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With increasingly hectic work schedules, rising stress and poor sleeping habits, Singaporeans are getting less sleep than ever before. In fact, Singapore is amongst the most sleep-deprived nations in the world, ranking 3rd out of 43 cities that are profiled in a recent report.
Sleep is an essential function, so why not maximise your well-deserved rest with the perfect pillow? Instead of facing restless nights plagued with toss and turns, consider getting an ergonomic pillow to better support your neck and shoulders.
9 Ergonomic Pillows in Singapore
To get you started, here are the best ergonomic pillows in Singapore, each with its own unique qualities and benefits. If price is a factor, don’t fret, as we have found a suitable ergonomic pillow for every budget. Then, click here to jump to the bottom of this article to find out what makes a good ergonomic pillow, and why you need an ergonomic pillow.
| Ergonomic Pillows | Price |
|---|---|
| Nitori Shoulder Back Support Pillow | $54.90 |
| Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow | $123 |
| Heveya Natural Organic Latex Pillow 3 | $218 |
| TEMPUR Original Pillow | From $122 |
| BLISSBURY Stomach Sleeping Memory Foam | $39 |
| Therapeutica Firm Orthopedic Support Pillow | $147 |
| Eli and Elm Ultimate Side Sleeper Pillow | $243 |
| IKEA KLUBBSPORRE Ergonomic Pillow | $49 |
| IKEA NÄBBSTARR Ergonomic Pillow | $9.90 |
Nitori Shoulder Back Support Pillow
Nitori Shoulder Back Support Pillow, $54.90
Don't we all love something a little more dramatic for that pseudo pain relief and relaxation? After all, the sight of an overly-designed pillow might just offer us that mental support we all need after a long day at work. Here's one truly bang for your buck - Japanese homeware brand Nitori's shoulder and back support pillow. Priced at a pretty affordable $54.90, this pillow has an extension that tapers down to your mid-back to offer that extra elevation and support.
To be honest, this looks like a pretty comfortable pillow for someone with runny nose and back drip mucus issues, or someone who enjoys a little more elevation in their upper back (to counter all that hunching at the office desk in the day).
Since this is a huge pillow measuring 75cm width x 63cm depth x 12cm height, you might want to consider home delivery. Else, get it from Nitori Heerens Orchard, Westgate, or even Johor Bahru if you're up for dragging this through the CIQ customs queue, woohoo!
Nitori Shoulder Back Support Pillow is priced at $54.90 from Nitori and Nitori LazMall at Lazada.
Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow, $123
Not gonna lie, this department of cervical memory foam pillows make some of the funkiest looking (and somewhat vulgar, if we may) ergonomic pillows we've ever seen. As with all ergonomic pillows, you get to choose between a standard, queen, or king sized pillow (choose according to your shoulder width and height).
The higher side of the ergonomic pillow with wings (or as the brand dubs "horns") was designed for back sleepers. The "horns" secure your head to limit movement so your body stays in good alignment throughout sleep, and provide side support for your head.
The lower regular side is meant for side sleepers. Which goes to show that this pillow is only truly most useful and beneficial for back sleepers - since only back sleepers get to use the "horny" side of the pillow. Never more wished I were a back sleeper!
Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow is priced at $123 from Amazon.
Heveya Natural Organic Latex Pillow 3
Heveya Natural Organic Latex Pillow 3, $218
Heveya's Natural Organic Latex Pillow 3 looks like just any other regular ergonomic pillow - thick on one side, and even thicker and higher on the other length. The lower end is for back and stomach sleepers, while the higher end suits side sleepers (more pillow height to accommodate your broad shoulders).
The slight curvature hugs the natural curves of your neck - whether you are lying on your back or side.
The nice thing about Heveya's ergonomic pillow here is its material - latex. A latex pillow is allergy-friendly, since it's resistant to dust mite and mould. The German-founded company prides itself on its "organic" latex sources, FSC certified suppliers, and sustainable rubber farming that don't engage in pesticides or VOCs that could prove to be environmentally harmful. Well, that means you could rest easy - we guess?
Heveya Natural Organic Latex Pillow 3 is priced at $218 from Heveya and .
IKEA KLUBBSPORRE Ergonomic Pillow
IKEA KLUBBSPORRE Ergonomic Pillow, $49
If anything, KLUBBSPORRE is a more sophisticated and extensive option as opposed to its NÄBBSTARR counterpart. It is topped with a memory cushioning foam and a gel layer that reinforces the pillow with some buoyancy and elasticity.
