type of pillow will work for different sleepers or not. Here are the most important memory foam pillow benefits that you can expect: 

Pressure Relief 

Since memory foam pillows can contour to the unique shape of the sleeper’s body, they support the neck and head. These pillows are excellent for pressure points in the shoulders, neck and back area. The conforming nature of these pillows cradles the sleeper’s neck and other sensitive areas to save them from taking the pressure. Memory foam pillows provide excellent pressure relief and pain reduction in neck, head and shoulders, and they are a perfect choice for people who suffer from neck pain. 

Support 

Thanks to the ability to mold to the shape of the sleeper’s neck and head, memory foam pillows provide the right amount of support. They hold the person’s neck and head in a neutral position and distribute weight evenly. 

Spinal Alignment 

Another major benefit of this type of pillows is that they provide the proper spinal alignment. These pillows hold and support the neck in place, and the spine follows it. When they are aligned properly, it improves the body’s ability to heal and regenerate itself. 

No Noise 

Unlike other types of pillows, memory foam models are virtually silent when the pressure is applied. Something like this makes them a perfect choice for individuals who can be woken up easily during the night by any type of noise. 

Easy Maintenance 

Most memory foam pillows are easy to maintain as they can be easily cleaned. All that the sleeper has to do is to remove the cover of the pillow and wash it in the washing machine. However, this doesn’t apply to one-piece foam pillows as they need to be spot-cleaned, which requires patience. Also, there is no need to waste time on fluffing pillows as memory foam models naturally return to their original shape. 

Antibacterial and Hypoallergenic 

Memory foam pillows are hypoallergenic and antibacterial since they are made of synthetic materials. They prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, are resistant to dust mites, and they are an ideal option for people who suffer from asthma and allergies. These pillows don’t release any microparticles into the air that could be inhaled, compared to feather and wool pillows. 

 

Sleeping face down is not the go-to sleep posture for most American adults. The reluctance to adopt this position isn’t a matter of personal preference but is instead linked to the risk of discomfort and pains. For a lot of adults, the stomach serves as the body’s pivot point, and resting on it may cause undue stress on the neck, shoulders, and back. Additionally, individuals who prefer this sleeping posture frequently experience neck pain because they have to keep their head turned to one side. Despite the several disadvantages tied to lying on one’s stomach to sleep, there are still those who find it to be the most comfortable way to rest.

If you prefer to sleep on your stomach, you need a mattress that provides exceptional support, particularly in the midsection, because in this part the biggest amount of weight is concentrated. You should also consider the firmness of the bed. Although preferences depend on one’s height and body weight, most stomach sleepers claim they feel best sleeping on medium-firm or firm mattress models. If you are a stomach sleeper and you need to get a new bed, read our guide and see our picks for the best mattresses for stomach sleepers in 2018. To create this list, and a short mattress buying guide, we have consulted with six sleep experts and spend 90 hours on research.

Saatva Mattress

Highlights: Has multiple firmness options, excellent support, quality conforming and pressure relief, offers 120 days sleep trial and comes with a 15-year warranty.

 The Saatva innerspring mattress comes with three firmness settings – medium soft, medium firm, and firm. This mattress is an excellent choice for stomach sleepers regardless of their weight. The bed also comes in two thickness profiles, 11.5 inches, and 14.5 inches.

This mattress offers excellent support and has a thick comfort system with multiple layers of polyfoam, memory foam, and a support system with pocketed coils. The comfort system of the bed ensures the body of the sleepers conforms properly and alleviates pressure points. The mattress is also covered with organic cotton that contains foam and dacron fibers. This additional layer provides added cushioning to the user. The cover is also designed to create a Euro-style pillow top that is connected directly into the top on the mattress. This gives the model more softness and provides additional pressure relief. The quilting on the Saatva cover is a bit tighter in the lumbar region, but that area has an added strip of memory foam that aims to provide users with added pressure relief where it is needed most.

The support core of the mattress consists of low-gauge Bonnell coils that reinforces the edges and ensures the entire sleep surface stays flat and even. Individually wrapped coils are desirable because they are known for being good for isolating motion. Sinkage is minimized in places where people sit.

Based on our research, we believe Saatva mattress is one of the best innerspring models because it performs better in categories such as motion isolation and noise. The model stays cool and is responsive enough for sex.

It is also worth mentioning that if you opt for this model, you will get free White Glove delivery for all mattress orders in the US. The service includes in-home mattress assembly and old mattress removal. The Saatva comes with a sleep trial and a warranty that is much longer than average.

Recommended for:

• All sleep positions
• Average weight and heavy sleepers
• Sleepers with back pain
• Hot sleepers

Nectar Mattress

Highlights: Has medium firmness, has excellent conforming and pressure relief, stays cooler than most foam models, offers 1-year sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.

Nectar sleep mattress has four foam layers and 11 inches profile that is excellent for stomach sleepers. When it comes to price, it’s $250 less than an average memory foam mattress, meaning it’s also a good choice for value seekers. The comfort system of this model consists of standard memory foam and gel memory foam. It provides excellent pressure relief, and its medium firmness will ensure the sleeper doesn’t sink in too deeply. The support core of the Nectar mattress has two layers of polyfoam for added support, and the cover is made of Tencel and cotton. Tencel and cotton are excellent for maintaining a neutral temperature and preventing the user for sleeping hot. This model is also considered one of the best mattresses for side sleepers, and best mattress for back pain.

When it comes to motion isolation, nectar bed is perfect for couples. It also doesn’t cause any noise. The model is very lightweight and easy to move. It’s lighter than standard memory foam bed. Most consumers prefer this model for its thick layers of memory foam; however, some stomach sleepers complained the mattress sends their hips out of alignment with their shoulders.

If you opt for nectar bed, shipping is free, and White Glove delivery is also available in the US, but for an extra fee. This mattress offers a one-year sleep trial, one of the longest among all models sold today.

Recommended for:

• Back and stomach sleepers
• Average and heavyweight sleepers
• Couples
• Hot sleepers

The New Purple

Highlights: Has multiple firmness options, innovative ‘Smart Grid’ construction, excellent conforming and pressure relief, offers 100 days sleep trial and a ten-year warranty.

The New Purple is a mattress that was introduced in 2018, and it combines the ‘Smart Grid’ design of the Original Purple mattress with the pocketed coil support core. This combination found on standard hybrid mattresses is perfect for stomach sleepers. It’s important to say that the old purple mattress didn’t use any pocket coils and that this model specifically aims to provide the user with a sleeping experience that as pressure-relieving as it’s supportive.

The comfort system of the model is made up of the brand’s Smart Comfort Grid™, which comes in three versions. The thickness of the grid depends on the number attached to the name, so you can opt for P2, P3 or P4 – two, three or four inches of thickness. No matter what thickness you select, all materials are temperature neutral (even the cover is made of breathable and stretchy materials – polyester and spandex blend) and will ensure you stay cool during the entire night. The comfort layers provide more conforming and pressure relief compared to those in typical memory foam and latex mattresses. It’s also worth saying that the polymer frame is highly durable and will not deteriorate fast.

The New Purple comes in three height profiles with corresponding firmness settings. You can select between medium soft, medium, and medium firm. This model should be suitable for stomach sleepers regardless of their weight. When it comes to price, the price is a bit above average, and it’s more suitable for consumers with larger budgets. If you opt for this mattress, shipping is free in the US. The product is backed up by 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year guarantee.

Recommended for:

• All sleep positions
• Sleepers of all weight groups
• Back pain sufferers
• Hot sleepers

Leesa Mattress

Highlights: Medium firmness, keeps the sleeper cool, quality motion isolation, 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty

Stomach sleepers usually prefer to sleep on firmer beds, but those who are lightweight (less than 130 pounds) will find Leesa mattress perfect. Leesa is a medium firm mattress mixed with 10-inch thick memory foam which is an excellent balance between firmness and softness, and an often required feature by lightweight sleepers. The model is also great for other sleep positions not only for stomach sleepers.

The comfort layer of the bed is made of Avena foam on top and soft memory foam on the bottom. The high-density polyfoam base ensures the sleeping surface always stays flat. Avena is a patented foam that acts very similar like latex foam, meaning it provides excellent cooling, motion isolation, and comfort. As you probably know, the most significant disadvantage of getting a memory foam mattress is a tendency to overheat, epically if you are already a hot sleeper. However, you won’t experience this issue with Avena foam and Leesa mattress. By combining Avena and memory foam together, consumers get excellent support, comfort, and a cool top layer.

The bed is also great for couples because it has strong motion isolation and doesn’t produce any noise. Leesa is only 67 pounds as a Queen-size, and it’s definitely one of the lightest mattresses you can buy in the US. This is very beneficial because you can easily move the mattress or rotate it. When it comes to the price, it costs less than an average memory foam model. If you opt for this bed, shipping is free in all 50 states. The company also offers a 100-night sleep trial, a full refund and a 10-year warranty.

Recommended for:

• Combination sleepers
• Light and average weight sleepers
• Couples
• Hot sleepers

The WinkBed

Highlights: Has multiple firmness options, quality motion isolation, good conforming and pressure relief, excellent mattress edge support, offers 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty

The WinkBed is an innerspring mattress that comes with three firmness settings – medium soft, medium firm and firm. This mattress is an optimal choice for average and lightweight sleepers. The comfort layers made of polyfoam, gel memory foam, and a system of pocketed mini-coils that are excellent for sleepers who prefer to snooze on their stomachs. The comfort system of the mattress also has a cotton ‘lumbar pad’ that minimizes back pain, a widespread problem for stomach sleepers.

The WinkBeds mattress is constructed from 5 different layers. The cover contains Tencel, which is an eco-friendly, plant-based material. This material is very breathable, making it ideal for hot sleepers. The first layer of the model is a 2-inch pillow top also known as Euro Pillow Top Foam Layer. This pillow top is made of memory foam and gel foams. The combination of foams aims to provide pressure relief, enable natural body contouring and help with motion transfer.

Mattress edge support is also very good, and the entire mattress is durable thanks to the foam encasement around the pocketed coils. When it comes to delivery, shipping is free, and White Glove delivery is available for an extra fee. The company offers a 120-night sleep trial and a unique lifetime warranty.

Recommended for:

• Combination sleepers
• Sleepers in all weight groups
• Back pain sufferers
• Couples

Avocado Mattress

Highlights: Has multiple firmness options, quality motion isolation and conforming, zoned coils for strong edge support, offers a 100-day sleep trial and a 20-year warranty

If you are a bit heavy, sleeping on your stomach may be somewhat problematic. However, Avocado mattress may solve your problem. This hybrid model is made of latex and comes with two firmness options – medium and medium firm.

Before we discuss the comfort system and other features of the Avocado mattress, it’s worth noticing that this is one of the most nature-friendly mattress models available in today’s market. The manufacturers are known for combining organic, eco-friendly and recycled materials, such as Dunlop latex, all-natural wool, and organic cotton. The steel coils of the bed are recycled. Simply put, this hybrid mattress is designed in such a way to be as much as comfortable as it’s easy for on the environment.

Its comfort system consists of Dunlop latex and organic wool and has an organic cotton cover. The materials have excellent bounce potential and are excellent for ensuring the user sleeps cool the entire night. Customers may also choose a Euro Pillow Top Foam Layer option for added cushioning and more conforming.

This hybrid mattress has a support coil made of zoned pocketed coils. Thinner coils line the perimeter, while thicker ones are dispersed throughout the center. The Avocado’s mattress support system offers excellent support to heavier sleepers.

It’s important to mention that Avocado mattress is considered an “all-natural” and “organic” bed. One of the biggest pros of using an organic bed is that you will know where all the materials have been sourced. This will provide you with a lot of clarity and reassurance, especially if the practice behind the process of creating a mattress is critical to you. Eco-friendly manufacturers aim to leave a smaller carbon footprint in their overall production. If you are a nature-friendly sleeper, this may be very important to you.

However, even though organic mattresses have all these great benefits, they also come with some disadvantages. The biggest detractor is the price. We can’t expect a low cost because locally sourcing materials and ensuring the best in an organic product is always expensive. That’s why all green mattresses are not so budget-friendly. The average price of the Avocado mattress is $1,399, which we think is reasonable.

When it comes to shipping, delivery is free in the US, and the White Glove option is available for an extra fee. The company offers a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

Recommended for:

• All sleep positions
• Sleepers in every weight group
• Back pain sufferers
• Hot sleepers

Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers Buying Guide

According to research, only 10% of adults in the US sleep on their stomachs. In most cases, stomach sleepers sleep in the freefall position, meaning both of their arms are bent at the elbow and placed beneath their head, while the legs are fully extended or slightly bent at the knee. The freefall position is generally not recommended for sleep because it can easily cause physical discomfort. For example, many stomach sleepers complain about feeling pain and pressure in their lower back, hips, and neck. A supportive and firm mattress may alleviate or prevent these aches, but in some cases, this position may lead to discomfort regardless of your mattress choice.

Sleeping on Your Stomach

Sleeping on your stomach is uncomfortable. However, it still has some benefits. For example, it can reduce snoring and alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux. Stomach sleeping can also minimize the development of wrinkles.

When it comes to the disadvantages of sleeping on your stomach, you may experience the following:

• neck, shoulder, back, and hip pain
• neck strains
• tossing and turning
• pregnancy discomfort

Pain

Adults carry most of their weight in the midsection. Gravity pulls the rest of the body toward the weight, which can easily result in aches and pain all over the body, especially in the shoulders and the lumbar region. Sleeping on your stomach causes an additional gravitational pull which increases the chances of experiencing pain and discomfort in the midsection areas, especially your lower back.

