How to choose a pillow for sleep?

 How to choose a pillow for sleep?

Choosing a pillow for sleeping or relaxing is not as simple as it seems. It is necessary to take into account the size and shape, to determine the advantages and disadvantages of different fillers, to choose the right cover. This bedding has many varieties, so before buying it is worth a careful acquaintance with the various models on the market today to choose the best option.

Story

No one will say for sure when the pillow appeared. Under the head and put the stones, and a piece of wood, wrapped in canvas. More noble classes from the times of ancient Egypt used special coasters in order not to spoil hairstyles.Later, woven bales were stuffed with straw or grass.

It is believed that the Greeks were the first to come up with stuffing pillows with a feather. Couches and stools with pillows and rollers were an integral part of the workplace and reception area. And now residents of the East constantly use these accessories.

The riot of colors and the abundance of jewels were to tell about the wealth and power of the owner. So there were beautiful pillows, which today are decorative. The degree of affluence was determined by their number. Until now, this element of the decor, along with the usual pillows, decorate the house.

In different parts of the world, various types of pillows were used as a heating pad, a footrest, a semi-rigid seat for a female saddle, a bedding under the knees during church service.

Kinds

The classification of pillows is a very conditional thing.

Sleeping pillow helps support the cervical spine. She may be:

  • Classic pillow - This is a square or rectangular case with a variety of filler. It is placed under the head, therefore its dimensions are appropriate. It can be single or double chamber (two types of filler, separated by a partition).
  • Anatomical pillow - This is a special relief, grooves, smooth lines, adapting to the human anatomy. For example, a pillow collar.
  • Orthopedic will fix the pose of a person so that he will be comfortable. This is a prophylactic agent for diseases of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. Very often it is monolithic, made, for example, from a piece of latex. Also popular rubber cushion.
  • Therapeutic wedge-shaped pillow - non-drug salvation from heartburn. So that the contents of the stomach does not return to the esophagus, buy yourself such an inclined pillow.
  • Cosmetic pillow - this is what a product with a cooling effect can be called. It relaxes and rejuvenates the muscles of the face and neck and is always colder than room temperature.
  • Grass or sleep pillow in fact, it is filled not only with herbs, but also with wood chips. Whether you can sleep on it all the time is a big question. But this is not necessary. Her fragrances will relax the nervous system and make your sleep calm and sound.
  • Inflatable cushion does not stray, does not lose form over time. Suitable for sleeping while sitting.
  • Decorative or interior cushions - it is an ornament to create comfort and good mood. Among these products a lot of design work. The handmade pillow-knot can be dented, sitting in a chair or on the floor, calming down and relaxing. Roller, trimmed with brocade, with a gold tassel - a classic masterpiece, pleasing the eye, and a funny yellow smiley with a beard will make even the most sullen smile.
  • For drivers (and not only cars) used rollers for the lower back and "horseshoe" for the neck. An indispensable thing in a long journey. People suffering from osteochondrosis, it is necessary to have them in the car.
  • Transformer - pillow for all occasions: suitable for future moms, and for travelers. There are many models from different manufacturers. They are multifunctional, and this is convenient.
  • But for pregnant they also release special pillows to help women feel more comfortable in bed. The configuration of such products is very different.
  • Flat cushion or lumbar cushion The spinal column is used to relieve tension in the lower back. It is needed not only for long sitting. People suffering from intervertebral hernia experience pain even on a flat surface.Such a product will ease the suffering.
  • More solid product in the form of a roller or pillow used for putting under the knees or heels. The bloodstream moves away from the foot, relieving fatigue and pain from the legs. It will help with varicose veins, arthritis and arthrosis, restless legs syndrome.
  • Baby pillow cocoon - is the protection of the newborn baby from the possibility of unsuccessfully roll over or "escape". It can be used on the crib and floor. Cocoon has sides or special fasteners for fixing the child.

Forms

Since the pillow can be made independently, it is impossible to say exactly how many of their forms exist.

The most common pillows - rectangular, square, round. They can be flattened at the seams (as usual products) or be a strict geometric shape of a parallelepiped or a cube, a ball. Such products can be made into a modular sofa or bed. Wedge (triangular), with a notch, contour - this is a medical model.

