Whether you sleep on a single pillow or a stack, a plump pillow or a flatter one, it’s unlikely that you give it a second thought. At least not until you’re packing your suitcase and want to take your own with you!
Generally, how many pillows you should sleep with probably doesn’t even cross your mind. But, it should.
We’ve uncovered some questions that will help you achieve good sleeping posture and, overall, a better night’s sleep! Read on to learn the secrets of sleep success.
What is the Purpose of a Pillow?
While it comes as no surprise that a pillow offers a pleasing aesthetic, as well as a functional benefit, there’s a bit more to it when it comes to enhancing quality of sleep. A pillow perfectly aligns the head and neck with the spine, ensuring a neutral position and, in turn, minimising stress on the spine.
Propping yourself up with a few pillows or going pillow-free can put pressure on the neck and shoulders and interfere with sleep, so it’s important not to go overboard or to ditch a pillow completely!
Is Sleeping With Two Pillows Bad For Your Neck?
Multiple pillows might seem like a supportive option but sleeping with more than one can angle the neck awkwardly and disrupt the spine’s alignment. On the contrary, not using a pillow altogether can cause pressure in the neck - unless you’re a stomach sleeper.
So, when it comes to your sleep routine, the Goldilocks principle is pretty accurate. ‘Just the right amount’ of pillows can make a world of difference to your sleep health. Experts recommend sleeping with one pillow underneath your head; an additional pillow can be used between the knees or beneath the hips if you feel you need extra support.
Are There Benefits of Sleeping Upright?
Did you know that the Tudors slept upright? They segmented their sleep in two different phases and, in between the two phases, they would chat or read for an hour. While this habit has been long put to bed, sleeping sitting up does have its uses.
You may find that it’s comfortable to sleep in a more elevated position when your nose and throat are congested, or if you have allergies. In these instances, using a few pillows to achieve an almost upright position will help drain your sinuses and make it easier for you to breathe.
If you suffer with sleep apnoea, sleeping with your head elevated can also help reduce snoring and take the pressure off your airways.
How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?
We regularly replace toothbrushes without the bat of an eyelid, but are we as efficient when it comes to our pillows? The National Sleep Foundation recommends that pillows should be replaced every one to two years, but there are tell-tale signs to look out for when assessing yours.
If your pillows have lost their shape, appear dirty (even after you’ve put them in the machine) and you’re frequently waking up with a bad neck, it’s time to buy new ones.
Find The Perfect Pillow For You
If you need to purchase a new pillow, we can help. Browse our collection of quality pillows and find the right one for your needs. From hollowfibre to goose down, we’ve got you covered.
