Ask Happy Dan: Pillow Filling, Stomach Sleeping, and More

When you have questions about pillows and other bedding, Happy Dan the Pillow Man is your guy!  He’s happy because he always gets a good night’s sleep.  Happy Dan is the alter ego of Dan Schecter, Senior Vice President at Carpenter Co., and the creator of SleepBetter.org.  He’s spent 30 years learning about pillows and sleep and how those two items go together, and he’s now available to answer your questions!

In this edition of Ask Happy Dan, Dan answers a ton of questions, including ones about pillow filling, stomach sleeping, and bed wedges.

April Grimm: How often should pillows be replaced?

Hello April! A low quality polyester pillow should be changed out every 6 months. Higher quality polyester can last a year or longer but I recommend washing at least twice a year. Down and feather pillows (assuming you can find a quality product) can last years with proper care. Foam pillows will last years as well. So says Happy Dan The Pillow Man!!

Lori Craig: I have difficulty sleeping unless I use two stacked pillows. But I know that isn’t good for my neck. Any suggestions?

Thanks for the questions I will have to assume (always a dangerous thing) that you require elevation of some sort in order to be comfortable enough to fall asleep. There are products called wedges that will serve you well, and they can be purchased at most any store. So says Happy Dan The Pillow Man!!

Theresa Branham: What type of pillow stuffing is the best pillow, and are there better types of pillows for stomach, side or back sleepers? What about pillows for people with allergies?

Wow! Gonna wear me out here! OK here goes, in the same order as asked: The best “stuffing” for pillows are fibers that are slick … almost silky. When shopping for a pillow forget the fabric and forget thread count. What’s most important is what is inside. Take your time and feel the filling through the fabric. If it’s not really, really slick move on.

For stomach sleepers, the lower the crown (the middle of the pillow) the better. Did you know you shouldn’t sleep on your stomach? Side sleepers need a higher crown and back sleepers should you a regular crown.

If you suffer from allergies, the best pillows are ones that have an antimicrobial treated fill with an allergen barrier cover.

So says Happy Dan The Pillow Man!!

Tammie Venne: What is they best type of pillow for stomach sleepers

Hi Tammie – the best pillows are 100% adjustable – scrunch away! So says Happy Dan The Pillow Man!!

Do you have a question for Happy Dan the Pillow Man? If so, follow this link to ask!