But there are also unusual in form. A long one is a pillow for two across the entire width of the bed. A lot of products in the form of animals and plants: cat pillow, hares, flower, owls, panda, turtle.The numbers will help the child in learning, and a cloud, donut, heart, crown will be liked by a more adult audience.

What is stuffed?

The question of fillers is most important when choosing a pillow for sleeping. By nature, the content is artificial and natural. And natural fillers - of plant or animal origin.

Natural fillers

Natural materials for stuffing pillows can also be divided into plant and animal.

Plant origin

They perform the function of an aromatherapist and masseur, hard, prickly, rustle on contact with the body:

  • buckwheat husks;
  • cedar or juniper shavings;
  • corn fiber;
  • bamboo based fiber;
  • cherry pits;
  • eucalyptus wood fiber;
  • flax fiber;
  • herbs with a calming and relaxing effect (for example, with mint, lavender, hunter, trefoil, primrose, hops, valerian, heather, buckthorn, chamomile)
  • ceiba (kapok);
  • seaweed;
  • fiber from rose petals;
  • cotton wool - the cheapest, it is quickly cracked;
  • natural rubber latex rubber Hevea;
  • tensel (manufacturers call this filler natural).

Animal origin

Such a filler for many are allergens. It may be

  • swansdown;
  • goose down and feather;
  • silkworm fiber;
  • camel's wool;
  • cashmere (goat down);
  • sheep wool (including merino).

Artificial fillers

Most often in pillows it is applied:

  • Comfort - hypoallergenic synthetic balls made of polyester fiber;
  • silicone - soft breathable material;
  • Artificial swan's down - the price is compared with natural democratic, and the quality is excellent;
  • foam rubber (polyurethane) - cheap, but short-lived material;
  • polyurethane foam (sometimes with a memory effect) - a more modern material;
  • Fiber - 100% polyester - breathable, hypoallergenic, soft;
  • hollofayber - faybera derivative with spring spiral hairs;
  • eco-fiber - one of the most hygienic fillers;
  • cooling gel with the addition of polyurethane foam with a memory effect.

Artificial fillers - this is the sphere of production, which is constantly moving forward. Therefore, perhaps you will find pillows with some other fillers.

But the fundamental difference between natural and synthetic fillers is:

  1. In nature of origin.
  2. In the subconscious: if you are a principle supporter of everything natural, you may not see the obvious advantages of synthetic materials (hypoallergenic, breathable, elastic, water-repellent effect or good moisture absorption).

Cover fabric

The task of the cover is to protect the filler from spilling and dirt. Consequently, the fabric must be sufficiently dense. But the rest of its properties depend on the functionality of the pillow: for sleeping and relaxing, the pillowcase should be pleasant to the touch, hygroscopic, breathable, not electrified. For the decor can be completely different material. In addition, it is possible that during the daytime your pillow is used as a decorative element, and a pillow case is put on at night.

So, the pillow case for sleeping can be made of:

  • batista, which well preserves the shape of the product;
  • jacquard - elastic breathable blended fabric;
  • Lyocell (Tensel) - a hygroscopic textile fiber obtained by chemical means;
  • perkalya - excellent wearproof cotton fabric;
  • sateen - dense, but soft cotton fabric;
  • a tic that holds down better than others;
  • flax - the advantages of this fabric can be called naturalness, lightness, breathability, and minuses - low wear resistance, high cost.
  • Microfiber is often used for travel cushion covers. The material is very resistant to abrasion, easy to clean, multicolored, breathable.
  • Polyester can also be used for such pillows, especially since cheap material is always easy to replace.

Vegetable fillers are used to flavor the room, which means that the covers for them must be breathable. For example, from cotton, wool or knitted yarn. Leather, fur, velvet, lace covers will play a decorative role.

Colors and prints

The selection of colors depends on the functional use of the pillow. As a rule, pillowcases from a bedroom set are used for sleeping. Everyone has different color preferences. Someone likes colored pillowcases, someone is a classic white. Girls may like a pink pillow, and brutal men - black satin.

