Updated at: 03-10-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

The greatest approach to learn how to utilize a body pillow effectively is to know what kind you have. Using a body pillow has a lot of advantages. This product, however, can only be used to its full potential if you know exactly how to use it.

This article will help you distinguish between the several varieties of body pillows. The fact that body pillows support, comfort, and alleviate pain is a well-known truth. Each form and size has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the intended function and the person using it.

What is a body pillow?

In order to sleep on your side comfortably, a body pillow is a long, narrow pillow placed between your legs. A body pillow’s primary function is to support the spine and alleviate strain on certain pressure points.

Natural shredded latex, organic kapok, natural wool, and a wool/latex blend are all options for Savvy Rest’s organic body pillows.

What is a Body Pillow & How Do You Use One? | Savvy Rest

There are three sizes to choose from: 15′′, 17′′, and 20′′.

Natural-colored, unbleached organic cotton casings with a soft flannel finish are included in every Savvy Rest organic body pillows. Also included is a fitted organic cotton pillowcase.

How To Use A Body Pillow Based On Their Type

You’ll utilize a body cushion to support a certain section of your body in general. If used correctly, it can also alleviate stress and alleviate pain in the body. The following is a breakdown of the many sorts of body pillows so that you may determine which one is most suited for your needs.

Cylindrical body pillows

Cylindrical body pillows are the most common type of body pillow. Because they don’t take up a lot of space, these narrow-shaped pillows are a great addition to your bed. Although there are a variety of sizes available, you can find one that fits your height.

Support your neck or ease shoulder pain with these cylindrical body pillows. For a more comfortable sleep, some people arrange it between their knees and wrap their arms over it. Your spine will remain in a neutral position as a result, allowing you to sleep comfortably.

Rectangular body pillows

The rectangular-shaped body pillow is another popular style. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most common is 20 by 54 inches. Adults of the average size will find this pillow to be ideal, as it extends from their torsos to their calves.

To keep the spine aligned, rectangular body pillows are just as good as cylindrical ones. Place the pillow between your knees to alleviate back discomfort or postural problems. The ability to keep a neutral spine, no matter where you are, can be aided by this technique.

Special body pillows

You may have noticed that body pillows come in a variety of shapes, including cylindrical and rectangular. The design of a U-shaped body cushion is ideal for pregnant women since it provides support for their head, neck, and back. Pregnant women should always sleep on their side, which is not only more comfortable but also better for the baby’s circulation.

A U-shaped pillow, on the other hand, will help prevent children from rolling over to their back. A pregnant woman should avoid lying on her back since it can aggravate her back discomfort and disrupt the fetus’s blood flow. You can rest your head on the curvature of the U-shaped cushion while the other arm supports your back and your arms.

You may still use the J-shaped body pillow to support your head, neck, and back even if you have a smaller bed. Lay your head on the curved end of the straight arm, between your knees. You can also use a C-shaped body pillow with the top end for your neck and head and the bottom end between your legs if you sleep on your side.

Considerations When Using A Body Pillow

Pregnant women must, as previously said, sleep on their sides for the sake of their own health as well as the health of their unborn child. After 20 weeks, a single cushion can be used to support the baby’s head, legs, and belly. A body cushion that is firm enough to align your shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles properly is ideal for individuals who want to improve or prevent poor posture.

What about people who are afflicted with back or joint pain? A body pillow can assist keep your spine in a neutral position and alleviate pain while you sleep. For people suffering from arthritis, a body cushion can help alleviate the pain by relieving pressure on your muscles and joints.

With a body pillow, you may finally rest easy on your side and avoid the discomfort of sleep apnea. In order to avoid rolling over on your back, the ideal type of mattress should prevent this from happening. Those who suffer from snoring may benefit even more from using a support system while they sleep.

Where To Buy A Boppy Pillow?

A boppy pillow is a wonderful aid for children who are still developing the ability to sit on their own but are still unable to do so on their own.

You can still use a boppy pillow to support your baby’s sitting even after their muscles grow.

Everyone knows that the boppy breastfeeding cushion is the gold standard when it comes to a baby’s first steps in self-feeding.

Every new family must have a specific item in their possession!