Designed with a smooth material finish and a cooling gel, it provides some inherent coolness that helps alleviate discomforts during humid seasons.
Its core design structure also comes with tiny openings that pair well with its memory foam, reducing pressure and weight on your neck and spine when you sink your head into it.
- Pros: Buoyant, heat-resistant and elastic – a well all-rounded option. A great bargain given its benefits.
- Cons: Not tailored to a specific sleeping position.
IKEA KLUBBSPORRE Ergonomic Pillow is priced at $49.
IKEA NÄBBSTARR Ergonomic Pillow
IKEA NÄBBSTARR Ergonomic Pillow, $9.90 (Ceased)
The simplistic beauty of ergonomics is best encapsulated in this pillow, designed to fit a multitude of sleeping positions with a crease that allows you to fold the pillow in any way you see fit. There is also a noticeable boost in elevation and height that complements well with your spine and neck.
Although it may lack the complex depth that the other options on our list possess, this is the perfect pillow for users looking to try ergonomic pillows for the first time. It is also incredibly affordable and age-friendly, making it an extraordinary choice if you’re looking to buy pillows for the entire family!
As a bonus, this pillow uses recycled polyester, an environmentally-friendly material, that reduces carbon footprints and harmful emissions.
- Pros: Very affordable and age-friendly. Environmentally-friendly choice.
- Cons: Lacks depth and niche.
IKEA NÄBBSTARR Ergonomic Pillow was priced at $9.90 but is no longer available for sale.
TEMPUR Original Pillow
TEMPUR Original Pillow, from $122
You cannot describe products by TEMPUR without acknowledging its core point of differentiation – the TEMPUR material.
Described to contain an innumerable volume of visco-elastic open cells, this material apparently redistributes weight, heat and pressure, resulting in a more wholesome and relaxing experience for the user.
Interestingly enough, it also affirms this through clinical trials done on its pillows, having proven that TEMPUR pillows categorically reduce tossing and turning during the night.
Its distinct shape aligns with the natural curve of the body, with special support for your head, spine and neck. Because of its unique structure, it is also best suited for back and side sleepers.
Pillows, like any product, come with wear and tear after repeated use. Thankfully, this pillow comes with a three years warranty that ensures the authenticity and quality of your pillow over time.
- Pros: Unique shape tailored for maximum comfort, heat-resistant and adaptive. Protected with a three years warranty.
- Cons: Exorbitant price point. Not ideal for stomach sleepers.
TEMPUR Original Pillow is priced from $122 for a size S on Amazon.
BLISSBURY Stomach Sleeping Memory Foam Pillow
BLISSBURY Stomach Sleeping Memory Foam Pillow, $39
This pillow is not your average pillow. Designed specifically for stomach and back sleepers, this inventive flat pillow is reinforced with moldable memory foam that provides much-needed stability for your head and neck.
True to its ergonomic design approach, the pillow is also infused with ventilation holes that help redistribute weight and regulate temperature to ensure a cooling sleep.
That’s not all, this pillow comes with a carry bag, allowing you to conveniently carry your pillow around. Perfect for those who are constantly on the go!
Pros: Portable comfort, a great choice for stomach sleepers. Reasonable price point
Cons: It might be a tad thin for those accustomed to fluffed pillows
BLISSBURY Stomach Sleeping Memory Foam Pillow is available on Amazon for $39.
Therapeutica Firm Orthopedic Support Pillow
Therapeutica Firm Orthopedic Support Pillow, $147
The most customisable option on this list, this pillow is the proverbial baby of an ergonomic designer and a chiropractor. Understanding the unique diversity of body shapes and sizes, this company seeks to exemplify ergonomics to its fullest by creating a pillow that is for you and only you.
Before placing an order, you are required to provide comprehensive measurements of your body to personalize your pillow’s dimensions and structure.
It is also important to note that this particular pillow is extremely firm, an attribute that will help keep your head and neck aligned with your spine, alleviating any common neck pains when you wake up. It also secures a structural sleeping position with a firm, moulded foam.
- Pros: Great option for those looking for a firmer pillow. Customisable as well.
- Cons: Loses its firmness over time after repeated use.
Therapeutica Firm Orthopedic Support Pillow is available on Amazon for $147.
