Don't Lose Sleep Over Choosing the Right Pillow: A Pillow Shopping Guide

August 11, 2023

A good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Sleep aids in the restoration of our physical and mental energy, allowing us to function at our best during the day.

One factor that significantly influences the quality of our sleep is the pillow we use. Choosing the right pillow is crucial as it can prevent neck and back pain, reduce allergies, and improve the quality of sleep.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of choosing the right pillow and provide some tips on how to make the best choice.

Quality Pillows & Improved Sleep Quality

Your pillow may not be the first thing you think of when considering the factors that impact your sleep, but they play a crucial role in supporting your neck and head, reducing allergies, and providing a comfortable night of sleep.

Support

Pillows provide support for the head and neck. A good pillow will keep your head and neck aligned with your spine while you sleep and reduce neck pain. This can prevent neck and back pain that can disrupt your sleep.

Reduce Allergies

Pillows can reduce allergies. Some pillows are hypoallergenic, meaning they are designed to reduce allergens that can cause sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes, which can interrupt your sleep.

Comfort & Sleep Positions

Your sleep position can affect your sleep quality and the right pillow can either encourage or discourage certain sleep positions. For instance, a thick pillow can help side sleepers, while a thin pillow is better for back sleepers.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pillow

Caring for your pillow properly and replacing it as needed can lengthen the lifespan of your pillow and improve your sleep quality. We suggest the following.

• Regularly wash your pillow: Most pillows are machine washable. Regular washing can remove allergens and keep your pillow fresh and clean. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines to properly care for your pillow.
• Replace your pillow regularly: Over time, pillows can lose their shape and support. We suggest replacing your pillow 2 years at most.
• Use a pillow protector: A pillow protector can extend the life of your pillow. It can protect your pillow from sweat, drool, and other fluids that can damage the pillow.

Investing In a Quality Pillow

Things to Consider

If you are ready to purchase a new pillow, here are some of the top things to consider before making your decision.

• Your budget: Even though a pillow can seem like a small investment, quality pillows can be costly. Before you start shopping, consider your budget.
• Your sleep position: As mentioned earlier, your sleep position will determine the type of pillow you need. Side sleepers usually need a firm and high pillow, back sleepers need a thin and soft pillow, and stomach sleepers need a very thin almost flat pillow.
• The pillow filling: The material inside the pillow also matters. Memory foam pillows can mold to the shape of your head and neck providing excellent support. Feather pillows are soft and luxurious but do not offer much support. Latex pillows are supportive and durable, but they can be expensive.
• Size of the pillow: The size of your pillow can also affect your sleep. Having a pillow that is too small or too large can cause discomfort and disrupt your sleep.

Test Before You Purchase

Always try to test a pillow before you purchase it. Most stores will allow you to do this. We highly recommend shopping at a bedding store near you. Shopping in person will allow you to see how each pillow feels and decide if you need a firmer pillow or prefer a softer feel.

If you are purchasing online, make sure there is a good return policy in case the pillow is not a good fit.

Remember, it is important to consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing a pillow. What works for one person may not work for another, so it is always a good idea to test the pillow and consider your sleep position and pillow fill before making a purchase.

Our Top Pillow Recommendation

At Howard’s Appliance, we have over 75 years of experience matching our customers with the best pillows and bedding to improve their sleep. Over the years, we have found Malouf to be one of the best pillow brands on the market.

Malouf Brand

Malouf is a company that specializes in producing high-quality pillows and bedding products. Founded in 2003, it has since become a well-known name in the industry. The company prides itself on using innovative technologies and materials to create pillows that provide exceptional comfort and support for a good night's sleep.

In addition to their commitment to quality, Malouf also prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendly practices. They strive to minimize their environmental impact by using responsibly sourced materials and implementing sustainable manufacturing processes.

Malouf Pillows

Malouf offers a wide range of pillow options to cater to different sleep preferences and needs. Malouf pillows are different from other pillows because of the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Here are some features that set Malouf pillows apart:

• Innovative technologies and materials: Malouf uses cutting-edge technologies and materials to create pillows that provide exceptional comfort and support. They are continually researching and developing new ways to enhance the sleep experience.
• Allergy-friendly options: Malouf offers several hypoallergenic options. With options featuring Talalay Latex, which is naturally hypoallergenic, these pillows are perfect for sensitive sleepers.
• Odor-reducing technology: Bamboo and charcoal-infused pillows naturally help prevent allergies and reduce odors as well.
• Cooling pillow features: Select Malouf pillows feature CarbonCool™ which is the most advanced pillow-cooling technology available. This is perfect for hot sleepers.
• Wide range of options: Malouf offers a wide range of pillow options. Whether you prefer a firm pillow, a soft pillow, or something in between, Malouf has a variety of choices to suit your personal comfort level.
• Variety of pillow fills: Malouf offers different pillow fill options such as down alternative, memory foam, and latex. This allows you to choose the perfect pillow that meets your specific requirements and provides the right level of support and comfort.
• Commitment to sustainability: Malouf prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendly practices. They strive to minimize their environmental impact by using responsibly sourced materials and implementing sustainable manufacturing processes. This ensures that you can enjoy a good night's sleep while also being conscious of the environment.

Shop For Bedding at Howard’s Appliance

If you’re ready to improve your sleep with a new mattress, adjustable base, pillow, bedding, or more, work with the experts at Howard’s Appliance. With over 75 years of experience, we have the insight you need to match you with the right products.

Take advantage of our 120-night sleep guarantee, manufacturer warranties, free white glove delivery, and easy financing at Howard’s Appliance. We have several mattress store locations conveniently located throughout Southern California.

Use our location finder to browse our store hours and locations in Long Beach, Covina, La Habra, and the surrounding area.