Best Pillows for Side Sleepers 2024

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Did you know 74% of sleepers rest on their sides at night? Even with such a large number, folks still struggle to find the best pillow for side sleepers. At Mattress Clarity, we’re here to change that. We’ve made it our mission to help people find the ideal bedding accessories.

In this article, we will provide everything you need to know about the best pillows for side sleepers, including materials, special features, and pricing. For additional guidance on your pillow-buying journey, you can scroll to the bottom of this article and check out our buyer’s guide!

Our Verdict

The LUXOME LAYR pillow is one of our favorite pillows for side sleepers because it can also work well for back and stomach sleepers, making it truly versatile. We love it for side sleeping because it can be customized to the best loft and support level for your head and neck while you rest on your side. It’s made with OEKO-TEX certified materials and shouldn’t trap too much heat.

The Best Pillows for Side Sleepers

How We Chose Our Products

Our team of sleep specialists tested many pillows currently on the market, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing by our team of Certified Sleep Coach Specialists to find the best of the best for our readers. When building our roundup for the best pillows for side sleepers, we paid special attention to support, durability, loft, and quality of materials.

Pillows made for side-sleeping require different attributes than pillows made for other positions like stomach-sleeping, so we made sure to keep this in mind when it came to selecting pillows with a proper loft. Additionally, we featured pillows that should maintain their support and durability through the night to keep your spine properly aligned. Lastly, we wanted to place an emphasis on pillows featuring quality materials.

For more, we encourage you to check out our Buyer’s Guide at the bottom of the page. There we take a deeper dive into all of these attributes so you can make the most informed purchase possible.

Best Side Sleeper Pillow 2024: Video Roundup

Best Overall – LUXOME LAYR

Luxome LAYR Pillow

Luxome LAYR Pillow

The LUXOME LAYR Pillow is a high-quality adjustable option that allows you to create your own comfort.

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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Bamboo, Memory foam

Trial Period
Trial Period

30 nights

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Customizable firmness level
Made with non-toxic materials
Shouldn’t trap heat
Cons
Pricey for some

Our Expert’s Take

When you sleep on your side, it’s important to use a pillow that has enough height, or loft, to keep your spine in proper alignment. Finding a pillow with the right loft and firmness for your body can be tough, so we love that this pillow offers plenty of customization options.

When you order a LUXOME LAYR pillow, you’ll receive the pillow’s cover and three inserts (soft, medium, and firm) that you can use to find the right fit. There’s even a how-to video on their site that will walk you through the process of setting up your perfect pillow.

Featuring a breathable bamboo cover and gel-infused memory foam, this versatile pillow can also help you sleep cool. While it’s not the most budget-friendly pillow out there, if you’re looking for an adjustable pillow made with high-quality materials, the LAYR is a great choice.

What We Love About the LUXOME LAYR Pillow

  • This pillow’s OEKO-TEX certified materials provide peace of mind that you’ll be resting your head on a pillow that’s made without harmful chemicals.
  • Thanks its three unique inserts, you have options you can mix and match to build a pillow that works best for your needs.
  • You can buy two LUXOME LAYR pillows at once and get the bundle at a discounted price.

What to Keep in Mind About the LUXOME LAYR Pillow

  • This is a relatively expensive pillow. While it’s not as pricey as some of the other pillows on this list, it’s still more than $100 to get a single pillow at retail price.
  • Even though it has a high price tag, this pillow doesn’t come with a warranty. That said, it does have a free return window of 30 days, so you can get a refund if you don’t like it.

Read our full LUXOME LAYR pillow review.

Best for Side and Back Sleepers – Saatva Natural Latex Pillow

Saatva Latex Pillow

Saatva Latex Pillow

The Saatva Pillow has an organic cotton cover that is removable. Underneath is an outer pillow made up of hypoallergenic microfibers.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.80 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Latex

Trial Period
Trial Period

45 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year limited warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Easy to switch sides on
Made with organic materials
Doesn’t trap heat
Cons
Pricey for some
Not ideal for fans of memory foam

Our Expert’s Take

If you switch between your back and your side while you sleep, you’ll want a pillow that still supports both sleeping positions, and is easy enough to move around on. That’s what the Saatva Latex pillow is for.

