Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow
The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow is a latex pillow available in high and low loft.
Best Pillows for Side Sleepers
Your guide to the best pillows for side sleepers.
Written by Becca Fair, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Although around 70 percent of adults sleep on their sides, it is still a tiresome battle to find the right pillow for this position. While back sleepers and stomach sleepers can get by on low-loft or thin pillows, many side sleepers require a specific amount of support to avoid neck pain and discomfort.
The ideal pillow for side sleepers will fill the gap between your ear and shoulder, aligning the spine. Medium-loft and high-loft bed pillows tend to do the best job at this, but there are other factors to consider. This list includes your weight, shoulder width, and personal preferences.
We’ve rounded up the best pillows for side sleepers in 2023, at a variety of price points. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide at the bottom of the article with tips on how to choose the best side sleeper pillow for your body type.
And if you’re looking for a new mattress while you’re at it, here’s our top mattress picks for side sleepers.
Bottom Line: What’s the Best Pillow for Side Sleepers?
Our experts chose the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex pillow as the Nerd’s Pick for the best pillow for side sleepers due to its cooling features, responsive surface, and affordability.
Best Pillows for Side Sleepers
- Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow – Nerd’s Pick
- Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow – Best Cotton Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Layla Kapok Pillow – Best Cooling Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Saatva Latex Pillow – Best Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Helix Side Sleeper Pillow – Best King Sized Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Lagoon Otter Pillow – Best Durable Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Pillow Cube Sidekick – Best for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain
- Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow – Best Adjustable Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Coop Sleep Goods Pillow – Best Memory Foam Pillow for Side Sleepers
- Tuft & Needle Pillow – Best Pillow for Side & Back Sleepers
Watch Our Review
Want to see some of our favorite pillows for side sleepers in action? Mattress Nerd’s sleep experts Loren and Becca walk you through each pick.
Chosen by Experts and Advocates
To put together this list of the best pillows for side sleepers, our Certified Sleep Science Coaches performed live testing. This includes elements like pressure relief, head and neck support, and firmness level.
Nerd’s Pick: Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex
4.70 / 5
Pros of the Talalay Latex Pillow
Multiple size and height options
Reasonably priced
Latex material is great for cooling and responsiveness
Cons of the Talalay Latex Pillow
Not adjustable
The Talalay Latex pillow from Brooklyn Bedding is a standout amongst the rest because of its simple, yet unique design that accommodates hot sleepers, combination sleepers, and those with allergies. Latex is a great bedding material because its breathable, bouncy, and mite resistant. You don’t have to worry about sweating, neck pain, or any unwanted bacteria while sleeping!
Brooklyn Bedding claims that those with an allergy latex are still able to use this pillow. According to their site, the brand says the latex insert and cover are designed to be hypoallergenic, and are suited for those with allergies because the latex is natural and not synthetic. Plus, Brooklyn Bedding backs up the quality of their product with great policies: a 30-night trial and 3-year limited warranty.
How We Select the Nerd’s Pick
Our Nerd’s Pick is always based on the sleep product we think works for the widest range of people. We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex pillow as our best overall option because we’re fans of its construction but and think the price point is hard to beat given the quality. Plus, you can choose between two heigh options to accommodate more body types, without the mess or confusion of a loose fill pillow that offers the same level of personalization. While we think this is the best option for side sleepers looking for a new pillow, we encourage you to read the rest of our mini-reviews to see if another option on our list suits your preferences better.
What our testers say: “Latex pillows are great for just about everyone. Brooklyn Bedding created the perfect cooling, responsive, and relatively affordable option with their Talalay Latex pillow!” – Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Talalay Latex Pillow
- Those with allergies – Talalay latex is naturally hypoallergenic
- Hot Sleepers – latex is a great material for hot sleepers because it doesn’t trap body heat
- Combination sleepers – the responsive surface will make transiting from one sleeping position to another very easy
Who Might Not Like the Talalay Latex Pillow
- Down Feather pillow lovers – this option won’t be plush or soft
Other User Reviews
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Talalay Latex pillow scored a 4.7 out of 5 based on over 1,600 user reviews.
