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9 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers 2022 For Pain Relief & More

Medically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT, Physical Therapy — By Corey Whelan and Steph Coelho — Updated on September 29, 2022Share on PinterestIf you frequently sleep on your side, you’re going to want to invest in one of these pillows.We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

A quick look at the best pillows for side sleepers

Best firm pillow for side sleepers with neck pain: TEMPUR-NeckBest soft pillow for side sleepers with neck pain: Saatva Latex PillowBest pillow for side sleepers with shoulder pain: Honeydew Scrumptious Side Sleeper PillowBest organic pillow for side sleepers with shoulder pain: Sleep Artisan Side Sleeper PillowBest adjustable pillow for side sleepers: Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft PillowBest cooling pillow for side sleepers: TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling PillowBest budget pillow for side sleepers: I AM A Side Sleeper PillowMost supportive pillow for side sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex PillowBest knee pillow for side sleepers: Coop Home Goods Knee Pillow You may not think of posture as something to consider during sleep. But as a side sleeper, it’s important to keep your head, neck, and back aligned to avoid pain and stiffness. If you’re sleeping on an old or worn-out pillow, headaches, a sore neck, and shoulder or back pain may result. You may also experience numbness in your arm. Choosing a pillow with the right amount of height and firmness can keep your neck and spine in proper alignment, leading to better sleep and pain-free mornings.

How we chose the best pillows for side sleepers

We chose these pillows specifically because of their benefits for side sleepers. We looked at each pillow’s:quality of materials and constructionheightadjustabilityfirmnessease of cleaning We also:analyzed customer reviews gauged manufacturer transparencyconsidered price, keeping budget constraints in mind

How we pick our products

Each of the products on our list has been carefully vetted by our content integrity team to make sure it adheres to our medical and business standards. Learn more here.

Pricing guide

$ = under $65$$ = $65–$100$$$ = over $100

Healthline s picks of the best pillows for side sleepers

Best firm pillow for side sleepers with neck pain

TEMPUR-Neck

Price: $$$Customer rating: 4 out of 5 starsFirmness: extra firmMaterial: Tempur-Pedic’s proprietary materialThe TEMPUR-Neck pillow is extra firm and ergonomically contoured to cushion and support your head, neck, and shoulder. While it’s a good idea to choose a pillow that keeps your head 3 to 4 inches above your mattress, there are three TEMPUR-Neck size options (small, medium, and large) to help you find an elevation you’re most comfortable with. This pillow comes with a removable machine washable cover and a 5-year limited warranty. A travel-size version lets you bring the same features with you, even when you’re far from home.

Pros

designed by doctors for proper support and alignment memory foam offers extra firm support and comfortable contouringavailable in three sizes: small, medium, and largebreathable and removable coverdouble stitched seams ensure durability5-year limited warranty

Cons

higher price point memory foam can feel too hard for some best for back sleepers and may offer less support for side sleepers memory foam is not washableslight chemical smell upon openingShop now at Tempur-Pedic

Best soft pillow for side sleepers with neck pain

Saatva Latex Pillow

Price: $$$Customer rating: 4 out of 5 starsFirmness: softMaterial: latexIf you prefer the feeling of a soft pillow, you may enjoy this pillow from Saatva. It provides cushioning and softness but also support, making it a good choice for alleviating neck pain. It has a dense feel that many side sleepers like, according to the reviews. The fill is made from hypoallergenic, eco-friendly, shredded latex. This fill helps to promote airflow, making this pillow a good choice for hot sleepers, including those dealing with menopausal hot flashes. The pillow has a cotton cover over the fill, plus a machine-washable outer cover.

Pros

organic and hypoallergenic100% cotton, washable cover that wicks heat or moistureplush feel with supportive core 45 days to return the pillow for a full refund

Cons

higher price point has a lumpy core feel, according to some users may not fit standard pillowcase Shop now at SaatvaFrequently experience neck pain?For more options, consider these pillows for neck pain.