Stress on the Spine

As mentioned before, most adults carry their weight in the midsection and sleeping on your stomach puts additional pressure on the lumbar region and especially on the spine. When there is a lot of pressure on the spine, stress increases on other parts and structures in your body. Since the spine is a pipeline for your nerves, unnecessary pressure may cause pain anywhere in your body. You can also experience tingling and numbness in the morning. Sometimes, the numbness in certain areas of your body, especially in the extremities can wake you up in the middle of the night.

Neck Strain

Most people who prefer to sleep on their stomach don’t snooze with their face pointed directly at the pillow, but rather crane their head to one side. This seems like a comfortable position while sleeping, but it may easily result in a neck strain the next day.  To alleviate or prevent neck pain and strains, it is best to get a pillow that has a proper loft based on your weight, head size, and shoulder width.

Tossing and Turning

Even if you prefer to sleep on your stomach, you may still experience nighttime discomfort and frequent tossing and turning in bed. Seeking for the most comfortable position to sleep in by frequently tossing and turning mat affect your sleep quality and leave you tired and drained of energy in the morning.

Pregnancy Discomfort

Most doctors claim it’s perfectly safe to sleep on your stomach during pregnancy. However, most pregnant women avoid this due to high discomfort potential. The weight of the belly often causes a strain in the back and hips. As the pregnancy progresses, expecting mothers have difficulties aligning their spine during sleep, especially if they tend to sleep on their stomach. According to doctors and sleep experts, the best sleeping position for pregnant women is to sleep on their side with a pillow between their legs. Studies show that sleeping on your left side during pregnancy improves blood flow and provide the optimum oxygen levels for you and your baby.

So, if you are sleeping for two, it is best to avoid sleeping on your stomach your entire pregnancy. Even though it doesn’t seem like it will have much effect in the first trimester, you are putting additional strain on your spine. In late pregnancy, sleeping on your stomach may squeeze the baby between your spine and the mattress.

Tips for Sleeping on Your Stomach

If you have slept on your stomach your entire life and don’t find any other position comfortable, it may hard for you to suddenly change the way you sleep. Here are some tips for sleeping on your stomach comfortably and avoiding aches that are typically associated with sleeping in this position.

• Use a low loft pillow or sleep without a pillow. It is important to sleep on a thin pillow to minimize the angle between your head and neck.
• To put your back in a more neutral position and keep the spine properly aligned, sleep with a pillow under your pelvis. This will also take the pressure off your spine.
• Make sure you stretch in the morning. Only 5 minutes of stretching can help you to align your body again and strengthen the supporting muscles. Just warm up a bit and be gentle to your muscles and spine.

Choosing the Best Mattress for Stomach Sleeping 2018

If you are a stomach sleeper, you definitely need a supportive mattress. So, what supportive actually means? When discussing mattresses, support refers to the flatness and evenness of a sleep surface. A bed that has excellent support will conform to the user’s body and ensure the spine stays properly aligned. When you lie down, your sleep surface shouldn’t be even, and the spine shouldn’t sink too deeply.

Mattress Firmness Guide for Stomach Sleepers

When it comes to supportiveness, your body weight and the firmness of the mattress play an essential role. Firmness is usually assigned on a 1 to 10 scale, from least firm to the firmest. Soft beds are the ones rated to 3, medium the ones rated to 8, and extra firm is typically rated 8 or higher. Stomach sleepers of average weight prefer medium firmness (5 or 6) because they don’t sink too deeply and provide even support.

If you weigh less than 130 pounds or more than 230 pounds, you will probably have different firmness preferences.

Lighter sleepers typically prefer soft or medium soft mattresses. Firmer models may not be suitable for lighter sleepers because they don’t conform to their body enough, and may create an uneven sleep surface. Without close conforming, the sleeping surface also won’t provide enough pressure relief.

Average weight sleepers (from 130 to 230 pounds) prefer medium to medium firm models because these beds provide minimal sinkage and adequate spinal alignment. Pressure relief is also optimal.

Heavier sleepers, specifically those above 230 pounds), prefer medium firm or firmer mattresses and often struggle snoozing on softer models. Due to their weight, a soft mattress may sink too much and cause pain in the morning. A firmer mattress will properly distribute weight; ensure there is less sinkage and that the spine is aligned correctly all night.

Best and Worst Beds for Stomach Sleepers

No matter what mattress they choose, stomach sleepers often experience pain and aches in their midsection in the morning. However, sleeping on some models may better accommodate these sleepers than others, mostly due to the material composition, comfort layers and the support system of the bed. Apart from the level of support, mattress types can also vary regarding noise, durability, temperature neutrality, odor potential, and price-point.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using the five most common mattress types for stomach sleeping.

Type	Construction	Lifespan	Pros	Cons
FOAM	-Polyfoam ormemory foam comfort layer -polyfoam support core	5 to 6 years	-Good conforming and pressure relief -Good motion isolation -No noise -Multiple firmness options -Budget friendly	– Sleeps hot -Odor -Early sagging potential -Low edge support
LATEX	-Natural or synthetic latex comfort layer -latex or polyfoam support core	7 to 8 years	-Long lifespan -Close conforming and pressure relief -Good motion isolation -No noise -Good for hot sleepers	-Odor potential -Early sagging potential -Low edge support -Expensive
INNER– SPRING	-Polyfoam comfort layer -Steel springs in the support core combined with polyfoam layers	4 to 6 years	-Strong edge support -Good for hot sleepers-Multiple firmness options -Budget friendly	-Minimal conforming and pressure relief -Noise potential -Early sagging potential
HYBRID	Latex and/ormemory foam comfort layer, combined with pocketed coil supportcore and polyfoam base	6 to 7 years	-Good conforming and pressure relief -Strong edge support -Good for hot sleepers	-Sleeps hot -Noise potential -Expensive
AIRBED	Foam comfort layer, air chambersupport core	7 to 9 years	-Long lifespan -Good conforming and pressure relief -Adjustable firmness	-Sleep hot -Noise potential -Expensive

Tips for Buying a Mattress

The most important factor when choosing a mattress is to select the proper type. After opting for a specific model that will be suitable for you and partner’s needs, you can start narrowing down your options and calculate a realistic price, research the product warranty and so on. The following tips should help you go through this process faster and easier.

Determine the Price

Buying a new mattress is a big investment, and although a good model it’s worth your every penny, you should always set a realistic price and determine your budget. An average mattress costs more than $1,000, and models can be priced from $100 to more than $5,000. Your preferred mattress type should be your starting point for setting a budget. Innerspring mattresses and memory foam models are typically cheaper than latex, hybrid models, and airbeds. Also, keep in mind that you may have to pay for additional fees such as for shipping or White Glove Delivery. Depending on the country you live in, the extra shipping charges can amount to hundreds of dollars on top of the mattress price.

Sleep Trials

Most mattress companies that sell beds offer sleep trials. A sleep trial allows the buyer to test out a bed for a certain period of time. Typically, this trial period lasts around 90 days or more. In case you are not satisfied, you can return the product and get a partial or a full refund. Depending on the company, exchanges may also be allowed. Before purchasing a mattress, we encourage you to read the fine print carefully because although sleep trials come with many benefits, they also have some disadvantages. For example, some brands have a mandatory break-in period, meaning you have to test out a mattress for a certain period of time before qualifying for a full refund. Most brands offer a full refund, but there are also some that will charge you a flat or variable fee.

Product Warranty

Most mattresses come with product warranties against certain defects. The guarantees may last ten years or longer. Some companies may also offer a lifetime warranty. The defects covered by warranties usually include indentations in the sleep surface, material flaws, physical damage or similar. The most important factor of a guarantee is its length of non-prorated coverage. This coverage allows you to repair or replace a defective mattress for a little or no charge. When prorated coverage starts, you will have to pay a percentage of the original product price to have a repair or a replacement done. It is also essential to know that this percentage increases each year, as the mattress gets older and more prone to deterioration. Therefore, when you want to ask some questions about the warranty, it’s vital not to forget to inquire about how much non-prorated coverage is offered, when prorated coverage starts, and what percentage of the original price you have to pay once the prorated coverage period begins. Usually, if a warranty lasts ten years or longer, the manufacturers offer only two years of non-prorated coverage.

In the current lifestyle and workplace environment, a large number of individuals are battling chronic back pain. This condition is widespread these days and affects countless people across the United States, spanning across adults and teens alike. It is believed that around 80% of adults will experience some form of back pain in their lifetime, with many suffering from ongoing discomfort. The relentless pain not only affects our daily functioning but also reduces the quality of our sleep. Struggling with back pain can leave one tossing and turning all night, struggling to achieve restorative sleep. Making the right choice in mattresses can significantly enhance our sleep quality by reducing discomfort in critical areas like the neck, shoulders, lower back, and hips. On the other hand, an unsuitable mattress can aggravate the issue and introduce new pain points. Thus, it is paramount to choose a mattress that provides both comfort and support, allowing for a reduction in pain overnight and helping you to wake up rejuvenated.

There are several key factors which you should consider when choosing a new mattress. For people who have experienced back pain problems or live with them, a new mattress is not just financial investment that affects their budget, but also an investment that affects their health and lifestyle. When choosing a new mattress, pay attention to its firmness, thickness, and material construction, also do not forget your favorite sleep position and personal weight, or the importance of dimensions; our mattress size chart can help you out if you have any doubts.

To narrow the search for the ideal mattress for back pain and to help you have a better sleep quality, we created particular buyers guide and top list concentrated on mattresses that offer support and body-contouring, taking a personal weight and sleep positions in consideration as well. With that said, we represent you our top list of seven mattresses that will ease your back pain problems.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature

Highlights:

• Warranty period – 10 years
• Sleep trial period – 120 nights
• Motion isolation
• Three firmness options
• Cooling Titanium gel

Among Brooklyn Bedding models, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature is their top-selling model for the last three years. This hybrid mattress is available in three different levels of firmness, with pocketed coil system which enables high edge support, while comfort layers gently hug the sleeper to soothe the joints.

We suggest a soft level of firmness for those who need gentler support for their body contours, who like sleeping mainly on their side or enjoy the feeling of being “hugged” by their mattress. Medium level of firmness is suitable for people who combine sleeping on their stomach, back and side and enjoy harmonic feeling between support and contouring. Firm-level works well for those who sleep on their stomach and/or back. It provides a smooth, flat surface for sleeping and it does not allow you to sink in your mattress too much. Also, it provides additional lumbar support.

Feel of increased comfort is achieved by placing high-quality foam layers above a top of the line pocketed coil system, which gives the sleepers the best features of both foam and spring mattresses in one. Top foam layers are infused with cooling Titanium gel, to control the temperature and enhance your overall sleep experience.

Unlike others, this hybrid mattress almost does not produce noise and isolates serious amount of motion transfer, which makes it suitable mainly for couples. Hybrid beds are expensive to produce, but due to the company’s great business politics, the price of their Signature model is undoubtedly lower than the regular price point, and they have free shipping within the US.

Great for:

• All types of sleepers (back, stomach, side, combination)
• Couples
• All weights (light, average, heavy)

Helix Dawn

Highlights:

• Warranty period – 10 years
• Sleep trial period – 100 nights
• Very supportive build
• Strong feel of firmness

The Helix Dawn belongs to hybrid mattresses with great support for all body shapes and weights. It offers a substantially firm feel, and high quality for a reasonable price for people experiencing back pain symptoms.

Due to its high level of firmness, we do not recommend this type of bed to all kinds of sleepers, so if you are a side slipper, you might skip this one. On the other hand, if you are a back or stomach sleeper, Helix Dawn could be your ideal choice. When it comes to different firmness levels, Helix offers nine of them, so if you are insecure about your decision, Helix offers very detailed mattress quiz, which can help you pick just the right mattress for your body type, and personalize your experience of choosing a Helix mattress.

To enable the right amount of support for people with back pain, Helix Dawn uses a latex-foam hybrid, also known as Helix dynamic foam, on top of an individual coils support system which helps to cradle your body and controls motion transfer. Each mattress comes with Two-Touch design, which includes two layers designed to increase breath-ability and airflow. Also, shipping is free within the US.

Great for:

• Heavyweight sleepers
• Stomach and back sleepers
• Sleepers seeking extra support

PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress (10″ or 12″)

Highlights:

• Warranty period – 25 years
• Sleep trial period – 100 nights
• Above average lifespan
• Different firmness options

The PlushBeds Collection model Botanical Bliss is a latex mattress that offers comfortable, long-lasting, and eco-friendly experience. From their wide range, we have selected two thickest models, 10″ and 12″, as they are the best solution to ease the aches that back pain sufferers are experiencing. Chiropractor specialists often recommend this mattress as it does great work with relieving pains, soothing pressure points and promoting deep sleep. They have excellent motion transfer isolation and produce almost no noise when bearing weight.

It is important to know that organic latex is antimicrobial, mildew and mold proof, which is convenient for people dealing with allergies. It has no toxins, no irritants or smells. Check out why is Botanical Bliss on our list of 5 High-Rated Latex Mattresses in 2018.

Between layers of organic Dunlop latex from Arpico and knitted cotton cover, there is a layer made out of organic wool from New Zealand flocks. Around 10 lbs. of organic wool can be found in each mattress, which allows your body to regulate temperature during the night and it also reduces humidity, keeping the mildew and dust mites away.

Like other latex mattresses, all Botanical Bliss ones have a long lifespan, so you know you are making a long-term investment with these mattresses. Shipping is free within the US, and in-home assembly service is available upon request for an extra charge.

