Person sleeping on a double bed with a Putnams body pillow

What’s the Best Pillow for You? A No-Nonsense Guide by Sleep Style

Juli 25, 2025

Getting a good night's sleep starts with the right support, a pillow tailored to your sleep style. If you've woken up with neck pain, stiffness, or that dreaded crick in your spine, your pillow could be the culprit. Choosing the best pillow for sleep can feel overwhelming with so many options out there.

But don't worry!

This no-nonsense guide breaks it all down to help you find the perfect match for your unique needs.

Whether you're a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper, we've got you covered. We'll also address common sleep challenges like snoring, reflux, neck pain, and even pregnancy-related discomfort. By understanding your sleep style and specific concerns, you’ll discover exactly which pillow is right for you.

Why Does Sleep Style Matter in Choosing a Pillow?

Your sleeping position has a significant impact on your spine's alignment and overall sleep quality. The wrong pillow can cause your neck and spine to misalign, leading to aches and disrupted rest. By identifying your sleep style and how your body is positioned throughout the night, you can choose a pillow that provides optimal comfort and support.

Let's explore the best pillow for sleep based on sleeping posture and common issues.

Side Sleepers Need Proper Neck and Spine Support

The Challenge:

What is the best pillow for side sleepers? Side sleepers require a pillow that bridges the gap between the mattress and the head, keeping the neck aligned with the spine. Without proper elevation and firmness, side sleepers risk muscle tension and joint pressure.

Key Pillow Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm to firm for adequate support.
Elevation (Loft): High loft to fill the shoulder gap.
Material: Memory foam or contour pillows that mould to your neck and shoulders.

Recommended Options from Putnams:

Memory Foam Orthopaedic Pillow

This pillow offers firm yet adaptive support, contouring perfectly to your neck and head to maintain alignment.

Buckwheat Pillow

With natural buckwheat hulls, this eco-friendly option ensures structured support while being breathable and adjustable.

Knee Pillow (Bonus Tip)

Side sleepers often benefit from placing a knee pillow between their legs to maintain hip alignment. Check out the Putnams British Wool Knee Pillow for added spinal support.

Natural British Wool Knee Pillow

The pillow is comfortable and remains in place whilst sleeping , i am very pleased with it as my back dosn’t feel stiff and painful when i wake up , as it did before .

Using these pillows will not only reduce neck and shoulder pain but also improve hip and overall sleep quality. - Karen W

Back Sleepers Benefit From Balanced Support

The Challenge:

Back sleepers need a pillow that cradles the natural curve of the neck without pushing the head too far forward, which may strain the cervical spine.

Key Pillow Features:

Firmness: Medium to soft for balanced support.
Elevation (Loft): Medium loft to keep the neck in a neutral position.
Material: Latex or memory foam for head and neck contouring while retaining bounce.

Recommended Options from Putnams:

Graphite Latex Pillow

This height-adjustable pillow provides just the right amount of elevation and firmness, perfect for back sleepers.

Putnam Pillow

Specially designed for spinal alignment, this orthopaedic favourite ensures back sleepers wake up without stiffness.

CPAP Pillow for Snorers

If snoring or sleep apnoea is a concern, the CPAP Pillow provides additional comfort for back sleepers using CPAP machines. Its design keeps airways open for restful breathing.

For added relief from lumbar strain, try placing a flat cushion under your knees.

This will reduce tension in the lower back and promote spinal alignment.

Back sleeping is a common position for many individuals, but it can also lead to discomfort and strain on the body. That's why having the right pillow is crucial in achieving a good night's sleep.

Stomach Sleepers Need Light, Low-Profile Pillows

The Challenge:

Sleeping on your stomach places stress on the neck and lower back. A thick or overly firm pillow could overextend the neck, aggravating spinal misalignment.

Key Pillow Features:

Firmness: Soft and lightweight to prevent strain.
Elevation (Loft): Low loft or nearly flat, depending on comfort.
Material: Feather, down, or soft foam for minimal elevation.

