Best Bed Pillows for Side Sleepers: Top 10 Luxurious Choices

The Importance of a Good Pillow for Side Sleepers

When searching for the best bed pillows for side sleepers, it’s crucial to find one that ensures comfort and support all night long. Side sleeping is one of the most common positions, but it requires extra attention to neck and head support for proper spinal alignment.

To address the needs of side sleepers right away, here are some top choices:

• Best Overall: Pillow Cube Side Cube
• Best Adjustable: Coop Home Goods Original Pillow
• Best Budget: Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

A good pillow can make a world of difference. For side sleepers, ensuring your pillow’s loft and firmness provide consistent support will help prevent neck and back pain. A high-quality pillow should fill the gap between your head and shoulders, promoting healthy posture and giving you a restful sleep.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. My journey into sleep improvement stemmed from my own struggles with sleep quality. Through extensive research and testing, I’ve gathered insights on the best bed pillows for side sleepers to help you make informed choices for a better night’s rest. Up next, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing the best pillow for side sleepers.

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What to Look for in a Pillow for Side Sleepers

When choosing the best bed pillows for side sleepers, several factors come into play. These factors ensure that the pillow provides the right support and comfort to keep your spine in a neutral alignment throughout the night. Let’s explore the key elements you should consider.

Spinal Alignment

The most important job of a pillow for side sleepers is to promote healthy spinal alignment. Your pillow should keep your head in line with your spine, preventing any strain on your neck or shoulders. This helps reduce the risk of waking up with a sore neck or back.

Loft

Loft refers to the height of the pillow. For side sleepers, a higher loft is essential. A pillow with a loft of at least four inches is generally recommended to fill the gap between your head and shoulders. This helps in maintaining a neutral spine alignment.

Firmness

The firmness of the pillow works hand-in-hand with its loft. Side sleepers typically need a medium-firm to firm pillow. A firmer pillow will maintain its shape and provide the necessary support to keep your head aligned with your neck and spine. A soft pillow might compress too much under the weight of your head, leading to poor alignment.

Support

Support is crucial for side sleepers. A pillow that offers adequate neck support will help you avoid craning your neck up or down. Look for pillows that combine a high loft with a firm feel to provide the right support.

Pressure Relief

While support is essential, so is pressure relief. A pillow that’s too firm can lead to a sore ear or stiff neck. Ensure your pillow offers a balance of support and cushioning. A firm pillow that provides good pressure relief will help in reducing discomfort around your shoulders and neck.

Shape

Standard-shaped pillows can work for side sleepers, but you might also consider alternatively shaped pillows. Ergonomic designs, like the U-shaped Eli & Elm pillow, are specifically designed to reduce pressure around the neck and shoulders. These shapes can offer extra comfort and support.

Cooling

If you tend to sleep hot, consider a pillow with cooling features. Materials like latex or gel-infused memory foam can help regulate temperature. Also, look for pillows with breathable covers that encourage airflow, keeping you cool throughout the night.

Pillow Wash Care

Maintenance is another important factor. Removable and machine-washable covers make it easier to keep your pillow clean. Many high-quality pillows, especially those made with memory foam, are spot-clean only, so a washable cover can simplify care.

Fill

The fill material of the pillow affects its feel, support, and durability. Here are some common fills for side sleepers:
– Memory Foam: Contours to your head and neck, offering excellent support and pressure relief.
– Latex: Naturally hypoallergenic and durable, providing a springy feel.
– Down/Down Alternative: Offers plushness and moldability, but may not provide as much support.
– Shredded Foam: Adjustable and promotes airflow, allowing you to customize the loft.

Adjustable Fill

If you’re unsure about the ideal loft, consider an adjustable fill pillow. These pillows allow you to add or remove filling to achieve the perfect height and firmness. This customization can help you find the right balance for your specific needs.

Choosing the right pillow involves balancing these factors to ensure you get the best support and comfort for your side sleeping position. Up next, let’s explore the top 10 best bed pillows for side sleepers.