Great for:

• All weights (light, average, heavy)
• Back and/or side sleepers
• Shoppers looking for an eco-friendly mattress
• Shoppers with a bigger budget

Layla Mattress

Highlights:

• Lifetime warranty
• Sleep trial period -120 nights
• Flippable
• Different firmness on both sides

The Layla Mattress is not your average mattress; this mattress is actually flippable, 2 in 1, made out of memory foam of different firmness on both sides, one is Medium Soft (4), and the other one is more Firm (7). Both memory foam layers are infused with copper which is probably not the component that you imagine when thinking about the ideally comfortable bed, but, this secret ingredient is antimicrobial, heat conductive and structurally supportive, meaning that it gives firmer support in low points, so your body stays aligned. Both of its sides are contouring, cradling, pressure relieving, and they give you proper memory foam sleep experience, so if you are looking for a more bounce or firmness, Layla is not your ideal solution.

Between the two top memory foam layers infused with copper, there is a base foam support layer, which is the core of Layla Mattress, it provides minimal bounce and motion transfer control. Further than that, between memory foam layers is one more layer of Air-Flow-Foam, which has a role of allowing airflow through the mattress and cooling it down. If you are intrigued by its features, check out why is Layla Mattress on our list of The 8 Best Mattresses in 2018.

A simple yet brilliant feature is its capability to be flipped over and to use its both sides, depending on your personal preference, it is very lightweight so it can easily be flipped over. One side is softer and cradling, while the other is more supportive and firm, you get two different mattress experiences for the price of one, now that is a bargain. Shipping is free for the lower 48 countries, for AK and HI is 125$ per mattress.

Great for:

• All weights (light, average, heavy)
• All types of sleepers (back, stomach, side, combination)
• Buyers on a budget

Bear Mattress

Highlights:

• Warranty period – 10 years
• Sleep trial period – 100 nights
• Medium level of firmness
• Above average coolness for a foam mattress

The Bear Mattress is comfortable, memory foam mattress, with a medium level of firmness, so it gives the universal feel of comfort and solid core support. Its built out of materials that help your body recover faster, designed preferably for people who tend to live more active. This mattress requires a solid foundation, so we suggest placing it on flat surfaces because coil box spring type would not provide the right amount of even support for a foam mattress.

The Bear is infused with graphite gel which keeps it cool, unlike other foam mattresses that heat up quickly. As a cover they used Celliant yarn that is highly breathable and also helps with temperature regulation, keeping your body cool during the night. It has been clinically proven that Celliant technology improves athletic performance, health and sleep quality.

On a scale of 1 to 10, firmness of this mattress can be considered as 6.5, contouring layers of foam relieve the pressure and provide you better sleep and faster recovery. It does not matter which sleep position is your preferable because this mattress adapts and hugs your body enabling optimal spinal alignment. Shipping is free, but some costs may be added when shipping to Alaska, Hawaii or Puerto Rico.

Great for:

• All types of sleepers (back, stomach, side, combination)
• Light or average weight sleepers
• Buyers on a budget

DreamCloud Mattress

Highlights:

• Lifetime  warranty
• Sleep trial period – 365 nights
• Medium level of firmness
• Great motion isolation

DreamCloud belongs to hybrid mattresses of medium firmness, around 6.5 on a scale of 1 to 10, and its built out of eight layers, including four memory foam layers and one extra latex layer above the coil system. This mattress provides robust support, so it is great for sleepers with average weight (130 to 230 pounds) who enjoy the balance between support and body contouring comfort.

The structure is reinforced with coil support system encased in dense polyfoam which supports the edges and minimizes sinkage around them. Couples will enjoy a great level of motion transfer isolation as well as its quietness because DreamCloud produces almost no noise. Memory foam is gel infused to help heat distribution. As a special touch, the topper is made out of cashmere blend for extra softness and luxury feel, so you can enjoy floating atop of 15″ mattress a little bit more.

Buyers are secured from defects in workmanship and materials for a lifelong period, and the price lower than the regular makes a great deal for value seekers, all in all, this mattress stands high on our ladder. Shipping is free even for contiguous US areas, the in-home assembly is available upon request and additional charge.

Great for:

• Back and/or side sleepers
• Average or heavyweight sleepers
• Couples

Winkbeds Plus

Highlights:

• Lifetime warranty
• Sleep trial period – 120 nights
• Replacement guarantee
• Medium level of firmness

For people who fit in the group of above average weight sleepers (more than 230 pounds), thinner and softer mattresses cannot provide the right amount of support, they are easily deformed, uncomfortable, and you might sink in a little bit too much. You need a proper, thick mattress that is firm enough to handle the pressure and provide support. The WinkBeds Plus is one of a few mattresses designed and tailor-made especially for people who have a bigger weight.

The mattress is 14.5″ tall, and 33% thicker than most of the other mattresses sold online. Thick comfort system consists of layers of gel polyfoam that contours the body, latex foam which adds bounce, and triple-zone pocketed coil system that targets and supports hips and lower back, beneath it is another layer of dense foam. The level of sinkage around the edges is low, and they are well-performed thanks to condensed coil support core encased in dense polyfoam. Coils and foam are combined to create a perfect amount of support and comfort at the same time while keeping the muscles relaxed. Back sleepers will benefit from its firmness and high support level, while stomach sleepers will enjoy without sinking in deeply. We do not recommend this bed for lightweight sleepers because it could be too firm and uncomfortable for them.

Tencel lyocell cover is another key feature of this mattress, being more breathable than the other synthetic fabrics, it enhances air circulation and temperature neutrality, and it is also eco-friendly, coming from Eucalyptus trees.

The WinkBeds Plus comes with a price much lower than in other in-store brands, so you might give it a chance. Shipping is free within the US.

Great for:

• Heavyweight sleepers
• Back and stomach sleepers
• Sleepers who prefer firm support

What Causes Back Pain?

Human spine has three main functions, to provide structural support necessary for upright posture, to protect the spinal cord, internal organs, nerve endings, and to facilitate movements. Unhealthy spine usually cannot perform one or all from these three functions, and that is when back pain occurs as a consequence. When you are sleeping on a mattress that does not provide proper spinal support, it can increase or even cause back pain. There are five spine regions that you should keep in mind when planning on buying a new mattress:

• Cervical spine, located in your neck, it makes it easier to perform head movements such as nodding and head rotation.
• Thoracic spine, located in your upper to mid-back, stabilizes the spine enabling balance and protects organs.
• Lumbar spine, located in the lower back, makes it easier to perform movement around the midsection and supports body weight.
• Sacrum, located in the base of the spine, in charge of leaning and pelvic movements.
• Coccyx (tailbone), located in the bottom tip of the spinal column, it has no clear function, though it connects to vital muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Under the term “back pain” different types and intensities of pain can fall in. From minor and occasional aches to severe conditions that sometimes require surgeries. There is no commonly accepted program that will help people to control this condition, and each case must be treated individually. Back pain and sleep deprivation often go hand-in-hand, aches can be exhausting and very frustrating, keeping you wide awake throughout the night. Particularly common is the lower back pain (lumbago), but the pain can be felt anywhere from the neck to the hips, along with the spine.

Generally speaking, there are two main categories of back pain, acute and chronic.

• Acute – this type of pain usually lasts shorter than twelve weeks, and occurs as a consequence of some smaller accidents or injuries. It is not recommended to stay in bed but to keep up with your day to day activities as much as possible. If any activity increases pain, you should stop it, but fear of pain is not a reason to avoid light activities that can help you recover faster. Search for specific exercises and stretches for back pain, or try cold compression packs.
• Chronic – this type of back pain lasts a minimum three months. It can be caused by an accident or injury but also some physiological problems like scoliosis can be the cause. In any cause, chronic back pain does not go away after the initiative problem has been successfully treated. A dominant theory was the one that chronic pain is always a result of an underlying injury, but nowadays this condition is much better understood, and we know that that is not always the case.

Most mutual causes of both acute and chronic back pain include:

• Ligament or muscle strain can be caused by lifting heavy objects, awkward falls, and twists, or anything that moves the body out of his natural position. It has been estimated that around 25.000 people twist their ankle, each day. That is by far one of the highly common kinds of strain, and it usually strikes the athletes.
• Ruptured discs can cause severe back pain or even sciatica. Disc rupture occurs as a result of everyday activities or sports, when these discs get in contact with nearby nerves they can create very painful sensations.
• Arthritis is today leading cause of disability in America, and it refers to pain in joints and diseases. Main symptoms are stiffness, pain, swelling, reduced motion range. Arthritis is also a condition of chronic pain that causes struggles with falling and staying asleep. We now know that there are more than 100 types of Arthritis, we will list the widely common ones.

Osteoarthritis – also known as degenerative arthritis, appears when the cartilage wears away, and bones start rubbing onto each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Rheumatoid arthritis – is an inflammatory disorder that affects the lining of the joints, and in some cases, it can affect skin, lungs, eyes, and heart.

Psoriatic arthritis – is a combination of two conditions, most people first get psoriasis and then after they get diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. There is no cure, so the primary goal is to control the symptoms as they can oscillate in intensity.

Gout – intense and sudden strokes of pain that can affect knees, ankles, and feet.

Skeletal irregularities – deformations of spine and back that cause pain, there are three types based on spine curvatures: Lordosis (lower spine curvature), Scoliosis (sideway curvature, S or C-shaped), Kyphosis (upper spine curvature). Back-sleeping is probably the most convenient comfortable position for people with some form of skeletal irregularities, but even in that position, these people can experience sleep disruption because of painful symptoms caused by their condition.

Osteoporosis – is skeletal degeneracy that makes bones porous and fragile, it affects mostly hips, spine and wrists. Increased bone weakness is the main cause of broken bones among the elderly population, and bones become so fragile that even minimal stress or some spontaneous action can easily break them.

Besides above listed medical conditions, there are some other risk factors that can cause acute and chronic back pain:

• Age – although back pain can be experienced by people of all generations, it becomes more common among people who are in their mid-thirties or older.
• Obesity – people who have more than average weight are carrying extra weight with them and have more burden on their back muscles.
• Insufficient exercise – those people whose muscles are weak have a bigger risk of experiencing pain symptoms.
• Diseases – some ailments, for example cancer, can be attached to back pain.
• Smoking – consuming cigarettes deprives nutrients that are in charge of nourishing disks and back areas.
• Lifting – lifting related injuries are a common cause of back pain, when the lifting is not done properly or if overmuch weight has been lifted.
• Mental health – depressive and anxious people are more liable to experience back pain.

What can we do to prevent back pain? It is difficult to guarantee that the back pain would not occur at some point in our life, but practicing these tips should keep it away or postpone.

Light exercises, stretches or pilates on a regular basis are useful not just for your back and spine, but also for your overall health and body shape. Exercises are especially recommended for overweight people because that excess weight that they are carrying causes back pain problems. Adults should exercise at least 150 minutes per week, for special back exercises, we suggest consulting your GP or a specialist.

Think before you lift anything. Lifting objects incorrectly is a widespread cause of back pain. Do not bend your back while lifting, avoid twists or leaning, and be aware of your limits.

If possible, try avoiding sitting for too long at work or at home, if not, try sitting correctly and taking care of your posture. The chair has to be adjusted so that it can provide support to your lower back. Laptops enabled us to work from home, but they are among usual causes of back pain and neck problems. To prevent that, try making more small breaks and walk a bit, it releases the stress of your muscles, frequent short breaks are better than a few long ones.

How Sleep Position and Body Weight can Influence on Your Choice of Mattress

A good mattress for back pain sufferers should reduce their pains by providing even surface that will enable sleepers to have the right spine alignment, no matter what sleep position are they in. But, every sleep posture influences spine alignment in particular ways, and when we add personal weight as another key factor, we get two individual components that might be crucial for a proper choice of mattress.

When it comes to sleep position, there are three categories:

• Side sleepers – there are three position variations among side sleepers known as the log, fetal and yearner. It is possible to achieve natural spine alignment while sleeping in this position, although if the sleeping surface is uneven that can affect the spine making it distort and rising the pressure level. For people with scoliosis or hip problems, there is minimal pressure, and it also prevents heartburn by relieving pressure from the heart. On the other hand, this position puts an additional burden on the lungs and stomach, and it can restrict blood flow in shoulders. So if you are a side sleeper, you should choose a mattress with support firm enough so that you that your body cannot sink in too deeply.
• Back sleepers – three different positions among back sleepers are known as soldier, starfish, and savasana. While you are sleeping in these positions, your spine is aligned and straightened. Back sleepers have a bigger chance of sleep apnea and snoring, but they do not place their face directly on the pillow, so they are less prone to facial wrinkles. Ideal mattress needs to provide equal support surface from neck to the bottom of your spine, meaning that on too soft ones you may sink in too much, and the firm ones will make interspace between sleep surface and the lumbar. Medium level of firmness should work the best for back sleepers.
• Stomach sleepers – this position does not provide the natural spinal alignment, because a huge amount of weight concentrates in the stomach area, people sink in into the mattress more than they will in other sleep positions. There is a lower risk of snoring and sleep apnea, but higher discomfort potential causing sleepers to turn around and disrupt their sleep. This sleep position is considered to be the unhealthiest one, and we recommend avoiding it, if you cannot change your habits than choose a mattress firm enough so that your stomach does not sink in too much.

Disparate sleep postures are narrowly connected to personal physical weight. Usually, softer mattresses suit people who are lighter than 130 pounds, while more firm ones work better for people who weight above 230 pounds. The firmness of a mattress is determined using a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 stands for the minimal firm, and 10 stands for the firmest. The immense amount of mattresses produced and sold nowadays are between a 3 and an 8, but the most usual firmness level is a 6 – 6.5 (Medium Firm).

