While sleeping on your side can feel fantastic, not every bed is made for side sleepers, as they usually need a softer mattress that provides exceptional pressure relief. That’s why we’ve taken a look at the many online mattresses out there and compiled a list of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
There’s something here for everyone, from those who prefer super-soft memory foam to folks who love something a little firmer.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers?
Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress for side sleepers due to its thick memory foam comfort layer. It relieves pressure on the shoulders and hips, while the coils keep the spine in neutral alignment.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Our Top Picks
- Helix Midnight – Best Overall
- Nectar – Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
- WinkBed – Best for Side-Sleeping Couples
- Saatva Solaire – Best Mattress for Back and Side Sleepers
- Titan Plus Luxe – Best for Heavy Sleepers who Side Sleepers
- Nolah – Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Nectar Premier Copper – Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Muscle Recovery
- Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers
Best Mattress for Side Sleeper 2023: Video Roundup
Compare the Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
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| Helix Midnight Mattress | Nectar Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Saatva Solaire Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe | Nolah Original 10" Mattress | Nectar Premier Copper Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress | Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options |
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Other | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | -- | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | ✓ | -- |
| Sleep Position | Back & Side | Back & Side | Combination | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Back & Side | Side | Back & Side |
How We Chose Our Top Picks
When we talk about side sleepers, pressure relief often comes to mind, as they tend to need a lot of it at the shoulders and hips. But it’s also important that they get adequate support to keep them from sinking too far into the mattress. That’s why, for this roundup, we only included beds that scored at least a 3.5 out of 5 on support.
To put together this list of best mattresses for side sleepers, our Certified Sleep Science Coaches spent time actually lying down on each mattress, performing hands-on testing, and evaluating the factors above to determine which would be the best fit for each ranking. For example, we test the motion isolation of each mattress by placing a glass of water on it and pressing on the layers around it.
We also test the edge support to see how much the bed collapses and look at a pressure map of the mattress to understand where there is built up pressure while laying on it. Rather than simply saying “this mattress is great” or “this mattress is terrible,” we recognize that this is a fairly subjective process. As a result, we simply try to point people in the right direction by categorizing each mattress and differentiating its qualities from others.
Best Overall – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight is the brand's most popular model. It has a balance of comfort and support and should be an excellent match for side sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight is the company’s most popular mattress model, and it’s easy to see why. In our testing, we found that the high-quality hybrid has a classic medium-firm feel, so it offers the comfort and support side sleepers need. If you tend to switch sleeping positions during the night, you can rest easy knowing the Helix Midnight will help you stay comfy no matter what.
We also love the Helix Midnight because it has excellent edge support and motion isolation — great news for couples! It’s also made with high-quality materials, so it will last at least 10 years.
What the testers say: “I’m a side and back sleeper, and the Helix Midnight mattress was a good match for me. The top layer of Memory Plus Foam conformed well and let me sink in a bit for comfort on my side. If you prefer an even softer mattress, the Helix Sunset might be better for you, but overall this was a good blend of softness and support for me.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of Helix Midnight
- A great orthopedic mattress
- Great for both side and back sleepers
- Breathable cover and coils to promote airflow
- Balanced foam feel
Cons of Helix Midnight
- Not ideal for stomach sleepers or heavier sleepers
- Lacks the typical slow-moving foam feel
For more information, read our full Helix Midnight mattress review.
Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress for side sleepers that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress for side sleepers that happens to also be an amazing value.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
When people are seeking a mattress for side-sleeping, they also want to make sure they’re getting the best bang for their buck. Nectar is all about value and, while their mattress isn’t the cheapest option on the market, it is one of the best deals, which is why we chose it as our best overall mattress for side sleepers. Just looking at its construction and materials, we would expect it to be much more expensive.
The Nectar features two layers of memory foam in its construction: one is softer gel-infused memory foam, and the other is firmer Hi Core memory foam. Both layers of foam offer excellent pressure relief for side sleepers, who should slowly sink into the bed. As a side sleeper myself, I found that this pressure relief was ideal for my sleeping position.
What the testers say: “When I was side sleeping, I only felt a bit of pressure on my shoulders and hips. I can see how this mattress could be good for those living with chronic pain or arthritis.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
- Supportive for a variety of sleepers
- Breathable cover and gel-infused memory foam
- Balanced foam feel
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
- Stomach sleepers may not want something this soft
- Motion isolating, but not bouncy
For more information, read our full Nectar mattress review. Or for more options, see our roundup of the best medium-firm mattresses.