Top 10 Best Bed Pillows for Side Sleepers

Saatva Latex Pillow

The Saatva Latex Pillow is our top pick for side sleepers. This pillow features a unique dual-layer design—a down-alternative outer layer filled with microdenier fiber and a core of shredded Talalay latex. This combination provides a medium-firm feel that supports your head and neck while maintaining a comfortable loft. The latex core offers a springy support system, while the down-alternative outer layer adds a fluffy, cozy feel. Plus, the pillow’s cooling properties make it ideal for those who sleep hot.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Dual-layer design: Combines support and comfort
– Cooling properties: Breathable materials keep you cool
– Medium-firm feel: Ideal for maintaining spinal alignment

Price: $165–$185

Coop Sleep Goods Original Adjustable Pillow

The Coop Sleep Goods Original Adjustable Pillow stands out for its customizable fill. Made with shredded memory foam, this pillow allows you to add or remove filling to achieve the perfect loft and firmness. It’s hypoallergenic and features a cooling cover, making it a great option for side sleepers with allergies or those who tend to overheat.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Adjustable fill: Customize loft and firmness
– Hypoallergenic: Safe for allergy sufferers
– Cooling cover: Keeps you cool throughout the night

Price: $72–$92

Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow

The Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow is uniquely designed with a U-shape to provide exceptional neck pain relief and spinal alignment. Its adjustable fill allows you to tailor the pillow to your specific needs. The cotton cover is soft and breathable, adding to the overall comfort.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– U-shape design: Reduces neck pain and improves alignment
– Adjustable fill: Customize for perfect support
– Cotton cover: Soft and breathable

Price: $120–$150

Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow

The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow is filled with shredded memory foam, which you can adjust to your preferred loft. Its Tencel-blend cover is machine-washable, making maintenance a breeze. The pillow promotes airflow, which helps regulate temperature throughout the night.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Adjustable fill: Achieve the ideal loft and support
– Tencel-blend cover: Soft, breathable, and machine-washable
– Cooling properties: Promotes airflow to keep you cool

Price: $89–$146

Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

For those on a budget, the Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow offers excellent value. It features adjustable fill and a bamboo cover that improves breathability. Despite its lower price, it provides the support and comfort needed for side sleepers.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Budget-friendly: Affordable without sacrificing quality
– Adjustable fill: Customize to your liking
– Bamboo cover: Breathable and cooling

Price: $50–$60

Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillow Ultimate

The Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillow Ultimate combines shredded foam and down alternative for adjustable layers. Its lyocell cover is soft and breathable, making it a luxurious option for side sleepers who want customizable comfort.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Adjustable layers: Customize loft and firmness
– Shredded foam and down alternative: Blend of support and plushness
– Lyocell cover: Soft and breathable

Price: $99–$129

Luxome LAYR Pillow

The Luxome LAYR Pillow is a customizable option with gel-infused memory foam inserts and a bamboo viscose cover. You can add or remove inserts to achieve the perfect firmness and loft. Its cooling properties make it ideal for hot sleepers.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Customizable inserts: Adjust firmness and loft
– Gel-infused memory foam: Provides cooling comfort
– Bamboo viscose cover: Naturally cooling and breathable

Price: $120–$150

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow offers a high or low loft option, making it versatile for different side sleepers. Made from eco-friendly Talalay latex, this pillow is naturally cooling and provides excellent support.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– High or low loft options: Choose the right height for you
– Eco-friendly Talalay latex: Supportive and cooling
– Durable and breathable: Long-lasting comfort

Price: $129.99

Brooklinen Marlow Pillow

The Brooklinen Marlow Pillow features shredded foam and polyester fiber fill. Its adjustable firmness can be modified by zipping or unzipping the sides. The gel-infused foam helps keep you cool, making it a versatile choice for side sleepers.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Adjustable firmness: Zip or unzip for desired feel
– Shredded foam and polyester fill: Supportive and plush
– Gel-infused foam: Cooling properties

Price: $58.50

Lagoon Otter Pillow

The Lagoon Otter Pillow uses shredded gel-infused memory foam and has an adjustable loft. Its bamboo-blend cover is soft and breathable, making it a great option for those who need a cooling pillow.

Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers:
– Adjustable loft: Customize for perfect support
– Shredded gel-infused memory foam: Cooling and supportive
– Bamboo-blend cover: Breathable and soft

Price: $95–$125

Next, let’s dive into how to choose the best pillow for side sleeping…

How to Choose the Best Pillow for Side Sleeping

Finding the best bed pillows for side sleepers involves a few key factors. Let’s break them down:

Loft

Loft refers to the height of the pillow. For side sleepers, a higher loft is typically better. It helps fill the gap between your head and shoulders, keeping your spine aligned. Aim for a pillow with at least a 4-inch loft. Check the pillow’s dimensions online or test it at home by seeing if your head stays in line with your spine.

Firmness

Firmness and loft go hand in hand. A pillow that’s too soft will compress under the weight of your head, losing its loft. Side sleepers generally need a medium-firm to extra firm pillow. This ensures the pillow maintains its shape and supports your head and neck.