• Below average weight group (under 130 lbs.) should find 3 to 4.5 level of firmness as an ideal for their bodyweight while sleeping on their side or stomach. If you are a back sleeper, we suggest going with a bit firmer, up till 5.5.
• Average weight group (130 to 230 lbs.) should go from 5 up till 6.5 if sleeping on their side or back. If sleeping on the stomach choose less firmness, from 4 up to 5.
• Above average weight group (more than 230 lbs.) needs more support, so side sleepers should try going from 6.5 up to 8, back sleepers from 6 to 8, and those who sleep on their stomach from 6 to 7.5.

Best Mattress Types for Sleepers with Back Pain Problems

After we have elaborated how sleep position and body weight can affect your choice of mattress, now it is time to represent you to 5 different types of mattresses that are out there on the market. We are going to introduce you to various features of foam, innerspring, latex, airbed and hybrid mattress.

• Foam mattress can be constructed out of memory foam or polyfoam layers with polyfoam made support core. They provide a nice feeling of comfort and support, very convenient for back pain sleepers. Its normal price point for Queen size is 800-1200$.
• The innerspring mattress is constructed out of comfortable foam layers with steel coil support cores. It has good support but not as much firmness options, and its longevity is not so long actually. We do not recommend this type for sleepers with back pain or for heavyweight sleepers. Its usual price point for Queen size is 700-1100$.
• The latex mattress is built out of latex comfort layers with polyfoam support nucleus. This mattress is somewhere universal and could be an ideal fit for all types of sleepers, including back pain sufferers. Its average price point for Queen size is from 1800$ and higher.
• Airbed mattress is made out of foam comfort layer (or without it) combined with adjustable air chamber support core. It can be good for back pain sleepers, while the ones in above average weight group should avoid it. Its durability is questionable, and this type of mattress is rare on the market. Its usual price point for Queen size is from 2000$ and higher.
• The hybrid mattress is constructed out of memory or latex foam comfort layers with condensed coil support core. It is not the best option for sleepers with less than average weight (less than 130lbs.), but it can work well for the other categories of sleepers, back pain ones as well. Its normal price point for Queen size is from 1200-1800$.

Shopping Tips for Back Pain Mattress Buyers

Mattress shopping can be a challenge even if you do not have back pain issues, but with them, things get more complicated with so many different factors that need to be considered. Mattress market is big enough to offer various options, making it harder to settle and make a choice, so we have prepared a few tips and tricks which should be useful for mattress shopping.

With such an amount of choices, it is easy to get lost among different types, sizes, features, and to wander away off your budget or actual needs. Make sure to stick to mattresses in your budget range. Although they are great for back pain sleepers, latex and airbed models can probably cost you 2000$ or more, so keep in mind that that is a long-term investment that will help with your back aches and overall wellbeing. Saving money for something like that can really pay off. Hybrid and memory foam mattresses are cheaper options, but if you are really on a budget, check out brands that work online only. In most cases, they have a lower price point than brands that invest in their physical presence in the real world. A vast majority of them offers free shipping within the US and a free sleep trial period, long enough to make you feel secure about your choice without visiting the store. If you are interested in purchasing your mattress online, make sure to check out our guide for Online Mattress Shopping.

When choosing firmness of the mattress, consider your body weight as a prior factor. For those of you who weigh under 130 lbs. and especially if you tend to sleep on your side, mattresses that have softer or medium (5 max) level of firmness make a great choice. Not so firm surfaces will help with pressure soothing while conforming your body. On the other hand, people who weigh above the average of 230 lbs. prefer firmer and thicker mattresses, because they provide the right amount of support for them without sinkage.

Another important factor that we have already discussed above is your favorite sleep position. Side sleepers choose softer mattresses because they conform their body and help with spine alignment. Stomach and back sleepers should choose mattresses among the medium level of firmness because too soft or too firm ones do not work well for their body and spine alignment.

If you are a couple searching for a new mattress, you have doubled your expectations. Firmness is probably the most important aspect about which you two are not going to agree. Although at first flippable mattresses may sound like a perfect solution, offering two different levels of firmness, you cannot actually sleep on its both sides at the same time. Instead, search for a mattress with dual firmness options on both sides of the bed, that should be the very best option. Pay attention to features such as motion transfer isolation, noise level, and different dimensions, these ones are important for couples.

Vast amount of mattresses comes with a warranty period of at least 10 years, some even offer a lifelong warranty, which means a lot when making such an investment. Warranty terms vary upon two main factors, and the first one is non-prorated coverage duration. Throughout this phase, customers do not have to pay repair or replacement of a flawed mattress, while in prorated phase they have to pay a specific amount of the regular price to get their model repaired or replaced. So, do not forget to read the fine print, always, because some 15-20 years warranties only offer 2-3 years of non-prorated coverage, after that prorated charges can start pilling up.

The second factor is indentation depth. Indentations tend to develop over the course of time usually at the area where you sleep, and in most cases in the center of the bed. This can affect mattresses support level and your back pain problems as well. Some warranties would accept indentations deep from 1/2″ to 3/4″, but some others may cover only indentations deeper than  1 1/2″. One inch (1″) or deeper indentations are usually the most problematic ones for back pain sleepers, so make sure to check warranties and seek the ones that would wanna accept one-inch (1″) indentations.

Almost every manufacturer offers sleep trial period, giving their customers enough time to test out their product. And for back pain sufferers, those are some great news, as you get plenty of time to make sure that your mattress really works for you by relieving your aches and providing you with better sleep quality.

Further Options for Sleepers Struggling with Back Pain

Beside mattress choice, people who have back pain should consider some other factors that can enhance their sleep, the right selection of following components can round off a perfect sleep environment.

Choosing the proper pillow can be as intricate as choosing a mattress, a pillow is the next crucial thing that you should care about because it can also help with soothing aches, especially in areas around neck, shoulders and upper back. Pay particular attention to its loft or thickness, because the right quantity of loft will alleviate pressure in your neck and lumbar regions. When determining what is the right loft for you, you should have in mind the size of your head, shoulder width, personal weight, and keep in mind the firmness level of your mattress. There are three universal categories of loft:

• The low loft is less than 3″ thick, and it is the most optimal for people with small head, narrow shoulders, and with weight above 230 lbs. Ideal mattress pair should be soft or medium soft firmness.
• The medium loft is from 3″ to 5″ thick, best for people with average head size and shoulder width, weighing from 130 by 230 lbs. Optimal firmness of a mattress is medium.
• High loft is more than 5″ thick, suitable for the large head size and broad shoulders, and optimal weight should be below 130 lbs. Suggested mattress firmness is a medium firm or firm.

The composition of the pillow is another aspect that should be considered, different materials provide disparate support and a comfortable feel. Some cheaper models are usually made out of polyester or similar materials which cannot provide the right amount of support. On the other side, materials such as memory foam, latex, buckwheat, are more expensive, but they conform intimately to sleepers head and release the pressure. So, just like with mattresses, look at pillow shopping as an investment in something that you can only benefit from. Most of the mattress manufacturers offer proper pillow pair on an additional charge, making your decision somewhat easier.

Additional pillows are a beneficial supplement to the one already beneath your head if you are experiencing chronic back pain. Side sleepers usually add one extra pillow among their knees and another one beneath the ribs for a maximum comfort feel. Back sleepers can achieve feel of relief by putting an additional pillow under their knees.

Toppers are popular options these days, making even old couches feel more comfortable. Designed as a separate layer that goes above the regular mattress, toppers are created to regulate the level of firmness on sleep surface; usually, they reduce the level of firmness, but there are as well some that can provide a more firm base. A wide specter of materials can be used for toppers, most common ones are memory foam, latex, convoluted polyfoam, feathers, and wool.

Toppers also vary in thickness, density, and firmness, when making a choice do not forget your personal features such as body weight and usual sleep posture.

• Side sleepers – their perfect topper thickness, firmness, and density should get bigger with their weight. Meaning that sleepers who have under 130 lbs. should choose thickness from 1″ to 2″, ideal firmness would be soft or medium soft, and density not above 2.5 (PCF). If you weigh average or above average, all the other parameters are increasing a bit at the same time. Thickness goes up to 3″, density up to 4 (PCF) or even higher, depending on your personal preference.
• Stomach sleepers – the principle is the same, with increasing body weight (average or above average weight group) all the other parameters go up from ½ to 1 notch on a scale as well. Sleepers weighing under 130 lbs. should choose thickness from 1″ to 1 1/2″, their ideal firmness is from medium soft to medium firm, and density not more than 3 (PCF).
• Back sleepers – the ones with their weight under 130 lbs. should choose thickness from 1 1/2″ to 2 1/2″, density from 2.5 to 3 (PCF), and firmness from medium soft to medium firm. Parameters go higher along with personal body weight, as explained, till 4.5 or higher in PCF for density and 3″ in thickness.

A topper can be a great solution for couples who cannot agree on the firmness of their mattress due to different preferences, or for people who no longer are satisfied with their current mattress but cannot return it or exchange it for a new one. Toppers may be an inexpensive solution for all your mattress problems, if you are on a budget or renting a place with unsuitable bed mattress. They are easy to transfer as well, and most of them cost less than 150$, but the price can be higher, depending on brand and material composition.

People with back pain and couples will especially enjoy possibilities that adjustable bed can provide for them. They are designed to be customized and to fulfill your needs, and the majority of the models is able to be risen and lowered on both bedsides to enable different sleeping positions. Angled surfaces work well for sleepers back pain by relieving it, and many models have built-in silent massager which produces small vibrations that will please your back and alleviate aches. They come with remote controls, and some can be controlled with a tablet or smartphone as well. These beds are on a more expensive side, some can be found for roughly a 1000$, but majority of the models sales for at least 2000$, and the price goes on up to 3500$ and higher.

If you are a person experiencing back pain and wanting to help yourself feel more comfortable in your own skin, we hope that this guide and our top list were helpful.

Everyone knows that a good night’s sleep is partly dependent on having the right pillow. However, the choice isn’t as straightforward as just grabbing any pillow off the shelf; we need to find the one that perfectly aligns with our individual needs and preferences. So, what’s the best approach to choosing the right pillow?

Pillows come in all shapes and forms, you just need to find the one that is comfortable for you. Do you prefer a big, fluffy pillow or a pillow that will support your neck? Can this pillow be filled with feathers, or are you allergic? Some of the factors that will help you find the perfect pillow are your head size, weight, the position that you sleep in and your shoulder width. Once you determine these, you should consider which material to choose, how moldable the pillow should be, how high and, of course, to set a budget.

Choosing the right pillow can be daunting, this is why we are going to go over some of the factors that we have determined people look to while choosing a pillow. Our list is based on verified user experience and thorough market research.

Need help choosing a pillow? Read our comprehensive buying guide and find our top 11 picks based on our own testing and customer experience.

 

The Eden from Coop Home Goods

One of the reasons the Eden made it onto this list is because of its gel-infused foam and a cover that is made from bamboo rayon. This means it is much colder than some of the other models on this list. Some of the reviewers noted that foam pillows lose their shape pretty fast, but the Eden does not. It has a polyester lining, that is machine washable and easy to maintain.

The other reason that the Eden is mentioned here is the adjustable loft. Customers can add or remove the height of the pillow, and the firmness, so that it fits their needs perfectly. This may result in a decrease in neck or shoulder pain.

You can find this product at Coop Home Goods. They offer a bundle deal; two mattress sheets and two pillows, in any dimension for a lower price. They also provide a 100-day sleep warranty, as we all know, you can not check the quality of a pillow or a mattress if you have not spent a couple of nights on it.

This pillow is good for all types of sleepers, from side sleepers to stomach sleepers. Also, all weight groups can rest easy with this pick. It can relieve neck pain and shoulder issues. The best part is the customizable loft, which works best for the sleeper who changes their pillow height preference.

 

TEMPUR-Symphony Pillow from Tempur-Pedic

There are some sleepers that prefer to change the way they sleep from night tonight. Sometimes you prefer a flat surface and sometimes not. This Tempur-Pedic Pillow can meet the needs of these sleepers as it offers two flappable surfaces with two different feels. Side one is smooth and even, with distinct points where pressure needs to be applied, while side two is prompted up for those nights where you need more head and shoulder support.

The Tempur-Symphony is a bit on the pricey side, but it makes up for it with its durability. Its foam filling is more than capable of lasting a number of seasons and it never loses its shape. With this in mind, it is also quite moldable which is great for those restless nights.

Tempur-Pedic has shipping, free of charge in the U.S. and this pillow has a warranty of five years, which is above average.

This pillow works for all sleepers’ groups (side sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers), but it is more recommended for light or average weight sleeper groups. Most of all, it is recommended for those who like to sleep on both sides of the pillow, and where both sides have a great design and those who want to relieve neck and shoulder pain.

 

Easy Breather from Nest Bedding

Nest Bedding Easy Breather is a foam pillow with the adjustable loft, similar to the Eden, mentioned in the earlier text. The customizable loft is recommended for neck and shoulder pain for those side sleepers that need a change in height on a nightly basis.

The Easy Breather will keep you cool, with breathable Tencel® lyocell cover and the air flow from the interior. Smugglers can rest easy, as this pillow is moldable and can return to its original form after sleep and the snuggles. The Easy Breather presses tightly to the head and neck to release pains, and pressure as they accrue.

