6 Tips for Choosing the Best Pillow

For years we've been advocating the importance of a proper pillow. How sleeping on the right surface can help improve health, as well as your daily aches in pains. And in many cases, eliminating them all together. Understanding the importance of the "right" pillow is readily understood by many, actually finding what works, however, can become a more daunting task.

How do you find the best pillow to meet your individual needs? And what is the best way to do so?

6. Talk to a Pro

Whether you choose to speak with your doctor or a Contour sales rep, find someone who knows sleeping pillows. It's a step that allows you to gain accurate information and to ensure you're making an informed decision. 

5. Research

See what others have posted online – in comments as well as article reviews. This is a free way to see how others were hurting, and what steps allowed them to feel better. Compare to your own pains and contrast for a customized experience.

4. Test Out Different Styles

If you haven't used a pillow feather, consider giving that model a shot. Or opt for memory foam, hypoallergenic materials, etc. It may just be the material you've been looking for.

3. Read Reviews

You might learn something you didn't consider. Or know how to better ask questions that relate to your needs.

2. Try Additional Curing Methods

A pillow can't solve all your problems. Consider branching out into alternative steps for curing aches and pains. Those methods, along with a more supportive pillow, will provide better results.

1. Look into Contour's Return Policies

Many favorite Contour Living products come with a 30-day return guarantee. This means you can test out a new model, without feeling stuck to the idea. This is especially good for looking for a new type of pillow and finding out which methods help cure the most amount of pain.  

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Customer Reviews: Contour Ortho-Fiber Pillow

The comments are in! We've tallied them, organized each mention, and decided upon our most useful feedback. And compiled it so you can help make an informed choice as a consumer. Whether you're looking for comfort, back and neck support, or all of the above, we've got you covered. 

Here's what our customers – first-timers and repeat shoppers – have had to say about this top-selling item, the Contour Ortho-Fiber Pillow. Spoiler: it's a Contour favorite; it's not just the customers getting in on this comfy pillow action!

"I bought this pillow five years ago for my husband, his chiropractor recommended it." 

"This pillow is just the right size! Fits my head perfectly and cradles the neck – no 'getting used to' period needed! Seriously so comfortable!" 

"Haven't slept through the whole night forever. I do now."  

"This pillow gives great support to the neck while sleeping. No matter whether I'm on my side or back, I feel supported to ease neck pain and keep my spine in alignment. Welcome replacement for my older model that I've used for a number of years." 

"It would take me forever to go to sleep, then never a restful sleep. Now 10 minutes and I'm asleep and for all night. Great product!"

"I have trouble sleeping so I was looking for a pillow that would help me breathe and not snore. I use the strips on my nose and elevate myself but my chin would drop down and obstruct my breathing. This pillow does just what I hoped. Thanks."

"Love it. I was looking for one for a long time – to replace the one I had." 

"Pillow was comfortable right away. Supports your head and neck and I wake up in the morning less sore. Thanks so much!"

"This is the second Contour Pillow I've owned, loved the first one, had it about two years. Firmness wore out. I will definitely buy another one when this one loses firmness." 

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4 Products to Help Keep Sleep Apnea in Check

When you don't sleep well, your entire day can suffer. Where you're tired, cranky, and irritable from not having earned good rest. Yet these moments causing such behavior can be quick and infrequent, in fact, we might not even remember them. But for anyone who has sleep apnea, quick wake ups can occur hundreds of times per night. 

With a combination of doctor-recommended advice, CPAP machines, and more, however, patients have worked to cure – or at least slow down – this ongoing problem.

To get the most out of your CPAP treatment, look to these popular Contour Living devices and accessories. 

CPAP Pillows

It can be hard to obtain rest when there's a mask covering your face. Especially for anyone sleeping on their side. To obtain better comfort, enlist the help of a CPAP pillow. Each has strategically placed cutouts so you can comfortably lay without mask pressure pushing back into your body (r your face!) and interrupting sleep.

Cleaning Wipes

Safe and effective, having these cleaning wipes nearby can help you ensure your mask is clean (and smell-free) at all times. Use on a regular basis, as well as daily when suffering from a cold, in order to keep your mask as clean as possible.

Face and Nasal Moisturizer

It's likely that, until you used a CPAP machine, never in your life did you think you'd need a nasal passage moisturizer. Yet with a constant stream of air running through it, the nose becomes suddenly very dry. Use this specialty-designed moisturizer, along with a face lotion, to help keep your skin as hydrated as possible.

