We’ve all been there – you fluff up your pillows just right before settling into bed, only to find them on the floor the next morning. Annoying, right? Pillows falling into the void behind your bed is a common struggle that many face. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips up my sleeve to help you win the battle against this pesky problem!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll first look at why pillows love to disappear, then talk about how it can disturb your sleep. After that, we’ll dive into all the solutions, hacks, and pro tips you need to keep those pillows where they belong – on your bed! Let’s do this.
Why Do Pillows Fall Behind The Bed?
Before we solve the problem, we need to understand what causes it. Here are the main reasons pillows slide into the nighttime abyss:
The Headboard Gap
Most beds have a gap between the mattress and headboard. This creates space for pillows to fall through, especially if you toss and turn at night. Gravity takes over and voila – pillow gone!
Small Bed Size
If your sleep space is cramped, pillows can easily slip off the edges, even if you barely move. Time for a bigger bed?
Active Sleeping
Some people shift positions constantly in their sleep, increasing the chances of pillows going AWOL. If you wake up halfway off the bed, you know who you are!
Slippery Pillowcases
Satin and silk pillowcases feel nice but can be slippery! Pillows encased in these glossy covers slide away easily.
So in summary, the gap, size, motion, and slide – work together as the dream team leading to pillow loss. Boo!
Consequences of Pillows Falling
Losing pillows overnight doesn’t just lead to annoyance – it can have negative effects:
Discomfort
Waking up minus a pillow is uncomfortable! You sleep worse without proper head and neck support.
Neck Pain
The neck needs alignment. Without a pillow, it hyperextends causing muscle tightness and pain. Ouch!
Snoring & Breathing Issues
No pillow means compromised breathing. This worsens snoring and sleep apnea.
Disturbed Sleep
All these effects disrupt your sleep, leaving you tired and grumpy the next day.
Clearly, we need to reunite you with your pillows at night! Let’s look at how.
Solutions to Stop Pillows From Falling
Don’t despair, pillow problems are fixable! With a few simple changes, you can get a peaceful night’s rest again.
Adjust Your Sleep Setup
Tweaking your setup is an easy first step.
Reposition Mattress Closer to Headboard
Scoot your mattress as close to the headboard as possible. This shrinks the gap so pillows can’t slip through.
Use Bed Rail Bumpers or Guards
These are cushioned rails that install atop your mattress by the headboard. They block pillows from rolling behind.
Add Mattress Toppers or Pads
Lifting mattress height with a plush topper can reduce the gap where pillows are lost.
Buy a New Bed Frame
Frames like adjustable bases let you elevate the head to fight gravity. Consult a pro to pick the right one.
Use Pillow Retention Devices
Special contraptions help keep pillows contained.
Wedges and Bolsters
These foam blocks fit under your pillow to hold it in place. They fill the space between your mattress and headboard.
Straps and Clips
Attach these to your pillowcase then secure them to the underside of your mattress. Your pillow stays pinned in place.
Tuck Pillows Under Sheet
Simply sandwich pillows under the fitted sheet so they can’t escape. Works great for pillow hogs like me!
Utilize Friction and Gravity
You can also use the forces of nature to your advantage.
Anti-Slip Mats
These textured mats go under your pillows to add grip and keep them from sliding.
Door Snakes and Cushions
Place these fabric-filled tubes by your headboard. They act as pillow barriers.
Weighted Blankets
The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket restricts pillow movement for restless sleepers.
Modify Bedding
Sometimes it’s as simple as changing your bedding.
Use Bigger Pillows
Oversized pillows can’t fit in the gap between your headboard and mattress. Size up for better pillow retention.
Non-Slippery Pillowcases
Swap out silky pillowcases for cotton, bamboo or textured covers that add more friction so pillows stay put.
Tighten Loose Bed Frame
A wobbly frame amplifies pillow movement. Tighten up loose bolts and screws for stability.
Pro Tips for Pillow Placement
Optimizing pillow position based on your sleep style also helps.
For Back Sleepers
Use a medium pillow under your head and place a slimmer one under your knees.
For Side Sleepers
Stack a firm pillow under your head and hug a soft one between your legs.
For Stomach Sleepers
Minimize pillow height by using a thin, nearly flat pillow under your pelvis.
Tailor your pillows to your sleep position and they’ll stay happier in their place!
FAQs About Stopping Pillows From Falling
You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers! Here are some commonly asked queries about this pesky problem:
Why do I put my arm under the pillow when I sleep?
Doing this props your neck at a better angle and keeps your pillow anchored in place.
Which sleep position is worst for pillows falling?
Active side sleepers tend to have the most pillow problems from all their moving around.
How often should you replace pillows?
Plan to swap your pillows every 1-2 years, or immediately if they become flat and lump. Fresh full pillows fall less!
Can you wash pillows to fluff them back up?
Yes, if they are made from washable materials like cotton or poly-fill. Check the care label.
Time to Sleep Easy
Everything you need for a winning pillow protocol. With a few simple tweaks you’ll have sweet dreams again without the annoyance of pillows gone missing.
No more waking up grumpy from poor sleep just because your pillows bailed on you. Follow these tips and you can finally rest easy, my friend. Here’s to fabulous, pillow-filled nights ahead!