Nest Bedding has free shipping in the U.S. and the pillow is has a  trial of a 100-nights and a warranty of two years, which is more than enough to ensure a quality product.

The Easy Breather is recommended for back and side sleepers, as per the customizable loft. It is best for light to average weight sleepers. A bigger budget is needed for this product but it is highly recommended to those who sleep hot and still didn’t found the right cooling pillow.

 

Z Zoned Talalay Latex from Malouf

The Z Zoned Talalay Latex pillow from Malouf is a part of a new series The Zoned have called the Z series. It is made from a one piece of latex, and it comes in two options: Firm and Soft. The material is designed to relieve neck pain and to push on pressure points of the head.

Being hot is never good while you sleep, so the Talalay has a cooling system which prevents sweating during the night. The cooling system consists of the cover and the airflow designed to cool. The cover is made from materials designed to chill which are a breathable blend of rayon from bamboo and part polyester. An average lifespan of a latex pillow, in years, is three, which puts the Talalay in the ‘’more durable latex pillow’’ category.

The Zoned Talalay Latex can be shipped anywhere inside the U.S. and it has a warranty of five years.

The Talalay is recommended to all types of sleepers (side sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers) and for all weight groups. Notably, it is best for those who get hot when they sleep and for those with neck and shoulder problems.

 

Hullo from Hulltex LLC

Some of the more eco-friendly materials can also make some great pillows. Buckwheat pillows fall into this category and they are, looking at other pillow categories like latex and memory foam models, an alternative. They also provide release from pressure and conform closely. The Hullo from the store Hulltex LLC has a fully adjustable loft so that the customer can subjectively remove or add however they see fit. If, however, you run out of the filling, Hulltex LLC can provide more.

As is typical for this type of pillow filling, the Hullo’s interior will keep you quite cool during the night. It is sold with a cotton twill cover, which is also organic, which is machine washable. One of the other perks of this pillow is that you never need to clean the hulls.

For those with a bigger budget, The Hullo pillow can be ordered in two sizes, a King and a Standard. The first one is $149 and the second option is $99. Shipping is free and covers the territories in the U.S. and the pillow has a sixty-night trial.

Back and side sleepers are recommended to try this pillow, and also sleepers in the average to heavyweight groups. It can relieve neck and shoulder pain as well as keep you cool.

 

Luxe Pillow

As there are many sleepers that prefer a soft pillow, we have the Luxe pillow. It is filled with down, which means it has the little soft feathers of geese and ducks. The Luxe is divided into three parts. The middle parts consist of waterfowl feathers, and it has additional two chambers on the side. They are filled with goose down fill. The cover is designed to be machine washable and made of cotton, as well as not to let any material out of the pillow. The piped edges of the pillow ensure this.

As most pillows filled with down, the height of the pillow is medium, and it is considered to be soft. If you enjoy sinking into your pillow at night and having it support your shoulders and neck that way, this is the pillow for you. You would think that it is not cooling if it is so soft, but that is not true. The cotton flow is well-designed to allow excellent air flow. Lastly, one of the bigger benefits of getting this pillow is that it is eco-friendly.

The Luxe can be bought in a Standard and a King size. The sleep trial is one hundred days and the company offer returns to all customers, and shipping covered by them.

This pillow is eco-friendly and ensures you always wake up warmed up and feeling cozy. It is good for the sleepers in the average or lightweight groups and for back and side sleepers.

 

Leesa Hybrid from Leesa

The Leesa Hybrid is another example of a pillow that can be used in a different way on two sides. One side is covered and filled with a down-like material and the other side is padded with a cooling gel pad and it’s flat. This way, sleepers can adjust between the cooling side and the flat side which is good for releasing neck pain. Above all, it is an adjustable and reversible hybrid pillow. The loft of the pillow can also be customized to the needs of the sleeper.

One of the pluses this hybrid has it that it can be cleaned much quicker than a regular down pillow. It can be washed in a washing machine which makes it really easy to take care of. When it comes to firmness, it has two settings – soft and firm, which are set by tackling gel part of the pillow.

It may cost a little bit more, but the Leesa is known for their good customer reviews and free shipping to anywhere in the U.S. It has a warranty of three years and a trial period of one hundred nights sleep.

If you are a side sleeper, back sleeper or a combination sleeper this pillow will work for you. If you like to customize your pillow often, choosing this model is also a good idea. At the end, we all know that if a pillow does not hurt your shoulders and neck, it is a winner.

 

Organic Cotton/PLA Pillow from Naturepedic

Cotton is a fabric that is bellowed by almost everyone. We choose our underwear to be cotton so why should our pillows be different. It is breathable and lightweight which makes it perfect for a cool night’s sleep. Organic Cotton from Naturepedic is a perfect example of a pillow that will keep you at an average temperature all night. The pillow contains cotton batting that is plant-based and organic. It is much more eco-friendly than latex or polyester pillows. It has well-designed airflow which allows easy temperature-control.

This pillow can’t be put in the firm or soft category, it is somewhere in between. It has 2 thickness options so that no one is unable to find the height they prefer in a pillow. One of the advantages of buying this pillow is that it is machine washable as a whole, which means you don’t need to take it apart before washing it.

This pillow may be costlier but considering all the benefits and being eco-friendly, this is a reasonable price. It has a trial period of thirty days.

Side sleepers and back sleepers say they prefer this pillow in the reviews and according to our research, most sleepers that like this pillow are in the average or lightweight category. The pillow keeps you cool during the entire night, so it is suitable if you are a hot sleeper. It’s 100% organic and very durable.

 

MyPillow Premium

Polyfoam has been on the rise since its invention. It is good for matrices, so why not pillows?  As it fits us perfectly night in and night out, it was a logical progression of the manufacturing industry. And the best part of the polyform is that it adapts to the sleeper’s height preference, and this is where Premium from My Pillow comes in. It comes in four colored lofts which are Green, White, Blue and Yellow.

As we all want a cool pillow, and not in a sense that it is popular in high school, the Premium has a cover made of cotton which is in a shape of a ring, and also an interior that allows air to flow freely. As polyfoam is quite moldable, but this does not bounce back as quickly as it could, especially if it is wet, simply place it in the dryer or on a radiator and wait 20 mins for it to maintain its original shape.

And yet it still gets better, with the price of the Premium MyPillow coming in at about 20$, it has a sixty-day trail and a warranty of ten years.

It works best for people who sleep on the side and on the back, also it doesn’t matter what weight you have, it comforts all the groups. Shoulder pain and neck pain can be prevented by using this pillow, as well as people that usually feel warm when they sleep.

 

Layla Pillow

Memory foam can be shredded and not just in one piece. This type of filling is reviewed as one of the best for more than your regular pressure relief pillow. The Layla pillow is filled with this type of filling but it has an upper hand on other pillows with the same filling. It has implemented fibers of a tree caller Kapok, to provide more of a cushioning feel. It has a polyester cover filled with copper strains, which helps increase blood flow. If this sounds like this cover will make you sweat, but that is not correct, as these materials distribute temperature well which means you will be cool as a cucumber.

If you are a snuggler, this pillow will fit you perfectly as it is extremely moldable. The material blend is more odor resistant than other materials and it doesn’t need to be cleaned as often.

Layla covers shipping all over U.S., Canada, and Alaska. Although the shipping to Canada and Alasca is 20$, shipping in the U.S. is free. It has a sleep trail of one hundred and twenty days and a warranty of five years.

If you are a combination sleeper or sleep on your back or side, this pillow would work great. It also accommodates light and average weight sleepers and those who are warm while they sleep.

 

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo from Relief Mart

Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo is best known for keeping you cool and not overheating, even compared to other pillows filled with shredded foam. The cover is made from bamboo rayon, which is a known material for temperature control. The airflow in the interior is well made, and it helps distribute body heat while you sleep.

The loft is customizable, which means it can accommodate all the height preferences. Although, when you receive the pillow, it is sealed, which means if you want to adjust the loft you need to send it back to the store so that they can fix it and send it back to you. This action is unlimited and free of charge to all who have purchased the Snuggle-Pedic. It is relatively cheap for a pillow who offers so much, and it is designed to help you prevent pain in the shoulders and neck.

The shipping doesn’t cost a thing, and it is available to all the states in the U.S. There is a hundred- and twenty-night test and a warranty of twenty years. Wow, now that is a time period that can cover a big part of a lifetime.

All sleepers say that this pillow has worked in their favor, no matter the position they sleep in or their weight. Also, it has been noted that this pillow helps with pain relief and temperature control while you sleep. Both of which are important while choosing a pillow.

 

What Do You Need to Know About Pillows?

As we all know, pillows are an essential part of our lives. We sit on them, lean on them and most importantly we sleep on them. A pillow is generally what we think of when going to bed. But how much does a shape and size of pillow influence our sleep? A lot actually. There is a fairytale in which a princess could not sleep as there was a pea under her mattress, and this may sound ridiculous in reality, but getting a pillow that does not fit our standards may just be that little detail that keeps us from falling asleep.

There are several factors that make up a pillow. The first factor is the material that the pillow is made from. It can be a blend of a number of materials, like polyester, down, latex, cotton or foam. It can also be buckwheat as well as other organic eco-friendly options. All of these materials can make or break a preference towards a pillow as the material is connected with other factors, such as the thickness of the pillow, also known as loft. The loft is critical in deciding which pillow to choose, as a too high or too low loft can cause shoulder, back and head pain.

Another factor that has an influence on whether a particular pillow will match your preferences or not is the size. Pillows come in six different sizes which we will explore in the further text.

Let us dive into the wondrous world of pillows and see what it has to offer. This text will explore all the options from which to choose from and provide you with guidelines on how to pick what is right for you.

Pillow Sizes

Ok, so are there more than one size that I can get at the store? Yes. When you are shopping for a pillow there is no ‘’one size fits all’’. There are six types of sizes for pillows: Body Pillow, Euro, King, Queen, Super Standard, and Standard. All of them have a pillowcase size that corresponds with their size, and it is usually one or two inches wider than the pillow itself.

Body Pillows are mostly targeted at sleepers that like to hold something when they sleep. These are best if they are made of a material that cools and that is moldable. They are also great to keep your body on one side, which comes in handy for side sleepers and women that are pregnant.

Euro pillows can come in different sizes actually, but there is a general guideline that there are square shaped. This makes it perfect for reading a book in bed or looking at a film on a tablet. It is called the Euro as people in Europe mostly use this type of pillow.

The King size pillow is like a King size mattress. It is bigger and good for people that sleep in all types of positions during the night. There is extra room on both sides. This makes this pillow a great bed rest for people that sit up in bed.

The Queen size is also like the Queen size mattress. It is not as big as the King but it is bigger than the Super Standard. There is more than enough room for your head and for tossing and turning during the night.

Super Standard pillows are more in line with the standard size but it is longer. This is good for using the pillow as bedrest and if you are not a still sleeper.

Standard is the pillow you see in all the sores. It is the most sold and the pillow made most often. They are compact and the shortest of all the options. Sometimes the Euro can be smaller but as we noted, the standard is not usually square. Usually, they are the least expensive version of all the pillow sizes. So, if you have a twin or a full-size mattress, one of these would work just fine. But for a bigger mattress as a King or a Queen, you would need two to cover the range on the bed.

Pillow Loft

is the filling that is inside the pillow. It determines a lot of factors like thickness, height, and softness of a pillow. All of these weigh in on how good you can sleep on it and how comfortable it is for you. While picking a pillow, note that there are different types of the loft. There are the Low loft pillows not that thick, three inches or less. There are Medium loft pillows that are in between five and three inches. And lastly, there are high loft pillows that have a thickness higher than five inches.

As is life, most of the sleepers prefer a middle-sized loft, but there are always exceptions, and these exceptions have a right to chose the pillow they desire.

If you are not sure which loft fits you just right, giving you ultimately a better sleep dynamic, please see some of the following factors that will guide you to a good decision:

• Type of Mattress: There are some mattresses that are designed to let you sink into them like latex or foam. If you like this feeling, a low-loft pillow would work best in the combination with the mattress. If, however, you like a firm mattress, something that has springs or other types of mattresses that don’t give you that sinking feeling, a mid to high loft pillow would work best. Always look to your mattress for guides when buying a pillow, as if the two clash, there is no returning to a peaceful night of sleep.
• Body type: As with clothes, the pillow we use needs to fit our body and our build. One of the more important body parts to look out for is the head. Larger or heavier heads usually tend to prefer a bigger loft because of the extra filling which provides support. On the other hand, smaller heads prefer a smaller loft, as they don’t require so much support. Shoulder width is an important guideline as well, in choosing a loft. Shoulders that are wider tend to need more loft to relieve pressure and give support.
• Weight group: Weight groups can prefer different types of loft, which makes sense as per the difference in needed support. Sleepers that are in the heavier weight group, 230 pounds and up, tend to lean toward the lower level of loft, because of the position of the head and being closer to the mattress. People in the lighter weight group, which is 130 pounds or less, look for a pillow which has more loft, as their head is not so close to the mattress. The weight group in between prefers a medium level loft, which consistent with the pattern shown above.
• The position of the pillow: There a numerous position a sleeper prefers to sleep in. Some of the people prefer to put their hand under the pillow while sleeping. These people usually get a pillow that is low on loft or medium, as the height of their hand compensates for the height. This may differ if you sleep on your back or on the side. The level of loft needs to be as high as the gap between you and the mattress to prevent any neck and back pain.
• The position of sleep: Lastly, the position we sleep in is one of the most important factors in choosing a loft. If you sleep on your back, you would prefer a medium loft pillow, as it provides a synergy between thickness and softness. If you sleep on your side, you would need more space between the pillow and your head. This is achieved by getting a pillow that is between a high loft and a medium loft. If you sleep on your stomach, you may not even need a pillow. But those who sleep on the stomach do prefer a low to a low-medium loft to give them some sort of separation from the mattress.

