Can the cover of the pillow be removed and washed or changed?
Cleanliness is an important aspect to be kept in mind while the pregnancy is progressing. A lot of sweat is generated during pregnancy, and the pillow cover will absorb it. Having a removable pillow cover will allow you to keep the pillow clean and maintain hygiene.
Identify the filling in the pillow:
Pillows are generally filled with different materials which have their own set of characteristics. The filling in the pillow will have an impact on the comfort and quality of your sleep. Following are the different types of material that are filled in a pillow:
- Polyester fibre filling: One of the most popular fillings for a pillow, polyester fibre is soft and provides good support to the body. The degree of firmness of the pillow can be altered by changing the quantity of fibre filling. While it is a very versatile and useful material, it tends to absorb heat and trap dust and bacteria and is not recommended for those who have dust allergies. It has a short lifespan as it lasts for about two years only.
- Styrofoam ball filling: Cheaper than other variety of pillows, styrofoam balls are the tiny white balls that are also filled in bean bags. Pillows made up of this material are light and also filled with air, allowing them to adapt to your body contours easily to provide extra support and cushioning. However, these pillows are not suitable for extended sleep.
- Filling of microbeads: These are small, lightweight balls that feel like sand inside the pillow. Very soft and smooth, one can move around these pillows easily and quickly.
- Memory foam pillow: Memory foam pillows are firm and take the shape of your body when slept on. They provide good support to the body and reduce body aches and pains.
- Buckwheat filled pillow: These pillows are filled with buckwheat hulls that are stuffed in a cotton bag. Buckwheat pillows are organic and decrease the chances of allergies and heat build-up. Buckwheat pillows are durable and can be used for more than a decade.
- Therapeutic pillow: Experts highly recommended this pillow for pregnant women. The pillow is made up of water which is present inside the polyester pouch. This construction provides excellent support to the head and helps in cases of neck pain.
- Pillow with organic filling: Organic pillows are filled with natural materials like wool, bamboo, fibre, and kapok. These pillows are environmentally friendly, free from chemicals, and suitable for women who have a dust allergy. The drawback of organic pillows is that they are not easy to clean and lose their original shape after one use.
Size of the pillow:
A bigger pillow will occupy more bed space and will be heavier to lift. A big pillow is suitable for those who keep moving their head around while asleep.
Noise and smell of the pillow:
Some pillows make an awkward noise when you move around on them. Pillows filled with styrofoam should be avoided if you are a light sleeper as they will make a noise. Also, pillows that are not organic will smell of chemicals. It is essential to evaluate these two characteristics as they will affect you on a daily basis.
The degree of softness of the pillow:
Different people prefer different levels of firmness in a pillow. Soft pillows should be avoided as they may not provide proper support. Firm pillows are better when it comes to giving support to the head and the body.
Hypoallergenic pillows:
Hypoallergenic pillows are ideal for those who are susceptible to allergies from dust. It is essential to keep allergies at bay during pregnancy, and these pillows will help achieve that.
Pillows to match body type and sleeping position:
Selection of pregnancy pillow also depends on the type of body and preferred sleeping position. Listed below are some of the body type and sleeping position combinations with the ideal pillow choice.
- Pillows for plus-sized women: C-shaped pillows are ideal for plus-sized women. The design of the pillow will allow you to fit in comfortably.
- Petite women: Total petite body pillows are perfect for short women.
- Pillow for those who sleep on the sides: There are many different types of pillows for those who sleep side-ways.
- Pillows for back sleepers: While it is better not to sleep on the back, if you do, you can use the snoogle pregnancy pillow is a good pregnancy pillow to opt for. The snoogle supports the head, neck, back, hips, and belly by taking the shape of the pregnant woman’s body and provides comfort.
- Pillow for those who sleep on the stomach: Sleeping on the stomach can cause body aches and snoring problems. A shredded memory foam pillow or bamboo pillow is the best option for those who like sleeping on their stomach.
- Pillow for women pregnant with twins: U-shaped pillows are the best type of pillows for women pregnant with twins as the tummy is bigger and a larger pillow will offer better support.
Selecting the right pregnancy pillow might be tricky at times as it needs careful assessment of multiple factors. After using a pillow, if you feel uncomfortable, you should discontinue its use immediately.