Best Mattress for Side Sleeping Couples – WinkBed
WinkBed Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed is a mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort and support.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress that features two sets of supportive coils and a plush pillow-top. Overall, it has a traditional innerspring feel because of its coil-on-coil construction. You have a selection of four firmnesses and, if you’re a side sleeper, we recommend the Softer model. Not only will it give you the contouring you need, but we’ve also chosen it as one of our best mattresses for hip pain.
What the testers say: “During my tests, the WinkBed exhibited great edge support. This is good news for couples. Both partners will be able to use the full surface area of the mattress.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the WinkBed mattress
- Excellent support, especially for back pain
- Four firmness options
- Tall coils that leave plenty of room for airflow
Cons of the WinkBed mattress
- Not the best motion isolation
- Higher-quality materials means a higher price
For more information, read our full WinkBed mattress review. Or for more options, see our roundup of the best mattresses for couples.
Best Mattress for Back and Side Sleepers – Saatva Solaire
Saatva Solaire Mattress
Material
Other
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Solaire Mattress
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
Material
Other
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Solaire Mattress
The Saatva Solaire is a very comfortable mattress with adjustable firmness. It is a great fit for light- and medium-weight people of any sleeping position.
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
The Saatva Solaire is an adjustable mattress that allows you to select your preferred firmness. With the help of a remote control, you can make the Saatva Solaire firmer or softer. This makes it a great fit for back and side sleepers. When you’re on your side, you can make the mattress softer and relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips. When you’re back sleeping, you can make the mattress a bit firmer to offer you the necessary support. With the Saatva Solaire, comfort is in the palm of your hand.
What the testers say: “For side sleeping, I adjusted the mattress to the 15 or 20/50 range. At that very soft setting, I felt only a little firmness on my shoulders and hips. For back sleeping, I put the mattress at a firmer setting and felt a good balance of comfort and support.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Saatva Solaire Mattress
- Great for an adjustable base
- Larger models allow you to adjust both sides
- Luxurious mattress feel
- 50 different firmness options
Cons of the Saatva Solaire Mattress
- Larger sleepers over 230 lbs may not feel comfortable
- Not that cooling
- Not as great for those on a budget
For more information, read our full Saatva Solaire mattress review. Or for more back-and-side options, see our roundup of the best mattresses for combination sleepers.
Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers – Titan Plus Luxe
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe
The Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe mattress is designed with heavier-weight sleepers in mind, creating a pleasant sleep experience for several types of heavyweight sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Heavy side sleepers are in a tricky spot when it comes to purchasing a new mattress. They’ll need a comfort layer that gives them enough pressure relief on their shoulders and hips, but is also supportive enough to keep them from sinking too far into the layers. With its blend of contouring yet responsive foam and extra-tall 8″ coils, we believe that the Titan Plus Luxe finds this middle ground. Heavy sleepers should feel lifted by the coils while also experiencing some contouring from the foam. In fact, Brooklyn Bedding designed this mattress specifically for heavy sleepers over 230 lb.
It is worth noting that the Titan Plus Luxe will likely feel softer to heavy people than average-weight sleepers. For instance, an average-weight sleeper would likely experience it as a firm mattress, while to a heavyweight sleeper, it will probably feel like a medium-firm mattress.
What the testers say: “I’m a bigger guy, and the Titan Plus Luxe is made for larger and taller people like me. In my testing, the Titan Plus Luxe offered great pressure relief and response. It was easy to move around, and I didn’t feel too much pressure on my shoulders and hips. – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Titan Plus Luxe
- Upgraded features such as taller coils and plusher foams
- Specifically made for heavier weight sleepers
- Excellent for heavy back sleepers
- Cooling features
- Decent amount of bounce and responsiveness
- Also good for average weight stomach sleepers
Cons of the Titan Plus Luxe
- Doesn’t offer a slow-moving feel
- Might be too soft for heavier stomach sleepers
For more information, read our full Titan Plus Luxe mattress review. Or for more options, see our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Mattress
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Nolah Original 10" Mattress
The Nolah Original 10" mattress works especially well for side sleepers, and it's sold at a value price.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
As comfortable as memory foam can be, it also has its drawbacks, such as trapping heat and not being supportive enough for certain sleepers. That’s why Nolah created a proprietary memory foam alternative called AirFoam. More responsive and cooling than memory foam, it makes up the comfort layer of Nolah’s flagship mattress.
