Memory foam vs fiber filled pillows

The right pillow can help you fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. Pillows provide support for your head and neck and keep your body in a comfortable alignment when lying in bed.

Today there are various types of pillows to choose from, including memory foam and fiber filled pillows. So how do you know which pillow is best for you?

Keep reading to learn about memory foam and fiber filled pillows so that you can pick the one that best supports your sleep needs.

Memory foam pillows

Memory foam pillows are available in single piece and shredded foam varieties. These pillows are made in many different shapes and sizes, including standard-sized pillows or one that conforms to the curves of the head and neck.

If you're a side sleeper, a one-piece memory foam pillow is the best option, as they provide more cushioning and support. Stomach sleepers are often more comfortable with a shredded memory foam pillow.

Pros

Plenty of support. Memory foam pillows provide plenty of head and neck support. These pillows are designed to cradle the head so that you wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free
No adjustment needed. Memory foam pillows require no adjusting during the night. This means no more tossing and turning or having to fluff up your pillow to stay comfortable.
Aligns the spine. Most pillows tilt the head upwards, which closes off the air passages. This leads to snoring. Memory foam pillows align the neck with the spine and keep the air passages open and free of obstruction.

Cons

Expensive. Memory foam pillows are one of the more expensive options on the market today.
Non-malleable. If you prefer a pillow that can be shaped and formed to your specific needs, a memory foam pillow may not be the best option for you. These pillows can’t be folded or fluffed.
Retain heat. If you're a hot sleeper, a memory foam pillow could make matters worse. These pillows retain heat and make you more prone to nighttime sweating.

Fiber filled pillows

Fiber pillows are supportive and comfortable. They sleep much cooler than memory foam because the material doesn't retain as much heat. These pillows are stuffed with a hypoallergenic material for those looking for a suitable down alternative.

Fiber filled pillows work well for any sleeper, but side sleepers may get the most benefit.

Pros

Soft and fluffy. Fiber filled pillows can be firm depending on the fill level, but many of them are soft, fluffy, and malleable. They can be folded and molded to meet your sleep needs.
Easy to clean. Most people sweat in their sleep, with your pillow collecting and retaining some of that moisture. The benefit is that fiber filled pillows can be easily cleaned.
Inexpensive. Fiber filled pillows are relatively inexpensive. They’re also available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from lumbar pillows to full body pillows.

Cons

Clumping. Because fiber filled pillows are soft, they’re more likely to clump over time. When this happens, you can try to adjust the filling, though most people choose to buy a replacement pillow.
Not durable. Most fiber filled pillows need to be replaced after a couple of years. This is because the filling flattens and loses its support.
Can lead to tossing and turning. Because fiber filled pillows lose their shape, sleepers may be more prone to tossing and turning to find and maintain a comfortable position through the night.

Whether you prefer a memory foam or fiber filled pillow, what’s most important is that you’re comfortable and supported. The right pillow enables you to wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. We have also reviewed Hooga pillow in our previous article that you can find.