Best Cotton Pillow for Side Sleepers: Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow
Eli & Elm Side-Sleeper Pillow
Mattress Nerd Score
4.30 / 5
Pros of the Eli & Elm Pillow
Specifically designed for side sleepers
Adjustable construction for personalization
May alleviate neck pain and promote spinal alignment
Cons of the Eli & Elm Pillow
Not the most budget friendly option
Have to buy additional fill separately
The Eli & Elm Cotton Side Sleeper pillow contains cotton, latex, and polyester. It has a removable cover that can be machine washed and dried. While the materials are great callouts, the Eli & Elm pillow’s main feature is its unique ergonomic shape that perfectly suits the needs of side sleepers.
Rather than a classic rectangular shape, the Eli & Elm has an ergonomic crescent shape. The space in the middle allows your shoulder to rest comfortably up against the pillow while your head and neck lie snugly on top. This results in better contouring and may help achieve proper neck and spine alignment while you sleep on your side.
What our testers say: “Cotton pillows are as traditional as they come. For those who want a modern take on an OG pillow material, check out the Eli & Elm option.” – Samantha, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Eli & Elm Pillow
- Those who want a traditional cotton feel: cotton is known for its soft feel and washability
- Side and back sleepers – the ergonomic design perfectly suits suits that stick to side and back sleeping
- Those looking for custom firmness – the adjustable fill allows you to manipulate the firmness of this pillow
Who Might Not Like the Eli & Elm Pillow
- Memory foam lovers – since the Eli & Elm pillow is filled with latex and polyester fibers, the feel is more buoyant than impressionable
- Budget shoppers – this pillow retails for over $130
Other User Reviews
On their website, the Eli & Elm pillow scored a 4.3 out of 5 based on over 1,600 reviews.
Best Cooling Pillow for Side Sleepers: Layla Kapok Pillow
Layla Kapok Pillow
The Layla pillow combines all-natural Kapok fibers with shredded memory foam for a feel that’s plush yet supportive. With an adjustable fill level and cooling copper fibers, the Layla Pillow sleeps temperature neutral and suits all sleeping positions. The one downside is that this pillow is on the pricier side.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.50 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Layla Kapok Pillow
Cooling fabric and materials
Adjustable construction
Cons of the Layla Kapok Pillow
Not made with all-natural materials
On the pricier side
The Layla Kapok pillow is composed of all natural, silky kapok fibers and includes shredded memory foam for a feel that’s not only supportive, but also plush. The Layla pillow also has an adjustable fill level and cooling copper fibers that allows for a colder sleep to suit side sleepers.
No matter how soft a pillow’s cover or how perfect its loft, if it sleeps hot, chances are a healthy sleep pattern won’t always be achievable. Layla incorporates its open-cell foam and natural Kapok yarns, which helps to facilitate more airflow than an average foam pillow. Not only is the interior fluffy and breathable, the Layla pillow cover is composed of a breathable fabric and has temperature-regulating copper fibers woven in.
Additionally, the Layla Kapok pillow has a convenient zipper enclosure that will allow you to adjust the loft to better fit your side sleeping needs. The cloud-like feel and all night support make this high-quality pillow an excellent option for side sleepers who tend to also sleep hot. The Layla pillow comes in a Queen and King size and prices starting at $99.
What our testers say: “The Layla Kapok pillow is one of my go-to recommendations. It’s cooling, totally customizable, and much less expensive than similar models.” – Loren, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Layla Kapok Pillow
- Hot sleepers – the open-cell foam and loose fill construction allow for breathability
- Combination sleepers – combo sleepers that switch sleeping positions need a personalized pillow to be comfortable
- Memory foam lovers – the shredded pieces of foam offer great pressure relief
Who Might Not Like the Layla Kapok Pillow
- Budget shoppers – this pillow retails for just under $100
- Those looking for an extra plush pillow or extra firm pillow – this is the ideal medium firmness
- People who want an all-natural pillow – not all the materials are made naturally
Other User Reviews
On Layla’s website, the Layla Kapok pillow scored a 4.5 out of 5 based on over 3,300 reviews.