All of these are categories that overlap with one another. One of the most important ways to see which loft you prefer is to see how much space you have in between you and your bed. If you are not sure, there are options to buy a pillow that is customizable, which will allow you to experiment and find the perfect amount of loft for you. Finding the perfect amount of loft will help you with any shoulder pain, back pain, and even snoring.

Types of pillows

As we have gone through all the shapes and sizes of pillows, let’s see what is the stuff that makes them pillows, or professionally said, what is the material that makes them up. Down below we will list some of the most commonly sold pillow types, their pros and cons, and a short description to help you chose your perfect pillow.

Polyfoam and polyester
As you can see from the name, the polyester pillow is filled with fibers made from polyester. The loft most commonly ranges from a mid to a high loft, but there are stores that offer a loft made of polyester that is lower. The benefits of this pillow are that they are usually not pricy. An average model is between 9$ to 16$ and they can be found in almost all the stores that have pillows. Another benefit is that, as polyester is a material that is not organic, it is hypoallergenic, which makes it perfect for those sleepers that have trouble with allergies during sleep. Benefit number three is that it is hard to get dirty and it usually has no odor. Lastly, they are low maintenance, which means there is little effort to fluff them and shake them to get them back in their original form. Some of the cons of this pillow are that they are not as durable as some of the other options, also they are not suited for those who tend to sleep hot. They absorb a lot of temperatures and they are reported as being heavy and quite noisy.

Organic and natural
Pillows made from natural materials with no man-made components are considered to be ‘’natural or organic’’. Cotton is one of these materials, as well as silk, wool or any of these mixes. There is also latex that is organic, which makes it a part of this group of pillows. Some of the benefits of these type of pillows are that they have a reputation of being extremely soft and comfortable. Man-made materials don’t have the same texture as these types of materials which gives them an edge in being known as more supportive and comfier. Secondly, these materials tend to have better air circulation which gives them the option of temperature control and cooling. On the other hand, getting a pillow that is made of natural materials is not cheap. They can go up to 150$, and even 500$. As well as being expensive, they are harder to find than polyester pillows which are available almost everywhere.

Memory foam
As we all love something to caress us and makes us feel like it was made just for us, memory foam was invented. It comforts us by making an impression of our head and keeping it at a certain level above the mattress. There are two kinds of memory foam, a pillow filled with foam fibers that are shredded and the other type is a pillow made from one piece of foam. There are all types of lofts available for this type of pillow, also all sizes. The pros of this pillow are that it gives us support and firmness at the same time, which has been linked to the release of pressure and pain. Also, this type of pillow is great for side sleepers and back sleepers, as they provide the support needed. They are easy to get and make almost zero noise. The bad news is that it can get quite filled with smells, for up to a couple of days, when you unbox the pillow. As well as this, these pillows can get expensive, hitting the price to about 65$.

Latex
Latex is an organic material, found in nature, mostly in tree bark. It is made as such to be comfortable and fluffy. Like memory foam, it clings close to the head and shoulders, providing pressure relief and comfort. The loft on these pillows can be high or in the middle, also they have wary from soft to thick. Pros are that these types of pillows are linked to the higher percent of pain resolution as per their supporting abilities. One of the best properties of this pillow is that it keeps it shape for a long, long time. This means that it is more durable than some of the other types, as well as being quiet and not letting sound escape their realm. But where there is an up, there is a down, and the downside is that these pillows are costlier, coming at 59$ a piece. Also, they are considered to be flexible and have a bounce to them, so if you prefer a soft pillow that doesn’t move much, this may bother you. Lastly, sometimes they can smell of rubber, being that latex is made in a similar way.

Feather
Feather and down are not the same material. The down is actually below the feathers, making the barrier between the skin and feathers. These feathers are mostly duck and goose. Sometimes, the feathers are mixed with a small portion of down, but mostly not. Due to the material, these pillows are mostly a lower height. There are benefits to this pillow, as it is quite soft, light and flexible. They are cooling as feather are designed not to absorb hot temperatures. Being that this is a natural resource, these pillows usually have a longer lifespan than other types of pillows as well as being less costly than down filled pillows. Although, as these are feathers crammed into a fabric cover, they may get out sometimes and scratch a sleeper that is on it. There is a distinct crunch when you move it and there is a specific smell that is linked to a feather filling. Lastly, shaping the pillow may take more effort than usual as feathers are not that moldable.

Down
Plumage that is collected from geese and ducks is called down. It is the layer of small features that is beneath the bigger feathers. It is known for being soft and comfortable. Seventy-five percent of down is needed in order to put a pillow in the ‘’down’’ group. Other twenty-five percents can be a feather filling or other. The ups of the down pillow are as stated that is comfortable for most sleepers as per the combination of flexibility, curve to the head and the lightness of it. They can get warm but this may be a plus in winter and in the colder parts of the world. They last for a long time and they don’t need to be molded to be comfy. The cons of this type of pillow are that they are costly, up to two hundred dollars and they are mostly not high, so they can’t fit all types of sleepers. Sometimes, they are needed to be adjusted which means they need to be shaken to give you the relaxation you need. Lastly, as they are a natural ingredient, they are not antimicrobial which means that sleepers who are prone to allergies would be best to avoid this type of pillow.

Down Alternatives
As down can be fabricated, we have down alternatives. They are actually polyester which is made to be like down. Most reviews say that there is no notable difference in the comfort of the two, but there are some benefits to the alternatives that down pillows don’t have, such as that they are hypoallergenic. Also, they are not as expensive as real down pillows, but they still mimics the softness, break-in period and flexibility of pillows made with real down. However, the alternative down is not as long lasting as the real thing, and it can increase the pressure on sensitive areas such as neck. Another downside is that it can lose its shape easily and it requires shaping and fluffing on a daily basis.

Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a filling that is like grain but more of the outer shell of a grain seed. It is hollow and organic. Five to ten pounds are in one pillow of buckwheat. Using this type of pillow has several advantages, such as great support for the head and shoulders, and possible customization so that it can fit all types of sleepers. These pillows provide relief from pain and aches, and they don’t retain body temperature. However, they can cost up to a hundred dollars per piece and are quite heavy, which can be a problem for some customers. Side sleepers can find it difficult to adjust these pillows because of their density.

Comparison

Looking over all these types of pillows, their shapes, sizes, weights etc. let’s see how they compare to each other.
When you look at the average price of a pillow, there is a notable difference in the organic and non-organic material prices. The cheapest is polyester, which starts at about 9$ and goes to 16$, next is a down alternative, which also being man-made ranges between 20$ to 30$. The most expensive are organic down which is up to a 100$ and pillows made from natural and organic materials which can be more than 150$.
The next category is durability. Buckwheat, feather and down are rated as most durable, where memory foam, natural and organic ingredients, and down alternative fall into the average range of durability. The lowest score of durability has polyester which might be linked to the price point of this pillow.

Support is the third factor that we should consider. Rated as the best are buckwheat, latex, memory foam and organic materials. After that, a category lower are the down pillows and feather pillows. Lastly, rated as ok are the down alternative and polyester.

The fourth category is the smell. The best rated are the man-made materials like polyester and down alternative, while the worst rated are feather and memory foam.

Category number five is temperature control. The pillows that excel here are those made with down buckwheat, down alternative, feather, latex and natural ingredients. The worst rated are memory foam pillows.

The weight of a pillow is the next criteria. The best performers were down and down alternative, while the lowest scores were given to buckwheat, latex and memory foam.

Next, we have rated maintenance as a category in which the best were buckwheat, latex and memory foam and the worst were feathers and polyester.
Let’s note the following as well. The pillows that are washable are down alternative and polyester, while memory foam and feathers can be washed sometimes. Buckwheat, down, latex and natural ingredients are not washable.
Adjustable loft comes for buckwheat, and sometimes for memory foam and natural ingredients. It is not adjustable for down, down alternative, feathers, latex, and polyester.
While the availability of the buckwheat, down alternative, feather, latex and natural ingredient pillows is limited, the availability of the down, memory foam and polyester is quite wide.

 

In conclusion:

Let’s recap all the points that need to be checked before spending our hard-earned cash on a pillow.
What size of the pillow do you need? Look at your mattress and your sleeping habits. Do you sleep in one spot or do you toss and turn during the night? Determine the size of the pillow that would suit you the best based on these things.
How high does your pillow need to be? Do you sleep on your stomach, back, side, or are you a combination sleeper? Which weight category do you fall into? Also, don’t forget to ask yourself if you need the pillow to sit up, lean on and read a book etc.
Finally, what type of pillow do you need? Do you have any allergies? are you always hot in bed? Do you need a firm or a soft pillow? Do you have any pain in your neck, shoulders, or back? Always take the durability, mobility and the warranty of the product into consideration and see if it matches your expectations.
Hope this guide will help you find your next pillow. There are more articles that can help you get acquainted with some of the best types of pillows here.

 

Imagine this scenario. You’ve just moved into your brand new apartment, and you’re filled with excitement about replacing that old mattress from your college dormitory days. You reach out to your friends and family for recommendations on finding a soft, comfortable mattress (yes, it’s finally time to indulge in that perfect bed for those never-ending days at work). But here’s the twist – their advice keeps varying from “This one will do wonders for your back” to “that one’s perfect if you like sleeping on your side.” And there you stand, bewildered, wondering, “Wait, do I even have a preferred sleeping position? I seem to be all over the bed by morning!” If this scenario sounds familiar, then you’re part of the combination sleepers club. Many believe it’s an advantage since any mattress would work, right? Wrong. Finding the perfect mattress for a heavenly night’s sleep isn’t a universal solution. **This piece of advice could be a total game-changer for those looking to enhance their sleeping experience.** Not only will it help you identify a mattress that adjusts to your every movement, but you’ll also learn some expert tips that most people are unaware of. Explore this information, and understand why choosing just any mattress could be depriving you of the restful sleep you deserve. Believe me, your ideal sleep haven is only an article away.

Important Things to Keep in Mind 

The important factor for combination sleepers is that the spine is aligned with the pelvis and shoulders no matter if you sleep on your side, back or stomach otherwise misalignment will cause pain points, especially on neck, shoulders and lower back. Let’s look at some pros and cons to combination sleeping  

• Sleeping on the side is great for people who have pain in the back because sleeping on your shoulders and hips aligns the spine and lessen pressure point. Also, if you have a problem with snoring sleeping on the side will provide the best air flow. On the downside, in order to be more comfortable, you might need an extra pillow under legs specifically between your knees. The studies have shown that this position can cause facial wrinkles. 
   
• Sleeping on the back promotes natural spine alignment, but people with bigger and heavier stomachs might experience hip or lower back pain because of uneven distribution for the weight in their mid-section. This position might increase symptoms of acid reflux. 
   
• Sleeping on the stomach is not very recommended because it can cause pain and discomfort, especially in the neck. Also, it can cause the lower back and spine to strain due to high concentration weight in the mid-section. 

 

How to Choose the Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Useful Tips 

Alignment of the spine is vital to people who are changing positions during sleep so it is necessary to pay attention to mattress support. That’s the ability of a mattress to provide an even and flat surface that can conform in specific areas in order to provide proper alignment of the spine. Neither too firm nor too firm enough surfaces can lead to misalignment. 

Firmness scale is measured from 1-10 (ten which is the firmest). Generally, most mattresses that are sold today are between Soft and Extra firm. The weight of the sleeper will determine suitable firmness. For example, a person who is the average weight will likely choose mattresses that can offer a golden middle, not too soft nor too firm, but choices for those who are above or below average are different.  

Here are some recommendations for sleepers who like to change positions: 

• For those who weigh below 130 lb, the optimal firmness is Medium Soft (4) because people who weigh below average usually need a softer surface that will align their spine correctly and conform their body to a noticeable extent, but it won’t give that sink in feeling. Firmer mattresses can increase pressure and discomfort.  
• For those who weigh from 130-230 lb(average weight), the optimal firmness is Medium- Medium Firm (5,6) because people who have average weight usually need a surface that will align their spine correctly without sinking in too deeply and conform their body to some extent. 
• For those who weigh above 230 lb, the optimal firmness is Firm (7) because people who have above average weight usually need a surface that conforms their body a little bit but does not sink at all. Softer mattresses can cause big discomfort and pain during sleep. 
• Besides spinal alignment, it would be wise if combination sleepers pay attention to the construction, that is the materials used to make the mattresses. Some mattresses are made in a way that eases the pain pressure and conforms more than others. Also, the mattress construction can affect noise and odor potential, sleep temperature, price point and durability.  

