Updated at: 16-11-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

As its name suggests, memory foam, also known as viscoelastic foam, adapts to pressure and heat. Pillows benefit from the material’s supporting and pressure-relieving qualities, making them an excellent choice.

If you like a firmer pillow, you can get one that is made of solid memory foam or one that is made of shredded memory foam. Cushions constructed from this moldable and adaptable material can be found in all price ranges.

If you’re looking for a pillow to support your spine and help you sleep better, or if you have neck problems, this is the one for you. We’ve put up a detailed guide to help you find the finest memory foam cushion for your needs.

The Best Memory Foam Pillows

  • Pillow with the best overall rating – Saatva Memory Foam
  • GhostBed GhostPillow – Memory Foam – Best Value
  • Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual-Cooling Pillow is the best luxury option.
  • The Luxome LAYR Customizable Pillow is the most comfortable available.
  • Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow Offers the Best Cooling.
  • The Ecosa Pillow is the best option for anyone suffering from neck pain.
  • Memory Foam Pillow Layla Layla Memory Foam Pillow
  • The Marlow Pillow is the most adjustable.

How Long Do Memory Foam Pillows Last? - HomeDcent

How to Choose a Memory Foam Pillow

Polyurethane foam that has been chemically treated to give it memory qualities is called memory foam. Viscoelastic foam is another name for the material because of its ability to soften and curve in reaction to heat and pressure, before slowly restoring its original shape. Because it conforms to the head and neck, memory foam is popular in pillows because it provides a supportive surface that can be tailored to the preferences of the user. This close-fitting material’s capacity to reduce pressure points is unmatched.

In this section, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of memory foam and what to look for when making a purchase of a pillow made of this material.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Memory Foam Pillow

Manufacturers are always tweaking their memory foam in order to obtain new attributes, such as better temperature neutrality, on the market. It can be impossible to know if a pillow’s proprietary foam is successful unless you test it out yourself.

Make sure you’ve got an understanding of the basics of how a memory foam cushion is built before you buy one. It’s possible to cut through the hype and get the best memory foam cushion for your needs by considering the variables listed below.

One-piece and shredded memory foam pillows are available.

  • When it comes to memory foam pillows, a one-piece design is the most common. Either a regular pillow shape or a customized design that follows the natural curves of the head and neck are viable options here. This type of pillow conforms to the shape of the user’s body, however it takes a longer time for the cushion to respond to pressure. As soon as you remove your head from the cushion, they revert to their normal shape.
  • Shredded memory foam pillows can be made entirely of memory foam or might include latex or fiberfill in the filling. Shredded memory foam allows users to change the pillow’s loft and form by adding or removing filling, allowing for a degree of personalization. When opposed to a one-piece memory foam pillow, shreds of memory foam allow for more air to flow.

Some other things to keep in mind while purchasing a pillow:

  • Your preferred sleeping position is a major factor in determining the sort of pillow you need. Side sleepers prefer the loftier, one-piece memory foam pillows, while stomach sleepers prefer the more flat, shredded memory foam pillows.
  • Shredded memory foam pillows are slightly more expensive than one-piece pillows, but the price difference is negligible. In certain cases, a free pillow is offered with the purchase of a mattress, which might be advantageous if the pillow meets your demands.
  • One-piece and shredded memory foam pillows both conform closely to reduce pressure buildup in the head and neck while using memory foam. Memory foam is commonly used in orthopedic pillows because of its ability to mold to the shape of the user’s body.
  • Memory foam ultimately loses its capacity to bounce back to its original shape, which has an impact on its pressure-relieving powers. Quality materials. Longevity is typically reflected in the price of a pillow with better foam than a cheaper one.
  • Sleeping posture, body type, and personal preference all play a role in how firm of a cushion you should use. There are a wide range of softness levels for memory foam pillows. Many shredded memory foam pillows allow users to vary the firmness level by adding or removing the filling. One-piece memory foam pillows offer only one firmness level.
  • In order to minimize neck pain and keep your head and back in the correct position, you need a pillow with the optimum loft, or height. If you’re looking for a pillow that has a medium-to-high loft, a one-piece memory foam pillow is the way to go. Some solid-foam pillows feature removable inserts that allow customers to choose between two or more settings, but this is not as adaptable as shredded memory foam pillows.
  • Insomnia can be brought on by an uncomfortable night’s sleep due to the buildup of heat in your pillow. It’s well-known that memory foam retains heat, but modern manufacturers have devised numerous ways to combat this. All other things being equal, a shredded memory foam pillow will sleep cooler than a one-piece pillow because of the additional ventilation provided by the shredded material.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Memory Foam Pillow?