Back sleepers can enjoy the plush comfort from the outer down alternative layer, while the dense, supportive shredded latex foam core keeps this pillow nice and tall. No matter how much you use this pillow, it won’t go flat on you.

The latex also makes this pillow easy to move around on, so you won’t feel stuck. And with multiple breathable materials in this pillow, it won’t trap heat.

What We Love About the Saatva Latex Pillow

  • The inner pillow is filled with plush microdenier fibers which give the pillow a down-like feel, but in the pillow’s core, you will a small sack filled with 100% American Talalay latex pieces.
  • The materials used to make this pillow are hypoallergenic, and the cotton and latex used are certified organic.
  • Thanks to the combination of down alternative and shredded latex, this pillow is fairly easy to move around on and doesn’t get too hot.

What to Keep In Mind About the Saatva Latex Pillow

  • At full price, this pillow is close to $170. This pillow should be long lasting, but those that are shopping on a budget might need something more affordable.
  • While it still is nice and tall for side sleeping, some with broader shoulders or heavier bodies might compress this pillow a bit too much to find ample head and neck support.

Read our full Saatva Latex pillow review.

Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers- Eli & Elm Side Sleeper

Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow

Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow

If you’re a side sleeper looking for a supportive and comfy pillow, the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow has you covered. This U-shape pillow was specifically designed to alleviate neck pain and promote the proper spinal alignment.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.30 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Polyester, Spandex

Trial Period
Trial Period

45 nights

Warranty
Warranty

5-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
U-shaped design for side sleeping
Adjustable fill
Shouldn’t trap heat
Cons
Not ideal for side/stomach combination sleepers
Pricey for some

Our Expert’s Take

The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow was specifically designed for folks who rest on their sides. With its U-shape construction, sleepers can easily keep their necks in the proper alignment throughout the night.

We like this pillow for not only side sleepers, but also some back sleepers. It’s full of shredded latex noodles and plush microfibers making it a great combination of soft and supportive.

What We Love About the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow

  • It’s a customizable pillow, meaning you can take out or add in fill! This makes it great for side sleepers with narrow or broad shoulders.
  • The unique U-shaped cut out allows room for your shoulder. For some, this can feel much more natural while side sleeping.
  • The latex fill is soft but responsive. And because the latex is shredded, it allows for airflow. This pillow should be a good choice for side sleepers who are worried about overheating.

What To Keep In Mind About the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow

  • Because of the U-shape design, this might not be a super comfortable pillow for combination sleepers. Especially those that are stomach/side combination sleepers.
  • This pillow is roughly $130, which might not make it the most budget-friendly option for some.

Read our full Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow review.

Best Pillow for Heavy Side Sleepers- Pillow Cube

Pillow Cube Side Cube

Pillow Cube Side Cube

Side sleepers, are you looking for a pillow made just for you? Look no further than the Pillow Cube! This uniquely shaped pillow fits your "shoulder gap" (the space between your neck and your shoulder) perfectly! Get the best rest you can get with the Pillow Cube!

Mattress Clarity Score
4.90 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Memory foam, Polyester, Spandex

Trial Period
Trial Period

60 nights

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Flat-rate shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Flat-rate return fee

Pros
5″ tall to keep heads elevated
Slow-moving foam feel
Compact for travel
Cons
Might be too firm for some
Might sleep hot

Our Expert’s Take

The best pillow for heavy side sleepers has to be the pillow designed for side sleepers: the Pillow Cube. This pillow’s cube shape will fit very naturally into your “shoulder gap,” or the space between your head, neck, and shoulder. Heavy sleepers should experience pressure relief without sinking into the pillow too far.