Recommended Options from Putnams:

Putnams Self-Adjusting Pillow

This pillow’s adjustable layers allow you to customise height and firmness, ensuring a barely-there feel suited for stomach sleepers.

Height Adjustable British Wool Pillow

This pillow is really comfy and just the right height - no neck pain since using this pillow and feels lovely to lie on. - Hannah A

Pro tip: If neck strain is a recurring issue, consider placing a small pillow under your pelvis to promote better spinal alignment.

Person lying on a double bed with a Putnams body pillow

Combination Sleepers Need Versatility

The Challenge:

If you toss and turn between side, back, and stomach positions, you’ll need a pillow versatile enough to accommodate constant movement without sacrificing support.

Key Pillow Features:

Firmness: Medium-firm with adaptable support.
Elevation (Loft): Adjustable loft to accommodate different sleeping angles.
Material: Latex or memory foam, offering flexibility and adaptability.

Recommended Options from Putnams:

Adjustable Body Pillow

This versatile pillow conforms to various sleeping positions, making it ideal for combination sleepers.

Graphite Latex Height Adjustable Pillow

Its bouncy consistency allows it to respond to shifting positions while maintaining neck and spinal alignment.

Graphite Latex Pillow - Height Adjustable

This is the BEST pillow I have ever owned. Just perfect for my needs and so very comfy. Never wake up with neck pain now!

Combination sleepers should focus on customisable pillows that can adapt to changing sleep styles. - Penny M

Pillows for Specific Sleep Issues

Person in bed attached to a CPAP machine lying on a Putnams CPAP Sleep Apnoea Pillow

Snoring or Sleep Apnoea

For sleepers suffering from snoring or sleep apnoea, the CPAP Pillow is a game-changer. Its contoured design ensures proper airway alignment, reducing breathing interruptions.

Acid Reflux or GERD

If reflux is keeping you awake, a Wedge Pillow is a must. This angled design elevates the upper body, preventing stomach acid from reaching the throat and improving overall comfort.

Pregnancy-Related Discomfort

Expecting mothers often experience back, hip, and abdominal pain. The Pregnancy Pillow by Putnams provides full-body support, allowing side-sleeping comfort as it cushions problem areas like the lower back and knees.

Neck Pain or Stiffness

Orthopaedic pillows, such as the Putnams Memory Foam Pillow, are ideal for alleviating pressure points. Their contoured shape cradles the neck, reducing tension effectively. Pillows and Cushions for Neck Pain.

Overheating at Night

Hot sleepers will appreciate the British Wool Pillow, which regulates temperature naturally and ensures breathability.

How to Choose the Best Pillow for Sleep

When deciding on the perfect pillow, keep these factors in mind:

Sleep Style

Choose firmness, loft, and material that complement side, back, stomach, or combination sleeping.

Health Concerns

Address issues like snoring, acid reflux, or pregnancy with specialised pillows like CPAP and wedge designs.

Material Preference

From natural buckwheat to breathable wool and graphite latex, materials play a key role in comfort and durability.

Customisation

Adjustable pillows, like Putnams’ innovative range, allow you to personalise height and firmness levels to ensure the perfect fit.

Longevity & Care

Opt for high-quality pillows that last. Remember to replace pillows every 18-24 months for optimal support. (How long should a pillow last?)

Height Adjustable British Wool Pillow

I have been waking with neck problems for some time but no more. There is a generous number of wool layers in the pillow and I removed four. The pillow has worked perfectly and the morning neck ache is no more. Should the layers compress I can use the spares to refresh the pillow. Thank you - Andrew K

Final Thoughts on Finding Your Perfect Pillow

The best pillow for your sleep depends on your sleeping position, personal comfort needs, and any specific health challenges. With Putnams’ wide range of pillows, including memory foam, buckwheat, CPAP, pregnancy, graphite latex, and wedge designs, there’s something for everyone.

Take the first step to transform your sleep. Explore the Putnams pillow collection today and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to conquer your day!