The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Body Pillows

08/27/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

Finding Your Perfect Body Pillow for Better Sleep

Looking for the best body pillows to improve your sleep quality and provide targeted body support? You’re in the right place. A great body pillow can alleviate pain, help maintain spinal alignment, and secure comfortable sleep positions through the night. Here’s a quick rundown of our top picks:

Best Overall Body Pillow: Coop Home Goods Body Pillow
Best for Side Sleepers: Pluto Puff Body Pillow
Best for Back Pain: Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow
Best Cooling Body Pillow: Zoma Sleep Body Pillow
Best for Pregnancy: Eli & Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow
Best U-Shaped Body Pillow: Moonlight Comfort-U

We all know how crucial sleep is for our overall wellbeing. As Dr. Robert Hayden aptly explains, “To prevent chronic damage to soft-tissue structures of the body, we must support the body properly during sleep.” For side sleepers especially, a body pillow can be a game-changer by cradling the hips, shoulders, and knees to relieve pressure.

I’m Ben Trapskin, and with a decade in sleep product reviews and a personal journey in finding the best sleep solutions, I aim to help you find the best body pillows. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the standout features and benefits of each top-rated body pillow, ensuring you find the ideal match for your sleep needs.

Benefits of Using a Body Pillow

Using a body pillow can be a game-changer by cradling the hips, shoulders, and knees to relieve pressure. But the benefits go beyond just feeling cozy. Here’s why you should consider adding one to your sleep routine:

Pain Relief

Body pillows are fantastic for easing pain, especially for side sleepers. According to Deborah Riczo, D.P.T., a physical therapist in Parma, Ohio, these pillows support the hip, knee, and ankle of the top leg, reducing strain on the pelvis and lower back. This can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with sciatica or sacroiliac pain.

Spinal Alignment

Proper spinal alignment is crucial for avoiding chronic pain. Chiropractor Dr. Robert Hayden explains that body pillows help maintain good posture while sleeping. They prevent stress points that might otherwise aggravate joints and connective tissue. This is particularly important for side sleepers, as the pillow fills the gap between the neck and mattress, ensuring proper alignment.

Comfort

Body pillows aren’t just about support; they also add a layer of comfort. Sleep psychologist Jennifer Mundt, Ph.D., notes that the sensory aspect of body pillows can be incredibly soothing. Think of it as an adult version of cuddling a stuffed animal. This added comfort can make a significant difference in how restful your sleep feels.

Sleep Quality

Improved sleep quality is one of the most compelling benefits of using a body pillow. A study in Sleep Medicine Research found that body pillows positively impact sleep posture and sleep architecture. By reducing the number of times you toss and turn, these pillows help you stay asleep longer and wake up feeling more refreshed.

Pregnancy Support

For pregnant women, body pillows are almost a necessity. They provide the extra support needed to accommodate a growing belly and relieve pressure from the back and hips. Holley recommends C-shaped body pillows for their ability to support multiple body areas, making them ideal for pregnancy.

Summary Table

Benefit	Description	Expert Insight
Pain Relief	Eases pain in hips, knees, and lower back	Deborah Riczo, D.P.T.
Spinal Alignment	Maintains good posture and prevents stress points	Dr. Robert Hayden
Comfort	Adds a layer of soothing comfort, similar to cuddling a stuffed animal	Jennifer Mundt, Ph.D.
Sleep Quality	Improves sleep posture and reduces tossing and turning	Study in Sleep Medicine Research
Pregnancy Support	Provides necessary support for a growing belly and relieves pressure	Holley

As you can see, a body pillow offers numerous benefits that can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Next, let’s explore how to choose the best body pillow for your specific needs.

How to Choose the Best Body Pillow

Choosing the best body pillow depends on several key factors. Let’s break them down to help you make the right decision.

Size

Assess your bed space and body size.

A larger pillow, like the Coop Home Goods Body Pillow, might be perfect for a queen or king-size bed. If you share your bed, consider a smaller option like the Zoma Sleep Body Pillow to ensure it doesn’t crowd your partner.

Fill

Different fills offer different benefits.

Memory Foam: Provides excellent support and contours to your body. Ideal for those with neck or back pain.
Down Alternative: Mimics the softness of down but is hypoallergenic and usually more affordable.
Latex: Durable and supportive, great for allergy sufferers but can be heavier and more expensive.

Weight

Consider how easy it is to move the pillow.

Lighter pillows filled with polyester are easier to adjust and move around. Heavier memory foam pillows offer more support but can be cumbersome to shift.

Shape

The shape should match your sleeping needs.

Straight Pillows: Versatile and suitable for various sleeping positions.
U-Shaped and C-Shaped: Provide full-body support, great for pregnancy or those needing extra back and neck support.
J-Shaped: Compact and supports both the head and knees, ideal for those with limited bed space.

