How to Make a Bed: How Many Pillows Should You Use When Sleeping?

When we think about how to make the bed, we often associate it with aesthetics and bedroom decor. However, the way we arrange the bed—and, in particular, the number of pillows we use—has a direct impact on comfort, sleep quality, and even spinal health.

After all, is sleeping in a bed with lots of pillows really beneficial? Or is there an ideal number of pillows you should use?

How many pillows should you use when sleeping?

Most sleep experts agree: it’s best to use a single pillow when sleeping, as long as it’s suited to your body and sleeping position.

The main purpose of a pillow is simple—to keep the head and neck aligned with the spine. When this balance is achieved, the body relaxes naturally, promoting restful sleep.

However, everyone has different needs, which is why it’s important to understand how to choose and use your pillows properly.

A good pillow should serve three essential purposes:

• Neck support: keeps the spine aligned and prevents tension in the neck and shoulders;
• Comfort and adaptability: conforming to the shape of the body and sleeping position;
• Breathability: keeps you cool all night long.

When these characteristics are met, a single cushion may be enough to provide the necessary support—without the need for multiple layers.

Sleeping with multiple pillows: comfort or overkill?

Although a bed with lots of pillows is a common trend in bedroom decor, you should think carefully before using them while you sleep.

Stacking pillows can cause two common problems:

• Excessive height: raises the head too high, causing the spine to become misaligned;
• Lack of stability: multiple thin cushions tend to lose their shape and provide less support over time.

Therefore, although they may be visually appealing, having multiple pillows isn't always the best choice for a good night's sleep.

The importance of sleeping position

The position in which you sleep directly influences the type and number of pillows you should use.

Sleeping on your side or on your back

People who sleep on their side or back may need a pillow that is taller and firmer to fill the space between their head and the mattress.

Sleeping on your stomach

In these cases, it’s best to choose a lower pillow—or even skip it altogether—to avoid strain on the neck. So, rather than focusing on the number of pillows, the most important thing is to choose the option that best suits your body.

When does it make sense to use more than one pillow?

Although it’s best to use just one pillow under your head, you can strategically incorporate other pillows for a better night’s sleep:

• Between the knees: helps align the spine when sleeping on your side;
• Under the knees: reduces lower back pressure when sleeping on your back;
• Body cushions: provide additional support and enhance comfort.

These solutions help improve sleep without compromising spinal alignment.

How to balance comfort and decor

Knowing how to make a bed also involves striking a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

In practice:

• Use one or two pillows when sleeping;
• Complete the decor with decorative pillows, which should be removed before bedtime;
• Choose high-quality materials that ensure comfort and durability.

This way, you get a visually appealing bed without compromising on sleep quality.

The ideal number of pillows depends on your body, your sleeping position, and the quality of the pillows themselves. However, for most people, a single high-quality pillow is enough to ensure a comfortable and healthy night’s sleep.

At Mercado do Colchão, we believe that a good night’s sleep starts with the details. From the mattress to the pillows, every element should provide comfort and support.