Check out our Layla Kapok Pillow Review for more information.
Best Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers: Saatva Latex Pillow
Saatva Latex Pillow
The Saatva pillow features a pillow-on-pillow design that enables users to easily adjust the height to their needs, leading to a great night’s sleep.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Saatva Latex Pillow
Hypoallergenic
Adjustable design
Pillow stays cool due to shredded Talalay latex foam
Cons of the Saatva Latex Pillow
Need to fluff the pillow regularly to keep its shape
Expensive
The Saatva pillow features a Talalay latex core and down alternative fill, and has an innovative three layer design, and medium firmness level. Its loft is adjustable, meaning that side sleepers of any size can customize it to their liking.
Latex can be more supportive and resilient than other pillow fill styles, which makes it a popular option for shoppers looking for durability and shape retention. The interior of the Saatva Pillow contains shredded Talalay latex, and the outer layer is filled with a down alternative. You’ll have the option to adjust the pillow so that the loft can measure anywhere between 2”–8” thick.
The temperature-neutral inner lining on the pillow helps it sleep cool, as does the organic cotton cover. This breathable, moisture-wicking cover can be removed for machine washing, and, as with most Saatva products, this pillow lasts longer than average. The Saatva pillow is available in Queen and King sizes, and comes with free shipping and a 45-night sleep trial. Check out the Saatva Classic mattress review for more details on the brand.
What our testers say: “Ever since I started sleeping on this pillow, my neck pain is virtually gone.” – Spencer, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Saatva Latex Pillow
- All sleeping positions – due to the customization of this pillow’s design, all sleeping positions can be accommodated
- Hot sleepers – latex is naturally cooling and doesn’t trap body heat
- Those with neck pain – latex is a great material for responsiveness and pressure relief
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Latex Pillow
- Those who prefer a memory foam feel – latex pillows are more buoyant than impressionable
- Individuals who don’t like fluffing their pillows regularly – because of the fibers in the outer layer, this pillow does require some regular fluffing
- Budget shoppers – in typical Saatva fashion, this pillow comes with a luxury price tag
Other User Reviews
On Saatva’s website, the Latex pillow scored a 4.7 out of 5 based on over 160 reviews.
Check out our Saatva Latex Pillow Review for more information.
Best King-Sized Pillow for Side Sleepers: Helix Side Sleeper Pillow
Helix Side Sleeper Pillow
This side sleeper friendly pillow from Helix is made from shredded memory foam with a cooling TENCEL cover. Choose between two sizes and get high loft pillows that will support you all night long.
Pros of the Helix Pillow
7.5″ loft (for King size) is perfect for accommodate average to heavyweight side sleepers
Great pressure relief
Cooling cover will help hot sleepers
Cons of the Helix Pillow
On the pricier side
Must wait 30 days if looking to return
This lofty and supportive pillow from Helix is the perfect match for average to heavyweight folks looking to stay propped up throughout the night. Especially for larger folks with broader shoulders, the seven and a half inch loft on the King size version will be plenty tall to keep you elevated and comfortable. Gone are the days of stacking multiple pillows!
But, Helix doesn’t just bank on one feature. This pillow features a shredded memory foam core and cooling TENCEL cover that offers some nice pressure relief without making you feel stuffy or hot. Best yet, you can try out this pillow for 100 nights or you money back!
What our testers say: “The very high loft on this pillow works great for supporting side sleepers in proper spinal alignment!” – Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Helix Side Sleeper Pillow
- Hot sleepers – the cover is made with TENCEL fibers which will feel refreshing on the skin
- Side sleepers – This pillow was made specifically for this sleeping position
- Value shoppers – you get a 100-night sleep trial and 1-year limited warranty with your purchase
Who Might Not Like the Helix Pillow
- Petite side sleepers – the loft may be too high for those with smaller body frames
- Those who want an adjustable pillow – you can’t adjust the inner fill
Best Durable Pillow for Side Sleepers: Lagoon Otter Pillow
Lagoon Otter Pillow
The Lagoon Otter pillow is one of eight pillows offered by the Minnesota-based pillow company, Lagoon Sleep. The Otter, marketed as a “cooling and supportive” pillow, is an adjustable fill model made with gel-infused memory foam and microfibers. Hot sleepers and those with neck pain may find it to be their perfect match.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Lagoon Otter Pillow
Hypoallergenic
Adjustable fill
Ventilated foam helps breathability
Cons of the Lagoon Otter Pillow
On the pricier side
The Lagoon Otter is an adjustable pillow, which means you’ll be able to customize the feel and firmness of it by adding or removing the shredded memory foam and microfiber fill.