It doesn’t matter if we’re talking about the bosom or the jug. You’ll need a boppy if you’re looking after a baby.

With that in mind, boppy pillows can be purchased at any retail location. You may be able to find one in one of your local supermarkets.

If you’re unable to get a boppy pillow in your area, you may be able to find one online.

Simply conduct your due diligence and select a product that has a high number of positive reviews and is within your budget.

They can be found almost anywhere because of the many advantages they provide to consumers. It’s available in malls and pharmacies.

Use A Boppy Body Pillow

What is the best way to utilize a boppy pillow? The boppy nursing pillow is perfect for cuddling while you’re not taking care of an infant.

To find out why you’re interested. When you’re constantly supporting and carrying an infant, your back and shoulders are at risk.

Your body will have a tougher time supporting a heavier baby for longer periods of time.

With the boppy in your lap, you have the option of supporting a child. Why is this the case?

Your lower arms, bears, and back will be protected at the same time.

Those (younger) relatives who need to hold the new kid but may not have the chest strength do so with ease because to the boppy’s demonstrated emotional support network for the entire family.

Moms can take a deep breath, safe in the knowledge that their youngest child is snuggled up in the lap of a sibling or sister, a pillow between their legs.

Recess is a breeze with the boppy nursing cushion!

Set the baby’s head and shoulders on the cushion and his tushie in the aperture to keep him comfy.

To help infants with leaning back (propped) under hanging toys, this is an excellent solution.

He may not be able to interact with them at the moment, but he will still enjoy the sight of them in the sky. Animals pique the curiosity of young people.

This shows that boppy pillows can be both useful and adaptable.

If you choose to, you can put it to good use in any capacity you choose. Because of this, purchasing one is a sound investment.

This pillow saved my back during pregnancy

How Much Does It Usually Cost?

The boppy cushion, designed by a mother for her child’s comfort, supports the arms and head.

What do you mean?

By elevating your newborn kid to a more accessible position when you breastfeed or use a container, it can provide comfort.

With all of these features, you may get a boppy pillow for $5-$50 and have a better quality of life and a unique experience.

It’s an excellent idea for a versatile pillow.

It’s essential to read the reviews.

Be more cautious when shopping online. A boppy pillow must meet a certain degree of quality.

You should always undertake a quality check before purchasing at a mall, as items can be categorized.

What Are Its Benefits?

In order to assist you when nursing, the boppy pad’s particular capacity is appropriate.

As a result, the baby’s stomach and belly are positioned at a good angle for a good hook with the mother’s abdomen.

There are so many various types of pillows and props out there, but nothing compares to the simplicity of a boppy pad!

The boppy pad has been used as a butt pad by many mothers following the birth of their child (or had an extra consequently).

Vaginal birth, whether natural or with an epidural, can cause discomfort in the female reproductive system.

It is considerably worse if you have a tear and need to use fasteners.

Boppy cushions are great for relieving discomfort in women’s private parts.

At the same time, they sit on the opening to rest and recover.

It’s better to do it on a softer surface like a bed or lounge chair rather than a hard one because the difference in stature is more bothersome.

How do you use a body pillow?

You can utilize a body cushion in a number of different ways. Whatever feels best for your body is what matters most.

You can use a body pillow in many different ways, but these are the most common:

  • You can use a body pillow to support your entire body as you sleep.
  • Wrap your right leg over the pillow so that you’re cradling it when you’re sleeping on your left side.
  • It’s up to you whether you want to cuddle the body pillow or just place your hands on it softly.

Let me know if you have any other ideas. You can also use it to prop yourself up in bed while supporting your back with it.

What are the benefits of using a body pillow?

Using a body cushion has numerous advantages. Pregnant women and new mothers can benefit from the support of a body pillow in addition to spinal alignment and pressure point alleviation, as well as less tossing and turning.

What are the perks of customization?

The inner and outer casings of our organic body pillows can be unzipped, allowing you to remove as much or as little of the natural content as you choose. This allows you to alter the pillow’s height and overall comfort.

In order to provide you plenty of options, we deliberately overfill our pillows. Always keep any fill you remove just in case you wish to put some back!

