Go on Pinterest, and it seems like every dream bedroom pinned is stuffed full of pillows. Sure, that looks good, but have you ever considered how many pillows should you sleep with?
According to sleep experts, the answer varies. Depending on your sleeping position, one or two pillows should suffice in order to get a good night's sleep. The one under your noggin should be a high-quality memory foam pillow.
Read on to learn more about how many pillows you should sleep with.
Why Should You Sleep With More Than One Pillow?
Maintaining good spinal alignment during sleep is the name of the game. Consider the right pillow as supporting good sleep ergonomics. We all know about ergonomic desk chairs and the like, but you've probably never thought of ergonomics as you sleep.
At Leesa, we believe that one good pillow is key to comfort, sleep quality, and spinal support. Your bed is a haven, and your head—one of the heaviest parts of the body—deserves a good pillow, whether pure memory foam or a hybrid pillow.
Finding the right pillow is more than just considering quality materials and construction. It depends on your height, frame, and sleep position preference. Let's learn more.
Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your side means your neck needs a different type of support to maintain spine alignment. A firm pillow is usually best for comfortable support.
Here's a case for second pillows—having a second pillow between your knees also helps keep your spine aligned and prevents pressure and discomfort.
Stomach Sleepers
Some stomach sleepers prefer to sleep without a pillow. However, we know from personal experience that this can create an uncomfortable, stiff neck in the morning. Or even a headache.
If you're a stomach sleeper, you'll probably be most comfortable with at least a thinner loft pillow to support your head and neck. And consider sleeping on top of another pillow to support your hips and lower back and maintain spinal alignment.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers usually enjoy the comfort and support of memory foam pillows. If you have broad shoulders or a larger frame, consider sleeping on a King pillow rather than a standard size.
To maintain good spinal alignment all night long, consider placing an extra support pillow underneath your knees. This helps relieve pressure on your lower back.
Sleeping with No Pillow
Sleep experts agree that sleeping without a pillow is destined to leave you with back and neck pain in the morning. Everyone moves as they sleep, especially when in deep REM sleep. Without a pillow, you may find yourself tossing and turning more than usual, trying to find a comfortable position.
Studies have shown that sleeping without a pillow can cause neck and back pain. It can also make headaches (especially migraines), snoring, or sleep apnea worse.
Do yourself (and your neck!) a favor and sleep with a pillow.
Do You Suffer From Neck or Back Pain?
If you struggle with chronic neck or back pain, you'll find Leesa's hybrid pillow to be the one you've always dreamt of. This reversible pillow features a cooling gel side, a removable fluffy insert, and a supportive quilted side.
The combination provides sleepers with great neck support and cozy cloud-like comfort. To customize firmness and pressure relief, you can easily remove the insert.
Takeaways: How Many Pillows Should You Sleep With?
Depending on your position, you should sleep with only one pillow supporting your head and neck.
In some cases, you may need two. One supportive pillow is for your head and neck. The other pillow is to ease pressure points (if you're a side sleeper) or to provide gentle support to your hips and lower back (if you're a back sleeper). Our down alternative pillow is the ideal second pillow.
Find The Right Pillow For You
Leesa is all about getting your best night's sleep every night. Bottom line: no matter your preferred sleep position, we have the ultimate pillow to suit your unique needs. Check out all our pillows and other bedding to find the best pillow for you.
Shop Leesa mattresses today!
FAQs
Is it Better to Sleep on Two Pillows or One?
Sleeping on two pillows contorts your neck and shoulders, eliminating your spine's healthy alignment and skewing your neck's natural curve. Some people may require a second pillow to ease pressure points, especially if they're a side or a back sleeper. But those pillows aren't stacked on top of each other. Do your back and neck a favor and sleep on only one pillow.
How Often Do You Replace Pillows?
In general, pillows should be replaced every 18 months to two years. (Did you know all of Leesa's pillows have a one-year warranty?)
How to Clean Pillows?
Your pillows should be cleaned every quarter (4 months) to keep them in top shape. Depending on the type of pillow you have, you may only need to remove the pillow's covering and wash it. Be sure to thoroughly dry the cover before replacing it. Check out Leesa's complete guide to caring for pillows.
