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Considering that most people spend eight or more hours in bed each night, it’s important to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. While a sturdy mattress lays the foundation for good sleep, you’ll also want to consider the quality and quantity of your pillows.
Figuring out how many pillows for one person is enough is a highly personal process. While some people may like one or two pillows, others may need several to achieve their highest comfort level. As you explore this guide, think about how you sleep. Soon, you’ll know exactly how many pillows you need to support your body and stop tossing and turning at night.
What Are the Benefits of Having Multiple Pillows?
If you’ve ever looked at a bed filled with both decorative pillows and pillows for sleeping, you might have wondered where the person sleeps. While some pillows are merely for decor, the truth is that having multiple ones offers several benefits that have a positive impact on your sleep. Exploring these reasons can determine how many pillows you really need and help you plan for the perfect bed setup.
Adjust the Firmness Needed for Comfort
Pillow materials range from feather and down to memory foam. While many people find their sweet spot with a single type of pillow, others might need to switch things up each night. Adding a second pillow might be necessary if you have a lot of neck pain one day or need to change your sleeping position. Meanwhile, you might prefer the option of using an adjustable pillow to find the right amount of cushion. If you live with chronic or recurring pain, then having pillows in differing levels of firmness gives you more control over your comfort.
Provide Support to Multiple Parts of Your Body
Most people need at least one pillow for their head. But you’ll likely need additional pillows to support the rest of your body. For instance, many people find that having multiple pillows makes it easier to support a growing tummy during pregnancy. Alternatively, you might prefer to have a pillow placed below your legs for better back support. Body pillows are great for providing support that runs the full length of your body when you sleep on your side.
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Replace Old Pillows Quickly
Sleeping on a flat pillow can cause you to wake up with a kinked neck, making you uncomfortable all day. If you live a fast-paced lifestyle, it’s too easy to forget to replace a worn-out pillow. Keeping a new one on hand for emergencies means you can easily swap them out without missing a single night of restful sleep.
When Should You Replace Your Pillows?
The quality and material of your pillow determine the frequency of replacements. For standard polyester pillows, you can usually use them for a year or two. Memory foam and latex can last much longer. Usually, you’ll replace your pillow once it begins to lose its shape. But you can also use a flatter pillow as a foundation under a loftier one to find the perfect height. Simple care, like knowing how to wash your pillows, can extend their lifespan and keep them feeling fresh and supportive.
How Does Your Sleep Position Impact the Number of Pillows You Need?
So, now you may be wondering exactly how many pillows to buy. Check out these recommendations for your sleeping position to find the perfect number.
Stomach Sleepers
This sleep position is known for causing increased strain on the neck and lower back. Adding a medium-soft pillow just below your hips can reduce lower back problems. A low-profile pillow for your head is also beneficial to reduce neck pain.
Back Sleepers
You’ll likely do great with two pillows. You’ll place one behind your head and the other below your knees. Keep in mind that you may still need to have additional pillows ready to provide more support in either place.
Side Sleepers
Putting one pillow under your head and one between your knees is just the starting point for a good night’s sleep. You might also need a pillow behind the small of your back to provide more support. Many side sleepers also enjoy snuggling up to a body pillow for full front support.
Select Your Ideal Number of Pillows for Restful Sleep
Once you’ve found the perfect mattress to fit your sleep style, it’s time to start filling it out with pillows that provide the optimum amount of support. Whether you’re a back sleeper or tend to move around, having the right number of pillows helps you stay asleep all night.
As a final note, remember to purchase enough pillowcases to keep your new pillows in top shape. Waking up well-rested from having the right head and body support is like a dream come true.