Best pillow for side sleepers with shoulder pain

Honeydew Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow

Price: $$$Customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars Firmness: firmMaterial: copper-infused foam and microgel fiber This handmade pillow has a curved side and is tall enough to help you avoid hunching your shoulder up too close to your ear. This helps maintain neutral spinal alignment during sleep. The ribbon edging helps the pillow resist bunching and sagging so that it maintains its height and shape. It has a hidden zipper along one seam, so you can adjust the amount of fill you’re comfortable sleeping on. The fill is made from copper-infused foam and micro-gel fiber, which helps maintain a cool temperature. It’s made in the United States by the Honeydew Sleep Company (formerly Drift). Users like their good customer service and the 60-day risk-free trial with free return shipping. Some users complain that the pillow has a smell for several days after opening. Others dislike the need to only buy pillowcases made specifically for this pillow.

Pros

consistent feel without lumps intended for side sleepers, but it works well for back sleepers as well family-owned company and made by hand in Californiarisk-free 60-day trial

Cons

won’t fit standard pillowcasesfill must be removed before washingslight chemical smell upon openingShop now at Amazon

Best organic pillow for side sleepers with shoulder pain

Sleep Artisan Side Sleeper Pillow

Price: $$$Customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars Firmness: adjustableMaterial: organic cotton and hempIf you’re looking for a green pillow that’s specifically made for side sleepers, you may enjoy the Sleep Artisan Side Sleeper Pillow. It has an ergonomic design that protects the neck and shoulder from cramping, plus it’s handcrafted in the United States with organic cotton and hemp. The fill is made from organic latex and poly silk. Users like this pillow’s complete lack of chemical smell. They also like how easy it is to adjust the amount of fill in the pillow to a preferred height. Unlike other pillows with a curved side, this pillow fits comfortably into a standard pillowcase. The manufacturer provides a 3-year warranty.

Pros

30-day at-home trialadjustable thicknessbreathable and moisture wickingno chemical odorhandmade in Californiaoffers support for those who sleep on both their side and back

Cons

fill must be removed before washingmay lack support for stomach sleeperstexture of filling was uncomfortable for some usersShop now at Amazon

Best adjustable pillow for side sleepers

Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow

Price: $$Customer rating: 4 out of 5 starsFirmness: adjustableMaterial: memory foamMany people are mostly side sleepers who also sleep on their backs or stomachs at varying points during the night. If that’s you, you might appreciate that this pillow lets you choose the amount of fill you’re most comfortable with, allowing you to individualize firmness and height. It comes stuffed with the amount of fill recommended for side sleepers. It also comes with an extra 1/2-pound bag of hypoallergenic memory foam fill, so you can tailor the pillow’s loft to what’s comfortable for you. You can easily adjust this pillow to accommodate a combination of sleeping positions. This makes it a good choice for stomach sleepers as well. It’s CertiPUR-US and Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it contains no toxins or harmful chemicals. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free. It has a removable outer cover that’s easy to machine wash. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty.

Pros

adjustable thicknessaffordable price pointfully washable 100-night trial and 5-year warranty

Cons

foam fill retains heatnoticeable chemical smell upon openingavailable in king or queen but not standard Shop now at Amazon

Best cooling pillow for side sleepers

TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow

Price: $$$Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Firmness: medium firmMaterial: memory foamThis medium-firm pillow has a memory foam core surrounded by cooling gel. Users like that the memory foam adapts to their head shape and neck curvature. It provides neck and head support for side sleepers but is also recommended for back and stomach sleepers. This pillow’s cover is removable and machine washable. You can also refresh and plump the pillow in a dryer on the low setting, as needed.