Tube Holder

No one wants to roll over and hit their air tube – or even risk smashing it with their own body weight. With this holder, however, you can help keep your air supply readily in place, and in an ideal working position. 

To learn more or start shopping, head to the links above. 

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Improve Mattress Quality on a Budget

We know it’s important to sleep on a quality mattress. Failing to do so can cause all types of back issues, especially pains. However, when sleeping on a quality mattress, one that cradles and supports, we can work to improve muscle and bone alignment. Just from sleeping. 

But what creates a “quality” mattress? Sure, you could go out and purchase a new one, but beds are expense and difficult to get into place. In fact, unless yours is more than 10 years old, you can stick with your current model. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be improved. Rather than purchasing an entire new mattress, consider a pad or foam topper. These models not only create an added layer of comfort, they can increase the lifespan of your bed. Or, if you’re ready for a softer or firmer feel, change out your bed accessories for an instant way to adjust the mattress’s surface. 

Other add-ons come in the form of specialty pillows, whether for the head and neck, legs, or back. Many wedge options (such as those offered by Contour Living) even come with versatile needs so users can move or rearrange as needed. A simple way to reduce pains without requiring multiple or expensive pillows. 

Finally, once you’ve explored all your pillow and cushion options, it’s time to consider additional esthetics. Such as sheets. Sleeping on quality materials can add an even more relaxing feel to the comfiest of beds. They’ll fit your bed better, holding mattress accessories properly in place, while adding a silky, warm, cozy, or whatever type of feel you prefer. In contrast, cheaply made sheets can make you itch throughout the night. 

Nighttime rest can be greatly affected by a few factors. Look to pillows, sheets, and more when improving your sleep quality in an effective, yet budget-friendly manner. 

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Rave Reviews for the Flip Pillow … and it’s on Sale!

For a limited time, the Flip Pillow is on sale. Stock up now for access to plenty of your favorite transformable, flip-able pillows while they’re at their best price yet! This Back to School offer comes in plenty of time for college students to stock up before moving to the dorms, while the post-school crowd can simply take advantage of a great deal. Whether moving into a new location or just looking for an affordable way to gain comfort throughout the night, the Flip Pillow works as a great solution for the entire crowd. 

Not only is it a great way to add comfort to any couch or bed, you can save some funds while doing so. Best of all, there’s even free shipping – no need to worry about extra or add-on costs. Simply order your Flip Pillow(s) during our Back to School Special, and start earning the benefits of ongoing neck and back support. 

Here’s what some of our past customers have had to say about the product. 

“So far, so good. Bought this pillow for my partner who just had her tonsils and adenoids removed and it is doing the job. So thankful I had it shipped just in time to arrive for her recovery.” July 2014

“I have developed a chronic cough and find that I sleep more easily with my head raised. I had tried several foam wedges that were not comfortable and then the Flip Pillow.”   May 2014

“Love my pillow … offers great support yet very soft. Would highly recommend for reading and watching TV.” March 2014

And this is just a scratch on the surface! Plenty more satisfied customers have shared their experiences with the Flip Pillow as well. To read more reviews, or to take advantage of this incredible sale today, head to the Flip Pillow product page. 

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The Dual Comfort Pillow is On Sale!

Now is time to buy your next pillow from Contour Living! With this limited time sale, sleepers of all ages can enjoy increased comfort at a fraction of the price.  Stock up for yourself and your family members, or purchase plenty in advance to give as gifts throughout the year. They also make great pillows for a guest bed; guests will be more comfortable than ever! 

The Dual Comfort Pillow offers premium materials and construction plus temperature controlled surfaces -  plenty of comfort perks, including its “dual” sided feature for which it’s named. Sleep on the quilted cotton side for breathable, plush, comfort, or opt for the cool mesh side to help keep your head and body cool while you sleep. This mesh creates a layer of air between the body and pillow, allowing plenty of air to pass while still providing its same head cradling features. With its breathable mesh and quilted cotton, the Dual Comfort Pillow provides the best of sleeping environments into a single, supportive pillow. 

The pillow also comes with a zippered case so you can remove and wash your cover as often as you prefer. Simply slip the pillow out of its plush dual-sided case for a clean surface every time you or your guests go to sleep. The pillow is also great for offering proper neck and spine support, no matter which side you choose to sleep on.