Fact: “A high-lofted pillow won’t stay lofty for long if it’s too soft to maintain its shape.”

Support

Support is crucial for side sleepers. Your pillow should keep your head and neck in a neutral position to prevent strain. A pillow with good support will stop your head from sinking below your shoulders and help avoid neck and back pain.

Pressure Relief

While support is important, you also want some pressure relief. If a pillow is too firm, it can cause discomfort around your ears and neck. A medium-firm pillow that offers some cushioning will relieve pressure without letting your head sink too low.

Shape

Standard-shaped pillows work for most side sleepers, but ergonomic designs can offer extra benefits. Pillows with a U-shape or contoured design can cradle your neck and reduce pressure. For example, the Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow features a U-shape that helps with neck pain and alignment.

Cooling

If you tend to sleep hot, look for pillows with cooling features. Materials like latex, gel-infused memory foam, and bamboo covers can help regulate temperature. The Luxome LAYR Pillow is a great example, with its gel-infused memory foam and bamboo viscose cover.

Pillow Wash Care

Consider how easy it is to clean your pillow. Many memory foam pillows are spot-clean only, but some come with removable, machine-washable covers. This makes maintenance easier and extends the life of your pillow. The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow has a machine-washable Tencel-blend cover, which is a big plus.

Fill

The type of fill material affects the pillow’s performance. Here are some common options:
– Memory Foam: Contours to your head and neck but may retain heat.
– Latex: Offers durable, supportive, and cooling properties.
– Down and Feather: Soft and luxurious but may lack support.
– Synthetic: Hypoallergenic and affordable but less durable.

Adjustable Fill

Adjustable pillows let you customize the loft and firmness. You can add or remove fill to find the perfect support for your needs. The Coop Sleep Goods Original Adjustable Pillow allows you to tailor the fill to your preference, making it a versatile option for side sleepers.

Tip: “The best pillows for side sleepers are thick and firm to help maintain spinal alignment at night.”

Choosing the right pillow can make a huge difference in your sleep quality. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about finding the best bed pillows for side sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Bed Pillows for Side Sleepers

What kind of pillow should a side sleeper have?

Side sleepers generally need a high-loft pillow to ensure proper spinal alignment. A high loft fills the gap between your head and shoulders, keeping your spine straight. Aim for a pillow with at least a 4-inch loft to maintain neutral alignment. Firmness is also key; a medium-firm to extra firm pillow will keep its shape and provide the necessary support.

Fact: “A high-lofted pillow won’t stay lofty for long if it’s too soft to maintain its shape.”

Is soft or firm pillows better for side sleepers?

For side sleepers, a firmer pillow is usually better. A firm pillow maintains its loft and supports your head and neck, preventing them from sinking below your shoulders. This helps keep your spine aligned and reduces the risk of neck and back pain. Look for pillows rated medium-firm, firm, or extra firm.

Quote: “Side sleepers need a pillow with a firmer level of support to maintain loft and support the head and neck.”

Do side sleepers need thicker pillows?

Yes, side sleepers often benefit from thicker pillows. A thicker pillow helps fill the space between your head and the mattress, supporting your neck and keeping your spine aligned. This is especially important if you have broad shoulders or sleep on a softer mattress where you sink more.

Tip: “Thicker pillows for side sleepers help fill the space between the head and shoulders, promoting proper alignment.”

Choosing the right pillow can make a huge difference in your sleep quality. Next, we’ll explore how to choose the best pillow for side sleeping.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect pillow as a side sleeper can be a game-changer for your sleep quality. At Yawnder, we specialize in providing expert evaluations to help you find the best bed pillows for side sleepers that meet your specific needs.

Our team has tested and reviewed hundreds of pillows to ensure you get the best recommendations. We focus on key factors like loft, firmness, support, and cooling properties to help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose Yawnder?

• Expert Evaluations: Our experts rigorously test each pillow to ensure it meets the highest standards of comfort and support.
• Perfect Pillow: Whether you need a high-loft, medium-firm, or cooling pillow, we’ve got you covered.
• Direct-to-Door Shipping: Once you’ve made your choice, enjoy the convenience of having your perfect pillow shipped directly to your door.

Ready to find your ideal pillow? Check out our Yawnder Pillow Collection to get started.

Invest in a pillow that supports your side sleeping position and experience the best sleep of your life. We’ve done the hard work so you can rest easy.