Many people prefer to sleep on their side. In this position, it’s important to have proper neck and spine support. A good pillow for side sleepers should perfectly fill the space between the shoulders and the head. However, the ideal pillow can vary from person to person. In this article, we discuss the best options and share our advice for choosing a good pillow for side sleepers.

Best pillow for side sleepers

Generally, pillows for side sleepers are thicker than pillows for back and stomach sleepers. In this sleeping position, the gap between the neck and the head is larger, requiring a fuller pillow to fill this space.

The best pillow for side sleepers also depends on the individual. For instance, a warm sleeper with a larger build benefits from a different side-sleeper pillow than a light sleeper who prefers soft comfort.

When choosing the right pillow for side sleepers, consider:

  • Body build
  • Mattress firmness
  • Personal preference

An adjustable pillow is a good choice for side sleepers. With adjustable height, the pillow can cater to the individual side sleeper, providing the necessary support that is so important in this sleeping position.

Why is a good side sleeping pillow important?

Sleeping on the wrong or a poor-quality pillow can lead to complaints such as neck pain, back pain, and even headaches. It can negatively affect sleep quality and cause you to wake up more often. A good pillow for side sleepers keeps your spine in a healthy position and offers good pressure relief, promoting a pain-free night’s sleep.

→ Tip: Besides a suitable pillow, it is equally important to choose a good mattress for side sleepers.

What are the benefits of side sleeping?

When you sleep on a well-supporting pillow that keeps your spine in a healthy position, side sleeping offers many benefits. For example, you are less likely to snore and suffer from acid reflux in this sleeping position. According to medical professionals, it is also the healthiest sleeping position for pregnant women.

A minor drawback for the beauty-conscious sleeper: side sleeping can lead to more sleep wrinkles.

The best materials for your side sleeper pillow

There are different types of pillows for side sleepers. The filling largely determines the level of support and comfort the pillow offers. Therefore, it is important to choose a filling that suits you.

Memory foam

Memory foam responds to body heat and has a high adaptability. It ensures optimal pressure distribution and offers precise support for side sleepers. Sometimes, the material can feel too warm, but increasingly innovative techniques are being used to make memory foam cooler.

Cold foam

While memory foam responds slowly, cold foam quickly returns to its original shape. Due to its open cell structure, it is also more breathable than memory foam. However, cold foam side sleeping pillows are less pressure-relieving. Additionally, there can be significant quality differences among the various types of cold foam.

Latex

Latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees, resulting in pillows that are very resilient and flexible. Moreover, the material is hypoallergenic and mold-resistant, making it a good choice for side sleepers with allergies. However, latex side sleeper pillows are often more expensive compared to other materials.

Down

Side sleeper pillows with down filling are airy, provide a lot of comfort, and have a high insulating capacity. Due to their softness, these pillows sometimes offer insufficient support for side sleepers.

What to consider when buying a pillow for side sleepers

  • Height/Thickness: The pillow should be thick enough to fill the space between your head and the mattress.
  • Firmness: A medium-firm pillow is often a good choice, preventing your head from sinking too deeply into the pillow.
  • Material: Both the pillow cover and filling materials are important factors. They affect temperature regulation and the durability of the side sleeper pillow.
  • Shape: In addition to standard rectangular pillows, there are orthopedic pillows in special shapes, ideal for side sleepers with neck and back complaints.
  • Adjustability: Adjustable side sleeper pillows offer a lot of flexibility, as you can adjust the height and firmness to your personal preference.
  • Purchase conditions: Consider the warranty period, return policy, and any trial sleep options when buying a pillow.