As one of the best materials for pressure alleviation and support, memory foam has unmatched shaping powers. Some negatives to memory foam include its ability to trap heat. Some people enjoy the material’s delayed response to pressure, although it might be difficult to switch positions quickly.

  • Memory foam softens in reaction to heat and pressure, adapting itself to match the curve of your body and preventing the build-up of pressure points.
  • Support: Memory foam is a supportive cradle that supports proper spinal alignment and decreases neck pain and headaches since it is rather firm in regions not immediately next to the head and neck.
  • Memory foam pillows offer a luxurious feel at a lesser cost than natural or organic alternatives, even if they aren’t the lowest options available.
  • Noise: Memory foam absorbs movement and produces little to no noise, minimizing sleep disruptions to you and your partner.
  • Noisy: Because memory foam absorbs movement and makes little to no noise, it’s ideal for couples who want to sleep peacefully together.
  • Sleeps hot: Memory foam is notorious for trapping heat, leading many sleepers to find it uncomfortably warm.
  • Sleeps hot: Memory foam is notorious for trapping heat, leading many sleepers to find it uncomfortably warm.
  • Memory foam is well-known for its tendency to retain body heat, making it an uncomfortable choice for some.
  • After unpacking, the off-gassing of memory foam is similar to the off-gassing of other synthetic foams like polyurethane.

How Long Does a Memory Foam Pillow Last - Sleepy Guru

One-Piece vs. Shredded Memory Foam Pillows

Pillows made from shredded memory foam and those made from one piece of foam are very different.

  • It is possible to tailor both one-piece and shredded memory foam pillows, but only in limited ways. It is common for shred memory foam pillows to feature a zipper so the user may alter the loft by opening and closing the pillow. The stuffing can be saved for future use if you decide to raise the pillow. One-piece pillows, while not as adaptable as shredded memory foam pillows, may contain replaceable inserts that allow the user to select a different loft.
  • It is far easier to mold one-piece memory foam pillows than it is to do it using shreds of memory foam. For those who want to utilize their pillow in a variety of positions, this is a huge time-saver.
  • With many memory foam pillows weighing over 5 pounds, they’re heavier than their fiberfill or down counterparts, making them more cumbersome. Shredded memory foam weighs less than the same amount of solid foam because of the design.
  • Shredded memory foam pillows tend to retain less heat because of its open form, which allows air to flow between the pieces. Some one-piece memory foam pillows, on the other hand, have ventilation or cut-out channels that let air circulate freely and transport heat away from the pillow itself.
  • One-piece memory foam pillows don’t require fluffing because they’re low-maintenance. Shredded memory foam pillows can get lumpy if they aren’t fluffed on a regular basis, although they do have the advantage of being machine washable in many cases.
  • As a rule, one-piece memory foam pillows are firmer and hold their shape better than shredded memory foam pillows, which may need to be readjusted each time you change positions.

Who is Best Suited to a Memory Foam Pillow?

Side and back sleepers, neck pain sufferers, and those who prefer a higher loft are all good candidates for memory foam pillows. If you’re unsure about which memory foam pillow is right for you, here are some general guidelines for selecting the right one based on your body shape, sleep position, and other preferences.

  • Cervical memory foam pillows are popular among those who suffer from chronic neck pain. Memory foam may be molded to fit the shape of the neck and head, allowing these pillows to give the necessary support.
  • Side sleepers require a firmer, taller pillow to help support their heads and relieve stress on their shoulders. A memory foam cushion, especially a one-piece one-piece pillow, is ideal for those who like a firmer pillow.
  • It is preferable for back sleepers to use a medium-to-high-density pillow to keep the spine in a natural position when sleeping. Back sleepers benefit from memory foam’s capacity to respond to pressure, allowing the sleeper’s head to sink in just enough to be at a comfortable height with relation to the rest of his or her body.
  • High-loft sleepers will appreciate the fact that most memory foam pillows can be loaded to the gills with shredded memory foam for even more height. Having a high loft makes them excellent for those who prefer pillows of this type.