By the way, some experts recommend choosing black bedding for insomnia. Green has soothing properties. Blue pillowcase will relax the overworked brain.In this color often dress road options. Turquoise color will smooth the problems at least for the night.

Popular colors - stretch marks, or gradient, i.e. the transition from one color to another. If this is a smooth transition, then he will play the same psycho-emotional role. People who do not like halftones will be attracted by a striped version of such a variety of colors.

Optical print is a peculiar pattern that can dizzy or send to nirvana. It is inexpedient to use the bright colors of such a print, but for decorative pillows it is a good find. Printing with a three-dimensional effect will definitely attract the attention of guests. If you put such a pillow on a monochrome canvas of deep color, then this will give even greater contrast.

With the help of the letter print you can make any inscription on the pillow. So it will be personal or gift.

Decor

The cover (pillowcase) can be decorated with piping in a contrasting color. On satin or silk underwear this will look elegant. Quilted pillow will look beautiful. This will create an extra light springy effect.

But for decorative pillows are much more decor options. Sequins lay out the picture. To lie on such a cover is impossible.But if this pillow is used as a head restraint, it means that the second side should be covered with soft fabric. A dumka or roller with rhinestones is a beautiful thing, but it should be used carefully so that it does not become vulgar.

Much more familiar is the use of embroidery or lace cover decoration. Knitted covers look nice and cozy. A pillow with a volume appliqué, a bow and a fluffy hare will surely attract attention.

Styles

If a room is issued in a certain style decision, the following information will be useful:

  • Products in oriental style are decorated with velvet and silk, gold tassels, beads and embroidery. The color will vary: from yellow and gold in the Arabic style to the color of the pumpkin pulp in Indian. Design in Japanese style - calm colors and pastel shades. Deep green and sapphire are inherent in the "bright East".
  • Classic-style pillows can be both square and round, and rollers. But the colors should not be screaming. White, green, blue, gold - that defines wealth and luxury.
  • A young sailor can decorate a bedroom in a nautical style, not forgetting to “put on” pillows in suitable “clothes”: a vest or huys.
  • Rummaging in the closets of older relatives, you can pick up furnishings for bedroom decoration in vintage style. Pillowcases with ruffles, laces and naive flowers will definitely decorate a room in this style.
  • Modern minimalism is closest to the concept of Scandinavian style. The elegant simplicity of the pattern, the inconspicuous colors and the elusive divination of the picture - that is what is in these pillow cases.
  • “Provence” is tenderness and simplicity, spontaneity and grace, flowers and a cage, monochrome and color variety. The style is suitable for the design of a simple country house.
  • Loft style pillows are freedom of thought and action. They can easily be someone's portrait. Stitched deliberately rough, with a fringe around the edges - what is needed for this style.
  • "Country" - rustic simplicity and naturalness, unobtrusive natural motifs and natural colors.

The selected pillow can complement the interior or become an accent, a bright spot that attracts attention.

Dimensions

Small pads are used for decoration. Their size starts from 20 cm. For a rest, choose products with a width of 30 cm and a length of 40 cm. For a medical product, the most demanded size is 50x70 cm, and for children's models it is even smaller and depends on age.

The choice of pillow is determined by the build of a person: for large people, a size of 50x80 cm is suitable, for average people - 40x60 cm.

But different manufacturers set their size. And it may very well be that you need a pillow with other parameters. If possible, it is better to lie on the product before buying, compare the rigidity of the mattress and elasticity - it should be comfortable on it, especially if there are problems with the locomotor system.

Large outdoor cushions for relaxing can be completely different sizes. For example, full-length tow pillows are indispensable helpers for pregnant women. It is very important not to forget about the height of the future purchase.

How to choose?

Height will depend on elasticity. Pillows are soft, medium, elastic.

When choosing, consider the following points:

  • if you put your hand on the product, after a few seconds it should be the same,
  • however much the filler is inside, it should be evenly spaced (if you take the cushion by the corner, it should not be half empty),
  • if there is an unpleasant smell, it is better to return the goods to the seller,
  • you need to take into account your favorite position during sleep - the choice of elasticity will depend on it (too springy pillow will make the neck unnaturally arch).