There are two height options, 5” or 6”, and what you get will depend on how tall you are. It’s made from a single piece of thick memory foam, which gives it a slow-moving feel. You’ll sink in a little bit, but because this pillow is so tall, your head and neck will stay in a neutral alignment while you sleep.

What We Love About the Pillow Cube

  • This pillow was designed specifically for side sleepers. It has 5″ and 6″ height options, which account for shoulder width, and will keep heads and necks supported.
  • It’s made of foam and has that classic, slow-moving feel to it, which is great for memory foam fans.
  • It comes in a few different variations, with the Side Cube being ideal for travel.

What To Keep In Mind About the Pillow Cube

  • While you can opt for a cooling cover, it does come at an extra fee. If you sleep hot, without the cooling cover, this pillow might trap heat.
  • As mentioned, this is a pillow designed for side sleepers, and it’s too tall for those who sometimes sleep on their stomachs.

Read our full Pillow Cube review.

Best Cooling- Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

Brooklyn Bedding's Talalay Latex Pillow is a supportive and pressure relieving blended latex foam pillow. It has a ventilated core and removable soft knit cover. It comes in two loft options, making it a good choice for any sleep position.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.70 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Latex

Trial Period
Trial Period

30 nights

Warranty
Warranty

3-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Doesn’t trap heat
Two loft options
Doesn’t trap heat
Cons
Not ideal for fans of down alternative or memory foam pillows

Our Expert’s Take

Nobody likes to wake up feeling stuffy and uncomfortable, so if you’re a hot sleeper, we know just the pillow for you. The Brooklyn Bedding is made of aerated latex foam, and latex is a material known for its cooling properties. Because of this, the pillow won’t trap a lot of heat. Latex is also much more responsive than traditional memory foam, so because you won’t be sinking into the pillow, your body heat won’t be reflected back on you.

This pillow comes in two different loft options, which can accomodate different body types. For most side sleepers, however, the high loft will work best.

What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

  • This pillow comes in two different lofts. For side sleepers and larger back sleepers, we recommend the high loft for proper neck support. Smaller back sleepers and stomach sleepers are likely going to need the lower loft.
  • It has a wonderful balanced feel. We felt so much support and also great pressure relief from this pillow. It has a bit of bounce and airiness that we appreciated as well, and this is due to the feeling that the latex provides.
  • The latex foam has been perforated with holes, which promote airflow within the pillow. This means it won’t trap a lot of heat.

What to Keep In Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

  • While some may love its bouncy and responsive feel, latex foam feels very different from plush down alternative or slow-moving memory foam.

Read our Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex pillow review.

Best for Overweight Side Sleepers- Purple

Purple Pillow

Purple Pillow

Purple's original pillow is made with their signature Smart Comfort Grid polymer material that gives the pillow a plusher feel but without losing the support.

Mattress Clarity Score
3.80 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Polyester, Spandex, Polyurethane

Trial Period
Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Firm and supportive
Adjustable loft
Doesn’t trap heat
Cons
Pricey for some
Doesn’t feel like a traditional pillow

Our Expert’s Take

Big and tall side sleepers need high loft pillows that feel super supportive, and that’s exactly what you should find in the Original Purple pillow. Because it compresses under pressure, heavier sleepers typically find that the pillow feels especially firm.

This pillow works for heavy side sleepers and back sleepers because of its customizable nature. It comes with boosters that can change the loft of the pillow. For side sleepers with broad shoulders, adding in the boosters can help make the pillow tall enough to support your head and neck. Additionally, those looking for a good cooling pillow should find a lot to love in this product.

What We Love About the Purple Pillow

  • It has a proprietary gel grid. This layer should offer a similar feel to Purple mattresses. So, if you like the feel of a Purple mattress, you will likely enjoy the pillow as well. It feels both squishy and firm at the same time.
  • This pillow comes with boosters. The Purple pillow is adjustable, so if you need to heighten the loft, just add a booster and zip the stretchy case around it
  • It has a washable pillowcase. and it’s made with durable materials.

