The best pillows for sleeping in 2021

Regular healthy sleep energizes you, ensures good health and mood. It is possible if a person has comfortable conditions for night rest. A pillow is an integral bedding item that has a significant impact on the quality and duration of sleep. A correctly selected product relieves stress, normalizes blood circulation, eliminates pain and provides optimal support in the cervical spine. In this article you will learn what criteria you should pay attention to when choosing a pillow for sleeping.

The best manufacturers of sleeping pillows - which company to choose

One of the important parameters for choosing a sleeping pillow is the manufacturer of the product.

In order for the product to fully comply with the declared qualities, it is better to buy from well-known companies, which include:

1. MirSon;

2. Christian Fischbacher;

3. Billerbeck;

4. Sonex.

The companies are the world's largest suppliers of pillows and other bedding products. All products are made from the best materials in compliance with environmental standards.

The best orthopedic pillows

IQ Sleep "Sensation"

Rating: 4.9

In first place in the rating category is an anatomically shaped pillow. The uniqueness of the model lies in the combination of three main factors: proper support, comfort and durability. Made from anatomical OPTIREST memory foam. The cover is made of 100% high quality polyester. This model does not require special bolsters to support the cervical region, which not everyone likes. Suitable for any sleep position.

Advantages

• ensures the natural position of the spine;
• reasonable price - 3 thousand rubles;
• suitable for children from 8 years old;
• hypoallergenic;
• does not lose shape;
• improves blood supply to the brain;
• prevents muscle spasms in the back of the head;

Flaws

• not found.

The principle of operation and design of a sleeping pillow

A sleeping pillow is a bedding that serves as support for the head and neck of a lying person. The need to use a sleeping pillow is determined by the structure of the human body. It supports the neck in a natural position and prevents curvature of the spine.

Without its use, the neck muscles of a recumbent person will be twisted and tense, so the person will not be able to fully rest and sleep.

Experts recommend changing this bedding accessory every 3 years. There are, of course, products whose service life exceeds 5 years, but this is subject to proper care.

Over time, pillows accumulate dust and allergens, because... Some items cannot be machine washed and must be taken to a dry cleaner. People do not always comply with the operating conditions, so the recommended period of use is significantly reduced.

Types of fillers

Manufacturers use the following materials as fillers:

• buckwheat husk,
• polyester rolled into small balls
• down and feathers (natural or artificial),
• cooling gel,
• polyester fiber,
• various types of highly elastic foam, for example with memory effect, which, responding to pressure and heat, follows the contours of the body and gives the feeling of weightless sleep,
• eucalyptus fiber, which perfectly absorbs moisture,
• natural or artificial latex.

If you are prone to allergies, it is better not to take bedding with natural filling. Choose, for example, those containing hypoallergenic latex or polyurethane foam.

There are double-sided models with different types of filling: as an option, there is polyester fiber on one side and duck down on the other. By purchasing one, you can choose which side to sleep on, depending on your feelings on a particular day.

Many people prefer to use pillows with a spring block. They are also very comfortable and provide good support for the cervical vertebrae and head. There may also be two cylindrical inserts inside. This model is very elastic, supports the head well, preventing it from sinking. Carbon-impregnated inserts have antibacterial properties and prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors.

Choose the option that suits you. For convenience, all products in our catalog have photos. You can evaluate not only the appearance of a particular model, but also the features of its internal content.

Types of sleeping pillows

Classic

These types of pillows are the most common for night sleep. Often products combine softness and elasticity at the same time, which is why they are so popular.

The pillows have the classic shape of a square or rectangle, the length of which is 40-80 cm, width 30-50. The format of European models for adults is 70*70 cm, for children – 40*60 cm. The filler can be natural or synthetic.

Advantages:

• there is no pressure in the neck during sleep;
• the ability to adjust the height of the product to suit you;
• a huge variety of fillers;
• various degrees of rigidity, sizes, heights, shapes, etc.;
• different price categories.

Flaws:

• Many natural fillings of classic pillows cause an allergic reaction, have a short shelf life, absorb odors, require special care (period drying, airing, cleaning), etc.
• The synthetic fillers in such pillows are less breathable and are too soft, so they are not suitable for people with cervical diseases.

Orthopedic

These products are designed to make the neck and head more comfortable during sleep. They are distinguished by a special shape - a cushion or a rectangle with a notch, thanks to which the pillow prevents deformation of the spine in the cervical region.

Thanks to the special filling (several layers), the products remember the position of the head and neck, which ensures an optimal position throughout sleep.

Such models often become objects of counterfeiting. Some unscrupulous manufacturers give an orthopedic shape, while using the usual single-layer filling of classic pillows.

Orthopedic products are recommended for use in various diseases of the cervical spine: osteochondrosis, trauma or displacement of the vertebrae, torticollis, increased muscle tone, chronic pain, etc.