Like mattress firmness, pillow firmness is an important factor to keep in mind when shopping around. The perfect feel for you will not only depend on your preferences, but also your typical sleeping position. Since the Lagoon Otter pillow allows you to customize this, you can create a pillow that works best for you.
The pillow’s washable elements and generous 5-year warranty make it a top pick for durability. You’ll also get a 100-night trial period to try out the pillow. That means if you try it out and it isn’t for you, you can return it for a full refund.
What our testers say: “I’ve reviewed similar adjustable fill models, like the Layla Kapok pillow, or the Coop Sleep Goods Original pillow. However, what stands out about the Otter is its compatibility with both hot sleepers and those who experience neck pain.” – Loren, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Lagoon Otter Pillow
- Value shoppers – this pillow comes with great policies: 100-night sleep trial and 5-year warranty
- Those with allergies – the Otter pillow is hypoallergenic
- Those looking for easy upkeep – the cover, liner, and fill, are all machine-washable
Who Might Not Like the Lagoon Otter Pillow
- Those who don’t like memory foam – instead, look for a latex or down feather option
- Budget shoppers – this pillow retails for just over $100
Other User Reviews
On Lagoon’s website, the Otter pillow scored a 4.8 out of 5 based on over 10 reviews.
Best for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain: Pillow Cube Sidekick
Pillow Cube Sidekick
The Pillow Cube is designed to be the perfect pillow for side sleepers. With a loft level of 5” or 6” and a medium-firm feel, we agree that this memory foam pillow should help the average side sleeper get a good night’s sleep. It’s not so good for stomach sleepers or combination sleepers.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.90 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Pillow Cube Sidekick
Provides great neck support as the foam becomes denser as compressed
Easy to travel with due to small size
Easy and low maintenance required
Cons of the Pillow Cube Sidekick
Unique shape may take some getting used to
Pillowcase is difficult to remove for cleaning
Limited sleeping surface
The first thing you’ll notice about the Pillow Cube Sidekick is its unique design—as the name suggests, this pillow is a cube. That’s because it was designed specifically for side sleepers who may have experienced neck discomfort due to the traditional pillow shape.
If you sleep on your side you may have noticed that many traditional pillows are too thin or too thick and that when your head lies on it your neck rests at an awkward and uncomfortable angle. The Pillow Cube Sidekick solves this problem by fitting snugly in the gap between your shoulders and head when you sleep on your side.
The original Pillow Cube is 12” x 12” and comes in both 5” and 6” loft. If you’re interested in the Pillow Cube but prefer a more traditional build, you can opt for the Side Cube, which is 12” x 24” and comes in 4”, 5”, and 6” lofts. Regardless of what you choose, this pillow can significantly improve your quality of side sleeping.
What our testers say: “The Pillow Cube Sidekick is probably the most unique pillow I’ve ever reviewed. After the success of their original model, the brand expanded their product line to feature a wider Side Cube, the Knee Pillow, and even the kid-friendly Pillow Cubs.” – Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Sidekick
- Strict side sleepers – this pillow was literally made to accommodate the gap between your neck and shoulders
- Those with sleep apnea or who snore – the high loft can help open up your airways and prevent snoring
- Those with shoulder pain – if your current pillow smushes your shoulder into the mattress, this pillow, with it’s high loft, can help provide more room for your shoulder to relax comfortably
Who Might Not Like the Sidekick
- Stomach sleepers – the loft is simply too high for stomach sleepers
- Combination sleepers – those who toss and turn or switch sleeping positions often may fall of this pillow
- Those with broad shoulders – since this pillow is more compact, you don’t have a ton of surface space to work with
Other User Reviews
On Pillow Cube’s website, the Sidekick scored a 4.7 out of 5 based on over 400 reviews.