Pros

5-year limited warrantymachine-washable coverdual-sided cooling technology

Cons

higher price pointno trial period may lack support for stomach sleepersnoticeable smell upon openingShop now at Tempur-Pedic

Best budget pillow for side sleepers

I AM A Side Sleeper Pillow

Price: $Customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars Firmness: firmMaterial: polyester fiberfillThis medium-density pillow has a polyester fiberfill and provides firm support. If you like your pillow to have a solid feel and the ability to maintain a high lift for your head, you’ll like this pillow. It’s made from cotton and can be machine washed and dried. Some users find it too firm. Others love that it never loses its shape.

Pros

can be machine washed and dried affordable price point maintains original shape

Cons

too firm for some users lumpy filling over time, according to some usersavailable in king or queen but not standard Shop now at Amazon

Best supportive pillow for side sleepers

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow

Price: $$Customer rating: 4 out of 5 starsFirmness: medium firmMaterial: latex foamIf you hate the sinking feeling of memory foam, opt for a pillow made of latex foam instead. Supportive natural latex helps cradle the head and neck while you rest easy on your side. The organic cotton cover is said to be breathable, easy to clean, and soft to the touch. The pillow is also hypoallergenic and available in a low or high loft. High is likely the best choice for side sleepers. Side sleepers like that the pillow provides plenty of neck support without being too firm. A handful of customers also appreciate that it doesn’t sleep hot like memory foam. The brand offers free shipping, a 30-night trial, and a 3-year warranty.

Pros

30-night trial and 3-year warrantyhypoallergenic and available in low or high loft moisture-wicking material designed to keep you cool no toxic or harmful chemicals within the material

Cons

latex core is not washable slight smell upon openingat only 1″, no significant difference between the low loft and the high loft optionsShop now at Brooklyn Bedding

Best knee pillow for side sleepers

Coop Home Goods Knee Pillow

Price: $Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 starsFirmness: extra firmMaterial: memory foamSide sleepers may benefit from sleeping with an extra pillow between their knees. This can help better align the spine. This adjustable knee pillow is ergonomically shaped for comfort. It’s designed to help side sleepers create more space between the legs. More space helps reduce hip pressure and maintain proper spinal alignment. The pillow cover is made from polyester and bamboo-derived rayon and can be hand-washed. The fill is all CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane memory foam. It’s hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. This pillow comes with a removable foam insert, so you can control the pillow’s thickness and density. You can’t wash the fill or the insert. The manufacturer provides a 100-night sleep trial and return window if the pillow doesn’t work for you, as well as a 5-year limited warranty.

Pros

removable 1-inch insertaffordable price pointmachine-washable cover fill is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites tends to retain its shape well100-night sleep trial

Cons

retains heat according to some usersmay not be firm enough for somenoticeable smell upon openingShop now at Coop Home Goods

Still searching for the right sleep products

Let us help. Shop our top picks for pillows by condition or sleep position to get the sound sleep you deserve.

A comparison of the best pillows for side sleepers

PillowPriceCustomer ratingFirmnessMaterialTEMPUR-Neck$$$4 out of 5 starsextra firmTempur-Pedic’s proprietary materialSaatva Latex Pillow$$$4 out of 5 starssoftlatexHoneydew Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow $$$5 out of 5 stars firmcopper-infused foam and microgel fiberSleep Artisan Side Sleeper Pillow$$$4 out of 5 stars adjustableorganic cotton and hempCoop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow$$4 out of 5 starsadjustablememory foamTEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow$$$4.5 out of 5 stars medium firmmemory foamI AM A Side Sleeper Pillow$3.5 out of 5 stars firmpolyester fiberfillBrooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow$$4 out of 5 starsmedium firmlatex foamCoop Home Goods Knee Pillow$4.5 out of 5 starsextra firmmemory foam

How to choose a pillow as a side sleeper

To best keep your head, neck, and back in neutral alignment, look for a medium-firm to extra-firm pillow that keeps your head around 3 to 4 inches above the mattress. Pillows that have wide side gussets are better at maintaining this height over time. You may also want to look for a pillow that won’t go flat over time. If you’re looking to avoid certain chemicals, like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), look for brands whose pillows use CertiPUR-US or Greenguard Gold certified materials to narrow down your options.

