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Of the 117 we tested, these two were our favorites.
Photo:Real Simple
That said, its hard to know if a pillow is right if you cant test it out.
Luckily, weve tested over 117 pillows at home and in our lab.
When making our picks, we looked at each pillows firmness, loft, breathability, and overall feel.
PHOTO: Coop
Here are our top two picks.
It doesfeel slightly lumpy.
The shredded memory foam molds closely to your head and neck, but its still plenty firm and supportive.
PHOTO: Real Simple
you’re able to also add or remove fill as needed.
The shredded foam felt somewhat lumpy, though, which may deter those who are sensitive to certain textures.
Lumpiness aside, the pillow kept its shape over time and didnt require daily fluffing.
Itflattens after six months of use and needs daily fluffing.
During our tests, the shredded memory foam felt incredibly plush.
We noticed it got a little warm, but it was never too uncomfortable or sweat-inducing.
Since pillow comfort is so subjective, we made sure to report our findings as objectively as possible.
When a pillow arrives in our lab, we inspect the fabric and construction for quality.
Is there loose stitching?
Or any fill poking out?
If a pillow is adjustable, we add and remove fill to see what the process is like.
Is it easy to do?
Does it make a big mess?
They also note if the pillow is improving their quality of sleep.
We also ask testers to compare the pillow to other pillows theyve slept on.
Shredded foam pillows conform closely to your head and neck and are more moldable than solid foam pillows.
Loft
Loft refers to a pillows thickness.
If your mattress is soft, you may need less loft since your body sinks more.
Firmness
Pillow firmness varies widely, with options like soft, fluffy, and ultra-firm.
Medium to firm pillows work best, Petkus says.
Too soft, and your head sinks.
Too firm, and its like sleeping on a brick.
These pillows have a curve or indentation on one side to accommodate a side sleepers downward-facing shoulder.
She is also a side sleeper who is particular about pillows and brings her pillow on trips whenever possible.
To compile these picks, we tested 117 pillows and gathered tester feedback over the course of six months.
We also spoke withDylan Petkus M.D.for expert advice on the best pillows for side sleepers.
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Real Simple
Real Simple
Real Simple