What the testers say: “While testing on my side, the Nolah offered me good pressure relief on my shoulders and hips. At the same time, the base layer kept me from sinking in too far.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nolah Mattress
- Great for both side and combination sleepers
- Supportive enough to help with aches and pains
- The AirFoam helps the Nolah sleep very cool
- Durable materials at a good price
Cons of the Nolah Mattress
- Not likely firm enough if you sleep on your stomach
- May not be enough support for heavier people
For more information, read our full Nolah mattress review. Or for more options, see our roundup of the best cooling mattresses.
Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nectar Premier Copper
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
The Nectar Premier Copper is Nectar's most advanced, cooling mattress.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
The Nectar Premier Copper is Nectar's most advanced, cooling mattress.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re interested in a luxury bed-in-a-box mattress, Nectar is a great choice. The Nectar Premier Copper mattress is the brand’s highest quality mattress . This mattress, true to its name, incorporates copper in its materials to dissipate heat and keep sleepers cool. The foam provides optimal pressure relief and support for the hip and shoulders, which is ideal for side sleepers.
For those who want to try before they buy, Nectar offers a 365-day sleep trial along with a forever warranty. The Nectar Premier Copper mattress is an all-foam, cooling bed that will provide luxurious comfort for side sleepers.
What the testers say: “The Nectar Premier Copper didn’t work for me on my stomach, but it was a good match when I tried sleeping on my side. Because this is a luxury mattress with thicker layers of memory foam, side sleepers like me should experience good pressure relief.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Nectar Premier Copper
- Balanced amount of pressure relief and support
- Copper-infused cooling cover and 4” of gel memory foam
- Minimal motion transfer
Cons of the Nectar Premier Copper
- May be too soft for some stomach sleepers
- Luxury price tag
Read our full review on the Nectar Premier Copper. Or if you’re still not sure, check out our best mattresses luxury mattresses for other options.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Muscle Recovery – Bear Elite Hybrid
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
With a zoned support system, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress is a great fit for those with back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime Warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re a side sleeper who’s incredibly active and loves a good workout, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress should be a fantastic fit. Bear uses a material called Celliant, which reportedly helps with muscle recovery. From testing, we know Celliant is definitely a cooling material, so it should help cool you down after an evening workout. We recommend the Soft or Medium models of this bed for the most pressure relief; they have cushioning memory foam that should relieve most pressure on your shoulders and hips, but there are also coils at the bottom to keep your spine aligned.
What the testers say: “The Bear Elite mattress has a balanced foam feel. When you rest on it, you’ll feel the thick comfort layers cushion your body. The strong support coils create a responsive feel, so it’s easy to move around on top of this bed. You shouldn’t “stuck inside” this mattress.” – Elisa Regulski, Reviewer
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Celliant material may also help with blood flow
- Great mattress for hot sleepers
- Good fit for side and back sleepers
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Not supportive enough for heavier stomach sleepers
- Pricier than other mattress options on the market
For more information, read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review. Not sure Bear is right for you, check out our best mattresses for athletes for other options.
Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite is an affordable luxury mattress that is great for hot sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite is an affordable luxury mattress that is great for hot sleepers.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Expert’s Take
Simply put, the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite has everything side sleepers need. When they rest on top of it, they should experience plenty of lower back support and luxurious pressure relief. The four comfort layers have built-in cooling features, and thanks to the balanced hybrid feel, it should be easy to move around on this high-end mattress — there’s just the right amount of bounce and responsiveness. Best of all, Brooklyn Bedding creates all of their mattresses at their factory in Phoenix, Arizona. That way, they can cut costs and pass the savings onto the customers!
What the testers say: “As I was lying on my side on the Sedona Elite, I felt good body contouring happening around my hips and shoulders. This should help alleviate pain along those pressure points. But, the coils still supported me enough so that I didn’t feel like I was sinking into it too much.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite
- Very durable, especially for the good value
- Great for cooling
- Four comfort layers for excellent contouring
- A classic medium-firm feel for most sleepers
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite
- The bounciness may not appeal to stomach sleepers
- Not a typical, slow-moving memory foam
For more information, read our full Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite mattress review. Or for more options, see our roundup of the best soft mattresses.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers – Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
90 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
The Sealy Posturepedic hybrid mattress has multiple firmness options for maximum comfort.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
90 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
The Sealy Posturepedic hybrid mattress has multiple firmness options for maximum comfort.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
90 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Our Expert’s Take
Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their shoulders and hips at night, and that’s why it’s so important to select the right mattress. By the “right mattress,” we mean one that’s able to cradle and relieve pressure buildup off of these sensitive areas rather than making things worse. A softer mattress is best, but it’s important to not sacrifice support. That’s where the Sealy Posturepedic comes in; it’s a hybrid mattress that’s built to ensure proper spinal alignment for all types of sleepers.
