Are you searching for the right pillow but are overwhelmed by all of the options?
The right pillow improves your quality of sleep, but since there are so many different sizes, types, and fillings, you are worried about choosing the wrong combination.
We’re here to help you optimize your sleeping experience with our guide to choosing the right pillow for you and your bed. Continue reading to find out which of the various pillow sizes and types will work best for you.
Pillow Sizes and Pillow Types
The size and type of pillow you choose are just as important as the mattress you pick out. Especially since there are many different types to consider. There are 5 main types to choose from: standard, super standard, queen, king, and euro.
The choice mostly depends on your personal preference, but each has its advantages and disadvantages. Before you go pillow buying, consider your bed type as well as the pillow dimensions.
If you want extra input head to your social media accounts for consumer reviews before buying.
Standard
A standard pillow measures 20 x 26 inches and is the most common pillow type.
This pillow type works best on a twin, full, or queen-sized bed.
These pillows are great for all types of sleepers whether you are a side, stomach, or back sleeper. Their small size also accommodates all bed sizes. You can neatly put one on a twin bed or up to three on a king.
Super Standard
Only slightly larger than a standard pillow, a super standard measures 20 x 28 inches.
Many parents prefer the super standard to the standard due to its slightly larger width. It prevents a gap forming for a child to fall into during sleep on a twin-sized bed or a bunk bed. However, these fit all mattress types.
Queen
A queen pillow is a full 4 inches larger than a standard pillow at 20 x 30 inches. This type of pillow is great for someone wanting a little more surface area during the night without the price tag of the larger sizes.
If you tend to toss and turn in your sleep, this size is right for you. Plus, it can be used with a standard pillowcase, unlike the next size up.
While you can make this work on a full mattress, a queen-sized pillow is slightly too large for a twin bed.
King
The king pillow sizing offers the widest surface area at 20 x 36 inches.
This size is typically recommended for those with a king or California king mattress due to their length and is not recommended for those with twin or full mattresses.
However, some sleepers don’t enjoy the extra area of this type of pillow and prefer to size down to a queen or standard. They also may be too thick for stomach sleepers.
Euro
The euro pillow measures a square 26 x 26 inches.
These are most common as decorative pillows and are great for support while sitting up in bed to read or to watch television.
However, those that use these pillow sizes for bed at night enjoy them for their ability to relieve pressure points and chronic pain such as those involving the back, hips, and legs.
One drawback to these types of pillows is they tend to wear down faster than the other types. The center becomes soft and wears down faster than the edges, which can make the sleeper uncomfortable.
Pillow Fillings
Now that you’ve considered size, it’s important to consider your pillow materials as well. Pillow fillings are highly customizable and based on personal preference since you can get any size pillow with any filling.
We recommend trying a variety of pillows before choosing one. You may be surprised by what works best for you.
Feather
Feather pillows are a cheaper alternative to down. They are very malleable if you like to squish and fold your pillow at night. They are also very lightweight.
However, there are several disadvantages that make feather pillows less popular than other pillow fillings.
For example, they are difficult to clean and sometimes produce an odor that’s difficult to resolve. Also, they tend to fall flat quickly and require frequent fluffing to maintain their volume.
If you want a low-maintenance pillow, this one is probably not for you. However, if you want something light and adjustable, it’s worth considering.
Down
Down pillows are a step up from other feather pillows. These small feathers are collected from the undercoating of the bird where the feathers are fuller.
Like feather pillows, these are easily adjustable and very light. However, unlike feather pillows, they are durable with proper care.
For disadvantages, down pillows absorb and retain your body heat, which can be uncomfortable for warmer sleepers. They also require additional fluffing to keep their shape and to prevent flattening.
Polyester
Polyester pillows tend to be the cheapest filling option available.
Many prefer pillows stuffed with polyester to down or feather because they are easier to clean.
The low cost of this type of filling does not cancel out its disadvantages. These tend to be fairly firm and do not breathe well. Additionally, they have a short lifespan due to the clumping of fibers.
Foam
Memory foam pillows continue to increase in popularity. These come in either a singular foam block or in shredded pieces.
Because it’s foam, you don’t have to worry about the material clumping together. Plus, these tend to mold fairly well to your head and neck for a well-supported sleep.
Some shoppers note a chemical odor when these are brand new. Others feel they offer inconsistent support over time.
Choosing Your Pillow Size and Type
Pillow sizing is a challenge because of the various types of pillows available. Not only do you have to consider the mattress you have, but you also have to consider how you sleep and what kind of material you want in your pillow.
If you are still unsure of the right pillow sizes for you after reviewing our guide, try out different types with different pillow materials.
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