Recommendations from Good Housekeeping for side sleeper pillows.
Sleeping on your side is a popular position for a reason. It’s good for your spine, can help with snoring, and can even ease heartburn. But finding the right pillow for side sleepers can be a real challenge. You need something that’s supportive enough to keep your spine aligned but also soft enough to cradle your head and neck comfortably.
Read more on 28 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers Canada
That’s where we come in. We’ve tested and reviewed dozens of pillows to find the best ones for side sleepers. We looked for pillows that offer good support, comfort, breathability, and durability. We also considered factors like price, materials, and adjustability.
In this article, we’re going to share our top 7 picks for the best pillows for side sleepers. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each pillow so you can choose the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious down pillow, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re ready to get a good night’s sleep, keep reading to discover the best pillows for side sleepers.
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Choose the Right Pillow Height
Explore further with The 8 20 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers of 2024
The right pillow height is essential for good sleep posture. If your pillow is too high, it can strain your neck and shoulders. If it's too low, it can lead to neck pain. The ideal height for a side sleeper is typically a pillow that fills the space between your ear and shoulder.
Specifications:
- Height: 4-6 inches
- Material: Down, memory foam, latex, buckwheat, or a combination of these materials
- Firmness: Medium to firm
Reasons to buy:
- Helps to keep your spine aligned
- Reduces neck and shoulder pain
- Improves sleep quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be difficult to find the right height
- May not be suitable for all side sleepers
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You experience neck or shoulder pain
- You want to improve your sleep posture
- You prefer a pillow that fills the space between your ear and shoulder
Don't buy it if:
- You have allergies to down or feathers
- You prefer a softer pillow
- You want a pillow that is easy to adjust
Bottom Line: Choosing the right pillow height is crucial for a good night's sleep. If you are a side sleeper, look for a pillow that fills the space between your ear and shoulder. This will help to keep your spine aligned and reduce neck and shoulder pain. Be sure to consider the material and firmness of the pillow as well.
Consider Pillow Material
Learn more about 30 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers UK
The material of your pillow can have a big impact on your comfort and sleep quality. Consider the pros and cons of each material before making your choice.
Learn more about 15 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers on a Budget
Specifications:
- Down: Soft and fluffy, provides good support
- Memory foam: Conforms to your head and neck, relieves pressure points
- Latex: Breathable and supportive, hypoallergenic
- Buckwheat: Natural and breathable, provides good support
- Combination: Offers the benefits of multiple materials
Reasons to buy:
- Down: Luxurious and comfortable, good for those who like a soft pillow
- Memory foam: Relieves pressure and improves circulation, good for people with neck or shoulder pain
- Latex: Hypoallergenic and breathable, good for people with allergies or sensitive skin
- Buckwheat: Natural and breathable, good for people who prefer a firm pillow
- Combination: Offers the benefits of multiple materials, good for people who want the best of both worlds
Reasons to avoid:
- Down: Can be expensive and may trigger allergies
- Memory foam: Can get hot, may not be suitable for people who sleep hot
- Latex: Can be expensive
- Buckwheat: Can be noisy, may not be suitable for people who like a quiet sleeping environment
- Combination: Can be more expensive
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- Down: You want a soft and luxurious pillow
- Memory foam: You want a pillow that conforms to your body and relieves pressure
- Latex: You have allergies or sensitive skin
- Buckwheat: You prefer a firm and breathable pillow
- Combination: You want a pillow that offers the benefits of multiple materials
Don't buy it if:
- Down: You have allergies to feathers
- Memory foam: You sleep hot
- Latex: You don't want to spend a lot of money
- Buckwheat: You are sensitive to noise
- Combination: You are on a budget
Bottom Line: The best pillow material for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Down is soft and luxurious, while memory foam conforms to your body and relieves pressure. Latex is hypoallergenic and breathable, while buckwheat is natural and firm. A combination of materials can offer the best of both worlds.
Look for a Pillow with Good Support
A good pillow will provide support for your head and neck without feeling too stiff or too soft. Look for a pillow that conforms to your body shape and helps to keep your spine aligned.
Specifications:
- Firmness: Medium to firm
- Material: Memory foam, latex, or a combination of materials
Reasons to buy:
- Helps to keep your spine aligned
- Reduces neck and shoulder pain
- Improves sleep quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be uncomfortable for people who prefer a softer pillow
- May not be suitable for all side sleepers
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You experience neck or shoulder pain
- You want to improve your sleep posture
- You prefer a firm pillow
Don't buy it if:
- You have a sensitive neck
- You prefer a softer pillow
- You want a pillow that is easy to adjust
Bottom Line: A supportive pillow is essential for a good night's sleep. It will help to keep your spine aligned and reduce neck and shoulder pain. Look for a pillow that is firm enough to provide support, but not so firm that it is uncomfortable.