What To Keep In Mind About the Purple Pillow

  • Because this uses Purple’s gelflex grid, the feel of this pillow won’t feel like your traditional pillow. This could be off-putting to some.
  • At full price, this pillow is over $200. This isn’t your cheapest choice.

Read our full Purple pillow review.

Best Customizable- Layla Kapok Pillow

Layla Kapok Pillow

Layla Kapok Pillow

The Layla Kapok pillow combines shredded foam and natural kapok tree fibers to give you a great balance of comfort and support. You can also take out some of this fill to adjust the height of the pillow to make it work for you.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.50 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Memory foam, Polyester, Viscose

Trial Period
Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty
Warranty

5-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Adjustable loft
Won’t trap heat
Good for fans of slow-moving foam
Cons
Takes some time to expand after unboxing

Our Expert’s Take

With its removable fluff, the Layla Kapok pillow works for a wide variety of people. If you need firm support, keep the fibers stuffed inside. If you need it softer, simply unzip the cooling cover and take out some of the filling.

Because of its adjustability, the Layla Kapok pillow suits many different body types. Of course, we love it for side sleepers, but its responsiveness means it’s great for combination sleepers as well.

What We Love About the Layla Kapok Pillow

  • It’s one of the best cooling pillows. Designed with cooling in mind, the pillowcase is made with breathable polyester fabric and has copper fibers sewn in. Copper not only has antimicrobial properties, but it also helps pull heat away from the body.
  • It boasts a plush feel. For additional comfort, Layla includes shredded pieces of open-celled memory foam. If it’s fluffiness you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the Layla Kapok.
  • This pillow is made with high-quality materials. The filling comes from Kapok tree fibers, so it feels similar to down feathers.

What to Keep In Mind About the Layla Kapok Pillow

  • Because this is a memory foam pillow, it will take some time to expand after you unbox it. This also means it’ll need time to air out, so it may not be ready for immediate use.

Read our full Layla Kapok pillow review.

Best Memory Foam- COOP Sleep Goods

Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow

Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow

The Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow from Coop Sleep Goods is distinct in more than one way. The memory foam shredded filling is responsive and guarantees the pillow will never go flat, plus sleepers can remove as much filling as they like which makes it great for people who sleep in several positions.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.70 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Memory foam, Polyester, Bamboo

Trial Period
Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty
Warranty

5-year limited warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Slow-moving memory foam feel
Adjustable loft
Has a machine-washable outer cover
Cons
Will need to off-gas

Our Expert’s Take

If you’re looking for one of the best memory foam pillows, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the COOP Sleep Goods adjustable loft pillow. Its high loft and customizability make it great for side sleepers. If you want to make adjustments to the loft, remove and readjust the foam inside so it fits your needs.

Of course, side sleepers and memory foam lovers should find a lot to like about the COOP Sleep Goods pillow. However, combination sleepers should appreciate how easy it is to move around on this pillow, and back sleepers should like the balance of comfort and support.

What We Love About the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow

  • It should maintain its firmness through the night. This is a great sign for any sleeper, because they can be sure the pillow continues to support their sleeping position through the night.
  • It’s easy to clean. The soft outer cover comes right off and is washable. However, what’s most impressive is the entire pillow can be machine-washed and dried.
  • This pillow uses shredded memory foam for its fill. This has that classic, slow-moving foam quality to it that fans of memory foam love.

What to Keep In Mind About the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow

  • Just like some other memory foam pillows on this list, this pillow will need some time to expand after taking it out of its packaging. It may also have a slight chemical smell from the packaging process, so it will need time to off-gas as well.

Read our full Coop Sleep Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow review.

Best Down- Helix Down & Feather

Helix Down & Feather Pillow

Helix Down & Feather Pillow

Helix's down and feather pillow combines the plush comfort of white down with supportive feathers at the center of the pillow. Its reinforced stitching around the perimeter of the pillow helps it retain its shape. It's a great down pillow for those that love supportive pillows!