This mattress comes in a Soft version and a Firm version, but for most folks we recommend the Soft for the best contouring. The hybrid construction, a memory foam layer combined with the sturdy coils, creates a balance of comfort and support we think you’ll love.
What the testers say: “Generally, the Sealy Posturepedic works best for back and side sleepers. The top layers offer plenty of pressure relief, while the strong coil system helps support the spine. It’s important to note that lightweight sleepers may not compress the comfort layers too much, which can cause them to feel some pressure along shoulders and hips.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
Pros of the Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
- A great mattress for back pain
- Set at a value price
- Equipped with a cooling cover and breathable coils
- A solid option for back and side sleepers
Cons of the Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid
- May not be supportive enough for heavyweight stomach sleepers
- Doesn’t have the longest sleep trial we’ve seen (90 nights)
For more information, read our full Sealy Posturepedic mattress review.
How to Choose a Mattress for Side Sleepers
When shopping for a mattress that works well for side sleeping, there are many things to consider. We’ll walk you through the most important factors.
Great Pressure Relief
If you sleep on your side, you’re going to be naturally putting a lot of pressure on your hips, shoulders, and neck, which can cause tension throughout the spine.
To sleep comfortably, you’ll want a mattress that is soft enough to relieve those pressure points; foam mattresses tend to be great at relieving pressure points and can be ideal for side sleepers.
If a mattress is too firm, it will cut off a lot of the blood circulation in the body and potentially cause major aches and pains because it doesn’t contour to the widest points in the hips and shoulders. It could also cause side sleepers to wake up in the middle of the night and change positions.
Support to Avoid Neck Pain
If you have neck pain and sleep on your side, it’s quite possible that this is due to your pillow, not your bed frame or mattress. If your pillow isn’t supportive enough, then your neck will be angled downward in an uncomfortable position. Similarly, if your pillow is particularly thick, then your neck might be pushed upwards, causing even more annoying pain issues.
So, instead of recommending a bed or mattress to alleviate neck pain, we encourage you to check out our article on the best pillows for side sleepers. Any of the recommendations in our informative roundup should help alleviate any sort of neck pain issues that you may get from your bed.
Support to Avoid Back Pain
First off, if you struggle with lower back pain, you should consult with a doctor for a professional opinion. This information does not constitute medical advice, and we can only give a general opinion on the relationship between back pain and mattresses.
Contouring to Avoid Hip Pain
If you struggle with hip pain, it might be because of your mattress. However, I would still first consult a doctor before anything else. Again, the information in this article does not constitute medical advice.
Spinal Alignment
The best mattress for back pain is something that’s medium firm and supportive. This is easy enough for back and stomach sleepers, but gets a little tricky when it comes to sleeping on your side. Side sleepers are usually going to want to find a mattress that’s on the softer side with a thicker comfort layer to keep the right spine alignment throughout the night.
Essentially, those with back pain are going to want a measured balance of pressure and relief and support. They don’t want the comfort layer to be too soft or too thin.
Matching Your Budget
From my personal experience, budget mattresses aren’t always the best for side sleeping. Usually, they’re really firm and don’t have much of a comfort layer, thus creating pressure points. This can make it difficult for side sleepers to find a good mattress in a box for under $700.
That said, the Nectar mattress is a good value pick for side sleepers. It has two layers of memory foam that offer excellent pressure relief and prevent sleepers from overheating at night.
What Is The Best Mattress Firmness for Side Sleepers?
A bed’s firmness level will significantly impact how comfortable it is. Of course, firmness is highly subjective, and it greatly depends on body type. But overall, we recommend that side sleepers look for a mattress that’s slightly softer than average — about 6/10 on our firmness scale. For reference, 6.5/10 represents the industry standard of medium-firm.