Make Sure the Pillow is Breathable
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A breathable pillow will help to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. This is especially important if you tend to sleep hot. Look for a pillow made from a breathable material such as cotton, bamboo, or latex.
Specifications:
- Material: Cotton, bamboo, latex, or a combination of materials
Reasons to buy:
- Keeps you cool and comfortable throughout the night
- Helps to prevent overheating
- Improves sleep quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be more expensive
- May not be suitable for all sleepers
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You tend to sleep hot
- You are looking for a comfortable pillow
- You want to improve your sleep quality
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a budget
- You prefer a pillow that is not as breathable
Bottom Line: A breathable pillow is important for a comfortable and restful sleep. Look for a pillow made from a material that allows air to circulate freely. Avoid pillows that are made from materials that trap heat, such as memory foam.
Choose a Pillow that is Easy to Clean
A pillow that is easy to clean will stay fresh and hygienic for years to come. Look for a pillow that is machine washable or can be spot cleaned.
Specifications:
- Material: Cotton, bamboo, or a combination of materials
Reasons to buy:
- Easy to keep clean
- Prevents dust mites and other allergens
- Extends the life of your pillow
Reasons to avoid:
- May not be as comfortable as some other pillows
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You want a pillow that is easy to clean
- You are concerned about dust mites and other allergens
- You want a pillow that will last for years to come
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a pillow that is not as easy to clean
Bottom Line: A pillow that is easy to clean will help to keep you comfortable and healthy for years to come. Look for a pillow that is machine washable or can be spot cleaned. This will help to prevent the buildup of dust mites and other allergens.
Adjust Your Pillow Position
The way you position your pillow can also affect your sleep quality. For side sleepers, the key is to keep your spine aligned.
Specifications:
- Pillow Position: Hug the pillow to your body, tuck it between your knees
- Neck Support: The pillow should be positioned to support your neck and head
Reasons to buy:
- Improves sleep posture
- Reduces neck and shoulder pain
- Improves sleep quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be uncomfortable if you don't like to hug your pillow
- May not be suitable for all side sleepers
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You experience neck or shoulder pain
- You want to improve your sleep posture
- You like to hug your pillow
Don't buy it if:
- You don't like to hug your pillow
- You prefer a different pillow position
Bottom Line: Adjusting your pillow position can make a big difference in your comfort and sleep quality. For side sleepers, it is important to hug your pillow close to your body and make sure it supports your neck and head. This will help to keep your spine aligned and reduce neck and shoulder pain.
Replace Your Pillow Regularly
Pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years. Over time, pillows can become flattened and lose their support. This can lead to neck pain and other problems.
Specifications:
- Replacement Frequency: Every 1-2 years
Reasons to buy:
- Helps to keep your spine aligned
- Reduces neck and shoulder pain
- Improves sleep quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be expensive
- May not be necessary for everyone
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You experience neck or shoulder pain
- You want to improve your sleep posture
- Your pillow is flattened or losing its support
Don't buy it if:
- You don't experience any neck or shoulder pain
- Your pillow is still supportive
Bottom Line: Replacing your pillow regularly will help to ensure that you are getting the best possible sleep. Over time, pillows can become flattened and lose their support. This can lead to neck pain and other problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's time to replace your pillow.
Finding the perfect pillow for side sleepers is a journey, but it's a journey worth taking. With the right pillow, you can wake up feeling refreshed and energized, ready to tackle your day. Whether you prefer a plush, supportive, or contouring pillow, there's a perfect match for your sleep needs. Consider your personal preferences, such as firmness, material, and height, and don't be afraid to experiment until you find the pillow that truly feels like home.
Remember, a good pillow is an investment in your health and well-being. It can help alleviate neck pain, improve spinal alignment, and promote restful sleep. By choosing a pillow from Good Housekeeping's list of the 7 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers, you can rest assured that you're getting a quality product that will stand the test of time.
Ultimately, the best pillow for you is the one that provides you with the most comfort and support. So, don't settle for anything less than the best. Take the time to research, read reviews, and try out different pillows until you find the one that's perfect for you. Sweet dreams!
Mohammed 
Reem