Do you prefer sleeping without a pillow, or are you someone who needs a soft, plush pillow to feel comfortable? Well, it turns out that the type of pillow you use can actually affect the quality of your sleep. But here's something you might not have considered: the number of pillows you use can also make a difference in how comfortable you sleep.
At Somnuz, we understand the importance of every aspect of your sleeping setup, including your mattress, bedding, and, yes, even your pillows. So, if you're reading this guide because you want to know how to choose the right number of pillows for a good night's rest, you've come to the right place.
Let's get started!
How Many Pillows Should You Sleep With?
Scientifically speaking, you really only need one pillow to keep you comfortable and supported while you sleep. However, everyone has different preferences and sleeping positions. So if you prefer more pillows or like to sleep in different positions, it's totally fine to make adjustments to suit your own comfort.
Using a single, properly chosen pillow as your main sleep support is a good idea for consistent comfort during slumber. The key is to find the right pillow that offers the ideal amount of elevation to maintain the natural alignment of your spine. When choosing your pillow, the following factors should be considered:
- Comfortable Head Space. Having enough pillow surfaces is important, especially if you are restless or tossing and turning a lot on your bed. After all, you don't want to wake up frequently to adjust your pillow.
- Comfortable Neck Support. Besides supporting your head, your pillow should also provide proper support for your neck. This is to maintain a healthy spine alignment and reduce the risk of waking up with aches and pains.
- Contouring Comfort. Pillows made of foam or soft fillings like down and feathers are designed to conform to the shape of your head and neck, regardless of your sleeping position.
- Breathability. Whether you sleep hot or not, a good pillow should allow proper air circulation around your sleep surface to prevent overheating and suffocation during sleep. If you sleep on your stomach, choose a low-loft pillow that is also breathable.
Do you feel the need to add an extra cushion on top of your main pillow? If yes, it might indicate that your current sleep surface isn't providing enough support for your sleeping position or body type. In such a case, look for a more supportive pillow or consider adjusting your bedroom setup by adding additional pillows.
Let's say you're on the taller side with broader shoulders; using a larger king-size pillow is more comfortable. It's also good to place two pillows side by side so you won't wake up with your head resting directly on the mattress.
If you're a stomach sleeper, choose a pillow that is low enough not to disrupt the alignment of your spine. If you find your stomach sinking into the mattress when you sleep, try adding a pillow under your stomach to keep your lower back flat.
For those who prefer sleeping on their side, it's beneficial to support your posture with an extra pillow between your legs when in a foetal position. A higher-loft pillow can also help fill the gap between your head and shoulders.
Pillow Stacking: Is It Okay?
Using multiple pillows to create a lofty and cloud-like sleeping surface may seem appealing, but it can actually cause more problems than it solves. Besides adding to your expenses, pillow stacking doesn't provide the same level of comfort as finding one that truly meets your specific needs.
If you are a side sleeper, opting for a single medium-firm and lofty pillow can offer better support instead of piling two soft and low-loft pillows together. This is because a medium-firm pillow can maintain shape and provide consistent support throughout the night. On the other hand, a soft pillow is meant to contour and mould to your head and neck, which may not provide adequate support for side sleepers.
Another issue with pillow stacking is that it can lead to inconsistent support. When the pillows are too low or too high, it strains your neck, potentially leading to chronic pain and sleep deprivation. If you constantly readjust your pillows to find comfort, it's a sign that your sleep setup needs reevaluation.
Instead of relying on a stack of pillows, we advise you to invest in a high-quality pillow that suits your preferred sleeping position and offers the right level of support.
Is It Okay to Use Multiple Pillows in Your Sleep?
Using more than one pillow is fine, as long as you don't pile them up so high that it becomes uncomfortable. Depending on how you sleep, you can place a pillow under your legs, stomach, or between your legs for added comfort.
If hugging a soft pillow helps you feel more relaxed, go for it! Just make sure you arrange them in a way that feels right for you.
Choosing the Right Pillow for Your Sleep
Ask yourself these questions when buying a pillow in Malaysia:
- Are you a back sleeper, side sleeper, or stomach sleeper?
- Do you experience back pain often?
- How about neck pain?
Is it Okay to Sleep Without a Pillow?
Some people prefer to have extra pillows on their beds for added comfort, but some opt for a no-pillow setup. Going without a pillow can actually be beneficial in certain situations, particularly if your sleeping position requires minimal head support like sleeping on your stomach.
Takeaway
The number of pillows you need for a comfortable sleep depends on your personal preference.
In general, having a single good pillow is already sufficient as long as it provides the necessary comfort and support based on your body type and sleeping position. If you're looking for a more customised level of comfort, consider trying a contouring pillow like the Somnuz latex pillow.
Of course, you are free to add more cosy and cloudy pillows to your bedding setup. Remember, the key is to find a pillow that suits your unique needs and helps you sleep comfortably throughout the night.
DISCLAIMER: The content provided on this article, including text, images, and other materials, is intended solely for educational purposes. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, no material on the Somnuz website should be considered a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified medical professional for guidance regarding your health. NEVER disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice based on any information obtained from this article or website.