A height of 10-13 cm is considered normal for most people. A person with a height of 1.65 m, who prefers to rest on his side, must choose a pillow with a height of 11-12 centimeters. With height above 1.65 m - 13-14 centimeters. For a more accurate selection, measure the distance “neck-shoulder”, add 1-2 centimeters - this will be the desired height of the pillow.

Modern manufacturers offer adjustable products. It is necessary to remove extra layers from the cover and reduce the height to the desired one. A remarkable feature for fast-growing children and those who could not determine the height at the time of purchase.

Determine that the pillow "wrong" can, if:

  • I want to lay my hand under my head,
  • there is discomfort in the neck, shoulders numb,
  • chin almost lies on the chest,
  • cervical vertebrae tense.

If you wish, you can switch from a regular pillow to an orthopedic one, but the body needs to get used to it. In case of discomfort in the first days you should not refuse this product. With proper selection of pillows the body will get used to it and the pain will recede.

How to care and how often you need to change?

Pillows require daily beating and turning. After sleeping, let the bedding air out, so do not make the bed the same rhinestone. Humidity in the room for sleeping should be no more than 65%.

To avoid contamination by a dust mite of natural filler, the pillow is regularly aired, dried in fresh air. Herbal pillows are not washable.

Before washing, you should familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions; if it is lost, use the general rules:

  • Pillows with natural fillers are cleaned once in one or two years (at home, you should open a pillow-case, wash the wool mixture and spread it out with a thin layer to dry it; it's much easier to clean it in specialized dry cleaners).
  • Orthopedic and anatomical products made from the bar, do not erase. Wet sponge and detergent liquid - everything you need to care. You should not dry such products on batteries or under sunshine.
  • Synthetic fillers in a napernik will quietly maintain machine “delicate” washing. Do not twist these items.

Hygienists recommend changing the sheets once every ten days.Napernik recommended to change every year. On decorative pillows, pillow cases change according to needs, mood, and season.

Pillow to be replaced if necessary. Herbal is unlikely to last more than a year. With a bulk filler, some experts recommend changing every six months. The British argue that this should be done every 2 to 3 years.

Beautiful ideas in the interior

A large number of pillows for sleeping, rollers and pillows on the bed - a classic example of interior design. However, this idea is suitable for almost any style. For a sofa, rollers are often used across the width of the sofa instead of an armrest. But they themselves, with proper decor, are a beautiful decorative element: cylinders and candies, robots and dogs — any idea can be realized if desired.

Orthopedic pillows do not require decorative design. But the floor can significantly decorate the interior. Large pillows can cover the entire floor and arrange a home cinema, lying on the floor. From the harnesses you can make a “nest” and read a book in it comfortably. A child will appreciate the puzzles, when the color print will develop in your favorite cartoon character.

Top rated for sleep

The Russian Quality System Roskachestvo ANO conducted tests in the laboratory of 29 sleep items that are most often purchased by buyers. This large study included samples of the contents of the pillows, as well as covers, elasticity and hygiene, fire hazard and appearance.

The mark of quality received brand Dargez. Products of higher quality are produced by the following brands: “Pugs”, “Sweet dreams”, German Grass, Kariguz, Nature's, Togas House of Textile. Quality products are manufactured by Asabella, Dream Time, Ikea, Mona Liza, Primavelle. It's nice that most companies are Russian.

But Roskoschestvo has compiled another list - a list of manufacturers, with which the product does not correspond to the level of safety or the label on the product (size, composition, specified properties) is incorrect. The list of unscrupulous manufacturers of pillows is as follows: “Podushkino”, “Pierrot”, “Everyday”, Comfort Line, Ecotex, Green Line, “Tex Style”, “A'Elita”, Sortex, Ol-Tex, “Samson”.

Properly selected pillow will surely bring a healthy sleep and good mood.

How to choose a pillow, see the video below.

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Information provided for reference purposes. For construction issues, always consult a specialist.

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