How to Fit Pillows

Pick a pillow that is suitable for the preferred sleep position. People who sleep on their sides need a pillow that is thick enough to support the neck; those who sleep on their backs need a medium-sized pillow that will keep the head at a comfortable height; and people who sleep on their stomachs need a flat pillow under their chests or midriff.

Check the firmness of the mattress. A thick pillow is best for a firm mattress, since the mattress will barely yield to suit the arch of the neck and other contours of the body. Conversely, a thin pillow is ideal for a soft mattress, since the mattress will mold to the body readily. In “Arthritis Today,” the Arthritis Foundation recommends choosing a pillow that is neither too high nor too low, to keep the neck straight.

Choose pillows that are ideal for the size of the mattress, for additional comfort. For instance, pick large or king size pillows for a king size mattress, medium or queen size pillows for a queen size mattress and standard pillows for a full size mattress.

Consider picking a pillow based on its filling also. The various filling choices include foam, latex, cotton, wool, buckwheat, water, polyester, feather and down. Each has advantages. For instance, buckwheat is ideal for people with allergies and you can heat or cool them for additional comfort; foam pillows are firm and last for a considerable amount of time and water-filled pillows adjust to fit the user’s particular body-type.