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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Cotton, Down

Trial Period
Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty
Warranty

1-year warranty

Financing
Financing

Not Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Lightweight and fluffy feel
Shouldn’t trap heat
Often discounted
Cons
Might need frequent fluffing

Our Expert’s Take

If you’re a side sleeper who loves down pillows, but worries about them losing their shape, then the Helix Down & Feather pillow is what I’d recommend.

The Helix pillow is made with a three chamber design, with a core made of a down and feather blend. The presence of feathers gives this pillow ample support, while the outer two chambers are full of plush down. So you’ll get both comfort and support here.

But it doesn’t stop there. The pillow’s edge has a reinforced double stitched edge. This gives the pillow a strong seam that can fit all sleeping positions, but gives the shape enough support to not deflate.

What We Love About the Helix Down & Feather Pillow

  • It combines plush down with supportive feathers for down lovers. This feather core should help side sleepers keep their heads elevated and supported.
  • You can test this pillow out for 100 nights, and it has a 1-year warranty if you keep it. Helix also includes this pillow in its seasonal discounts, so if you shop at the right time, you should be able to get a deal.

What to Keep In Mind About the Helix Down & Feather Pillow

  • Though it does feature a feather core for support, down pillows tend to deflate over time. This pillow might need frequent fluffing to stay tall and supportive.

Read our full Helix down & Feather Pillow review!

Best Pillow For Neck Pain- Tuft & Needle Foam Pillow

Tuft and Needle Original Pillow

Tuft and Needle Original Pillow

Made with special responsive foam, the Tuft & Needle pillow feels both soft and supportive. It has many cooling features, and it's super durable. It's a great match for back and side sleepers.

Mattress Clarity Score
4.40 / 5 starstarstarstarstar
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Accessories Details

Material
Material

Polyester, Memory foam

Trial Period
Trial Period

100-nights

Warranty
Warranty

3-Year Limited Warranty

Financing
Financing

Available

Shipping Method
Shipping Method

Free shipping minus HI and AK

Return Policy
Return Policy

Free returns

Pros
Shouldn’t trap heat
Easy to move around on
Medium firm feel makes it soft yet supportive
Cons
Too tall for stomach sleepers
Doesn’t have that traditional foam feel for memory foam fans

Our Expert’s Take

We get it, flat pillows can be a pain in the neck. If you consistently run into this problem, it might be time to consider the Tuft & Needle foam pillow. (Fun fact: this pillow helped my neck pain so much, I sleep on it every single night).

Because of its support, back sleepers and heavier sleepers could find a lot to love with the Tuft & Needle. Additionally, if you’re someone who sleeps hot, you might want to consider this pillow. It has ventilated foam and a breathable cover to prevent from trapping heat.

What We Love About the Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow

  • It doesn’t sag overnight. The Tuft & Needle’s foam construction allows it to keep its shape overnight. This is important for people with neck pain who rely on a pillow that keeps its shape and proper loft.
  • It has a responsive feel. While it is made of foam, this pillow still has some bounce to it. You shouldn’t feel stuck when moving around on the Tuft & Needle.
  • This pillow has a medium firm feeling to it. This means it’ll still offer some good comfort, while being just firm enough to keep heads and necks supported.

What to Keep In Mind About the Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow

  • This pillow is very responsive and easy to move around on. This is great for some, but for fans of traditional memory foam, it won’t feel like the same slow-moving foam you’re used to.
  • This pillow is likely too tall for stomach sleepers.

Read our full Tuft & Needle Pillow review.

How to Choose the Best Pillow for Side Sleepers

With so many options available, it can feel dizzying trying to find the perfect pillow. However, we believe the most important thing to consider is spinal alignment. Side sleepers will want to make sure their ears line up with their shoulders and their chins align with their sternums. Selecting the correct pillow with the proper loft should prevent and alleviate aches and pains along your neck.

pillow alignment - a woman rests on her side.