Check out our Pillow Cube Sidekick Review for more information.
Best Adjustable Pillow for Side Sleepers: Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
Mattress Nerd Score
4.50 / 5
Pros of the Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
Easy to care for as cover is removable and machine washable
Able to adjust for your loft needs
Cooling properties of TENCEL cover and shredded filling
Cons of the Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
Adjustable fill pillows can be messy
Pricey
Adjustability is a valuable quality in just about anything, but especially in pillows. Rather than having to worry whether the pillow you purchase will be exactly what you’re looking for, wouldn’t you rather make a purchase with the knowledge that no matter what you can modify it to suit your needs?
If the name doesn’t give it away, this pillow was designed and constructed specifically with side sleepers in mind. The Nest Side Sleeper pillow has the perfect shape to provide comfort and support. Nestle your shoulder right into the curve of the pillow and you’ll find that your head and neck rest in a wonderful position—everything is well-aligned and contoured.
As for its adjustability, this pillow comes fully stuffed with shredded foam. If you find that it’s too firm or plump for you, go ahead and take some out. Keep adjusting the amount of filling in the pillow until you find the perfect level for your head and neck.
What our testers say: “If you’re a side sleeper, this is one of the best pillow options hands down. The adjustable and ergonomic design offers the perfect about of customization to keep you comfortably supported and in proper spinal alignment while sleeping.” – Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
- Side sleepers – the unique shape of this pillow is perfect for filling in the area between your neck and shoulders when sleeping on your side
- Hot sleepers – the cover is made with a proprietary cooling fabric and the shredded foam fill helps prevent body heat retention
- Pregnant people – since this pillow has an ergonomic design, it support side sleeping comfortably, which is ideal for pregnancy
Who Might Not Like the Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
- Budget shoppers – this pillow retails for over $100
- Those who like traditional memory foam pillows – since the fill is shredded, it’s not going to offer the same impressionable feel
- Those looking for an all-natural pillow – not all the materials are made with naturally
Other User Reviews
On Nest’s website, the Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow scored a 4.5 out of 5 based on over 15,000 user reviews.
Check out our Nest Easy Breather Pillow Review for more information.
Best Memory Foam Pillow for Side Sleepers: Coop Sleep Goods Pillow
Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow
This shredded memory foam pillow is premium and adjustable, sold with a customization option that allows it to accommodate virtually any body size and sleep position.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.70 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow
Adjustable and customizable for your needs
Easy care and maintenance as it can be machine washed and dried and doesn’t need to be fluffed regularly
Responsive filling to provide continual support through movement
Cons of the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow
Heavy and dense pillow
Does not sleep cool
This pillow has a medium-soft feel and contains shredded, gel-infused memory foam and microfiber. It sleeps cooler than most memory foam options and can be adjusted.
If you enjoy the conforming feel of memory foam around your head and neck, the Coop Sleep Goods pillow is a good option to prevent pressure points from developing. While the original design may work for lightweight side sleepers, average-weight, and heavyweight sleepers may want to add extra fill to the pillow to achieve a loft that’s supportive enough. The good news is Coop Sleep Goods sells extra fill in bulk.
The highlight of this pick is its breathability. Most memory foam pillows retain heat, but the shredded foam mixture and cooling polyester and bamboo cover in this pillow’s design prevent that from becoming an issue. This pillow is backed by a 100-night sleep trial and comes with a five-year warranty. For similar options, see the best memory foam pillows.
What our testers say: “This adjustable pillow from Coop is a great memory foam option that offers the pressure relief and softness you expect, with the customization that guarantees comfortable sleep.” – Loren, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow
- Those looking for a quality, yet reasonably priced pillow – a queen pillow retails for $72. Although it’s on the pricier side, many pillows that are similar to this model are more expensive.
