Side sleepers, it’s time to stop waking up with a sore neck. Side sleepers account for more than half of the population, far outnumbering back and stomach sleepers. With so many people sleeping on their sides, you would think all pillows would be designed for them, but that’s not the case. Side sleepers need added support compared to stomach and back sleepers because their head is the furthest away from the mattress. That means side sleepers require pillows that are slightly firmer and fuller than the average pillow.
Not all side sleepers sleep the same way, which is why it may take a few tries before getting the pillow that is just right for you. Some options focus on providing a firm finish in a traditional style pillow, while others have cutouts to accommodate arms and shoulders. Then there are pillows for the legs of side sleepers. Sleeping on one’s side can cause discomfort in the hips and knees, which is why we’ve included a leg pillow designed specifically for side sleepers.
If you’re tired of being tired and waking up with aching muscles, it’s time to try a pillow designed for you. Side sleepers, rejoice! Then take a nap.
1. Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow
For a traditional style pillow that is designed for side sleepers, we recommend the Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow. The set of two pillows are made with a plush 950 grams of fiberfill for comfort and a wide gusset to provide support for the users’ neck and head. The medium-firm pillows, which are available in Queen and King sizes, have double stitching that helps extend their lifespan. The breathable pillows are versatile and can also be used by stomach and back sleepers, making them a great option for a guest room. When it’s time to re-fluff the pillows, which arrive vacuum packed, users can simply put them in the dryer.
Pros: Set of two pillows, wide gusset, can be used by stomach and back sleepers.
Cons: The pillows may begin to feel lumpy after extensive use.
2. Coop Home Goods Eden Adjustable Pillow
For sleepers who are constantly finding themselves with the Goldilocks complex (pillows are too hard, too soft, and never just right), we recommend the Coop Home Goods Eden Adjustable Pillow. The Coop comes with a bag of extra gel-infused memory foam and microfiber fill. Using the convenient hidden zipper on the pillow, users can add or take away fill to get the perfect level of firmness for their needs. This special fill blend is also ideal for warm sleepers since it stops heat from getting trapped and helps keep the pillow cool. The gusseted design is ideal for side sleepers who need a wider clearance between their head and the pillow. Allergy suffers will be happy to know the Coop is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant. It’s also CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified and made without toxic or harmful chemicals.
Pros: Adjustable fill level, great for warm sleepers, won’t aggravate allergies.
Cons: The pillow arrives with a slight chemical smell, but that is typically gone within a day.
3. Coisum Cervical Pillow
Side and back sleepers will appreciate the firm and contoured design of the Coisum Cervical Pillow. The ergonomic and orthopedic pillow has a reversible design, with one side specifically for side sleepers. The lower side of the pillow is designed for side sleepers and includes an armrest to help solve the age-old question of how to comfortably rest your arms while sleeping. Made with 60 high-density memory foam, the pillow has temperature sensing that allows it to contour perfectly to the sleeper’s neck. Made without harmful chemicals, the Coisum also comes with a removeable pillowcase for easing washing.
Pros: Dual-sided design for back and side sleepers, temperature sensing, removeable pillowcase for washing.
Cons: The Coisum is very firm and not adjustable.
4. 5 Stars United Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your side can cause lower body pain if the back and hips are twisted and unsupported. That’s why we like the 5 Stars United Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers, which is placed between the knees and improves the alignment of the spine. In turn, this helps reduce sciatica, knee, back and hip pain that can be caused by side sleeping. The memory foam pillow is made with high-density materials and is breathable, helping to keep the user cool all night. The pillow is encased in a removeable and washable pillowcase that is hypoallergenic and anti-pilling.
Pros: Improves spine alignment, made with high-density materials, hypoallergenic case.
Cons: Users can’t adjust the firmness of the pillow.