So, how do you reach a neutral alignment when you’re resting on your side? Keep reading to learn more about what you should look for.

Loft

In the bedding industry, ‘loft’ is another way to describe a pillow’s height. It’s crucial to find the proper loft for your sleeping position. Side sleepers typically need pillows with a higher loft. If the pillow is too thin, you may feel your neck crane out of alignment. Over time, this can lead to tension headaches and muscle pain.

Firmness

We spend a lot of time examining the firmness level of mattresses, and pillows are no different. Side sleepers definitely want to make sure their pillow is supportive enough to keep their neck elevated. The pillow may have the perfect loft size at first, but if it sags throughout the night, you won’t maintain the correct spinal alignment.

Feel

This last category boils down to your personal preference. Do you prefer something that feels soft and malleable, like a feather pillow? Or do you want your head to gently sink into layers of slow-moving memory foam? Either way, our roundup is sure to help you find something that feels both comfy and supportive.

Popular Side Sleeper Pillow Materials

As you shop for pillows, you’ll soon realize that they’re not all the same. A pillow’s construction can change a number of other qualities and alters your sleeping experience entirely. So, we’ve outlined some of the most popular pillow materials below so you don’t have to!

Down

Down pillows contain feathers plucked from geese, duck, and swan undercoats. Fans of down pillows love their soft and fluffy feel. Plus, they evoke a feeling of luxury. You’ll often find these pillows in five-star hotels!

RELATED: Best Down Pillows

Down Alternative

Down pillows may not work for everyone. They tend to cost more than other bedding products, and they’re not vegan-friendly. But if you love the malleable and airy feel, you don’t have to settle for anything less.

Many companies now sell down alternative pillows. Instead of using animal feathers, these pillows contain pieces of shredded memory foam, polyester fibers, or tiny pieces of latex. These fillings give pillows the classic down pillow feel, but without harming any animals. And perhaps best of all, these types of pillows come at a lower price point.

Memory Foam

Memory foam pillows create a lovely slow-moving feel. If you press your hand into the material, it will take a few moments for the foam to snap back into place. These pillows provide wonderful pressure relief, and they tend to keep their firmness as the evening goes on.

Over the years, memory foam has gotten a bad reputation for trapping body heat. However, many companies have combated this issue by adding gel or copper infusions. Ventilated memory foam also helps promote airflow, which can keep sleepers cooler at night. So don’t write this material off immediately! If you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll still find tons of great options.

RELATED: Best Memory Foam Pillows

Latex

Eco-friendly shoppers gravitate toward latex pillows and mattresses. This material doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, and it’s especially kind to the earth.

Better yet, latex foam feels responsive and bouncy. You shouldn’t feel your head sink too deeply into a latex pillow. And because of this, these pillows don’t trap heat easily. As a naturally breathable material, latex works exceptionally well for hot sleepers.

RELATED: Best Latex Pillows

Benefits of Side-Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping positions, resting on your side is one of the best. Not only does it help prevent pesky aches and pains, it helps with numerous other conditions. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of side-sleeping.

Heart Health

Though not conclusive, a 2018 study found that people who slept on their right side had no changes in the electrical activity in their heart. The study found that when people slept on their left side, their hearts shifted and turned.

People with congestive heart failure have reported feeling uncomfortable when resting on their right side. Some folks even said they had difficulty breathing, but more objective research needs to be done in order to reach a full conclusion.

Snoring

Snoring occurs when airways get blocked at night. When you’re resting on your back, you’re more likely to experience blocked nasal passages. So, the best sleeping position for snoring? You guessed it: side-sleeping. For even more information, take a look at our list of the best mattresses for snoring.

RELATED: This Smart Pillow Promises to Help Curb Snoring

Pregnancy

According to Medical News Today, the fetus may be safer when a pregnant person sleeps on their side. Back sleeping may create extra pressure on the blood vessels that supply the uterus, which can potentially reduce the amount of oxygen leading to the fetus.

side sleeping while pregnant

In fact, some studies said that sleeping on the left side is even better for the baby. This sleeping position allows more blood to flow toward the fetus, and it can alleviate pressure on the liver.