Pressure Relief

Look for pillows that distribute weight evenly.

Body pillows like the Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow are designed to relieve pressure points, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing aches and pains.

Firmness Level

Choose a firmness that suits your comfort.

Soft: Good for stomach sleepers or those who prefer a plush feel.
Medium: Offers a balance of support and softness, suitable for most sleepers.
Firm: Ideal for side sleepers or those needing extra support to keep their spine aligned.

Sleep Position

Your sleeping position determines the type of support you need.

Side Sleepers: Benefit from a firmer pillow that keeps the spine aligned.
Back Sleepers: Might prefer a medium-firm pillow that supports the neck and back.
Stomach Sleepers: A softer, flatter pillow prevents neck strain.

Washability

Easy-to-clean pillows are a must.

Look for pillows with removable, machine-washable covers. Some options, like the Oubonun Body Pillow, can be washed entirely, fill and all.

Return Window

Make sure you can try before you commit.

Many brands offer sleep trials, like the 100-night trial from Coop Home Goods. This allows you to test the pillow to ensure it meets your needs. Check for warranties as well, which can protect your investment.

By considering these factors, you can find the best body pillow that offers the comfort and support you need for a restful night’s sleep. Next, we’ll dive into our top picks for the best body pillows of 2024.

The Best Body Pillows of 2024

Best Overall Body Pillow

Coop Home Goods Body Pillow

The Coop Home Goods Body Pillow stands out as our top pick for its adjustable fill and exceptional comfort. This pillow is filled with shredded memory foam, allowing you to add or remove foam to suit your sleep style. The cover is made of a breathable bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester blend, which keeps you cool throughout the night.

What we like:

Adjustable fill: Customize the pillow to your preferred firmness.
Washable cover: Easy to keep clean.
Supportive and snuggly: Great for any body type.

What we don’t like:

Initial odor: Strong smell out of the box, but it fades after a few days.
Bulky: May not be ideal for those with limited bed space.

Best for Side Sleepers

Pluto Puff Body Pillow

For side sleepers, the Pluto Puff Body Pillow is a game-changer. Its flexibility and softness make it incredibly comfortable. The pillow is also breathable, ensuring you stay cool all night.

What we like:

Extremely supportive: Perfect for side and back sleepers.
Soft and comforting feel: Provides excellent hug-ability.
Stays cool: Breathable materials prevent overheating.

What we don’t like:

Size: Might be too big for smaller beds.
Heavy: Can be cumbersome to move around.

Best for Back Pain

Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow

The Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow is ideal for those suffering from back pain. Made from a solid piece of slow-sinking memory foam, it conforms to your body, providing targeted pressure relief.

Best Cooling Body Pillow

Zoma Sleep Body Pillow

If you’re a hot sleeper, the Zoma Sleep Body Pillow is your best bet. It features shredded gel memory foam that regulates temperature, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep.

What we like:

Temperature regulation: Keeps you cool all night.
Shredded gel memory foam: Provides both support and comfort.
Breathable cover: Improves cooling effect.

What we don’t like:

Firmness: May be too firm for some users.
Price: On the higher end.

Best for Pregnancy

Eli & Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow

Expecting mothers will love the Eli & Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow. Its ergonomic design and adjustable fill offer the perfect support for a growing belly.

What we like:

Ergonomic design: Supports belly, hips, and back.
Adjustable fill: Customize to your comfort level.
Washable cover: Easy to clean.

What we don’t like:

Size: Can be cumbersome in smaller beds.
Price: More expensive than other options.

Best U-Shaped Body Pillow

Moonlight Comfort-U

The Moonlight Comfort-U provides full-body support, making it perfect for anyone needing extra comfort. Made from hypoallergenic materials, it’s safe for all sleepers.

What we like:

Full-body support: Wraps around your entire body.
Hypoallergenic: Safe for allergy sufferers.
Versatile: Can be used in various sleeping positions.

What we don’t like:

Space: Takes up a lot of room in the bed.
Weight: Can be heavy to move.

Other Noteworthy Body Pillows

Best Budget Option

Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow

If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality body pillow, the Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow is your best bet. Priced at around $60 on Amazon, it’s a budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort.

Key Features:

Memory Foam: The shredded memory foam fill molds pleasantly to your body, offering a good balance of support and squishiness.
Washable: Both hand-washable and machine-washable, making it easy to keep clean.
Durability: Comes with an impressive 20-year warranty, ensuring long-lasting use.

What we like:

Affordability: Great value for the price.
Comfort: Memory foam provides decent support.
Easy to Clean: Machine-washable for convenience.