 

Let’s Review Different Types of Mattresses

 
Foam – Mattresses that have comfort layer made of memory foam or polyfoam and support core made of polyfoam of high-density are good because they: 

• Conform closely 
• Offer pain relief 
• Make no noise and have great motion isolation 
• Have a lower price than average 
• Offer a wide range of firmness options and availability 

Downsides: 

• Sleeping hot  
• Odor potential  
• Some early sagging reported –
• Has minimal edge support 

 
Latex – Mattresses that have comfort layer made of natural or synthetic latex and support core made of latex or polyfoam of high-density are good because they: 

• Offer lifespan that is longer than usual 
• Provide pain relief and conform closely 
• Make no noise and have great motion isolation  
• Provide cooler sleep than foam 

Downsides: 

• Odor potential 
• Cause some early sagging  
• Have Minimal edge support 
• High price-point and limited availability  

 
Innerspring – Mattresses that have comfort layer made of polyfoam, support core that has steel springs evenly spread with base layers made of polyfoam, are good because: 

• Edge support is strong 
• They offer good performance for sex 
• Provide cool sleep 
• Have lower price
• Offer a wide range of firmness options and wide availability 

Downsides:

• Some early sagging  
• Noise potential 
• Minimal conforming and pressure relief 

 
Hybrid – Mattresses that have comfort layer made of memory foam and /or latex  (2inches or more), support core pocketed coil with base layers made of polyfoam, are good because they: 

• Offer more comfortable conforming compared to innersprings 
• Have longer lifespan than other 
• Edge support is strong  
• Offer good performance for sex 
• Provide cool sleep 

Downsides: 

• Limited availability 
• Higher price than other types
• Noise potential 
• May sleep hot 

 
Airbed – Mattresses that have comfort layer made of foam, support core which is individual, adjustable air chamber, are good because they: 

• Conform closely 
• Offer pressure relief 
• Have longer lifespan than other 
• The firmness has adjustable settings 

Downsides: 

• There might be problems with temperature neutrality 
• It might make noise  
• Higher price than other 
• Availability is limited  

Now that we covered important factors to consider when searching for the mattress as a combination sleeper, let’s get down to business. 
 
Here are top choices recommended by our research team.

 

Nectar Mattress

Balanced mattress design is a key factor for combination sleepers. The one that can provide an average thickness profiles as well as support and body conforming. For all of you who like to switch positions during sleep, Nectar is an excellent choice. They offer a Medium Firm (6), which is great for lighter persons who prefer a firmer bed and has an average thickness of 11”.  

Nectar mattresses are made of comfort layers which contain both regular memory foam and gel memory foam to provide conforming that is moderate and consistent at the same time. Because of this, people who like to sleep on their backs can enjoy balanced support, while those who prefer to sleep on their stomach or side can experience a positive difference in their spinal alignment. Also, the bed is made with a dual layer that contains a high density of polyfoam in supporting core, and over the edges, because most people like to sit there. 
The cover layer is made of lyocell and cotton. That is helpful for anyone who sleeps hot because of its cooling effect. 
The construction of the Nectar mattress will give you the luxury feeling to keep you cozy during the night. 
 
Their mattresses don’t require foundation so you can place it where ever you wish, be it on the floor, box spring or a platform, as long as the surface is not wet. Also, it is low maintenance. If you wish to clean it, just use cool water and mild detergent and, with a light circular motion wipe of any stain. 
Keep in mind that it’s best to rotate the mattress every now and then, instead of flipping it, to optimize the performance of the foam. 
 
For customers who live in 48 states, US, Nectar offers free regular delivery with 10  year warranty. In addition, they offer the longest sleeping trial of 365 nights 

Recommended for:

• People who have average or above average weight 
• Those who have a tendency to sleep hot   
• Couples   
• Those who like a bed with a thickness that is average  

Key points:

• Medium firmness 6  
• One year sleep trial 
• Pressure relief  
• Close conforming  

Low points:

• Only one firmness option 
• Made overseas

Conclusion: 
It’s a great option for people who are fans of memory foam mattresses and enjoy good contouring of the body at a very affordable price and good quality. 

 

Tuft and Needle

Tuft and Needle mattress is a great choice if you want a bed that can provide necessary spinal alignment with a comfy feeling of memory foam without actually sinking in like it usually is with this kind of construction. 

The advantage of T&N mattress is that despite their low cost, the quality they offer is in the same range as their competitors. This mattress is made of polyfoam. It consists of a comfort layer which is 3 inches and supporting core of 7 inches. The mattress is Medium Firm 6.5, that is considered an optimal firmness for people whose weight is around 130 pounds. Specially designed to relieve pain because of its mild but consistent conforming. 

Couples will find it very satisfying due to its great motion isolation. The layers made of foam minimize the transfer of a movement to a noticeable extent causing minimal to no disruption during nighttime. 
Unlike other polyfoam mattresses, it is temperature neutral because it is made with two layers of high-density polyfoam allowing the mattress to “breathe”. In addition, the comfort layer contains cooling gel to keep your body cool all night. The construction overall is similar to latex which guarantees great durability of at least 10 years. 
The customers reported that there is no new mattress smell, so if you detect even slight odor, simply air it out. In case you have to clean it, it is not recommended to use a washing machine or tumble dry due to possible shrinking. To prevent the staining, it’s best to use mattress stain protector or a mattress pad. 
 
The Tuft and Needle provide customers with free regular shipping if they live in 48 states, US. They also provide a warranty of 10  years and a 100  night sleep trial. 

Recommended for:

• People who have average or above average weight 
• Those who have a tendency to sleep hot.   
• Couples      
• Those who like a bed with a thickness that is average

Key points:

• Medium Firm 6.5 
• Great motion isolation 
• 100  night sleep trial  
• High quality with low price 
• 10  year warranty 

Low points:

•  Foundation is necessary  
• Not the best choice for heavier sleepers

Conclusion: 
It’s a great choice for you if you enjoy a comfort layer that can conform your body and want a quality mattress at the lowest price at the moment. 

 

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan

Brooklyn Bedding offers a wide range of mattresses when we’re considering thickness, firmness, price point, and overall composition. This time we will review a model called – Spartan. 

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan has three levels of firmness – The Soft 3.5, The Medium 5.5, The Firm 7.5. This kind variety offers combination sleepers suitable bed no matter their weight. Also, the mattress is thicker compared to average one, 13.5 inches, which heavier sleepers and the ones who sleep on back or side will appreciate very much. 
 
What makes this model stand out is that it contains the latest Nanobionic technology. The bed cover is made out of Nanobionic performance mattress cover that contains fiber which absorbs your body heat and turns it into invisible waves of energy to increase your circulation, oxygenation and make you feel more energized. This kind of cover is great for people who are active because it will help to ease pain and promote renewal after long hours of physical activity like workouts, runs etc. The top layer of foam includes copper which works in harmony with stated technology because it too improves blood flow. Both layers will help your body perform its best over time. 
After that, we get three layers of foam to create an optimally balanced feel of contouring and adaptability that is responsive enough to move with you. But that is not the end my friend, the support core is made of a pocketed coil system that is flexible and durable. All of these layers are combined in that way to provide maximum comfort and give your body the rest that it deserves. 

This kind of luxury construction also comes with a luxury price that could be suitable for those of you who are willing to expand their budget for the sake of these healing qualities. 

Brooklyn Bedding provides free regular shipping to customers who live in 48 states, US. They also provide an of 10  years and a 120  night sleep trial. 

Recommended for:

• People who are average and below/above average weight 
• People who are physically active
• Those who sleep hot 
• Those who like a bed with a thickness that’s average  

Key points:

• Great for active people  
• 120  night sleep trial 
• 10  year warranty 
• Sleeps cool and comfortable for most sleepers 
• Firmness options 3.5-5.5-7.5 

Low points:

• Higher price 
• Heavier than average so it might be difficult to move 

Conclusion: 
You will love it if you prefer tend to sleep hot, want to have firmness and thickness options and it is necessary for you to get good conforming of your body. 

 

The Casper     

Do you remember the cartoon – Casper the ghost and how he was floating everywhere with ease? Well, that is how you will feel when you sleep on a Casper mattress and here is why. 

The Casper mattresses contain comfort layer that is made of two layers of polyfoam and the middle layer is made of memory foam. The supporting core also contains polyfoam and the cover is made of several fabrics like rayon and polyester.  
With this kind of construction, the mattresses firmness is Medium and it provides that cozy floating feeling without sinking in deeply or sagging. This is ideal for persons who weigh around 230 lb or below. The base made of foam that is of high density will provide you with support and maintain even and flat surface.   

 They also offer great movement isolation like most all foam beds and they make no noise carrying heavy weight. These factors are very important for couples when they are searching for a suitable bed, especially when one struggles to sleep during the night due to noise or sudden movement of their partner. The average thickness is compatible with both lighter and average weight sleepers. 
 
What most of the people make happy is the fact that Casper mattresses can always meet your budget due to a variety of choices compared with other memory foam mattresses. Their mattresses don’t require any special maintenance. Just rotate it every three to six months to extend the life of the bed and ensure even wear. 
 

The Casper free regular shipping to customers who live in the US. They also provide a warranty of 10  years and a 100  night sleep trial. 

Recommended for:

• Those who prefer beds with a thickness that is average  
• People who are light and average weight  
• People who suffer from back pain 
• Couples

Key points:

• Pressure-relieving comfort layers that are thick 
• Medium 5 
• Great motion isolation 
• 100 night sleep trial 
• 10  year warranty 

Low points:

• Weak edge support 
• Not very suitable for people who are above average weight 

Conclusion: 
Great choice if you want to enjoy the memory foam that can make you cool during the night and have chronic neck or back pain. 

 

Saatva 

If you like your mattress to be Medium Soft to Medium Firm you are going to love Saatva mattresses because they provide exactly that and more.  

Saatva is a brand whose goal is to give you the luxury without making you feel like you went broke after the purchase. They offer an excellent innerspring bed that contains two layers of pocketed coil systems- support base made of a coil that is under coils that are wrapped individually and underneath all that you have high-density memory foam and polyfoam. That ensures a good air flow which is recommended for those who are sleeping hot because this system makes the temperature neutral. Also, they made edge support firmer, so you don’t have to worry about your back, your spine will be in natural alignment and your pressure points will be at ease due to the cushioned feel that the mattress provides. 
 
Besides making a luxury product, they also want to make sure that most of the materials they use are environmentally friendly. Those materials include bio-based foams, recyclable steel, and cover that is made of organic cotton. 
As we mentioned earlier, Saatva can accommodate to any taste a consumer has. They offer Medium Soft 4, Medium Firm 6, and Firm 7.5. Great for people who have average to above average weight. 
 
Saatva mattress should be rotated at least once a year so it can wear evenly and in case mattress gets stained the best thing to do is to use a small amount of water and soap. Run it through water it could cause more damage. So, if you maintain it well it could last more than guaranteed 10 years  
 
They are providing with free White Glove services that also include removing your old mattress and a warranty of 15 years and a 120  night sleep trial. 

Recommended for:

• People who are average or above average weight  
• Those who sleep hot.   
• Couples   
• Those who like bed which are thicker compared to average  

Key points:

• Strong edge support 
• 120-night sleep trial 
• 15-year warranty 
• Pressure relief and close comforting 
• Firmness options 4-6-7.5  

Low points:

• Mattress is heavy  
• Motion isolation is not at its finest  

Conclusion: 
 It’s a great choice if you like that hybrid / innerspring feel options when it comes to firmness and quality materials with affordable price. You will find comfort no matter the position you sleep on. 

 

New Purple

What makes new model different from the original Purple is a new hybrid model which contains the combination of pocketed coils that give a supportive feel and the original construction. We dare say that this is a revolutionary upgrade for Purple because combination sleepers off any weight can feel very comfortable especially people who weigh above average. In the areas like shoulders and hips where you need to dig further in the mattress, it provides enough comfort with the support for the mid-section of your body.  

New Purple offers three thickness options that correspond with firmness level. You can choose from Medium Soft 4.5 Medium 5.5 and Medium Firm 6.5. The construction system contains the latest technology called Smart Grid with polymer grid that is very durable and column gel. All of these materials work together in harmony to ease pressure and pain points and similarly to latex it provides maximal motion isolation, except that polymer grid, lasts much longer. The edge support has been enhanced with polyfoam giving the stability during sleep. 
Also, for people who tend to sleep hot, this mattress will be a great option due to temperature neutrality that it offers and because of the gel grid, you will feel support and pain relief at the same time. 
The difference between old ones and a new one is also how much gel you get in inches and because this one offers four inches of gel, you will feel weightless during sleep, which will be very suitable for heavier sleepers. When it comes to sink in feel, the results are almost average and you don’t have to worry about the new mattress smell because they use materials that are 100 percent non toxic.  

 Even though the New Purple mattress is very durable due to a pocketed coil system with a polymer, it is recommended to use a mattress protector to prolong lifespan. 
The cost might vary depending on a thickness of the mattress and all three new options are above the average, which is a great option for people who are willing to expand their budgets for the sake of comfort. But they compensate the higher price with the offer of free shipping within 48 states in the US and a 100  night sleep trial with a 10  year warranty.  

Recommended for:

• People who are average or above or below average weight  
• Those who sleep hot  
• Those who are struggling with back pain  
• Those who like beds that are thicker compared to average  

Key points:

• Multiple firmness options 4.5-5.5-6.5 
• Great pressure relief and close conforming 
• 100-night sleep trial 
• 10-year warranty 
• Revolutionary ‘Smart Grid’ technology  

Low points:

• Higher price point compared to original 
• A bit heavy so it might be difficult to move 

Conclusion: 
If you haven’t found the right innerspring or memory foam mattress but are in search of a quality bed that will last a long time, this might be a good choice for you. Also, people who are struggling with sensitive pressure points will like this, because it will give you cushioning in the areas you need, like shoulders and hips. This could work for couples who are sensitive to their partner’s movement because of the maximum motion isolation. 

Before You Make Any Purchase Decision – Check Out These Tips 

Make sure you establish your budget – It is always wiser to create a budget before you go mattress hunting because salespersons job is to persuade you to buy a more expensive mattress. If you go unprepared, they might confuse you with a lot of questions that you didn’t even consider and then you will suddenly think you need something, while in fact, that is just their influence talking through you.  
Don’t get me wrong, they don’t mean you harm, in fact, they might offer you a mattress that is great for your needs, but you should keep in mind that at the end of the day, all they want is to make a sale that is their job. 
 