RELATED: Best Pregnancy Pillows

How to Sleep on Your Side

As you now know, side-sleeping has many benefits. But if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, it can be difficult to shake up your habits.

Need some help? Here are a few tips to follow if you want to join the side sleeper club.

  • Opt for a medium-firm mattress that offers a good balance of comfort and support, such as one of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
  • Find a pillow that helps you maintain a neutral alignment. Again, when you’re side-sleeping, you want to ensure your ears line up with your shoulders.
  • When resting on your side, place your arms and hands beneath your shoulders.
  • If you suffer from joint pain, place a pillow between your knees.
  • Lift your knees toward your chest to alleviate back pain.

How Sleeping on Your Side Affects Sleep

Side sleeping is the most highly recommended sleeping position by specialists and medical professionals due to the major benefits that come along with it. Side sleeping can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms, improve neurological issues, and reduce gastrointestinal issues.

Side sleeping can also help with spinal alignment. While you sleep, you want your spine to sit in a straight position, and side sleeping helps achieve this. Additionally, using a pillow that supports the neck can further achieve this.

Can Side Sleeping Cause Pain?

If your neck and shoulder aren’t properly supported, you may wake up with some pain after sleeping on your side. It’s important to have a supportive mattress and a pillow that aligns the neck properly with the rest of your spine.

Summary

Here is our list of the best pillow for side sleepers:

PillowBest For
LUXOME LAYRBest Overall
Saatva Latex PillowBest Pillow for Side & Back Sleepers
Brooklyn Bedding Talalay LatexBest Cooling Pillow
Eli & Elm Side SleeperBest Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers
Helix Down & Feather PillowBest Down Pillow for Side Sleepers
Pillow CubeBest Pillow for Heavy Sleepers
Layla KapokBest Customizable Pillow
PurpleBest Pillow for Overweight Side Sleepers
Tuft & NeedleBest Pillow for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain

The Best Pillows for Side Sleepers FAQs

What pillow is best for side-sleeping?

There are so many great options out there, but it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and body type. If you’re a larger person who needs more support, opt for the Purple pillow. If you suffer from neck pain, I recommend the Tuft & Needle foam pillow.

Are flat pillows good for side sleepers?

Flat pillows don’t typically work well for side sleepers. In this sleeping position, people need a thick and firm pillow that will help keep the neck in the proper alignment. If you’re unsure whether your pillow is too flat, check and see if your ears align with your shoulders whenever you rest on it. If your ear faces upward, you may need to get a pillow with a higher loft.

Are side-sleeper pillows different?

Yes! Some companies create pillows specifically for side sleepers. These pillows have a U-shape design, which allows the head to rest at the proper position and the shoulders to sit closer to the top of the mattress. Of course, you don’t need a U-shape pillow if you rest on your side. Our list of the best pillows for side sleepers has many different options.

How many pillows should you sleep with if you are a side sleeper?

There is no specific number you should shoot for. The most important thing to consider is your alignment. If your pillow is especially thin, you may need to stack two of them on top of each other to reach the ideal loft.

How do you sleep on your side with a wedge pillow?

Wedge pillows have many benefits. They help people sleep apnea and those who suffer from acid reflux. But they can also aid side sleepers! If you choose a wedge pillow, however, make sure to place your head at the correct place. This differs from person to person, but no matter what, your ears should line up with your shoulders. For the best results, find a wedge pillow with a 35-45 degree incline.

Elisa Regulski

Elisa is the Editor of Mattress Clarity, where she analyzes sleep products and appears in review videos. A certified sleep science coach, Elisa's sleep tips have appeared in Readers Digest, Homes and Gardens, and 21 Oak. She earned a M.A in Mass Communication from Texas State University and a B.F.A in acting from Oklahoma City University.