What material is best for side sleepers

The ideal pillow material for side sleepers is medium-firm to extra-firm rather than soft. Down and down alternatives may be too soft for those who sleep mostly on their sides. Foam, like latex and memory foam, offers a more supportive surface for side sleepers. Keep in mind, though, that your preference also plays a part. Despite being fans of side sleeping, some people prefer softer, down-filled pillows and sleep with two pillows instead of one.

What size pillow is best for side sleepers

The best size pillow for you depends mainly on your size and body type. Ideally, the pillow’s height should put your neck in a position that keeps the spine properly aligned. For most people, the ideal pillow height for side sleeping is about 4 inches or thicker. One small 2015 study even suggests that 10 centimeters, or about 4 inches, is the most suitable pillow height overall.

Benefits of sleeping on your side

According to a 2017 study, adults tend to spend the majority of their sleep time on their sides. When done right, sleeping on your side can promote proper spinal alignment and prevent or reduce aches and pains. Using a supportive pillow that gently cradles your neck, as well as a pillow between your knees, can help keep your spine in alignment. Another important benefit of sleeping on your side is reduced snoring.

Tips for cleaning your pillow

Check the care instructions. Pillows come with care instructions from the manufacturer. You can usually find these with the pillow, online on the manufacturer’s website, or by contacting the manufacturer’s customer service department. Following these instructions can help ensure your pillow its longest life.Know the washing recommendations. Don’t machine wash a pillow that can only be spot cleaned. Doing so may result in clumping and bumps that make it impossible to sleep on. Memory foam and latex pillows often come with a do-not-wash warning.Use the dryer instead. Instead of washing, some pillows can be sanitized and plumped in a dryer.Use a stain remover. Using a stain remover can help you gently spot clean any pillow that can’t be washed. Use a pillow cover. Using a removable, washable pillow protector will help keep your pillow cleaner for a longer period of time.Replace them. When buying, keep in mind that even the most expensive pillow isn’t meant to last forever. To avoid sleeping on allergy triggers such as dust mites, mold, and dead skin cells, replace your pillows after around 18 months. If you use a pillow protector, this time span may be extended.

Frequently asked questions about pillows for side sleepers

What types of pillows are best for side sleepers

The best pillows for side sleepers are medium-firm to extra-firm pillows made of memory foam or latex foam.

How firm should your pillow be if you re a side sleeper

It’ll depend on your body size, but typically, medium-firm pillows work well for side sleepers. They provide the right balance of comfort and neck support.

How often should you replace your pillow

You should replace your pillow when it no longer feels comfortable to you or when it goes flat very easily.

Takeaway

Side sleepers typically benefit from sleeping on a medium-firm to an extra-firm pillow that has a 3- to 4-inch loft. A pillow made from memory foam or latex may hold its height and shape longer than one made from polyester or down. Last medically reviewed on September 30, 2022

How we vetted this article

SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Jeon MY, et al. (2014). Improving the quality of sleep with an optimal pillow: A randomized, comparative study.
jstage.jst.go.jp/article/tjem/233/3/233_183/_html/-char/enKim HC, et al. (2015). The effect of different pillow heights on the parameters of cervicothoracic spine segments.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4623167/Skarpsno ES, et al. (2017). Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: Association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms.
dovepress.com/sleep-positions-and-nocturnal-body-movements-based-on-free-living-acce-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-NSSSon J, et al. (2020). A survey of Koreans on sleep habits and sleeping symptoms relating to pillow comfort and support.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6981530/Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 30, 2022 By Corey Whelan, Steph Coelho Edited By Mellanie Perez Medically Reviewed By Gregory Minnis, DPT Copy Edited By Sara Giusti Mar 7, 2022 By Corey Whelan, Steph Coelho Edited By Melissa Lee Medically Reviewed By Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN Copy Edited By Delores Smith-Johnson VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT, Physical Therapy — By Corey Whelan and Steph Coelho — Updated on September 29, 2022

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