Pillow talk

When was the last time you checked the state of your pillows? Are they slumped, stained or downright old and weary? The pillow is a headrest that aligns your spine to a natural and neutral position, and it pays to give it some attention so that it doesn’t literally cause a pain in the neck.

When purchasing a pillow there are several option of fillers such as traditional natural feather and down pillows which give better support, last longer but usually come at an extra cost. Man-made synthetic filling include polyfill, microgel fibre, memory form or latex which is a hypoallergenic alternative.

Sleeping position

Inspect pillows before you purchase to make sure you get a good deal. According to Sameera Omar, of H & H Textiles Manufacturing: “Make sure that the fabric is tightly woven to keep the fill in. You should not have feathers or fillings poking out. You may also want to test the bounce back effect of the pillow by placing your head on it if the shop allows, of course, keeping the plastic wrapper on it.”

Depending on the sleep position that you usually take, Marks & Spencer recommends firm pillows are best if you sleep on your side, medium pillow best if you sleep on your back as it gives gentle support to your head without pushing it forward keeping a natural curve on your neck and spine. Soft pillows are best if you sleep on your front.

Maintenance

Extend the life of your pillow by plumbing it daily and scheduling to frequently air it in the sun. When purchasing your pillow be sure to understand how to safely clean the pillow, some can be hand or machine washed while others must be dry cleaned.

Your pillow will last longer if you wash it two to four times a year. A pillow protector and pillow case also keep the dust away especially for people who react to allergens. A well maintained pillow will give you up to 20 years of service but feel free to replace it should your health require change or if it becomes flat and lifeless.

Shapes and colours

Once you have made a decision on the type of pillow you want to buy, select various shapes of pillows and then find some covers that will blend in with your room décor. This is your opportunity for self-expression with romantic frilly covers or just plain edged.

How you arrange the pillows will make or break the appearance of your bed. You could either prop them and arrange them in symmetrically or place them flat with a second layer piled onto it for effect. Otherwise invest in good pillows to enjoy a good night rest, it is more than just for comfort but also for your health.