Sleeping on your side is a great way to maintain a healthy spine and prevent back pain, but that can be hard on your body. According to a recent survey conducted on 1000 Aussies, the most common sleeping position is back and side, and around 20% of Australians experience back and neck pain during sleep. The best way to combat the pressure of sleeping on your side is by choosing the best pillow for side sleepers in Australia. This post is for you if you are also a back and side sleeper and experiencing some pain. Here are some factors in assessing when shopping for pillows for side sleepers:
The size of your pillow
When shopping for your perfect pillow, the size of the pillow should be based on the size of your bed. For example, if you have a king-size bed, you’ll want a king-sized pillow for the best fit.
- A pillow that is too small will cause neck pain and discomfort because it does not give your neck proper support.
- A pillow that is too big may make it difficult to sleep comfortably in certain positions like side sleeping or back sleeping.
Your sleeping position
- Sleeping position matters. Side sleepers need a higher and thicker pillow, while back sleepers need a lower and thinner pillow. Stomach sleepers should use one that is lower and thinner still.
- There are different types of pillows available to side sleepers. Some of these include wedge pillows, contour pillows, memory foam pillows, cervical roll pillows, dual-density latex pillows and contour cushioning pillows.
Your weight and height
The general rule of thumb is to replace your pillows every two years. But if you’re a side sleeper or heavier person, or taller than the average person, then it’s probably a good idea to replace your pillow more often than that.
It takes less time for someone lighter or shorter to compress and flatten out their pillows (compared to someone who weighs more). If you are a heavier person—and thus putting more weight on your head—then it makes sense that you may need to replace your pillow sooner than someone who isn’t weighing down their pillow as much. Similarly, if you’re taller than the average person, you’ll be putting more strain on your neck and back from having an unnatural angle placed on them all night long, which causes discomfort after just one night’s sleep!
Firmness or softness
When it comes to pillows, one size does not fit all. Whether you like your pillow firm or soft depends on your preference and sleeping spicecinemas position. If you’re a side sleeper, a softer pillow will be more comfortable because it will contour to the build of your neck and head while allowing room for spinal alignment. On the other hand, if you’re a back sleeper who likes firm support under their neck and head, it’s best to go with a firmer pillow that provides adequate support without being too hard or too soft.
The type of pillow filling
When picking the best pillow for side sleepers in Australia, you must consider the filling type. Down-filled pads are lighter and fluffier than synthetic ones, but they can be expensive and unsuitable for people with allergies. Natural fibre-fill pillows are better for people with allergies because they’re hypoallergenic but tend to lack support. If you need extra support, you might want a memory foam or latex pillow instead—but these don’t sleep as cool as down or natural fibre-fill ones do.
Side sleepers are a unique group of people with their challenges. When shopping for a new pillow, you must consider your needs and preferences to find the best match for your sleeping style. In many stores in Australia, you can find special pillows that are therapeutic, supportive and comfortable. Choose the best brand to enjoy a pain-free experience.