What Kind of Pillow Should I Use?

Every week I have patients asking me what kind of pillow they should be using. If you’re wondering this too, let me preface my suggestions by saying that I’m not in the business of selling pillows, nor am I in the pockets of Big Pillow. I can’t say there’s a “perfect” brand out there that everyone should buy.

While it’s completely true that some pillows are better than others, I believe that finding the right pillow is rather subjective. I’ve sampled a LOT of different pillows over the past 9 years, and I’ve found one that I truly enjoy sleeping on… Latex.

Latex pillows can be purchased at Bed Bath & Beyond for under $30. I like them because they’re neutral – they don’t have any curves that are too big/small, they’re affordable, easy to find, and the material lasts. I’ve been using my current latex pillow for over 5-years now, and it’s just as supportive today as it was the first night I used it.

I will also say that I’ve enjoyed sleeping on a “water-based” pillow, but haven’t used it enough times to give it my full seal of approval yet.

Regardless of the type of pillow you choose, just follow a few basic guidelines: First, don’t use down/feather pillows. While they are pleasant to the touch, and used in many fine hotels, they’re not supportive. Second, your pillow should never induce neck pain, soreness, or headaches in the morning. Third, don’t sleep with more than one pillow beneath your head. Your forehead and chin should be level with the floor when sleeping on your side. If your forehead it tilted up, your pillow is too thick. If your forehead tilts down, your pillow is too thin.

Happy pillow hunting.

UPDATE – Here’s a follow-up article I composed in January 2010 on 6 types of sleeping pillows.