Who isn’t the right fit:

  • If you’re prone to overheating or sleep in a hot climate, you should avoid memory foam as a mattress material. It is possible to use a memory foam cushion with ventilation or cut-out air passages if you sleep hot, but prefer the feel of shredded memory foam. Airflow and heat retention can both be improved with the use of these strategies. Gel, graphite, or copper infusions are used in some pillows to draw heat away from the sleeper, while phase-change materials are used to keep the surface cold to the touch.
  • Shredded memory foam pillows may be good for stomach sleepers, but this isn’t normally the finest material for keeping the neck and spine upright. That being said, the perfect loft for stomach sleepers will vary based on how they utilize their pillows. Some stomach sleepers may prefer the lower loft of a shredded memory foam pillow because of its adaptability.

Which Memory Foam Pillow Sizes Are Available?

Memory foam pillows commonly come in the following sizes, however the specific measurements may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

  • This is the smallest and most common size of pillow, and it may be used on any type of bed.
  • The super standard (20″ x 28″) is one of the rarest pillows. They may fit any mattress up to a queen size because their length is in the middle of a standard and a queen cushion.
  • For some who prefer a larger pillow, queen-sized pillows are a typical option that can be purchased. People who like to sleep with their pillow folded or crumpled up will have a bit more room to roam around in the night thanks to these pillow cases.
  • One of the most comfortable sizes to sit up in bed with is a king pillow (20″ x 36″), which provides ample room for sleeping. King-sized pillows are available from most online bedding retailers.
  • These long and thin pillows are meant to be cradled against, rather than used as a pillow. To keep the hips straight and alleviate the tension on the lumbar area, side sleepers typically wear them. Pregnant women can use body pillows to help them sleep, and they can also be used as a backrest while sitting.

How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?

Obviously, the sort of pillow you use and the structure of its material will have a significant impact on how long it will survive. Pillow material is the most important factor in determining how often they need to be replaced.

Listed here are the recommended refresh intervals for some of the most popular pillow types:

  • Pillows made of polyester should be replaced every six to 24 months.
  • Pillows made of down alternative or synthetic fibers should be replaced every 18-24 months.
  • Pillows with down filling – 24 months or more
  • From 18 to 36 months, Feather Pillows are recommended.
  • We have a winner in the 24 to 36 month age range for memory foam pillows!

Is this the case with yours?

Losing the structural stability of a pillow has an effect on both your sleep quality and your physical health, even though most people don’t notice it as frequently.

Your shoulders, neck, and head will all be affected by a flimsy pillow, which could lead to back problems and other concerns with spinal alignment. Joint stiffness and aches can be minimized by changing your pillow on a regular basis.

Sleeping 8 hours a night, every night, on the same pillow is bound to result in an accumulation of dirt that even your washing machine fears.

How to Make Memory Foam Pillows Last Longer?

There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your memory foam pillow beyond the standard 36 months before it becomes shabby, retired, and in need of a makeover.

Use a Pillow Cover

This is a simple but effective preventative measure.

Pillows and memory foam mattresses suffer the most premature degradation due to dirt and grime, not to mention the physical harm caused by the weight and movement of the user.

Sweat, body oils, and harsh cosmetics might otherwise seep into your memory foam cushion and cause harm if they weren’t absorbed by a pillow cover (which goes on top of your pillowcase).

Protective covers for memory foam pillows are a terrific way to keep dust mites and allergies at bay while extending the life of your pillow by almost double. Just make sure to wash the cover as per instructions every two to three weeks.

Wash Your Pillow – Sticking to Cleaning Instructions

If you’re thinking about using a pillow cover, keep in mind that even while it’s supposed to keep moisture and filth from getting into your memory foam cushion, some of the nastiness may still get in. After all, you’ll be resting your head on it for the better part of eight hours every night.

It will also do a better job of eradicating odors, oils, dead skin cells and dust mites that accumulate over time if you wash your pillow properly.

Be careful when washing your pillow because different types of pillows have different washing instructions (such a polyester pillow versus one made of foam or feathers), so be sure to follow the label’s directions.

Washing A Memory Foam Pillow

The washing machine should be avoided if you have a memory foam cushion. If this is done, the foam will lose its structural integrity and the pillow will lose its original shape.