Do your homework before you go – Most mattresses from $1000 to more and a bed for one person can cost less than $100 and go up to $5000 or more. So, do your research and compare the prices of different mattresses at home. This will give you enough time to consider your needs and your price range. When you plan your budget make sure you add numbers to your budget because some brands don’t offer free delivery or if they do, they might charge extra if you live in a remote area or shipping if it’s made overseas. 

Understand the terms and conditions of sleep trial and warranty  
(yes, that includes fine print)

In most cases, mattress brands have a sleep trial policy. That means you can purchase the product you wish and you have a specific amount of time to return it (usually around 90 nights sometimes more). Sounds great I know, but there is a catch.  
They won’t tell this, you but sometimes they have 30 nights break in that is mandatory, that means if you return it before that time, you won’t get the full refund. It is always written in the fine prints, so make sure you read them carefully, especially when it comes to warranty. 

 Typically, you get a warranty that is non prorated which means if you notice some damage or defect on your mattress, you can get it repaired with minimum or no cost at all. So, make sure you ask about the length of your non prorated warranty because once it expires you will have to pay a percentage of the retail price of the mattress if you want to repair it and the percentage is getting higher and higher each year.  
Read the warranty thoroughly, from beginning to the end, to make sure you understand the length of the coverage since most brands do promise long length warranty but the coverage only lasts a couple of years.  

Be prepared and go get yourself a cozy mattress that won’t make your wallet cry! 

 

Blankets are a fundamental item found in every household, often used for numerous purposes. But, did you realize there are various types of blankets? Each kind has its own unique use, and in this conversation, we are going to explore a particular type of blankets. Let’s delve into the world of throw blankets together.

First of all, since blankets were invented with an idea to be thrown over the body, to cover it and keep it warm, you may think that all blankets are throw ones, but that is not the case. Throw blankets are not referring to those large, snuggly blankets we use to wrap up ourselves while napping or sleeping. The name stands for all medium-size models, with dimensions around 50 x 60 inches, since they tend to be more decorative, stylish, with a specific pattern or design, and they always have the edged borderline. For some, a good throw blanket represents an endeared possession that offers comfort and warmth in any part of their home, and thus, it can also enhance the room’s decor by adding a bright splash of color. They are also known as “style makers” because their beautiful colors, textures, and patterns give that sophisticated décor elegance and character to your room.

Before we jump into our suggestions of best throw models, we would like to point out a few other things that you should consider.

 

Why Use a Throw Blanket?

Since this is not your average blanket, and it should be on display most of the time, the question is, do you need it? Is it functional enough, will you even use it or will it just be there all pretty, collecting dust? Since that is the case with most eye-catching home products, here is our list of reasons why investing in a throw blanket could be a good thing.

• They could save your furniture and linens. If you have a house full of kids, or pets, or both, you know how things can get messy in no time, hence the throw blankets can be that essential barrier that will keep your new beige sofa or leather furniture free from any spills, scratches, and all sorts of accidents. If you already have some imperfections, you can cleverly use a blanket to hide it. You can put them strategically on chair backs, on the end of your guest bed, on ottomans, or worn out sofas, literally anywhere.
• They will make the room seem more homey and warm. Even with just one throw blanket folded on the edge of your couch, your room will immediately look cozier and inviting, especially during the cold months. Since the most preferred are the furry ones, gentle and silky to the touch, they will provide that dash of luxury to your home, making it look a little bit more extra.
• They add texture and color. If you are a minimalist and like to keep things simple and monochromatic, but with a little twist, these blankets could be the perfect accessory which will transform the space. Since they come in all colors, patterns, designs, they can fit in every corner of your house. Simple bedding can get a more personal look if you add a throw blanket, fold it neatly, lengthwise and drape it across the end of the bed. They are also easy to store and bring out later or to rotate around the house.
• Easy maintenance. Since these blankets are medium-size and lightweight, they are much easier to wash and dry. Most of them are suitable for machine washing and will be no need to bother with manual spot-cleaning.
• Inexpensive update. If you are bored with your old throw blanket and want a new one, you can easily afford it. If your pet’s claws ruin your furniture, that replacement will be a lot pricier; hence, it is safer and cheaper to invest in throw blankets.

 

Buying Guide

Although these blankets can be pretty multifunctional, perhaps you should pay attention to some of their features to find the right one for the purpose you have on your mind. Our guide will introduce you to different available materials and other features that should have an impact on your final decision.

• First, to solve the dilemma and make things clear, blankets and throw blankets are not the same. Standard blankets are a part of your regular bedding line, while throw ones are more seen as a part of your home decor, and usually, the accent is not so much on their functionality as it is on their appearance. 
• We already mentioned that their size is smaller than the one of a standard blanket, but bear in mind that not all throw blankets come in the same size. Mostly they are all around 50 x 60 inches, but if you have any specific dimensions on your mind, make sure to check that out.
• Thickness and warmth are also features that can vary from one blanket to another. Lightweight ones made from cotton or polyester are more appropriate for summer months, while the ones made from wool, down, knit, or fleece, are thicker and hence more suitable for winter months.
• Most of these blankets are suitable for machine washing, but some can be dry cleaned only, so read the declaration carefully. Usually, models made from cotton, polyester, and linen can be washed in a machine, while natural materials such as down and wool require high maintenance. Rarely you will find some that are not meant for washing at all, and they have to be spot cleaned. 
• People who suffer from allergies have to be extra careful with everything, especially with things that come in touch with their skin. We advise them to seek models which claim to have hypoallergenic features, or they do not contain any potentially harmful materials.
• If you tend to overheat even while napping on your couch, a throw blanket made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, or silk, should be your choice because it will not cause you to sweat or overheat.
• The type of throw determines its other features such as the weave, look, material, and cleaning. For example, decorative throws come with eye-catching patterns and unique design, but they will not be so warm or easy to maintain. Fleece is a popular material for throws because it is soft and warm, but it cannot provide the variety of patterns. A particular type of throws are heated throws, which are heavier, but they are all about warming you up and keeping you cozy.
• Electric throw blankets are also available, but they contain coiled wires which heat up when they are connected with power, and just like any other electronic device, they can be the cause of the fire. Also, it is not recommended to use them on sofas or couches; it is best to use them only on certain beds, which is why today we will not be discussing them.
• The best choice of material depends on how you plan to use your throw. If it is just for the decor, then the breathability, warmth, and coziness are not categories which should have an impact on your choice. However, if you expect from your throw to perform well and be functional, then the fleece is the material for you. Fleece is made of polyester, and it is incredibly comfortable and warm, microfiber throws are very similar, but they are more plushy, while flannel throws are made for brushed cotton which gives the fabric more loft and tepidity. There are also throws made of different blends of materials mentioned above. Linen throws are not so soft or plush, they are more cooling and feel heavier. Wool is also known for its temperature regulation, and these blankets usually contain it. Another excellent material with cooling properties is down, whether it is coming from geese or ducks, down remains cold for a long time, but it is also more expensive. Faux fur is a pretty popular material for throws due to its luxury appeal and warmth.
• Weave impacts the performance and appearance of a blanket. If it is tightly sewn, it can trap heat and moisture, which will cause you to sweat. So depending on how you plan to use it, take a look at the weave type.
• Throws are often used to add a pop of color, to freshen up a piece of old furniture, or to cover up imperfections and stains, hence the broad range of available colors and patterns will allow you to transform the appearance of your home effortlessly and inexpensively. You can match them with rugs, curtains, or other details of your home.

 

Counting Sheep’s List of Top Picks

After mentioning all the details you should know before going shopping, it is time to narrow down your choice and choose the best one. Here is our selection and brief reviews of the best throw blankets on the market.

Magic Linen Waffle Blanket

As our first and top pick, we represent you Magic Linen Waffle Blanket. It is exceptionally breathable due to being made of 58% of linen and 48% of cotton. Linen is by far one of the most durable and breathable materials when it comes to throw blankets, and we highly recommend it. This blend of fabrics provides a balance of warmth and comfort, while the stone-washed linen increases the softness, and the best part is that it is available in three universal colors.

 

Sofia’s Linen Pure Flax

Sofia’s Linen Pure Flax is for people who expect to get a dash of luxury in their home, and it is made from 100% linen, which comes from the Flax plant. It feels heavy, and it can be used throughout the year since it is very breathable and comfortable. This model comes with a pattern in four colors so that everyone can find a perfect match for their interior.

Bear in mind that it is slightly larger than most throw blankets, its dimensions are 87 x 79 inches, which gives it perhaps even more versatility and ways in which it can be used.

 

Shilucheng Luxury Fleece 

Shilucheng Luxury Fleece Throw blanket a multi-layer model with two different sides. The outer layer is made of microfiber, perfect for winter and cold nights, while the inner side has a layer of polyester. Even though it is double-sided, this model is pretty affordable since it comes with a price which is below the average for this type of blankets. Also, if you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it and get a full refund.

The dimensions are 63 x 40 inches, the throw comes in various colors, and it is suitable for machine washing in cold water. 

 

Cultiver Pure Linen Throw

Cultiver Pure Linen Throw is probably one of the most elegant and minimalistic blankets of this type we have seen; it is made of 100% textured European linen which is pre-washed for extra softness. All four sides have short fringes to look more chic and effortless, and everyone’s favorite off-white color makes this throw a great match with any piece of furniture, so if you are looking for trendy throw blankets, search no more, this is the right one. 

Its dimensions are 59 x 87 inches, and it is available in only one, milky white color. If you are not satisfied, you have 30 days to return it, but the product has to be unwashed and unused.

 

Chenille Thick Couch Throw Blanket 

If you are looking for decorative throw blankets that are easy to maintain, you are going to love Chenille Thick Couch throw blanket. It is wrinkle resistant, can be used throughout the whole year, and it is incredibly lightweight and made from chenille polyester. You can choose the color and enjoy in its design with tassels and fringes, which will stand out especially if you throw them over a sofa or armchair.

It is thicker than the average throw, but it is not heavy at all, and it feels pretty soft and cozy to the skin. If you are not satisfied with it, you can ask for a refund.

 

Luxor Linens Vivace Ultra Soft Throw

Luxor Linens Vivace Ultra Soft Throw is an exceptionally plush blanket, lightweight, and easy to use around the house. It is made from fleece of brushed polyester, which gives it loft and coziness. There are seven available colors, but the favorite feature of many users is the option to customize it by adding your monogram, which makes it look more expensive and luxurious.

If it happens that this is not what you were looking for, you can return it and get your money back during the first 30 days after the purchase.

 

Home Soft Things Tweed Throw Blanket

If you love textures and knitted appearance, the Home Soft Things Tweed Throw Blanket is the right blanket for you. Knitted microfiber polyester gives this blanket texture and coziness while being heavy enough to keep you warm during the coldest months. 

Besides its knitted pattern, this blanket has tassels on its two ends; hence, it is a perfect decor piece for every room. It comes in standard throw size, but some colors are available in 60 x 80 inches, which is a more versatile size.

Maintenance is easy since this blanket can be washed in a machine on a delicate program, without the risks of fading or loosening the structure.

 

Flannel Fleece Luxury Blanket Throw    

Flannel Fleece Luxury Throw Blanket is another model with easy maintenance, and it is perfect for snuggling and giving that touch of elegance to your home. Made from 100% polyester, it is suitable for machine washing and drying on low temperatures, without the danger of shrinkage. It is also fade and wrinkle resistant, lightweight, and cozy.

It comes in a standard throw size, 50 x 60 inches, but what distinguishes this model from others is its low price and five years of the limited manufacturer warranty, which is rare among throw blankets.

 

Merrylife Decorative Throw Blanket

If you are into bold colors and looking for a detail that will pop out, Merrylife Decorative Throw Blanket has a wide range of standard and more outstanding colors and patterns. It is made from 100% polyester fleece and will keep you warm and comfortable while reading a book or napping. Also, it comes in many sizes and can be used for many purposes. In case of any accidents, this blanket can be washed and dried in a machine on low temperatures.

 

Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Luxury Blanket

It is one of the most popular models, it is dual-sided, and both sides offer different feel and warmth. This model is made of 100% polyester fleece. One side is made of wool-like fleece; hence, it is more plush, cozy and thick, while the other is more sleek, velvety, which makes this blanket very versatile and suitable for traveling, sleeping, napping, etc.

Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Luxury Blanket is available in standard throw dimensions, it comes in different colors, but most importantly, it has hypoallergenic features, which is perfect for everyone prone to allergies.

 

Bedsure Knitted Throw Blanket

Another great model is the Bedsure Knitted Throw Blanket, which looks very luxurious and elegant with its thick, rich, knitted texture. It is made of 100% acrylic, which makes it very warm and lightweight. Its synthetic composition makes it durable and resistant, and it will not fade due to washing. 

It is tightly woven, so you can wash it without having to worry about its texture falling apart because it will remain its chic woven pattern even after washing. It is also hypoallergenic and comes in various colors and patterns.

The blanket can be returned or replaced during the first 30 days, but Bedsure’s exceptional business model offers a lifetime free customer service.

 

Luxury Collection Ultra Soft Plush All-Season Throw    

Just like its name says, Luxury Collection Ultra Soft Plush All-Season Throw is ideal for snuggling in all seasons, and it is available in 25 different colors, but there are also many available textures and patterns. This model is made from 100% German polyester which is anti-static, there is no need to wash it before using it, it is machine washable in cold water, and it should be air-dried.