With customisation, the idea of “one size fits all” is thrown out the window, because no two people are exactly same. Some people prefer a pillow that is flat and firm, while others prefer one that is plump and fluffy. Getting a pillow that’s only “part of comfortable” is unnecessary.

Which body pillow fill is best for me?

Fortunately, we’ve already written about it here on the blog. We wish you a pleasant experience with your new organic body cushion!

How to Use Different Types of Body Pillows

Each pillow has its own set of advantages, such as neck or back support, that may be tailored to the needs of the user. When shopping for a body pillow, keep in mind how much room it will take up. U-shaped pillows, on the other hand, necessitate at least a queen or king-sized bed to be used correctly.

U-Shaped

On the market, you’ll find a hefty U-shaped body cushion like this one. For pregnant women, it’s the best pillow form, as it gives support for the entire body, including the neck and back. To keep you from rolling over, the cushion has a close fit around your body. It’s preferable to use U-shaped pillows on a king or queen-sized bed because they are so huge.

How to use a U-shaped body pillow while you sleep: Make an upside-down U with the pillow’s curve at the head of the bed. Rest your head on the top curve of the armrests. You have the option of sleeping on your side, back, or both, depending on which direction your pillow points. Hug one of its arms and place it between your thighs while lying on your side. Your back will be supported by the pillow’s second arm.

C-Shaped

A huge curved pillow called a “C-shaped” pillow. As far as form and function go, it’s like a U-shaped pillow, but for smaller mattresses. Pregnant women commonly use it as a back support and neck and leg support pillow.

It’s important to know how to use a C-shaped body pillow when sleeping. Place your head on the upper curve and rest your back against the pillow’s C-shape. Using your arms, clasp the pillow’s top hook and place your knees between the hooks on the bottom.

J-Shaped

When it comes to sleeping on your side, a J-shaped pillow is a must-have. Compared to a U-shaped pillow, the pillow takes up less room, but still gives many of the same benefits. Good for head and leg support; not so good for back support; keeps spine in proper alignment.

Using a J-shaped body pillow while you sleep: Lay down with your back to the pillow’s arm and the hook at the head of your bed. Wrap your legs over the pillow’s arm and rest your head and arms on the pillow’s hook.

What is a Body Pillow & How Do You Use One? | Savvy Rest

Rectangular

Rectangular body pillows are one of the most prevalent shapes. You can fit these on a twin or twin XL because they’re long but not overly big.

The cushion provides excellent head and knee support for side sleepers, and can also be used as a long head pillow for back or stomach sleepers who prefer to sleep on their stomachs. Taller people might also benefit from rectangular pillows because they are available at various lengths.

How to use a rectangular body pillow while sleeping:. Your pillow can be used either horizontally or vertically. When lying in bed, place the pillow alongside you and rest your knees on the bottom portion while your head rests on the top. To support your back and neck while sitting up straight in bed, you can lay it flat on its long side and use it as a large pillow.

Cylindrical

It’s a lot like rectangular pillows, except with a cylinder-shaped body pillow instead of a rectangle. Cylindrical pillows, like rectangular pillows, come in a variety of lengths to accommodate people of varying heights.

With a cylindrical body pillow, how do you sleep? Your head should rest on the top portion of the pillow as you sleep. Place the bottom half of the cushion between your legs and wrap your arms over it.

Body Pillow Fills

You can narrow down your selections for a new pillow based on the fill you like. Features including comfort, softness, and cost are all influenced by the pillow’s filler material composition.

Down

The feathers from goose and duck bellies are used to make down pillows, which are extremely soft, cuddly, and warm. However, down is expensive and might cause allergic reactions. Down with feathers (the outermost feathers from geese and ducks) or down substitutes are cheaper alternatives to down (polyester or cotton fillings made to resemble down).

Memory Foam

Memory foam is a polyurethane material that is known for its excellent pressure relieving and cradling properties. For a firmer surface, memory foam pillows come in either solid pieces or shredded versions, with the latter being more breathable and moldable. To maintain it fluffy and supportive, shredded memory foam requires more maintenance than solid foam.

Polyester

Polyester, a synthetic fiber, is a less expensive option for pillows than down or feather. Despite the fact that polyester is very easy to clean, it lacks breathability and can become lumpy more quickly than other pillow fillings.