Eli and Elm Ultimate Side Sleeper Pillow
Eli and Elm Ultimate Side Sleeper Pillow, $243
Side sleepers can finally rejoice! Eli and Elm has the ultimate pillow designed especially for side sleepers, with a U-shaped design that positions incredibly well with the head and neck.
Unlike conventional pillows which do not offer much support to the spine and head of side sleepers, Eli and Elm envelopes its pillow with latex and polyester filling that provides much-needed lift in buoyancy and elevation.
- Pros: Perfect for side sleepers
- Cons: Niche choice. Does not go well with back and stomach sleepers. High price point
Eli and Elm Ultimate Side Sleeper Pillow is available on Amazon for $243.
What is an ergonomic pillow?
The term “ergonomic” actually refers to a design philosophy that emphasises maximised efficiency and comfort that revolves around the user. Essentially, ergonomics focuses on the needs of the user, building the product around the user rather than the other way round.
Given how crucial sleep is in ensuring one remains active and well-rested, an ergonomic pillow is especially fitting since it is specifically developed to ensure you get the best sleep possible.
Why do I need an ergonomic pillow?
Ergonomic pillows aren’t exactly the normal pillows we are accustomed to. They are tailored to enrich your sleeping experience by cushioning typical pain points such as your neck, shoulders, head and spine.
With unique dimensions and varied elevations, the pillow is also intended to alleviate the tension placed on your body especially when it is stationary for long periods, whether it is from sleeping, or sitting (did you know that we spend an approximate 7 hours glued to our chairs in just a day?).
These may be loaded claims, but there has been substantial research done demonstrating the health benefits that an ergonomic pillow will bring, including better sleeping quality, reduced body aches and higher user satisfaction, as opposed to a normal pillow.
Are ergonomic pillows good for the neck?
Neck pains are a common ailment for many sleepers, largely attributed to poor sleeping conditions, stress, or simply, a poor pillow.
Essentially, you will want a pillow that aligns well with your neck, providing adequate weight and coverage that retains its natural position while sleeping.
Most experts recommend an ergonomic pillow with adequate height and buoyancy. Ideally, it should be made of memory foam.
Other factors you should consider include the firmness of your pillow (you do not want a pillow that is too stiff) and your sleeping position (are you a side sleeper? A stomach sleeper? Or a back sleeper?)
An ergonomic pillow typically considers such ailments in its design approach, structuring the pillow so that it alleviates common pain points.
What is the best pillow for neck pain?
Most experts laud memory foam pillows for their ability to contour to the head, allowing it to remain in a stable and comfortable position while sleeping.
Some of the best ergonomic pillow for neck pain include the KLUBBSPORRE by IKEA and ORIGINAL PILLOW by TEMPUR are good choices to consider as they offer a balance of support and pressure relief.
What is the best pillow for sleeping?
The answer may not be as simple, given that all of us have our own unique sleeping position and preferences. Sleeping positions are typically categorized into three segments – Back sleepers, stomach sleepers and side sleepers.
There are also specific inclinations, such as the depth of the pillow (a thin one as opposed to a thick one), its density (a firm one as opposed to a fluffy one) and shape.
Firm Orthopedic Support Pillow by Therapeutica is a great option for those looking to customise their pillow to suit their sleeping habits! Side sleepers should also consider the Ultimate Side Sleeper Pillow by Eli and Elm!
If you’re looking to try out an ergonomic pillow, you can find an inexpensive one to test out. We highly recommend NÄBBSTARR by IKEA for its absolute quality and accessible price point.
Memory foam vs latex pillow
The two most prevalent materials used in pillows, memory foam and latex share many similarities and values that enrich your sleep.
Memory form is amazingly adaptable, with a firm hold that softens when laid down on. Latex is a more natural alternative which provides a soft, smooth and bouncy touch. Their biggest difference lies in its texture – memory foam pillows are typically firmer than latex, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you enjoy a more sturdy pillow.
Regardless of this, both materials are incredibly durable and are known to provide better support for your neck, back and head!
Sleep is important!
Regardless of your choice of pillows, you mustn’t neglect the importance of sleep and its quality. You will want to maintain the most comfortable and conducive sleeping arrangement that lets you reap the most amount of rest within a limited amount of time.
Make sure you pick an ergonomic pillow that complements well with your unique sleeping inclinations and style.
The significance of an ergonomic pillow, however, cannot be adequately described in words, for it is a personalised experience. Invest in yourself and get one today!
Part of this story was first published in SingSaver.
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