The answer to the question of what is a memory foam pillow is simply a pillow that uses polyurethane as its primary material. This type of foam is known for conforming to the user uniquely, which is why memory foam pillows are excellent for sleeping. However, you must familiarize yourself further about this pillow type to maintain it well.
This article will also teach you about what makes this pillow unique compared to other materials. Who knows? Maybe the best pillow for you is made of memory foam!
Memory Foam Pillow: What Is It?
A memory foam pillow is a pillow that uses memory foam as its primary material from the name itself. This polyurethane foam is so-called memory foam because it will return to its original form after putting pressure on it. It remembers its true shape but also adapts to the user when in use.
As you can assume, memory foam pillows are popular for bed sleepers because it conforms to your body uniquely. The experience relieves pressure and also provides support to prevent body aches and pains. It also helps that there are different kinds of memory foam pillows in the market for every sleeper type.
Types of memory foam pillows
Solid memory foam pillows
A solid memory foam pillow uses a single block of memory foam, and it comes in different shapes and sizes. Some pillows have a flat surface, but it’s also common to see those with contours. If you imagine a memory foam pillow, the first type that comes to mind is this type.
What’s excellent with solid memory foam pillows, especially those with curves, is they follow the shape of your body. You can ensure that your spine is neutral when sleeping on your back or side. However, the downside with this memory foam pillow is that the solid structure retains heat, so you must use a breathable cover or add a gel layer to keep it cool.
Shredded memory foam pillows
A solution to the common drawback with memory foam pillows is to use shredded foam instead of a single block. This form provides better airflow, and you can even combine it with other types of stuffing to achieve the structure and breathability you want or just lower the cost. And because you’re using shredded foam, you can adjust your pillow’s loft and shape by removing or adding the stuffing.
How To Find The Best Memory Foam Pillow For You
How do you sleep?
Similar to choosing any pillow type, you want to consider your sleeping habits and position. For example, opt for a contour memory foam pillow with a high loft if you sleep on your side. On the contrary, a medium-thick shredded memory foam pillow would be ideal if you sleep on your back.
What if you’re a stomach sleeper? Find a flat memory foam pillow that is fluffy or those combined with softer materials. Remembering these ideal pillows for every sleeping position should encourage a good sleeping posture.
Can you clean it?
Another factor to consider to buy the best memory foam pillow for you is its cover. For starters, it should feel comfortable against your skin to prevent irritation. Furthermore, some memory foam pillows are not washable, so you want to use a pillow cover that you can often wash to keep your pillow hygienic.
Is it cool?
Finally, never overlook the cooling features of your pillow. You can opt for the shredded type if you sleep hot or select a breathable cover like cotton. You can also consider materials combined with cooling fibers and gels.
Do This First With Your New Memory Foam Pillow
An issue with memory foam pillows among users is off-gassing. This refers to the chemical odor that the foam releases upon its arrival since it’s packed tightly. The good news is that this odor should wear off once you ventilate your pillow for a day.
Expose your pillow outdoors on a sunny day or somewhere with good air circulation before using it. You can also sprinkle some baking soda on the surface, let it sit, and vacuum it off to freshen the pillow more. Understandably, one might get wary of the chemicals in their pillow, so ease your mind by choosing a pillow with the CertiPUR-US certification, which indicates that it has no harmful substances.
Latex Pillow Vs Memory Foam Pillow
Memory foam pillow is not the only pillow that uses foam. Another type is the latex pillow, which is either natural or synthetic. It is durable and bouncy, and those who don’t like using synthetic products can opt for a natural latex pillow as a substitute for memory foam.
While latex foam absorbs weight well, some people do not like how quickly it springs back. If you prefer something firmer, opt for memory foam pillows. Nonetheless, choosing between the two is subjective, and you’ll be pleased as long as you get high-quality products.
Conclusion
If you want to find the best pillow for you, you need to understand the different types. For example, what is a memory foam pillow? This pillow uses memory foam, either shredded or as a single block.
What makes it unique in the market is that it conforms to the user and still regains its shape after the pressure is gone. This means sleeping on this pillow is excellent for relieving tension and ensuring proper posture. However, remember to aerate your new memory foam upon its arrival to let the chemical odor dissipate.