Let’s talk about the best pillow for side sleepers. You know the feeling: You wake up with a crick in your neck or a sore shoulder. As a side sleeper, your pillow needs to do more than just cushion your head. It needs to fill the space between your ear and shoulder to support proper spinal alignment. If your current pillow isn’t cutting it, it might be time to invest in one designed specifically for side sleeping.
This process can feel like entering a world of endless choices. But don’t worry, this article breaks down everything you need to know about choosing the best pillow for side sleepers.
Table of Contents:
- Why Side Sleepers Need Special Pillows
- Types of Side Sleeper Pillows
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pillow
- Finding Your Perfect Pillow
- FAQs about Best Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Conclusion
Why Side Sleepers Need Special Pillows
When you sleep on your side, your head needs to be properly elevated to align with your spine. This helps prevent neck pain and makes for a much more comfortable sleep. Side sleepers, however, often struggle to find a comfortable position.
This is because standard pillows aren’t tall enough to properly fill the gap between your shoulder and neck. This misalignment can cause strain. A good side sleeper pillow provides enough support and loft to keep your spine aligned while allowing your neck and shoulders to relax.
Benefits of a Side Sleeper Pillow
- Reduced neck pain: A side-sleeper pillow offers the right amount of support to keep your head and neck in alignment. Side-sleeper pillows are crafted to keep your spine in a neutral position, helping reduce discomfort in the morning.
- Improved sleep quality: When you sleep more comfortably, you sleep better. A good pillow can make a big difference.
- Pressure relief: Certain types of side sleeper pillows, like memory foam, conform to your body, helping relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips.
Types of Side Sleeper Pillows
Side sleeper pillows come in various materials, shapes, and sizes. Here are some common types and their advantages and disadvantages:
Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam molds to the shape of your head and neck, providing personalized support.
Pros
- Excellent pressure relief.
- Conforms to your body shape.
- Often comes in different loft options.
Cons
- Can sleep hot (look for pillows with cooling gel or ventilation).
- Might have a slight odor when new.
I’ve used Snuggle-Pedic ’s adjustable cooling pillow, a memory foam pillow, for years and really appreciate its features. This one has lasted a long time, so I know it’s durable. Plus, I love that you can customize the amount of fill.
Down or Down Alternative Pillows
Down pillows offer a luxuriously soft and fluffy feel. Down alternative pillows are typically filled with synthetic fibers. These pillows provide a similar feel to down pillows, but are often more hypoallergenic.
Pros
- Soft and comfortable.
- Moldable.
- Often lighter than other pillows.
Cons
- Can flatten over time, requiring fluffing.
- Down alternatives aren’t as durable.
WIRED reviewer Julian Chokkattu sleeps with the Honeydew Scrumptious side sleeper pillow, which offers copper-infused foam fill. He raves about its firmness and coolness. Julian’s wife enjoys this pillow as well.
Latex Pillows
Latex pillows are made from natural rubber sap. These pillows provide buoyant support and are known for being naturally hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant.
Pros
- Responsive and springy feel.
- Naturally hypoallergenic.
- Durable.
Cons
- Can be heavier and firmer than down.
Buckwheat Pillows
Buckwheat pillows consist of hulls from buckwheat seeds. These pillows offer a unique, adjustable feel.
Pros
- Adjustable loft and firmness.
- Naturally cool and breathable.
Cons
- Noisy when shifting positions.
- Heavy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pillow
Finding the right pillow involves more than just choosing a material or type. Here are some additional factors that make a difference for side sleepers:
Loft
Loft refers to the pillow’s height. It is a key factor in proper alignment and can help alleviate neck and back discomfort for side sleepers. If a pillow is too high, you’ll be looking up at the ceiling and stressing your neck. Too low, on the other hand, means sinking down without proper support.
Look for pillows designed for side sleepers; they’re usually thicker. If you can test out pillows in-store, experiment by laying your head on them to feel the loft.
Firmness
The pillow’s firmness is a matter of personal preference. Consider your sleep style and preferences to see what is best for you. Side sleepers tend to prefer firm pillows because they offer ample support.
Some people prefer soft pillows because they find them to be cozy. Just remember to ensure your pillow still maintains good support to avoid waking up with a sore neck. Look for brands like Coop or Snuggle-Pedic, which let you adjust the firmness level.
Material
We discussed the common pillow materials already. Memory foam is a favorite of mine for pressure relief and support, but consider down or a down alternative if you prefer a softer feel. Hypoallergenic pillows are good if you have allergies. Thebest latex pillows use a natural material that offers comfort.
Sleeping Position
Even though this article focuses on side sleeping, people often shift positions throughout the night. If you’re a combination sleeper, a pillow that is versatile is key. Opt for an adjustable pillow as it can cater to your different sleeping positions by easily adding or removing filling.
Shape
The classic rectangular shape is most common. But contoured pillows, which are designed for side sleepers, can provide better neck support and pressure point relief. For example, Apartment Therapy reviewers loved a pillow with a cutout for side sleepers from Coop Sleep Goods, raving about its coolness and added support. Experimenting to see what suits you best is important.
Contoured pillows may require specific pillowcases to fit the unique shape, so be prepared.
Additional Features
These days, you can even find pillows with bonus features. Look for cooling fabrics, moisture-wicking materials (perfect for hot sleepers), or removable covers. Some pillowcases even incorporate features like antimicrobial treatments.
Finding Your Perfect Pillow
Once you know what types of pillows you like, it’s time to shop. You may find many manufacturers, including big brands like Casper and Purple , offering sleep trials, letting you try out the pillow at home. Returns and exchanges ensure you don’t end up stuck with an uncomfortable pillow. Always check for warranties when purchasing.
Online reviews can provide insight into other people’s experiences. A popular pillow may be highly rated on sites like Amazon, although keep in mind each person has their own preferences. For an easy buying experience, try well-known brands like those featured in guides on the Sleepopolis site.
FAQs about Best Pillow for Side Sleepers
What type of pillow should a side sleeper use?
The type of pillow a side sleeper should use depends on personal preference. Many side sleepers choose memory foam for support. A down or down alternative pillow can offer a plush, soft feel. It just depends on your sleeping habits, what feels most comfortable, and whether or not you need features like hypoallergenic material.
What pillows do chiropractors recommend for side sleepers?
Chiropractors often suggest pillows that maintain proper spinal alignment. They tend to recommend a medium to firm pillow that keeps the neck and head aligned. Look for contour pillows, which sometimes come with recommendations from chiropractors, offering a specific ergonomic design.
Which My Pillow is good for side sleepers?
My Pillow doesn’t specifically market a particular pillow to side sleepers. While their classic adjustable pillow allows changing the amount of fill, its overall height might not be sufficient for all side sleepers. Consider brands with designs specifically tailored for side sleepers with good loft, as these would be more likely to suit you.
What is the #1 rated pillow?
The number one best pillow for side sleepers doesn’t exist because everyone has unique needs. While some pillows are very popular, look for high-rated pillows, focusing on reviews from people with similar preferences as yours, to find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pillow is crucial for your quality of sleep. Remember, what works best is different for every person, so it will take some trial and error to figure out the best pillow for you. Pay attention to customer reviews to see if others agree with the marketing claims. Investing in the best pillow for you as a side sleeper will make waking up with neck or shoulder pain a thing of the past, and make sure you get a restful sleep.