Soft, Medium, Firm: Know Your Pillows When Shopping at Mattress Stores

April 11, 2017
The names of the main types of pillow might make shopping at mattress stores around Orange County sound straightforward. A pillow can be soft, firm, or medium – all you need to do is pick whichever sounds most comfortable to you.

However, there’s a bit more science to choosing the right pillow.

 

Soft is for stomach sleepers

You may prefer soft pillows because you like having your face sink into downiness, but this kind of pillow might be best for you if you sleep on your belly.

Stomach sleepers find their faces almost pressed to the mattress, so soft and thin pillows can support their neck’s natural curve and reduce the strain on their spine. Doctors even suggest that stomach sleepers place a second set of these pillows under their abdomen or pelvis to help the lower back maintain its natural alignment.

Truth be told, doctors do not recommend sleeping on the stomach because this position is the most stressful for the head and neck. At least the right pillow can soften the strain.

Medium is for back sleepers (and snorers, too)

Mattress stores usually carry medium-firm and medium-loft models; “loft” refers to how high a pillow rises from the bed. These kinds are just right for supporting the neck’s natural curve, making them ideal for people who sleep on their back.

Two to three medium-firm pillows are also recommended for people with sleep apnea – otherwise known as snorers. The pillows can prop up a snorer’s head at just the right height to keep the sleeper’s airways clear, lessening and even alleviating their snoring.

Since sleeping on the back is the best position for people with back pain or spinal issues, medium-firm pillows are good for them too.

 

Firm is for side sleepers

Lastly, firm and extra firm pillows are for people who sleep on their side. This is because they need heftier head support to let their spine stay in its natural alignment. The ideal pillow for a side sleeper should prop the head up at least four inches above the mattress.

Research suggests that latex pillows are best for sleeping on one’s side, and feather ones are the worst.

All these pillow types and materials – including foam and polyester – should be available at the Orange County mattress stores in your vicinity. Consider your personal preferences the next time you stop by, but remember: sleeping comfortably is one thing, and sleeping healthily is another.

 

Sources:

The Best Pillow for a Good Night’s Sleep. Consumer-Reports.org. January 6, 2016.

Best Pillows for Different Sleeping Positions. Spine-Health.com. March 30, 2016.