Sleep is so important and I’ve realised that more as I’ve got older. Whilst I do pride myself on my ability to sleep anywhere (as soon as the plane takes off, I’m gone!) I’ve put some real effort into making my bed the best place to sleep. It started when I got rid of the old, disgusting mattress that came home with me from uni. I didn’t understand just how bad that was for my back and my sleep until I got a proper memory foam mattress. You spend an average of 33 years in bed over your lifetime, so you need a decent mattress!

Finding the perfect firm pillows

For years I’ve been struggling to find the perfect firm pillows. I’m a side sleeper but will occasionally sleep on my back and I like my pillows to be thick and firm. I always seem to get the best night’s sleep when I’m staying in hotels, So, a couple of years ago I asked for some ‘hotel quality pillows’ for Christmas. These were fantastic – firm, plump and so comfortable, just what I was after – for the first month or so. After that, they squished down flat and I ended up having to pile three pillows up to get a decent night’s sleep. The reason why hotel pillows are so comfortable is because they’re replacing them regularly. Nobody is sleeping on them for 8 hours a night, every night. It’s so much better to invest in pillows from a brand who know what they are doing.

I was sent a pair of pillows from Simba who are known for their range of mattresses. The Simba Hybrid pillows can be adjusted to your preferred height and softness due to their innovative Nanocube inner pillow. These Nanocubes can be removed or added, depending on your preference. I kept the full amount in my pillows which seemed ideal.

I’ve had these pillows on my bed for the last month and have been having a great night’s sleep. The pilllows also have a cotton cover with Stratos ‘cool-touch’ tech. This is perfect for someone like me who can overheat in bed. I’ve found that the pillows have been losing their firmness since I first started trying them out. There is the option to buy more of the Nanocubes if they do get too flat. 

Weighted and Electric Blankets

As well as having a decent mattress and pillows on my bed, I’ve found that a weighted blanket has made a huge difference. Weighted blankets are great for anyone who struggles to fall or stay asleep. I had one for Christmas in 2022 and have used it ever since – it feels like a comforting, warm hug every night. 

I have also recently invested in an electric blanket. They’re not as expensive to run as I first thought and it’s been a great help during the winter months. I usually switch mine on just before I get into bed so it can warm up. Then I have it on a timer to switch off before I fall asleep. 

If you’re looking to get a new mattress, then I can recommend Simba for a UK-Single Mattress.