October 23, 2005

By: Carole Bertrand
Website: http://www.all-linens.com

Guide to Choosing a Wool, Natural Latex, Latex Foam, Cotton or Goose Down Pillow

Choosing perfect pillows for your bed is key to a good night's sleep. We spend one third of our lives in bed, so it only makes sense to make those hours as comfortable as possible. To do that you'll need a bed pillow that's just right for you and for the way you sleep. A goose down pillow may be good for the goose but not for the gander!

This guide will help you make the best choice for what you need. One of the main functions of a bed pillow is to support your head and keep your spine as straight as possible. Back sleepers therefore will need fairly flat pillows, such as feather or goose down pillows while side sleepers should have something more substantial that can support their head such as latex pillows.

Next, consider the type of pillow filling you prefer. Do you like one that can be squished around to suit your current mood (a down pillow may be perfect) or would you rather have a firm foam pillow that won't shift during the night? Some pillows are also made using a combination of fillings such as a down wrapped core of foam.

• Molds to contour of head and neck
• Perfect for side sleepers
• To wash: Use a front loading commercial washer with regular detergent.. Be certain to dry your items very thoroughly so they don't mildew.
• Put a tennis ball or two, in a clean white sock, in with pillows to help dry and fluff the down

About latex and natural rubber pillows:

• Head and neck support pillow
• Natural latex is hyppoallergenic, hygienic, and antibacterial; dust mite, mold and mildew resistant
• Latex foam pillow is known as a contour pillow or orthopedic pillow for head and neck support

About wool pillows:

• Doesn't grow moldy with age, is resistant to dust mites, and doesn't "de-gas" from synthetic fibers
• It is a supportive, warm pillow for cold nights, hypoallergenic natural pillow, wicks moisture away, and very durable.
• Professionally clean or hand wash using warm water and mild detergent. Rinse. Hang up or lay flat to dry.