Side sleepers need a pillow that provides the right level of support for the neck and spine to prevent discomfort and pain. If you're a side sleeper, the wrong pillow can leave you waking up with stiffness, neck pain, or even back problems. That’s why finding the best pillow for side sleepers is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top six pillows designed specifically for side sleepers, with options to suit various needs and budgets.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The best pillows for neck and shoulder pain relief
- Full-body support options for side sleepers
- Pillows designed for side sleepers with sleep apnea
- Natural and sustainable pillow choices for side sleepers
- How to choose the best pillow for your sleeping position and specific needs
Let’s explore the best pillows that will help you sleep better tonight!
1. Best Pillows for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief
For side sleepers who suffer from neck or shoulder pain, it's essential to find a pillow that provides both comfort and proper spinal alignment. These pillows are specifically designed to alleviate pain while maintaining the correct posture.
a. Memory Foam Pain Relief Support Pillow
The Memory Foam Pain Relief Support Pillow is designed to alleviate neck and shoulder pain, which is a common issue for side sleepers. Made from high-quality memory foam, this pillow molds to the shape of your head and neck, providing customized support. The pillow’s ergonomic design helps maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of waking up with soreness or stiffness. This is the best pillow for side sleepers with neck problems, providing targeted support to alleviate pain.
Key Features:
- Best pillow for side sleepers with neck problems
- High-density memory foam for targeted support
- Ergonomic design for spinal alignment
Pros:
- Ergonomic design supports the neck and shoulders
- Memory foam provides customized support
- Helps reduce neck pain and stiffness
Cons:
- May be too firm for some users
- Not as breathable as other materials, which can make it feel warm
Best for:
Side sleepers who suffer from neck or shoulder pain and need a pillow that provides targeted support and pain relief.
b. Giselle Bedding Memory Foam Contour Pillow
The Giselle Bedding Memory Foam Contour Pillow is a contour pillow specifically designed for side and back sleepers. Its unique shape supports the natural curve of the neck, ensuring proper alignment of the spine throughout the night. The high-density memory foam is both supportive and comfortable, making it a great choice for side sleepers who need extra neck support.
Key Features:
- Contoured design promotes proper spinal alignment
- High-density memory foam adapts to your head and neck
- Hypoallergenic and breathable materials
Pros:
- Contoured design supports the neck for side sleepers
- Memory foam molds to the shape of your head and neck
- Hypoallergenic materials make it ideal for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Takes time to adjust to the contoured shape
- Not ideal for stomach sleepers
Best for:
Side sleepers with neck pain or stiffness who want a contour pillow that provides firm support and keeps the spine in alignment.
2. Best Full-Body Support Pillows for Side Sleepers
For side sleepers who need extra support beyond just the neck, full-body or leg pillows can help align the spine from head to toe. These options are perfect for those looking for complete body support during sleep.
a. Side Sleeper Body Pillow 40x145 cm Blue
The Side Sleeper Body Pillow is a large, full-body pillow designed to provide support from head to toe. This pillow is perfect for side sleepers who like to hug a pillow while sleeping. It helps keep the spine, neck, and hips in proper alignment, reducing the risk of pain in the morning. The 40x145 cm size ensures that it’s long enough to comfortably support your entire body.
Key Features:
- Full-body support from head to toe
- Large size for comprehensive comfort
- Great for relieving pressure on the hips and neck
Pros:
- Provides full-body support for side sleepers
- Helps align the spine, neck, and hips
- Large size, great for hugging during sleep
Cons:
- Takes up significant space in the bed
- May be too large for smaller individuals
Best for:
Side sleepers who prefer full-body support and want a large pillow to hug while sleeping.
b. Memory Foam Orthopedic Side Sleeper Leg Pillow
The Memory Foam Orthopedic Side Sleeper Leg Pillow is a must-have for side sleepers who experience lower back or hip pain. This leg pillow fits comfortably between the knees, helping to align the spine and reduce pressure on the lower back and hips. Made from high-quality memory foam, this pillow provides excellent support throughout the night.
Key Features:
- Helps align the spine while sleeping on your side
- Reduces pressure on the hips and lower back
- Memory foam provides long-lasting support
Pros:
- Helps keep the spine aligned while sleeping on your side
- Reduces pressure on the hips and lower back
- Memory foam offers long-lasting support
Cons:
- Needs adjustment throughout the night to stay in place
- Not a full-body pillow, so upper body support is still required
Best for:
Side sleepers who experience hip or lower back pain and need extra support for spinal alignment.