- Those looking for easy cleaning – the cover is machine washable
- Those with allergies – this pillow is hypoallergenic
Who Might Not Like the Coop Sleep Goods Pillow
- Stomach sleepers – as with many adjustable pillows, some times it may require removing a lot of fill to get the loft low enough for a stomach sleeper to maintain proper spinal alignment. Therefore, it may not be worth the investment.
- Hot sleepers – while the adjustable fill does allow for more breathability, the materials aren’t very cooling.
Other User Reviews
On Coop Sleep Good’s website, their original pillow scored a 5 out of 5 based on over 15,000 user reviews. The consensus is that the pillow was a great investment, that it’s held up over time, and that it’s improved user’s quality of sleep.
Check out our Coop Sleep Goods Pillow Review for more information.
Best Pillow for Side & Back Sleepers: Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow
Tuft and Needle Original Pillow
The Tuft & Needle Pillow provides plush yet lofty support with a medium firmness that’s great for side and back sleepers. Made from a slab of T&N Adaptive foam, this pillow is squishy, responsive, and supportive. If you sleep hot, the breathable materials can help keep you cool.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.40 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Tuft & Needle Pillow
Sleeps cool due to breathability, temperature-regulating graphite, and cooling gel beads
Great durability and minimal care required
Medium firmness and loft
Cons of the Tuft & Needle Pillow
Initial off-gassing odor
The T&N Pillow features the company’s proprietary Adaptive Foam, which combines the contouring of memory foam with bounce and support. The foam has open cell technology, heat-wicking graphite, and cooling gel to help you sleep cool.
This pillow sets itself apart with its proprietary T&N foam construction that resembles memory foam without losing shape or support. It’s one of the only memory-foam-like pillows that’s appropriate for side sleepers of all sizes, and it has multiple design details to promote temperature neutrality.
The pillow is moldable, so it will contour to your neck in the side sleeping position—but you’ll never have to fluff it. The pillow is also hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, and the softcover is machine washable. If you are looking for an all-natural sleep, see the best organic mattresses. The T&N pillow is available in Standard and King sizes, and it comes with free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial (30 nights if ordered on Amazon.com) and a three-year limited warranty.
What our testers say: “As a side sleeper, I was hesitant that this all-foam pillow would work for my sleeping position and broader shoulders. But— I was pleasantly surprised!” – Daniel, Accessories Tester
Who Might Like the Tuft & Needle Pillow
- Memory foam lovers – made from Tuft & Needle’s proprietary adaptive foam, this pillow offers an impressionable, cradling surface to sink into
- Hot sleepers – the open-cell structure and graphite, cooling gel infusion of the foam is less likely to trap body heat than traditional memory foam
- Those with neck pain – memory foam is a great material for relieving pressure from the head, neck, and shoulder area
Who Might Not Like the Tuft & Needle Pillow
- Stomach sleepers – this pillow’s loft may be too high for stomach sleepers who need a lower pillow height to maintain spinal alignment
- Budget shoppers – the standard size retails for $100
Other User Reviews
On T&N’s website, their original foam pillow scored a 4.4 out of 5 based on over 4,000 user reviews. The most helpful favorable review mentioned the height and firmness was tall enough to accommodate their side sleeping and help their partner stop snoring.
What Pillow Types are Best for Side Sleepers?
Support and loft are the primary concerns for side sleepers. The ideal side sleeper pillow most likely will have a high loft (roughly 4” thick) to keep the head and neck in a neutral position. A firmer feel in the pillow can also prevent the head and neck from sinking. The larger and broader-shouldered you are, the higher loft you’ll require to fill the space between your ear and neck.
That being said, all pillow styles can be a good fit for side sleepers, so the right type will come down to your personal preferences.
Memory Foam
Memory foam pillows can be filled with large chunks of shredded memory foam or a solid block of the material. A solid memory foam pillow with the right loft and firmness level can best support your head if you don’t toss and turn. A shredded memory foam pillow is usually adjustable, meaning you can add and remove fill to create a loft that suits your body, even as you move around.
Check out our selection of best memory foam pillows.
Latex
Latex is an increasingly popular pillow fill because it’s comfortable, yet resilient, and it sleeps cooler than memory foam. Some latex pillows are adjustable, but most have a solid block of latex at their core. They conform closely and alleviate some pressure, and they’ll feel a little bouncier to the touch. If you’re interested in a latex pillow, take a look at our best latex pillows roundup.