In order to thoroughly clean your foam pillow, you should:

  • Rinse your hands with lukewarm water and mild detergent.
  • Rinse and squeeze the pillow a minimum of two or three more times.
  • The pillow should be drained until the water is clear.
  • To remove excess water, gently squeeze the pillow without twisting or distorting it.
  • Let the pillow air dry.

How Do You Know It’s Time For a New Pillow?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, your memory foam pillow is nearing the end of its useful life and should be replaced.

  • You know your foam pillow is a foam pillow if you fold it in half and it stays folded when you release it.
  • Your neck and shoulders hurt when you first wake up in the morning.
  • The foam has noticeable lumps and ridges.
  • For those who have difficulty getting their pillow to support their head in the correct position, this article is for you.
  • You wake up with a headache or tension headache on a regular basis.
  • It’s possible your mattress isn’t providing the support you need when you sleep.
  • Sneezing in the morning because to dust mites.
  • Even after a thorough cleaning, sweat or oil stains or markings remain.

What are The Best Memory Foam Pillows?

For a good night’s sleep, you need to find a foam pillow that both meets your unique requirements for comfort and is durable enough to last a long time.

When Should You Replace a Memory Foam Pillow?

For Those With Back Issues

As a result, you need to ensure that your pillow complements your back troubles and provides the attributes you need to wake up feeling rested and energized for the day.

The Essentials Memory Foam Core Pillow employs a different type of foam than is typically used in pillows. In order to promote proper spinal alignment, the pillow’s foam core is cushioned on both sides so that it may conform to any pressure point, regardless of how you want to sleep.

For Those Needing Extra Support

With a sumptuous, orthopedic foam, the 4G Aircool Memory Foam Pillow provides the best amount of support. Additionally, the foam is constructed with open-cell structure, which means you’ll get the support of a standard orthopedic pillow, but with less of the stuffiness and heat of traditional foam pillows if you want.

For The Hot Sleepers

There is a high density of foam in the Coolmax Contour Memory Foam Pillow which provides support for your spine and neck.

If you suffer from night sweats, this pillow is for you! It’s made of a fabric that wicks away moisture and heat, keeping your face and neck cool throughout the night.

Frequently Asked Questions About Memory Foam Pillows

How much do memory foam pillows cost?

Memory foam pillows can cost as little as $50 and as much as $150 or more, depending on the quality. Size, density and quality of foam, cooling capabilities, and other elements, such as unique shapes or high-quality covers, all influence the price. Memory foam pillows are similar to latex pillows, less expensive than buckwheat or down pillows, and more expensive than polyester or down-alternative pillows.

How do I clean a memory foam pillow?

Spot cleaning is the only way to clean most one-piece pillows made of shredded memory foam. Remember that memory foam might become moldy if it isn’t allowed to dry completely, so be careful with spot cleaning. The removable coverings of many memory foam pillows allow them to be machine washed.

Where can I buy a memory foam pillow?

There are a plethora of memory foam pillows to choose from, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores.

How long do memory foam pillows last?

In comparison to down alternative pillows, memory foam pillows have a lifespan of about two to three years, however this is not as lengthy as the lifespans of down, latex, or buckwheat pillows.

Memory foam pillows, no matter how good they are, eventually degrade. If you use shredded memory foam, you may notice lumps in your one-piece pillow. When it comes to durability, a higher-density memory foam mattress traps more heat than lower-density memory foam, but this isn’t a deal breaker.

A shredded memory foam pillow will last longer if it is cleaned and fluffed on a regular basis. The greatest thing you can do to prevent mildew growth on one-piece pillows is to keep them dry and wash the pillowcase frequently.

Are memory foam pillows adjustable?

Users can add or remove filling to alter the loft of most shredded memory foam pillows, and some one-piece pillows feature inserts that can be removed. Memory foam pillows can also be squished into various forms provided the shape of their covers permits. The gussets on many pillows are designed to keep the contents in place.

Do memory foam pillows off-gas?

The off-gassing scents associated with memory foam are real. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are to blame for these symptoms. Even though off-gassing odors are deemed safe, some people may find them annoying because the material is so close to their face. Try to choose a pillow that has been certified by an independent agency as having low emissions, and let the pillow air out for a few days or even a few weeks before using it, if this sounds like you.