3. Best Pillow for Side Sleepers with Sleep Apnea
Side sleepers with sleep apnea face unique challenges in maintaining neck and airway alignment. These pillows are designed to accommodate CPAP machines while providing necessary support for side sleeping.
Side Sleeper CPAP Pillow
The Side Sleeper CPAP Pillow is specifically designed for those who use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea. It provides excellent neck and head support while ensuring that the CPAP mask remains in place throughout the night. The contoured shape of the pillow also makes it suitable for side sleepers who need to maintain proper neck alignment.
Key Features:
- Contoured shape keeps neck and spine aligned
- Ideal for CPAP users
- Helps relieve pressure on the neck
Pros:
- Contoured design keeps neck and spine aligned
- Ideal for CPAP users who need extra head and neck support
- Relieves pressure on the neck during sleep
Cons:
- Not ideal for those who prefer a softer, more traditional pillow
- Takes time to get used to its unique shape
Best for:
Side sleepers who use a CPAP machine or need extra neck and head support while sleeping.
4. Best Natural and Sustainable Pillows for Side Sleepers
For side sleepers looking for a more sustainable, hypoallergenic option, latex pillows offer both comfort and durability. These natural pillows provide excellent support while being environmentally friendly.
Natural Latex Pillow Luxurious Soft White
If you’re looking for a pillow made from natural materials, the Natural Latex Pillow is an excellent choice. Latex pillows are known for their durability and support. This pillow provides firm support while remaining comfortable, making it a great option for side sleepers who need neck and shoulder support.
For side sleepers in Australia, this is one of the best pillows for side sleepers Australia, offering firm support and hypoallergenic materials.
Key Features:
- Made from natural latex for durability and support
- Firm yet comfortable support for side sleepers
- Removable, washable cover
Pros:
- Made from durable natural latex
- Provides firm support for side sleepers
- Hypoallergenic materials with a removable cover
Cons:
- Firmer than traditional pillows, which may not suit everyone
- Heavier than memory foam or feather pillows
Best for:
Side sleepers looking for a natural, durable, and supportive pillow, especially those with neck problems.
Why Side Sleepers Need Special Pillows
Side sleepers place unique pressure on their neck, shoulders, and spine, which can lead to discomfort if they don’t have the proper support. A well-designed pillow for side sleepers must have the right loft (thickness) to keep the neck aligned with the spine, preventing neck pain and stiffness. Additionally, side sleepers often need firmer support compared to other sleep positions to maintain proper posture throughout the night. Choosing the best pillow for side sleepers ensures not only comfort but also reduces the risk of long-term neck and shoulder issues.
How to Choose the Best Pillow for Side Sleepers
Choosing the best pillow for side sleepers involves considering several important factors that contribute to comfort and spinal alignment:
-
Material:
Memory foam is often the best choice for side sleepers because it molds to the shape of your head and neck, providing support exactly where it’s needed. Latex is another great option, offering a firmer, more durable alternative. -
Support:
The primary goal for side sleepers is maintaining spinal alignment. Look for pillows that are firm enough to support your neck and keep your spine in a neutral position. -
Loft (Thickness):
Side sleepers generally need a pillow with a medium to high loft to ensure that their head is properly supported. -
Temperature Regulation:
Many side sleepers find memory foam pillows too warm. Look for options with cooling gel layers or breathable covers, such as those made from bamboo or cotton. -
Durability:
Memory foam and latex pillows tend to last longer than feather or down alternatives, as they maintain their shape better over time. -
Special Needs:
If you suffer from conditions like sleep apnea, neck pain, or lower back pain, consider specialty pillows like CPAP pillows or leg support pillows.
Conclusion
Finding the best pillow for side sleepers can make a world of difference in your comfort and sleep quality. Whether you’re looking for full-body support, neck pain relief, or a pillow designed specifically for sleep apnea, there’s an option out there that fits your needs. Be sure to consider the material, loft, and support level that best suits your body and sleep habits to ensure a restful and pain-free night’s sleep.
By choosing one of the six pillows reviewed here, you can improve your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.