What we don’t like:

Fill Migration: Needs continuous fluffing to maintain its shape.

Most Innovative Design

Buffy Wiggle Pillow

For those who appreciate eco-friendly products, the Buffy Wiggle Pillow is a standout. Priced at $60, it’s made with sustainable materials and offers a unique design that’s versatile and comfortable.

Key Features:

Eco-Friendly: Made with a cotton lyocell shell and filled with recycled PET, each pillow recycles about 73 plastic bottles.
Versatile: Ideal for side, stomach, and back sleepers.
Cooling: The eucalyptus cover is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking.

What we like:

Sustainability: Uses recycled and hypoallergenic materials.
Comfort: Soft and cooling, great for hot sleepers.
Trial Period: Comes with a 7-night free trial and a 50-night return policy.

What we don’t like:

Support: May not offer enough firmness for everyone.
Cover: Not removable, making it harder to wash.

Best for Lower Back Pain

Back Support Systems Body Pillow

If you suffer from lower back pain, the Back Support Systems Body Pillow could be your ideal solution. Its ergonomic J-shape is designed to provide targeted support where you need it most.

Key Features:

Ergonomic J-Shape: Specifically designed to support the lower back and spine.
Shredded Memory Foam: Offers firm yet comfortable support.
Durability: High-quality materials ensure long-lasting support.

What we like:

Targeted Support: Excellent for lower back pain relief.
Comfort: Memory foam conforms to your body’s shape.
Effectiveness: Many users report significant pain relief.

What we don’t like:

Cover: Doesn’t come with a cover, and the matching one costs extra.
Price: More expensive than some other options.

Best for Hip Pain

Tuft & Needle Body Pillow

For those dealing with hip pain, the Tuft & Needle Body Pillow is a great option. Its contouring foam balances coziness and support, making it ideal for hip alignment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Body Pillows

How do body pillows help with sleep quality?

Body pillows can be a game-changer for sleep quality. They provide support, align the spine, and relieve pressure points.

Pain Relief: Many people use body pillows to alleviate pain in the shoulders, hips, and back. Dr. Robert Hayden, a chiropractor, says, “To prevent chronic damage to soft-tissue structures of the body, we must support the body properly during sleep.”

Spinal Alignment: Body pillows help maintain proper spinal alignment, which is crucial for preventing and alleviating pain. According to Dr. Harris, “Body pillows supply extra support to the knees and align the spine, reducing hip and lower back strain.”

Comfort: Beyond physical benefits, body pillows offer a comforting, snuggly experience. This can help reduce stress and improve overall sleep quality.

What is the best body pillow for side sleepers?

For side sleepers, the Pluto Puff Body Pillow and the Coop Home Goods Body Pillow are top choices.

Pluto Puff Body Pillow: Specifically designed for side sleepers, this pillow is flexible, soft, and breathable. It supports the knees and spine, reducing strain on the hips and lower back.

Coop Home Goods Body Pillow: This pillow is highly adjustable, allowing you to add or remove shredded memory foam to suit your needs. It’s also hypoallergenic and CertiPUR-US certified, making it a safe and supportive option.

Both options provide excellent support and comfort, helping side sleepers maintain proper alignment and reduce pressure points.

Are body pillows good for back pain?

Yes, body pillows are very effective for back pain relief. The Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow and the Back Support Systems Body Pillow are particularly good choices.

Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow: Made from a single piece of memory foam, this pillow offers excellent pressure relief and support. It conforms to the body’s curves, cradling the hips, shoulders, and knees to reduce back pain.

Back Support Systems Body Pillow: This pillow features an ergonomic J-shape and is filled with shredded memory foam. It targets and reinforces specific areas, especially the lower back, to alleviate tension and pain.

Using these body pillows can help maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce the pressure on your back, leading to a more comfortable and pain-free sleep.

Conclusion

At Yawnder, we are committed to helping you find the best body pillows to improve your sleep quality. Our expert evaluations are grounded in extensive research and personal testing. We understand that a perfect mattress and bedding setup can significantly improve your sleep experience.

Whether you’re looking for a pillow to alleviate pain, support your pregnancy, or simply provide extra comfort, our curated list covers a variety of needs. From the versatile Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow to the innovative Buffy Wiggle Pillow, there’s something for everyone.

We also value convenience. That’s why all our products, including body pillows, come with direct-to-door shipping. This ensures you can start enjoying better sleep as soon as possible.

For more information and to explore our full range of premium bed pillows, visit our Yawnder Pillow Collection.

By choosing the right body pillow, you can transform your sleep quality, alleviate pain, and wake up feeling refreshed. Trust Yawnder to guide you to the perfect night’s sleep.