The right pillow should support your neck.
Who needs another pain in the neck? Sleeping on a pillow that doesn't properly support your neck can cause you to wake up grouchy, and contribute to cervical problems. You may buy a pillow based on its exterior fabric, color or softness, but it's the filling that counts for your health and well being. Consumer Research.com contends that the most expensive pillows don't necessarily give you the best sleep and long term benefit.
Top Contenders
Latex and buckwheat pillows are among top picks by experts because they are firm, long lasting, and keep their original shape. Memory foam, cotton, wool and silk pillows also merit high marks from the Consumer Research buying guide.
Latex Foam
They may not be as soft as down or feathers but experts say pillows constructed with latex foam offer excellent neck support as well as being hyper-allergenic. The only negative could be their scent, which usually goes away after a few days of use.
Memory Foam
Pillows with memory foam that resume their original shape even if you give them a good workout are rated well for neck support during sleep. They are not considered as durable as latex foam, however, and also have an odor that disappears with use.
Buck Wheat
You might think of buck wheat for breakfast rather than as a pillow filling but buck wheat pillows, stuffed with thousands of buckwheat husks, offer firm neck support and also provide air flow, making them cooler than other pillows. They are heavier than most pillows and may be too firm for some tastes. Light sleepers could also be bothered by a slight sound the pillow makes as you shift in your sleep and the filling shifts too.
Cotton Silk and Wool
Pillows stuffed with cotton, silk or wool are rated well for neck support but they are not as plump as feather, down or memory foam and can flatten with repeated use. They are also prone to absorbing sweat and need constant cleaning. On the positive side the all-natural ingredients are relatively allergy-free.
Tags: neck support, buck wheat, Consumer Research, latex foam, memory foam, original shape, rated well