How Many Pillows Do You Really Need for Optimal Sleep?

Ever wondered whether you're using too many or not enough pillows? Some sleepers adore sleeping with several pillows, while others simply use one. But is there a perfect pillow number for quality sleep? The reality is that the number of pillows you should use is relative to your sleep position, body support, and personal comfort. Let's discuss and guide you toward the ideal equilibrium for improved sleep.

Why Are Pillows So Important for Sleep?

Pillows are not just soft supports for your head. They support your posture, spine, and neck, allowing you to wake up pain-free and without stiffness. Proper pillow types can avoid back pain, enhance the quality of sleep, and maintain your spine alignment.

But sleeping on the wrong pillow—or with too many—can cause discomfort, neck pain, and even sleep disturbance. That's why you need to get the proper pillow size, firmness, and number for your sleeping position.

How Many Pillows Do You Really Need?

How many pillows you should use is based on your sleeping position. Here's what experts suggest:

 1. For Back Sleepers

If you are a back sleeper, one support pillow will typically suffice. A medium-firm pillow aligns your head with your spine and does not put your neck out of alignment.

You can eliminate pressure on your lower back and enhance spinal alignment by adding a second pillow underneath your knees.

 2. For Side Sleepers

Side sleepers require support to close the space between the neck and shoulder. A hard or memory foam pillow is best for it.

Placing a second pillow between the knees will maintain your spine properly and relieve strain on the hips.

 3. For Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleeping is not ideal for your spine, but if it’s your favorite position, use a soft pillow or no pillow at all. A thick pillow can push your neck too far back, leading to pain.  

A thin pillow under your hips can help align your lower back and reduce discomfort.  

Choosing the Right Pillow

Knowing how to choose the right pillow for sleeping is as essential as deciding on the correct number of pillows. Here's what to look for:

 1. Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam is a suitable sleeping pillow for back pain as it conforms to the shape of your head and neck. It gives excellent support and eases pressure points.

The Hosta Pillow from Kurlon is a great sleep pillow. It offers a soft yet supportive pillow that molds to your shape for maximum comfort.

 2. Orthopedic Pillows

Best orthopedic pillows are available for those experiencing chronic pain or poor posture to support the spine and neck well. The pillows keep everything aligned and avert pain from sleep posture.

The Kurlon Chimera Pillow is meant to offer additional support and is thus suitable for individuals who require firm neck support.

 3. Latex or Gel Pillows

Latex or gel pillows are ideal for cooling and breathability. If you tend to sweat a lot during the night, a latex or gel pillow will help control temperature.

 4. Down or Feather Pillows

Soft and puffy, the pillows are great for stomach sleepers. However, they might not be suitable for individuals with neck or back issues.

Our Petalz Pillow has a soft, cushiony feel that the individual who prefers a soft surface would love.

Pillow Size Matters Too

Your pillow size must be equal to your body size and bed size. A pillow that is too small will not be able to support your head, and one that is too large may be uncomfortable.

Common pillow sizes are:

1. Standard (20x26 inches)– Suitable for most sleepers

2. Queen (20x30 inches)– Suitable for individuals who toss and turn a lot while sleeping

3. King (20x36 inches)– Best for big beds and additional headroom

Can Too Many Pillows Be Bad for You?

Yes! Having too many pillows can lead to neck pain, back pain, and improper spinal alignment. Piling up several pillows can put your head in an unnatural position, which is too high.

If you find yourself in need of additional pillows, perhaps it is time to replace your existing pillow with a more supportive one.

Kurlon’s Sleepzz Pillow offers the perfect balance of softness and support, allowing you to eliminate the use of multiple pillows.

How to Select the Ideal Pillow for You

Simply follow these easy steps to discover your ideal pillow:

• Determine Your Sleeping Position: Back, side, or stomach sleeping influences the type of pillow you require.

• Seek Adequate Support: A support pillow aligns your neck with your spine. Orthopedic or memory foam pillows are best for support.

• Choose the Correct Firmness: 

Soft pillows for stomach sleepers

Medium pillows for back sleepers

Supportive pillows for side sleepers

• Take into Account Any Health Issues: If you suffer from back pain, a quality pillow that's good for spinal support will make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to how many pillows you should have. The most important thing is to determine what is right for your sleeping style, comfort, and health requirements. One quality pillow or an extra knee support pillow might be the solution, depending on the type and size that is right for you.

Invest in a good quality sleeping pillow for back pain, such as products from Kurlon, and enhance your sleep quality along with the comfort of waking up fresh.

FAQs

Q. Are two pillows bad for your neck?
A. Using two pillows can be bad if they elevate your head too much, causing neck strain. It's best to use a single supportive pillow for proper spinal alignment.

Q. Do side sleepers need multiple pillows?
A. Yes, side sleepers benefit from multiple pillows—one for head support and another between the knees to maintain spinal alignment and reduce pressure on the hips and lower back.

Q. Do orthopedic pillows really improve the quality of sleep?
A. Yes, orthopedic pillows provide proper neck and spine support, reduce pain, and promote better posture, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced discomfort during the night.