Advantages:

• elastic support for the neck and head;
• the product reduces the load on the cervical spine;
• does not interfere with bleeding in soft tissues;
• does not cause an allergic reaction;
• remembers the curves of the head and neck.

Flaws:

• practically does not change shape;
• requires some getting used to, so is not suitable for people with insomnia;
• many fakes;
• high price;
• increased rigidity, a hard high side can cause neck pain.

The pillow can have natural or synthetic filling. The first include: down and feathers, sheep's wool, silk, buckwheat husk, bamboo fiber, etc.

Filler selection

The filler in a pillow largely determines its hardness, density, convenience and comfort during use. All fillers can be divided into two large groups - natural and artificial.

Natural fillers are materials of animal or plant origin:

• Feather and down are the most common types of natural pillow filling. Most often, down and/or feathers from geese, ducks, and less often other land or waterfowl are used for filling. The stiffness of the pillow largely depends on the ratio of down and feathers in the filler. Down and feather pillows are soft, have good hygroscopicity and breathability, take well and restore their shape when fluffed. Disadvantages include a high risk of mites and small insects appearing in the fillers, as well as a high risk of an allergic reaction. The down-feather product has minimal orthopedic properties. Such pillows last no more than 5-7 years and are suitable for anyone who does not have any special problems with the spine or allergies to down and feathers.
• Sheep's wool. Processed and purified sheep wool is used to fill the pillow. Such pillows are highly elastic, have good ability to pass air and retain heat. The disadvantages of this type of filler include a high risk of allergies, the likelihood of ticks, moths and other small insects appearing inside, low elasticity of the material, and the inability to wash. Such pillows last about 5 years, then the wool simply gets into clumps and it becomes simply impossible to restore its shape. This filler is not suitable for asthmatics and allergy sufferers.

• Bamboo. For bamboo filler, specially crushed and heat-treated bamboo stems are used. As a result of this processing, the stems are transformed into thin, light, elastic fibers up to 20 centimeters long. Such pillows are quite lightweight, low-allergenic, lightweight and easy to care for, they can be washed, they are soft, elastic, breathable, and practically do not absorb foreign odors. Disadvantages include the risk of small insects appearing inside, although lower than in the case of feather/down and sheep's wool. Wash only by hand or on a delicate cycle, and dry flat to avoid deformation of the fibers. Pillows made with bamboo fiber need to be fluffed regularly to maintain their shape. This is a fairly universal filler for anyone who does not have allergic reactions or orthopedic problems with the spine. The lifespan of pillows with bamboo filling is up to 5 years.
• Silkworm silk. This filler is a collection of several threads of natural silk into one whole. This filler is exceptionally hypoallergenic, hygienic and comfortable to use, as well as a long service life of up to 10-15 years. The only drawback that makes pillows with silk filling unpopular is their high price.
• Buckwheat husk. This filler consists of fragments of buckwheat grain and shell, which are treated for disinfection with hot steam. This material can be considered orthopedic, since it adapts well to the curves of the body and retains its shape until the next shaking. Among the advantages of this filler are low allergenicity, ease of use, high breathability, massage and orthopedic effect. The risk of insects appearing inside is minimal. The material has no critical disadvantages, but there are a number of features that may discourage the choice. For example, although not strong, there is a distinct smell of buckwheat, which persists for even several years; when moved, the filler characteristically rustles, and a pillow with buckwheat husks weighs significantly more than all other analogues. Since the product cannot be washed, you should choose dry cleaning options. Because of this same feature, such pillows are best used in regions with a dry climate. Service life up to 5 years if used correctly and all requirements are met.
• Herbs. Another rather specific pillow filling. Most often, the following herbs in different combinations are used as the basis for herbal pillows: lavender, sage, mint, lemon balm, pine needles, rosemary. Herbal pillows have a therapeutic effect - they improve the quality of sleep, normalize the functioning of the nervous system, and can act as a means of preventing or treating respiratory diseases. Unfortunately, herbal fillers cannot boast of durability; their service life is limited to one goal; washing such products is unacceptable, as well as using them in conditions of high humidity.

Options for choosing a sleeping pillow

Filling

Whether it will be natural or synthetic depends on the user’s preferences. Each has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into account when choosing.

Form

Products can be of various shapes:

1. Pillows that follow the anatomical shape of the neck and head;

2. Rectangle;

3. Square;

4. Round pillows (more suitable for decorative purposes, not for sleeping).

Size

The most optimal product size is considered to be:

1. For an adult – 70*50 cm;

2. For children – 60*40 cm.

Case

The pillow should have a cover made of dense material, so the filling will not be knocked out, but at the same time the fabric should remain breathable and light.

Height

The pillow can have different heights - from 5 to 15 cm. The angle between the neck and shoulder in a horizontal position should be 90 degrees. If your shoulder is wide, then the pillow should be high.