Benefits of Using a Body Pillow

Side sleepers and pregnant women benefit greatly from the additional support provided by body pillows. As an alternative to putting another tiny pillow between your knees, you can just use a huge pillow in the night. As a bonus, body pillows can help alleviate back aches, stress, and stiffness.

Relieves Pressure Points

If your mattress is overly hard or if you have a condition like arthritis or fibromyalgia, you may develop pressure points. Body pillows help support and distribute your weight so that your hips and shoulders, in particular, do not become tight or uncomfortable. Your spine is more naturally positioned and your knees won’t scrape against each other awkwardly if you place a pillow between your knees.

Minimizes Sleep Apnea

When you sleep on your side, or with your head up, your airways and throat remain clear, reducing the risk of snoring and sleep apnea.

Reduces Back Pain

Pillows between the knees help maintain a more natural and comfortable position for your body. It helps alleviate lower back pain and disorders such as sciatica or ruptured discs by promoting proper spinal alignment and posture.

Calming and Stress-Relieving

Anxiety and stress are reduced when you cuddle with a body pillow. Hugging someone can release oxytocin, reduce cortisol, and possibly drop blood pressure, making it easier to relax and fend off stress-instigating ideas. If you have trouble falling asleep at night, try embracing a body pillow to help you relax and fall asleep more quickly.

Holds You In Place

Larger body pillows, such as a U or C shape, can help those who have trouble sleeping because they prevent them from tossing and turning in their sleep. The pillow keeps you from rolling back to your former sleeping position if you’re trying to sleep on your back or side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do body pillows need pillowcases?

As with any other pillow, body pillows require a case to protect them from stains, dust and bodily fluids such as perspiration or oil, like any other pillow. Body pillows require special pillowcases because of their unusual shapes and sizes, however most brands provide the necessary pillowcases for the pillows they make.

Can you put a body pillow in the washer and dryer?

The washing directions on the pillow’s labels should always be checked, however most pillows can be cleaned and dried in a washing machine and dryer every six months. To avoid mildew and mold growth, make sure your cushion is always totally dry after washing.

Should your shoulders be on a pillow while sleeping?

Keep your shoulders on the mattress with both body pillows and regular pillows. Head and neck support is needed from a cushion rather than your shoulders, therefore placing your shoulders on a pillow may cause you to stretch them unnecessarily.

How long is a body pillow?

The majority of body pillows are 54 inches long, however you can get body pillows up to 72 inches long if you’re tall. When utilizing a body pillow, remember that you’re supposed to curl up around it, so you don’t need a cushion that’s exactly your height.

What is the healthiest sleeping position?

Sleeping on your side or back is one of the healthiest positions.

Standard or body pillows placed between the knees are ideal for side sleepers. Back pain can be avoided by ensuring that your spine is in a natural position. Additionally, sleeping on your side can help you sleep better if you suffer from snoring or sleep apnea since it keeps your airways open.

If you sleep on your back, consider elevating your legs to maintain a neutral spine. The legs can be raised by using an adjustable bed frame or by placing a pillow beneath your knees.

Alternatively, you can use an adjustable bed frame or a wedge cushion to sleep on your back at an incline. Acid reflux and sleep apnea symptoms may be lessened, and strain on your spine may be lessened, if you sleep on an inclination.

The [Life-Changing] Body Pillow Experience – Resthouse

Conclusion

Preventing pain and illness by sleeping in the correct position is essential. You can do this by learning about body pillows and how to use them. Cylindrical, rectangular, and a variety of U, J, and C cushion shapes fall under this category.

Unlike a regular cushion, their contours allow them to be placed in difficult-to-reach areas of the body. Body pillows can help alleviate a wide range of ailments for people with a variety of diseases, including pregnancy, postural concerns such as back discomfort, arthritis, sleep apnea and breathing disorders. The best sleeping position should be maintained regardless of whether or not you have a specific medical issue or just require some support.

Using any of these can help you maintain a neutral spine and alleviate stress on your body. They’re also available in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that fits your bed and your height preferences. As a general rule, where you want to support and what shape will assist you get there are the two most important considerations when employing them.