Pillows can have different fillings, and that is what determines their quality. The best and most common are feathers / feathers, viscoelastic, latex foam and silicone fiber. Check out the characteristics of the most popular materials among consumers today:

• • Feathers / Feathers : Natural feathers can proliferate mites and microorganisms. It loses volume over time and machine washing can cause odors. It is breathable, retaining little heat.
  • Viscoelastic : It is thermosensitive and does not deform. They are denser and cannot be machine washed.
  • Latex foam : Perforations favor ventilation and are sterilized at the factory. It does not warp. It smells very strong when new.
  • Silicone fiber : Not all are washable. It is generally light and flexible and absorbs and retains heat. Lose volume with use.

Also, check the product change indication. Usually pillows should be used for 2 to 4 years.

To find out if your pillow is still in use, do the following test: fold it in half and hold it firmly for about 30 seconds. If, when you release the pillow, it does not return to its original shape on its own, it is time to discard it.

Antiallergic models with anti-dust mite, fungi and bacteria protections have a long useful life, but can be more expensive. Also check the instructions for care and hygiene of the product, and if they fit your routine. The ideal is to sanitize the pillows at least every 6 months of use.

The amount charged for the pillows can vary a lot according to the brand, material and types of technologies applied in the product.

It is possible to purchase a very basic model for around R $ 15. The most sophisticated models, magnetized or with noble fabrics and famous brands, can exceed R $ 1,000.

Finding a place to buy your pillow won’t be much of a problem. They are on sale in stores specializing in items for Bed, Table, and Bath.

They are also available in large department stores such as Walmart.

However, it is on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon that it is possible to find the greatest variety of the product in different models, brands, and materials.

Purchase criteria: Factors to buy different pillow models

In this final session, we will list the features that you can evaluate when purchasing to recognize the best pillow to meet your needs and expectations. Are they:

• Models
• Material
• Height
• Sanitation

Below, you can understand in detail the importance of considering each of these points.

Models

The basic model of the pillow is the rectangular one, for pillowcases of 50 x 70 centimeters. However, there are variants that you can consider for choosing the ideal product for your needs and that of your family. Check out:

• Children’s Pillow: In different size and shape for the anatomy still in development of babies and children. Give preference to the anti-allergic and anti-suffocating models, which come with small holes to facilitate breathing in case the child turns face down.
• Body pillow: Elongated version of the regular pillow, this model measures 50 x 1.35. It is indicated for those who sleep on their side. It should be positioned between the legs and arms, almost in an embrace. The position supports the knees and elbows so that the spine is well aligned.
• Orthopedic: With higher edges and a concave center, this model is shaped like an S for better accommodation of the head. It is indicated for those who have back problems or tendencies to a stiff neck. It can also be used by anyone who wants to improve posture while sleeping.
• For pregnant women: The worm is a variation of the body pillow specifically for pregnant women. Horseshoe-shaped, it surrounds the entire trunk. It supports the head and passes between legs, accommodating the belly. It can also be used as a support for breastfeeding and for babies who are learning to sit.
• Ramp or anti-reflux: Indicated for those who suffer from gastric reflux, it has the shape of a ramp or triangle, which supports the spine while allowing the head to rise in relation to the body. The position alleviates and prevents the symptoms of the disease. It can be found in both adult and child versions, with heights varying according to the severity of reflux.

Material

The material of the pillow directly interferes with the level of comfort provided during the night, in addition to determining the durability and quality of the product.

With the advancement of technology, today there are pillows in materials for practically all types of preferences or needs.

check out the main indications for the most popular types of materials today:

The latex foam pillow is the most suitable for respiratory problems and allergies. The material is sterilized at the factory and usually comes with micro-holes that allow ventilation, reducing the concentration of moisture and microorganisms. In addition, it can be washed in a common machine.

Viscoelastic foam is known as the Nasa pillow, it is ideal for those who have restless sleep and are prone to muscle pain. This is because, although the material easily molds to the head and neck, it is firm and heavy, providing good support and improving circulation.

The goose feather models are extremely soft and cozy,
for years it was considered the best type of pillow in the world. However,
it is not suitable for those who have restless sleep or sleep on their side. This is because the
material, despite being very comfortable, does not offer firmness and support,
being able to sink too much during sleep and leave the spine out of alignment.

The polyurethane foam pillow also called compact foam, this material is very firm, suitable for those who sleep on their side and do not change much of their position during sleep. However, it can be considered uncomfortable by some people.

It also has silicon fiber or microfiber, it is flexible and light, adapting well to those who sleep on their stomachs up or down. However, it may not be a good option for regions or hot periods, as the material is synthetic and tends to get quite hot.

If you prefer the spring pillow, know that this is usually the material of orthopedic pillows. Ideal for those who have back problems, need to maintain, or want to improve posture. It is firm but softer and more comfortable than the other stiffer composition options. It is also good for those who sleep on their side.

Finally, the foam flake models, with conventional cut foam filling, are light and soft. However, it is not the most suitable for sleeping, as the foam flakes tend to accumulate on the sides, impairing the head support and the alignment of the spine. It is ideal for decorative purposes, providing that fluffy and bulky effect on the pillowcase.

Height

The ideal height of the pillow, as a rule, is that which exactly fills the width of the shoulder, that is, the space between the surface of the mattress and the person’s head.

The final height of the pillow must be considered: the height at which it will be with the weight of the head applied to it.

Therefore, the correct height varies from person to person, as it also depends on the taste and anatomy of each one. Tall or broad-shouldered people will need taller pillows to ensure head support at the correct angle to the spine.

As for children, people of short stature and mignon profile will adapt better to medium to low models. As already mentioned, the sleep position of each person can also be a determining factor in choosing the height of the pillow.

For those who sleep face down or belly up, low models are ideal. For those who sleep on their side, the choice should be between medium or tall. Do you want to take the test at the right time? This can be done without you having to lie down in the middle of the store.

Touch the pillow to be tested against a wall. Standing, lean against the same wall, placing your head on the pillow. Simulate your favorite position while sleeping. If the neck is aligned with the spine, the height of the pillow is correct.

Sanitation

The hygiene of the pillow is a very important factor. Because it is in direct and prolonged contact with the user’s face, a poorly sanitized pillow can cause allergies, irritations and breathing problems.

Give preference to washable models, as it is ideal that the product is cleaned every 6 months to avoid the concentration of mites and bacteria. If the product is not washable, check if it comes with a waterproof protective cover.

It is also possible to buy the cover separately, which is indicated even for washable models, since washing only the cover is much more practical than washing the entire product. It will be effective in keeping most of the dirt trapped, without it coming into contact with the pillow.

Most models, according to manufacturers’ guidelines, should not be exposed to the sun, as heat can further increase the proliferation of microorganisms inside the product.

Therefore, do not wash your pillow if you have difficulty drying it completely in the shade. Sloppy drying can be more harmful to health than dirt itself.

If possible, appeal to professional laundries, which have the necessary equipment for proper washing and drying.

Avoid leaving your sleeping pillow inside cabinets or under the covers after use. If possible, let them air under indirect light in a ventilated place daily, to dissipate possible moisture.