Finding your favorite new pillow is pretty easy if you know some basics first.

Buying a pillow isn't as simple as just grabbing one from the sale bin at your local department store! If you've had a sore neck, or back..or have had headaches when you wake up then there's a chance the pillow you've been using needs to be replaced with a quickness!

They do wear out, get lumpy and uncomfy. So where do you start when shopping for that new pillow of yours? Let's look at what makes one so different from another and why some kinds seem to me more popular:

First, consider the size of pillow you want. They're available in standard, Euro, king and queen with smaller pillows being available for youngsters.

Some folks think that they need to have a king sized pillow for a king sized bed, and so on with the differnt sized beds- which really isn't the case! Just worry about what helps you sleep better and use your oversized decorative pillows on the bed when you're not in it. =)

The whole purpose of pillows is to support your head and neck in proper alignment with your spine. The natural position of the neck includes a natural curve, and maintaining this curve when resting is important.

Pillows that are too high when on your back or side causes the neck to bend unnaturally- and the result is muscle stress and strain in the neck and shoulders.

If the height of the pillow or pillows is too low, the neck muscles will strain from this as well. Generally speaking, the pillow or pillows should maintain a height of about four to six inches for proper head and neck support.

So look for a pillow that will comfortablly take up the space between your shoulders and neck while laying down in your favorite sleeping position..and you'll do fine.

If you like to sleep on your back, you should choose a flatter option that keeps your spine and neck aligned properly.

If you like to sleep on your side like most of us do, then go for a pillow that's dense enough. But you may have found that sleeping on your side could result in lower back strain. If this is the case, you can place a pillow or two between your knees will help. My personal favorite for this is a body pillow! They are wonderful for relieving that back pain!

If you sleep on your stomach, you'll probably find a flat pillow or no pillow at all is really best. This way, your spine isn't thrown into an un-natural position that you'll be regretting all day long!

The you should consider the pillow filling.

If you like a pillow that you can mold around your head and neck, a down filled pillow may be right for you.

Micro bead filling for pillows has also become popular because of the comfort and ability to shift shapes as you move.

If you want a pillow that will not shift as you move through the night, a firm foam pillow may be right for you.

Allergy proof pillows can be necessary for those who suffer from asthma or other allergies. These are readily available, and the small added cost makes them a very good investment.

Most pillows are available in three firmness ratings: soft, medium and firm. Side sleepers often sleep better with a medium or firm pillow. If you sleep on your stomach, a soft pillow may be the best choice for you.

Remember to get a pillow cover to extend the life of your investment. A zippered pillow case covering the pillow ticking can be zipped off and laundered for cleanliness and not have to clean the pillows frequently.

So now you know there is no one pillow that is right for everyone!

Once you find the pillow size, filling and firmness that you love, you'll enjoy much better sleep!

In fact, you may want to take your favorite along when traveling because so many hotel pillows are incredibly thick in order to appear luxurious- but these may not really be the most comfy for you.

So if it's time to replace that old lumpy pillow of yours, then let your mouse do the walking- and check out all the wonderful pillows available from every corner of the world!