The right pillow for better sleep
HAVING a good pillow is as important as having a comfortable, supportive mattress for a good night’s sleep – especially for a growing child.
Besides comfort, the right pillow should offer necessary support for the neck, body and most importantly, the spine.
The right pillow can alleviate or prevent many common forms of neck and back pain.
Sleeping position
The key to buying a good pillow is knowing your sleeping style. Side sleepers should pay special attention to their pillow height.
It is recommended for side sleepers to choose a medium to high thickness, firmer pillow, that keeps the neck aligned with their spine while sleeping on their sides.
They can also try putting a pillow between their knees to align their upper hip and pelvis with the lower back.
Body pillows, or bolsters, complement side sleepers and are excellent for hugging and resting the leg.
Back sleepers, however, should have lower, thinner pillows that will not push their heads too far forward and strain their body during sleep.
Pillow stuffing options
Synthetic pillows are among the most affordable, and despite being lightweight and easy to care for, they are made from chemicals and give off fumes at night.
Feather or down pillows are the best for a good night’s sleep, according to experts, but do not offer much support or height.
These pillows flatten out from the weight of the head; eventually causing a downward bend in the neck.
Feather pillows are not recommended for side sleepers or those with allergies. Memory foam pillows are popular as they mould and adjust to the shape of the body, but these are also made of synthetic materials and are likely to release unpleasant fumes.
Pillows made from 100% natural latex boast some of the highest satisfaction ratings.
Known as the most supportive pillow, they are long lasting, provides excellent ventilation and antidust mites. They do not lose shape throughout the night.
They are also derived from natural sources and are environment-friendly, clean and safe.
Shopping for the perfect pillow
An expensive pillow does not necessarily make a pillow better. What matters more is whether the pillow is suitable for you.
Most of the time, you can find something that works well without spending a lot.
It is also important to replace pillows each year as hair and body oils soak into the pillows after a year’s use, making them a breeding ground for bacteria.
Washing the pillows once every three months will keep them free from debris and dust, as will covering them with pillow protectors, which can double the pillows’ lifespan.
Specialising in 100% natural latex since 1969, Getha has an extensive line-up of pillows from newborn pillows, nursing pillows, bolsters to seat lumbar support pillows priced from RM129.
Getha also has a variety of metal-free mattresses and bedding products suitable for all ages.
■ For details, visit http://www. getha.com.my/ or drop Getha’s Sleep Therapy Centre nationwide.