This Q&A guide will help answer some questions on the type of pillows available? Definitions? Sizes? Types?

Q. What does the proper pillow do for me?
A. It aligns your head and neck with your spine, which is important for a healthy night's rest. You'll sleep better and awake more rested.

Q. Is a down pillow better for the cooler months, and a synthetic pillow better in warm weather?
A. Not necessarily. Down is lightweight, and synthetic materials can be very plush. It depends on your preference and sleep style (on your back, side or stomach).

Q. I think my luxury pillow came with a pillowcase. Do I need another?
A. Actually, that's a pillow protector. Higher-quality luxury down pillows have a double cover consisting of a zip outer shell protector that is downproof (at least 200-thread count), as well as an interior shell encasing the fill. But you still need a pillowcase! Both act as a barrier against impurities and help prolong the life of your pillow.

Q. I sleep on my back. What sort of pillow do I need?
A. Look for a medium pillow to achieve the perfect position for your head and neck.

Q. I sleep on my side. What sort of pillow do I need?
A. Look for firm pillows that provide complete support for your head, neck and shoulders.

Q. I sleep on my stomach. What sort of pillow do I need?
A. Try a soft, plump down pillow. It will cushion your head and neck at a comfortable angle.

Q. What goes into a pillow, anyway?
A. Pillows are typically constructed with one of two basic fill types – natural or synthetic. Natural-fill consists of feather, down or a combination of both. Synthetic fill is most commonly polyester, though visco-elastic foam pillows are becoming more popular.

Q. Why is thread count important to a pillow?
A. As with sheets, a pillow cover's thread count – the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric – indicates its quality, durability and feel. Higher thread counts have a tighter weave for a smooth, luxurious touch. Just as important, a high thread count keeps the dirt out and the down in.

Q. Sleep style? You mean there's more than one?
A. The term "sleep style" refers to the position in which you start your night's sleep. Different sleep positions require different levels of support to comfortably – and properly – keep your head and neck in the correct position. The right pillow will align your head and your spine.

Back Sleepers: look for a medium pillow to achieve the perfect position for your head and neck.
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Side Sleepers: opt for firm pillows to provide complete support for your head, neck and shoulders.
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Stomach Sleepers: try a soft, plump pillow to cushion your head and neck at a comfortable angle.

Q. Should I wait until my pillow is as flat as a pancake before I buy a new one?
A. Generally, you should replace your pillow every two to three years to ensure restful sleep, and proper head and neck positioning throughout the night. But if it's been less than two years, you can put your pillow to the test to see if it's time to get a new one.

To test a down or feather pillow, fluff the pillow well, and then fold it in half. If the pillow unfolds itself, it means the down or feathers can still return to their naturally fluffy state and that your pillow is in fine shape. If not, it may be time for a new pillow.

To test a synthetic pillow, fluff the pillow well, and then fold it in half. Place one of your shoes on it. If the pillow unfolds itself, the shoe gets tossed off, and the pillow returns to its original shape, your pillow is fine. If not, it may be time for a new one.

Q. Hearing the word "down" makes me sneeze. Any allergy-free options?
A. Actually, scientists believe that it is dust, not down, that people react to. Look for pillows that feature hypoallergenic down, which is cleaned with a process that eliminates dust and impurities. EcoDown is one option, and it's featured in select products in our exclusive Hotel Collection and Charter Club brands. You can also try synthetic pillows, which are a high-quality alternative.

Q. How should I care for my pillow?
A. If when you first unpack your pillow it seems wrinkled and flat, give it a good shake. This will restore its natural fluffiness. You can also briefly put it in the dryer on low heat. Next, keep it clean. Higher-quality luxury pillows will have a double cover consisting of a zip outer shell protector that is downproof (at least 200-thread-count), as well as an interior shell encasing the fill. If yours doesn't, simply add one. Finally, top it off with a pillowcase. Ideally, both the protector and pillowcase should have a thread-count of at least 200 threads per square inch to act as a barrier against impurities and help prolong the life of your down pillow.

Even with the use of a regularly cleaned pillowcase and pillow protector, you should wash your down pillow in hot water and mild detergent every six months to prevent unpleasant odors. Then place the pillow in a dryer for several hours. Check it for wet spots - you don't want mildew. Neat trick: toss a tennis ball in with your pillow – the bouncing ball will keep the pillow from clumping and provide extra fluffiness. Please refer to your pillow's specific care instructions for more information.

Q. What should I remember about memory foam?
A. Visco-elastic memory foam is a unique flexible foam that responds to body temperature and conforms to the body to minimize pressure points, thus reducing tossing and turning, and creating a deeper, more restful sleep.