Check out our chart below for the full breakdown of body type and firmness level:
| Weight Range | Firmness Level |
| Lightweight: under 130 lb | 6/10, medium-soft |
| Average Weight: 130 – 230 lb | 6/10, medium-soft |
| Heavyweight: Over 230 lb | 6.5 – 7/10, medium-firm |
Plush mattresses typically have thick comfort layers, which help alleviate pressure along the shoulders and hips. If a bed is too firm, you may sink straight through the comfort layers into the support section. This could strain pressure points and cause pain over time.
You’ll want to avoid particularly soft mattresses, too. It’s important to sleep on a supportive foundation so the body stays in the proper alignment.
What is the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?
With so many mattresses on the market, it can be difficult to find the right one for you. Here are the best type of mattresses for side sleepers.
Memory Foam Mattresses
It’s no coincidence that there are multiple memory foam mattresses on this list. They do a fantastic job of relieving pressure when compared with other types of materials, and they’re also great at isolating motion.
A lot of memory foam owners complain about “sleeping hot.” That’s because memory foam can trap heat more than other mattress materials. But many brands combat this problem by infusing their beds with cooling technology such as gel or copper-infused foam. A breathable mattress cover is also important.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are unique in that they combine some or all of the materials we’ve already mentioned. The most common construction you’ll find is a support layer of steel coils topped with layers of foam — usually memory foam, latex foam, or a proprietary material specific to the mattress brand.
Because of the breadth of materials involved, hybrid mattresses can be wide-ranging in their feel and firmness. But in general, they’re going to be more supportive than all-foam beds, in addition to being bouncier and more responsive. They tend to be a good pick for side sleepers who want a blend of comfort and support without the sleep surface being too soft.
Our top pick, the Helix Midnight, is an example of a hybrid mattress. It contains coil layers that add more support to the softer foams above. This provides a nice balance of contour and pushback that side sleepers need.
Tips for Side Sleeping
In addition to choosing the right mattress and pillow, here are some other tips side sleepers can take to get a good night’s rest.
- Keep a neutral posture: When you turn on your side to fall asleep, make sure your body is relaxed and not twisted into an uneven position.
- Put a pillow between your legs: Some side sleepers cause themselves discomfort when their knees rub up against each other. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs can minimize this friction and treat your lower body to some added plushness.
- Add more pillows: Side sleepers usually need a higher pillow loft to keep their neck, shoulders, and spine in a neutral alignment. If you feel like you need a taller loft, create one yourself by stacking up your pillows.
Benefits of Side Sleeping
Side sleeping is one of the healthiest sleep positions, especially for back pain. Learn how to become a side sleeper in our comprehensive guide, and be sure to check out our article on which side you should sleep on to get the best night’s sleep.
Summary
| Mattress | Superlative |
| Helix | Best Overall |
| Nectar | Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| WinkBed | Best Mattress for Side-Sleeping Couples |
| Saatva Solaire | Best Mattress for Back and Side Sleepers |
| Titan Plus Luxe | Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers |
| Nolah | Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Nectar Premier Copper | Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Muscle Recovery |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid | Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers |
If you’re still looking for your next perfect mattress, take our mattress quiz. By answering a few short questions, you can receive tailored mattress recommendations to help you along your mattress buying journey.
Still curious about the best mattresses for side sleepers? Check out our FAQ section below!
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers FAQs
What kind of mattress is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers should look for a mattress that is softer than average, about 5-6.5/10 on our firmness scale. A mattress within this firmness range should relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips.
What mattress is best for side sleepers who have back pain?
There’s no true best mattress for side sleepers with back pain because everyone differs in body type. However, we recommend searching for a high-quality hybrid mattress that offers both comfort and support. This should help side sleepers maintain the proper spinal alignment and it should also prevent back pain.
What type of mattress should a side sleeper use?
Memory foam mattresses are great for side sleepers. These beds have a slow-moving feel, which allows sleepers to sink into the layers and feel the pressure relief they need.
You could also opt for an innerspring mattress that has a soft pillow top, such as the Saatva Classic. This bed offers both comfort and support.
What types of mattresses should side sleepers avoid?
Generally, latex mattresses don’t work well for side sleepers. Latex foam usually feels quite firm, so it doesn’t offer the pressure relief side sleepers need.
Sources
Cary D, et al. (2019). Identifying relationships between sleep posture and non-specific spinal symptoms in adults: A scoping review.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6609073/
Cunningham C, et al. (n.d.). Good Sleeping Posture Helps Your Back.https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=4460
