Pillow essentials

Cooling claims and care basics, with fit guidance from our sister journal PillowBrief. Start with cooling pillows and pillow height, then use the free height calculator for a starting range. Judge a pillow by its compressed height on your mattress, not its cooling label.

• Pillow height and mattress fit: a practical comfort guide

  Check compressed pillow height on a soft or firm mattress, account for shoulder space, and find a workable fit for side, back and combination sleeping.

• Why your pillow smells and how to clean it safely

  Sweat, skin oil and damp can all make a pillow smell. Find which layer holds the odor, clean it only as its label allows and dry it completely.

• Best cooling pillow for hot sleepers: what works

  Separate a cool first touch from overnight comfort, then compare pillow height, cover construction, care and return terms before choosing a cooling pillow for hot sleepers.