Some pillows can immediately lull you into a deep, restful sleep, while others keep you tossing and turning. Why? The difference sometimes comes down to pillow loft.
What Is Loft in a Pillow?
When I first stumbled into the bedding industry years ago, I had no idea what “pillow loft” even meant. I quickly realized how crucial it is to finding the perfect pillow. Loft refers to a pillow’s thickness—essentially, its height. When shopping for pillows, you’ll notice they’re often categorized by loft:
- Low Loft Pillow: These are thinner than most.
- Mid Loft Pillow: Crafted to meet the needs of most sleepers with average thickness.
- High Loft Pillow: These are more substantial than most and provide the most elevation for your head and neck.
Why Pillow Loft Matters
You might be thinking, “Does an inch or two really make that much of a difference?” And the answer is – absolutely! Your pillow’s loft affects how your head, neck, and spine align during sleep, which is key to quality sleep.
- Head and Neck Alignment: The right loft keeps your spine in a neutral position, preventing strain.
- Breathing: Loft impacts how open your airways are while you sleep, which is essential for breathing comfortably – especially for those who snore.
- Pressure Points: Correct loft reduces pressure points, helping you avoid waking up with stiffness or discomfort.
The right loft for you depends on your sleep position, body type, and personal comfort preferences. Choosing the wrong loft can lead to neck pain, headaches, or even worsen your sleep quality. There are high-quality pillows in every loft category, and the right choice really depends on your personal preferences and sleep position.
How to Choose the Right Pillow Loft for You
Now that you know why pillow loft is so important, how do you choose the right one? It’s all about aligning the loft with your sleep style and body type. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Sleep Position
- Side Sleepers: You’ll likely need a high loft pillow. Side sleeping creates more space between your mattress and your head, so a thicker pillow helps fill that gap, keeping your neck and spine in alignment.
- Back Sleepers: A medium loft pillow is usually best. It provides enough support to keep your head and neck aligned without tilting your head too far forward or backward.
- Stomach Sleepers: A low loft pillow is your go-to. A thick pillow can push your head forward at an awkward angle, leading to neck discomfort. A thinner pillow will reduce strain on your neck.
2. Body Type and Mattress Firmness
- Body Size: Your body size can influence how much loft you need. Larger individuals might require a higher loft, especially if they sleep on their sides, while smaller people might prefer a lower loft.
- Mattress Firmness: The firmness of your mattress also plays a role. On a soft mattress, your body sinks in more, so you might need a lower loft pillow. Conversely, a firm mattress requires a higher loft to fill the space between your head and the mattress.
Home Measurement Test: Check Your Pillow Loft with a Simple Photo
Wondering if your pillow’s loft is really doing its job? Here’s a quick and easy home test to find out. Have a friend snap a photo (or just use your camera’s timer) of you lying in your natural sleeping position—whether on your back, side, or stomach. The key is to capture your whole body, especially your head, neck, and spine. Ideally, your spine should be in a straight line from your neck down to your tailbone. If you notice your head tilting too far up or down, it probably means your pillow loft is too high or too low.
Filling Matters Too!
The loft of your pillow isn’t just about its initial height; it’s also about how well the pillow’s filling is able to maintain its loft throughout the night. Loft requirements can vary depending on the pillow’s filling type. Choosing the right fill is just as important as finding the right loft to ensure maximum comfort.
To keep perfectly consistent loft that lasts all night, you’ll want a malleable and firm pillow filling like buckwheat hulls or microbeads. These fillings will conform perfectly to the shape of your head and neck, eliminating all pain-causing pressure points. They’re also both quite firm; they will not compress and become thinner as you sleep. They’re not for everyone, so memory foam and latex pillows are slightly more accessible “soft” alternatives that are better than average pillows at staying a constant height.
Pillows that are worst at providing consistent loft are usually those made from down, feather, or polyester fiberfill. These materials tend to compress easily and lose their shape throughout the night, requiring frequent fluffing to maintain support.
Ultimately the type of pillow filling you use is a matter of personal preference. It’s not easy to choose without actually trying them in your own bed. If you’re not sure, I highly recommend you try a few different types. Review manufacturer’s return policies and sleep on it. If it doesn’t work out, send it back. Better rest is worth the effort (and some return shipping costs)!
The Benefits of Adjustable Loft Pillows
Adjustable loft pillows feature zippered openings that allow you to add or remove filling to fine-tune the loft to your exact preference. While they might not be as common as standard pillows, in my opinion, the zippered opening is essential for achieving that perfect balance between comfort and support. Plus, adjustable loft pillows tend to last longer, as you can simply replace the filling when it wears down and continue using the same fabric case, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective option in the long run.
Wrapping Up: Finding Your Perfect Pillow Loft
If you’re searching for a firm and adjustable option, consider a buckwheat pillow. Our own Hullo Buckwheat Pillow comes with a zippered opening, making it easy to adjust the loft by adding or removing the buckwheat hulls. This adjustability not only offers personalized comfort but also extends the pillow’s lifespan, as you can simply replace the filling over time. Buckwheat pillows provide excellent support, keeping your spine aligned and your sleep undisturbed.
Ready to find your perfect pillow loft? Sweet dreams are just a pillow away!