Softness level

Products can be:

1. Hard (prescribed for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, they are also recommended for those who like to sleep on their side);

2. Semi-rigid (suitable if a person usually sleeps on his back);

3. Soft (great for stomach sleepers).

Sewing details

Large seams can cause discomfort, so pay attention to this parameter when purchasing. In addition, they must be durable so that the pillow can withstand washing or dry cleaning. To check the strength of the seams, pull them a little. The appearance of small discrepancies may indicate a low-quality product.

Purchase Features

The best orthopedic sleeping pillows have a number of distinctive features that you should pay attention to when purchasing. We are talking about the characteristics of height, rigidity, shape, material for external decoration, filler, cost and other points. Below we will talk about them.

Pillow shapes

Products can be presented in rectangular, anatomical (sub-cervical), square shapes. Side sleepers should choose bolsters. This is an anatomical shape that has different heights. However, everyone else who sleeps in a different position can pay attention to rectangular shapes.

According to orthopedic specialists, a square pillow is not particularly suitable for sleeping, and therefore it is not worth buying. This is due to the fact that relevant studies have been carried out, which have proven that the pillow should not fall under the shoulder area. It is worth supporting the cervical spine and head.

Altitude indicators

You should also rely on the positions in which a person is used to sleeping. If it is on the side, then the height indicators should be in exact accordance with the shoulder width - 10-14 centimeters. It is worth measuring your indicators by turning to a centimeter tape for help. You need to start measuring from the neck area to the end of the shoulders.

Those people who sleep on their stomach or back should pay attention to low pillows. These are 8-10 and 6-8 centimeters. It’s worth pointing out here that men need products much more than women. The height indicators will depend on how hard the mattress is. The softer it is at the base, the lower you need to take the product.

Hardness parameter

You should immediately pay attention again to the position in which you sleep. The firmest characteristics of the pillows are suitable for those who rest on their sides, as it is important to pay attention to the cervical region. If you sleep on your back - medium firmness, and on your stomach - a soft pillow.

Features of the filler

When choosing which pillow is best, pay attention to the filler. Ensuring the correct position of the spine, as well as its support function, will depend on its properties. The best today are considered to be Taktile and anatomical filler, as well as foam that has a memory effect. These options will be able to support the head in the correct position. As you use them, they will not lose their beneficial properties, and will be useful for a long time.

Other fillers are also known today. These are down, feather, padding polyester, buckwheat husk and many other options. All of them do not cope so well with the peculiarity of supporting the cervical spine and head, creasing during use.

When thinking about which pillow is best to buy, keep in mind that you should change products every 6 months. And keep in mind that even with natural fillers you should be very careful. Despite their environmentally friendly characteristics, they can provoke an allergic reaction.

Which sleeping pillow to choose

1. If you need a pillow that will follow the anatomical structure of the head and neck, you should pay attention to orthopedic products. For lovers of the classic version, rectangular or square pillows are suitable.

2. For people with low blood pressure, a soft product is recommended that ensures a low position of the head and blood flow during sleep (this can be down-feather, synthetic filling or made from sheep wool).

3. For people with high blood pressure, it is better to purchase a more rigid product that will ensure a high head position during sleep (for example, feather filling).

4. If a person is prone to allergies, then you should definitely purchase a synthetic pillow that does not accumulate dust or a pillow with a plant filler (for example, with bamboo fibers).

5. For lovers of environmentally friendly materials, you should choose pillows with natural filling: feather-down, sheep wool, silk, bamboo, buckwheat husk, etc.

The best pillows - down filler

Togas Royal

Rating: 4.9

In first place is a model with a high degree of elasticity. According to the manufacturer, the best raw materials were selected for the product, in this case, down from northern breeds of geese. It has undergone thorough processing, including disinfection and sterilization. The pillow is characterized by high thermal insulation, lightness and breathability. After sleep, the product restores its original shape in a few minutes. The cover is made of natural cotton, which reliably holds the fluff inside. Recommended for people who prefer low and soft pillows.

Advantages

• natural materials;
• softness and airiness;
• support for natural curves;

Flaws

• not suitable for allergy sufferers;
• high cost - 11,500 rubles.

Sleep Professor Therapy L

Rating: 4.8

The second position is occupied by an American-made pillow. The model is made like an ordinary down one, but this is only at first glance. In fact, it has a complex three-chamber design. It has the basic properties of any anatomical pillows, but does not have cervical bolsters. Filled with white goose down and a Taktile core, it provides softness, bounce and comfortable support to the head and neck. The cover here is double, made of cambric, so the fluff will be securely held inside. Therapy L is ideal for those who love pillows with natural down, but cannot imagine their sleep without healthy support.

Advantages

• height – 14 cm; natural materials;
• removable cover;
• satin edging maintains the shape of the product;
• a special stitch ensures that the filler does not fall off;
• memory effect;

Flaws

• relatively expensive - 6 thousand rubles.