Rosi Sexton
Jan 15, 2023
Avoid These Pillow Mistakes: Learn How to Choose Right pillow for Neck pains
Recommended by Rosi Sexton, Osteopath at Olston Osteopathy
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for your health and well-being, and one key factor in achieving this is using the right pillow. However, many people make common mistakes when choosing and using their pillows, leading to discomfort and poor sleep quality. Here’s how to avoid those pitfalls and find the perfect pillow for your needs.
Take a simple Test to find out which Pillow is best for you
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1. Choosing the Wrong Size
The Mistake
A pillow that's too high or too low can misalign your neck and spine, causing pain and stiffness.
The Solution
Measure Your Shoulder Width: Your pillow should support the space between your head and the mattress, keeping your neck in a neutral position.
Adjustable Options: Consider pillows with adjustable loft, like those from Brightr Sleep, which allow you to add or remove filling to achieve the perfect height.
2. Ignoring Pillow Material
The Mistake
Choosing a pillow material that doesn't suit your sleeping style or comfort preferences can lead to restless nights.
The Solution
Down Alternative: Ideal for those who prefer a soft feel and are often front or back sleepers. The Brightr Nox pillow is a great example.
Hybrid Pillows: These offer a balance of softness and support, perfect for combination sleepers. Check out the Brightr Stella pillow.
Memory Foam: Perfect for side sleepers needing firm support that conforms to their neck. The Brightr Luna pillow offers medium-firm support, while the Brightr Eclipse pillow provides firmer support.
3. Overlooking Pillow Firmness
The Mistake
Using a pillow that's too firm or too soft can cause neck pain and disrupt your sleep.
The Solution
Soft: Suitable for stomach sleepers who need minimal support.
Medium: Good for back sleepers who need moderate support.
Firm: Best for side sleepers who require substantial support to keep their spine aligned.
4. Not Replacing Your Pillow Regularly
The Mistake
Old pillows lose their support and can harbor allergens, affecting your sleep quality and health.
The Solution
Regular Replacement: Replace your pillow every 1-2 years, depending on its material and condition.
Check for Wear: If your pillow is lumpy, flat, or doesn't spring back after folding, it’s time for a new one.
5. Ignoring Sleeping Position
The Mistake
Using a one-size-fits-all approach to pillows regardless of your sleeping position can lead to discomfort.
The Solution
Side Sleepers: Need a firm, high-loft pillow to fill the space between the neck and shoulder.
Back Sleepers: Require a medium-loft pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck.
Stomach Sleepers: Benefit from a soft, low-loft pillow to avoid neck strain.
6. Not Trying Before Buying
The Mistake
Buying a pillow without testing it can result in a poor match for your needs.
The Solution
In-Store Testing: If possible, test pillows in the store to feel their firmness and support.
Money-Back Guarantees: Look for pillows with a trial period, like those from Brightr Sleep, which offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Take a simple Test to find out which Pillow is best for you
Take the testBest Down Alternative Pillow
Elevate your sleep with the Brightr® Nox down alternative pillow, a game-changer for your sleep posture. Thanks to its one-of-a-kind 2-layer adjustable design, it not only reduces neck and upper back pains but also provides a luxuriously soft, down-like sleeping sensation.
Best Hybrid Pillow
Crafted with pressure-relieving Hybrid CloudComfort™ clusters and built-in SolaceChill™ cooling technology, this pillow offers medium-soft support. Wake up refreshed, with reduced neck and upper back pain thanks to the soft, soothing sensation and targeted cooling.
Best Memory Foam Pillow
The Brightr® Luna memory foam pillow corrects your sleeping posture, reducing neck and upper back pains, thanks to its unique 2 layer adjustable design.
Best Firm Memory Foam Pillow
Experience unparalleled support, pressure relief, and spinal alignment with our ergonomic memory foam pillow. Its innovative 4-layer adjustable design molds to your desired shape, ensuring lasting comfort and a cool sleep environment for your best night's rest.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common pillow mistakes can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health. By choosing the right size, material, and firmness, replacing your pillow regularly, and considering your sleeping position, you can find the perfect pillow that keeps you comfortable and well-rested. Remember to try before you buy and take advantage of trial periods to ensure your pillow is the best fit for your needs.