Your Guide to Buying the Perfect Pillow

Summer is the perfect time to reassess your bedding situation. Do you need a new comforter? Should you finally invest in those high thread count sheets you've had your eye on? And what about pillows? Now is the time to ask yourself if your pillows are providing the support and comfort they should be. If they're not, don't worry! We're here to help you find the perfect replacement. Read on for our guide to buying the best pillow for you.

Pillow Types

There are four main types of pillows: down, memory foam, latex and contoured. Down pillows are filled with feathers, memory foam pillows conform to your head and provide support, and latex pillows are made of—you guessed it—latex. Latex pillows are becoming increasingly popular because they provide the best of both worlds: the support of memory foam with the softness of down. Contoured pillows are also gaining more traction because they support the neck in ways other shaped pillows can't.

So, which type of pillow is right for you? It depends on your sleep habits and preferences. If you like to sleep on your back or stomach, a down pillow might be a good option for you. Down pillows are soft and fluffy, making them comfortable for side-sleepers as well. However, down pillows can be pricier than other options and aren't ideal for people with allergies since they're usually made from goose or duck feathers.

Memory foam pillows are a good choice for people who want firm support. If you often wake up with a sore neck or headaches, a memory foam pillow might help alleviate some of that discomfort by supporting your head and neck throughout the night. However, memory foam can retain heat, making it uncomfortable for some people to sleep on in warmer months.

Latex pillows are quickly gaining popularity because they provide the best of both worlds: the support of memory foam with the softness of down. Latex is also naturally cooling, making it a great option for people who tend to sleep hot or live in warm climates. The only downside to latex pillows is that they can be more expensive than other options.

Down pillows are soft and fluffy, making them comfortable for side-sleepers as well. However, down pillows can be pricier than other options and aren't ideal for people with allergies since they're usually made from goose or duck feathers.

Contoured pillows are a good choice for people who want targeted support for their head and neck. These pillows have a raised edge that helps keep your head aligned with your spine, which can help reduce pain and stiffness. Contoured pillows can be made from memory foam, latex or down, so you can choose the material that's right for you but in this case it's more about considering the shape of the pillow.

As you can see, there's a lot to consider when buying a new pillow! But don't let that stop you from finding the perfect one for you. With this guide in hand, you'll be sure to find a pillow that offers the right mix of comfort and support—leaving you with nothing to lose but those pesky neck pains. Happy shopping!