How Many Pillows Should You Sleep With?

If one or more of the following examples apply to you, it may be the case that your pillows have gone beyond the average lifespan of 1-2 years and are irreparably damaged, requiring replacement for adequate comfort, cleanliness, and support.

• irremovable stains or odour
• neck and shoulder pain
• increased allergy symptoms
• loss of shape or feeling lumpy and uneven
• increased acne or skin irritation
• hair becomes greasy at a faster rate

A damaged or outdated pillow can cause a lack of joint support, which, in addition to the neck and shoulder pain mentioned above, can cause additional problems to your health, inlcuding (but not limited to):

• straining of the neck 
• headaches
• back pain
• overall stiffness 

Just like the tale of Goldilocks and The Three Bears, most people have a spectrum of "too hard", "too soft", and "just right" when it comes to buying pillows. Personal preferences play a huge role, and those with medical issues, such as chronic back pain, for example, should opt for firmer pillows to give them the recommended spinal alignment recommended to them. These preferences can all play a role in how many pillows someone would like to sleep with.

For those who suffer from allergies, buying anti-allergy pillows with hypoallergenic materials can greatly reduce symptoms. For simplicity, they opt for fewer pillows, or even a rotation of pillows, to keep the bedding clean and easy to wash.

According to health experts at The Sleep Foundation, there is no exact scientific number for how many pillows a person should sleep with. Rather, they ask the sleeper to consider factors to do with their health and sleep style to help determine this number.

• Back pain sufferers: This number is determined by however many you need to give you an even spinal alignment from your head, to your neck, to your shoulders. Those who sleep with low-loft pillows should opt for more in this case. An additional pillow between or under the knees is often recommended to those with back pain, as it helps correct posture.
• Stomach sleepers: Fewer or flatter pillows may benefit stomach sleepers, as they will not have to crane their neck up too far to rest their head.
• Side Sleepers: Side sleeping runs a higher risk of back, joint, or other bodily pain. Side sleepers should opt for multiple or higher-loft pillows under their neck to keep the spine straight.
• Pregnancy: Many pregnant people would benefit from a body or pregnancy pillow in addition to their head pillow, as struggling to sleep on their side is a highly common issue.