Whether you’re a hot sleeper or are in the market for a new supportive pillow, the Dual Comfort from Contour allows for all of the above. This premium pillow is now on sale.

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Is your Bed Ergonomically Sound?

For most, the idea of choosing a mattress is pretty much a no-brainer. So long as it’s comfortable, within the right price range, and fits the frame, it seems to be a good choice. Right? But there’s actually a whole new side to buying mattresses that are rarely considered – ergonomics. Just like setting up one’s office desk, driver’s seat, or cooking station, a bed can be made more ergonomically sound.

It’s frequency – after all, you sleep in it every night for multiple hours at a time – makes these adjustments even more prevalent. When purchasing or setting up a new bedroom set, consider the ergonomics a comfortable night’s sleep that will help prevent future aches and pains.

What Makes Sleeping Quarters Ergonomic?

Though it can be argued that once a person’s in the bed, few other measurements matter, that’s not to say they won’t have some type of effect. For instance, hosting a bed that is too short or too tall may not seem like a big deal. But after years of jumping or slouching onto the bed, a bodily pattern begins to emerge. This may or may not be painful, but sticking to an agronomical design is the only way to avoid symptoms altogether.

Other factors include the mattress itself – obviously it should be free from indentions, lumps, or sags – as well as reading or TV watching before sleep. If regularly used for entertainment purposes, be sure your bed offers ergonomic options. This can include reclining buttons or controls, pillows that properly support, or mattress placement. Be sure that the TV angle isn’t too severe, which can help avoid neck or vision straining.

Check with an ergonomics expert, or look to placement guides to find the best fit for your specific bedroom and mattress height/placement.

Though changing your bedroom to be more ergonomic may sound like a daunting task, knowledge is half the battle. Just being aware as to what makes a healthy location decision allows you to choose better adjustments along the way. Even when a new bedroom set and/or TV location isn’t in the works.

Now What?

Remember to keep these ergonomic tips in mind when purchasing a new pillow, lounging in the recliner, or reading before bed. Self awareness can allow for a better setup and back support without spending money or rearranging the house.

However, new supportive pillows are a happy medium. Consider them for a better ergonomic flow without breaking the bank.

And to learn more about back and bedroom health, be sure to check out our Back to Health website.

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Achieve Better Pregnancy Back Support with Proper Pillows

During pregnancy, the body goes through an almost infinite amount of changes. There are obvious ones, like weight gain, stomach growth, and the swelling it can cause. But there are also unseen changes within the body, such as hormone levels and back pain – both of which can greatly affect one’s day. Just because these bodily adjustments aren’t obvious doesn’t mean they affect women any less.

One of the best ways to combat aches and pains associated with pregnancy is to get the proper back and stomach support. By resting, sleeping, or relaxing with a happy and sturdy back, women can increase their chances of reducing swelling or growing pains. This can be achieved by sitting on a firm, padded seat, placing a wedged pillow behind one’s back, sleeping on a slight incline, or supporting the belly with one or more pillows. These extra sleeping supplies are not only comfortable, but allow your growing body to easily adjust to its increase in size and weight.

Because of the placement of the baby, women can quickly and easily become uncomfortable. (After all, they’re gaining 20+ pounds all in one portion of their body.) This also affects everyday tasks like walking, sitting, and bending over.  Oftentimes these comfort levels are diminished at night, when the body sits still for long periods of time. And after a few weeks or even days, this can affect sleeping patterns and quality, making your growing body tired throughout the day.

Pillow Adjustments

It can be difficult to know how or when to upgrade one’s pregnancy pillows. For some women, back pain and general uncomfortable-ness is a long-term effect of being with child. However, for others, rearranging one’s pillows can greatly reduce pressure and stress.

To work toward an all-around supported body, ask yourself which body parts hold the most pain, the most pressure, and the most relief. If it’s your back, work with a wedge or rounded pillow to hoist up the lower back when sitting, and gently elevate the upper back while lying down. If it’s the stomach, lay on your side with a pillow underneath. And so on. By identifying and then alleviating the problem, you can work to create an easier, more comfortable pregnancy term.

However, please note that pillow support is only intended to help with minor aches. Intense or irregular pains should always be consulted by a doctor.

To get shopping for your new pregnancy pillow today, head to our products page.

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