Down
Down is a luxury pillow fill made from the plumage of geese and ducks. It’s very soft and lightweight, so side sleepers will need a down pillow with a very dense fill in order to find support on this type. Keep in mind that down is soft and comfortable, but it requires some fluffing and is usually more expensive.
Down Alternative
If you like the feel of down but can’t foot the bill, a down alternative offers a similar lightweight body and often comes without the allergy risk of down. Down alternative pillows require fluffing, may not hold their shape well, and will need to have a high-density fill to support side sleepers’ necks.
To learn more, check out our article comparing down vs. down alternative pillows.
What Else to Look for in A Pillow for Side Sleepers
Loft
As we mentioned, the ideal loft for a side sleeper’s pillow is now less than 4″. If your pillow is any thinner than it may position your head at an unhealthy angle. Whether or not you need something with a higher loft than 4″ depends on the width of your shoulders. Remember, you want a pillow that will fit snugly into the gap between your shoulder and your head so that your spine maintains alignment.
Firmness
We recommend that side sleepers seek out a firm pillow. Something on the softer side will allow your head to sink too far into it, thereby compressing the loft and potentially throwing your spine out of alignment.
Pressure Relief
While we do suggest a firm pillow, you want to make sure you don’t purchase something too firm. You still want enough pressure relief so that you feel nice and cushioned as you drift off to sleep and don’t wake up with a sore ear.
How to Properly Sleep on Your Side
Your Mattress Matters
Just like you need a pillow that supports your sleeping position, having the right mattress can make sleeping on your side much more comfortable. Look for something on the soft to medium-firm end of the mattress firmness scale. This will ensure that your hips and shoulders sink comfortably into the mattress when you’re on your side.
For more information, head over to our article on the best mattress for side sleepers.
Keep Your Spine Aligned
In order to prevent or reduce back pain, it’s important to keep your spine aligned on its natural curve as you sleep. When sleeping on your side, your hips can rotate to either side, which might result in throwing your spine out of whack.
If you believe this may be happening to you, try sleeping with a pillow between your knees. This will help keep your legs directly on top of one another, your hips squared, and your spine aligned. For more tips, take a look at our steps on how to properly sleep on your side.
Sleep on Your Left Side
Believe it or not, sleeping on your left side can sometimes actually be healthier than sleeping on your right. According to research, sleeping on your left side can help with breathing, digestion, heartburn, and more! For a deeper dive, take a look at our article, “What is the Best Side to Sleep On?”
FAQs about the Best Pillows for Side Sleepers
Are there great pillows for side sleepers available on Amazon?
Yes, dozens of pillows that are appropriate for side sleepers are available on Amazon.com. Examples from this list include the Coop Home Goods and the Tuft & Needle pillows.
What type of pillow should a side sleeper use?
Side sleepers should opt for pillows with a high loft and medium-firm or firm feel. A dense fill that’s also comfortable will allow the shoulders to relax and the neck to be supported, leading to pressure relief that makes it easier to fall asleep.
What is the best pillow for a side sleeper with neck pain?
If you’re experiencing neck pain in the side sleeping position, your current pillow may be to blame. By purchasing a new pillow that encourages proper neck alignment, you may notice that your pain subsides. If pain continues with a proper side sleeping pillow, consider transitioning to back sleeping, which is the healthiest sleeping position according to doctors.
Recap of the Best Pillows for Side Sleepers
| Pillow Model | Award |
| Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow | Nerd’s Pick |
| Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow | Best Cotton Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Layla Kapok Pillow | Best Cooling Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Saatva Latex Pillow | Best Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Helix Side Sleeper Pillow | Best King-Sized Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Lagoon Otter Pillow | Best Durable Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Pillow Cube Sidekick | Best for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain |
| Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow | Best Adjustable Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Coop Sleep Goods Pillow | Best Memory Foam Pillow for Side Sleepers |
| Tuft & Needle Pillow | Best Pillow for Side & Back Sleepers |
