11 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2024
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and choosing the right mattress is crucial in ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Side sleeping is a popular position that can offer many benefits, such as reducing snoring and improving digestion, but it can also put pressure on certain areas of the body, leading to discomfort or pain.
If you’re a side sleeper, finding the right mattress is especially important to ensure you get the support and pressure relief you need. In this post, we’ll discuss the best mattresses for side sleepers, covering different types of mattresses, firmness levels, and other factors to consider when choosing the perfect mattress for your needs.
- Last Updated: September 3, 2024
Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
- Serta iComfort CF4000 – Editor’s Pick
- Nolah Original 10″ – Best Affordable Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Puffy Royal – Best for Lightweight Side Sleepers
- Amerisleep AS4 – Best for Shoulder + Hip Pain
- Brooklyn Aurora – Best Cooling
- Leesa Legend – Best Pressure Relief
- Nectar Premier– Best Memory Foam
- Purple Hybrid Premier – Best For Heavy Side Sleepers
- Nolah Evolution 15 – Best Hybrid
- WinkBeds – Best for Low Back Pain
- Air-Pedic 1000 – Best Adjustable Mattress
Type
Memory Foam
Firmness
Multiple Options
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
10-Year Limited
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$2599-$3699
Pressure relief for the hips and shoulders is critical for side sleepers, but inadequate support can lead to back pain. That’s why the best mattresses for side sleepers strike a balance between comfort and support. The Serta iComfort Max Cooling and Pressure Relief Upgrade (CF4000) excels in both areas. And if that wasn’t enough, the Serta iComfort CF4000 is packed with cooling features, another essential factor in good sleep.
The mattress consists of carbon fiber memory foam which channels heat away from the body while providing deep contouring to alleviate aches and pains. This layer responds slowly to pressure, providing a classic memory foam feel. An innovative foam layer with grid-like circular cut-outs sits beneath the thick comfort layers moving and contouring with your body. This layer provides targeted pressure relief without losing support where you need it most.
The CF4000 is available in three firmness options: ultra-plush, plush, and firm, making it suitable for a variety of sleeping positions. But for strict side sleepers, the ultra-plush comfort option is the way to go!
Type
AirFoam
Firmness
Medium
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
Lifetime
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$699-$1798
The Nolah Original 10″ mattress is a great choice for side sleepers on a budget. The medium feel of the mattress accommodates various sleeping positions, but it is particularly well-suited to side and combination sleepers.
Nolah mattresses utilize AirFoam, an exclusive blend of foam that offers exceptional pressure relief. It is ideal for individuals who experience discomfort in their shoulders or hips when sleeping on their side. Combination sleepers will appreciate Nolah’s responsive foam feel which allows sleepers to easily change from one sleep position to the next. Additionally, Nolah’s AirFoam encourages heat dissipation and keeps you cool throughout the night, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience.
The Nolah Original 10″ is one of the best value mattresses on the market, typically starting at $699 before discounts. If you’re a side sleeper looking for an affordable solution, the Nolah mattress should be at the top of your list.
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft
Sleep Trial
101-Nights
Warranty
Lifetime
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$2099-$3449
The Puffy Royal is one of the softest mattresses we’ve reviewed, making it an excellent option for lightweight side sleepers. Sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds often struggle to find a mattress that provides the necessary support and pressure relief without feeling too firm or uncomfortable. But the Puffy Royal boasts a zoned support system that provides extra support to the lumbar while delivering targeted pressure relief and maintaining the mattress’s overall softness.
Additionally, the Puffy Royal does a pretty good job mitigating heat. Softer mattresses typically offer deeper contouring which can lead to heat retention. However, the Puffy Royal is packed with temperature-regulating features like cooling beads, open cell foams, and channels that help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.
Overall, lightweight side sleepers will appreciate the Puffy Royal’s ability to provide cushioning without sagging or bottoming out, leading to quality sleep.
Type
Memory Foam
Firmness
Medium-Soft
Sleep Trial
100-Nights
Warranty
20-Year
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$1499-$2648
Another one of the softest mattresses we’ve reviewed, the Amerisleep AS4 is a solid choice for side sleepers suffering from chronic or acute pain. Its innovative design offers outstanding pressure relief and support for side, back, and combination sleepers.
Made with Bio-Pur, a plant-based, open-cell foam, the Amerisleep AS4 provides the body-conforming pressure relief of memory foam without the sluggishness while promoting airflow and preventing heat buildup. Beneath this layer, the AS4 features a layer of zoned foam, which provides targeted support to the shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment. The AS4 also features a supportive base layer that helps to prevent sagging and maintain the integrity of the mattress over time.
If shoulder pain is keeping you up at night, the Amerisleep AS4 should definitely be on your list for consideration!
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple Options
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
10-Year
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$999-$2249
The Brooklyn Aurora is an excellent choice for side sleepers who tend to overheat at night. The mattress cover features TitanCool, a Phase Changing Material that draws heat away from the body and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the night. The Aurora also features a layer of copper-infused foam, which provides additional cooling properties and promotes a clean sleeping environment by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. A layer of gel-infused foam and individually pocketed coils further encourage breathability and cooling.
Additionally, the Aurora comes in 3 firmness options: soft, medium, and firm. As a result, it could be a good option for all sleep positions, but we think side sleepers will find the soft version most comfortable. It provides excellent pressure relief without sacrificing support while working to actively keep you cool throughout the night.
With its advanced cooling technology and comfortable, supportive design, the Brooklyn Aurora (soft) is one of the best cooling mattresses for side sleepers.
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium Plush
Sleep Trial
100-Nights
Warranty
10-Year Limited
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$1999-$2999
The Leesa Legend is a luxury hybrid mattress that balances comfort and support. It is an excellent choice for most sleepers, but especially for side and combination sleepers. The Leesa Legend features a zoned micro-coil support layer that distributes weight evenly across the mattress, providing targeted pressure relief without compromising support where it’s needed most. Above these micro-coils sits a layer of memory foam, offering cushioning and body contouring while the coils beneath prevent excessive sinkage.
In addition to its superior support, the mattress is made with eco-friendly materials such as recycled steel and plastics, making it a good choice for the eco-conscious shopper. Furthermore, the Leesa Legend offers excellent motion isolation and edge support, making it ideal for couples who want to sleep without disturbance.
Overall, the Leesa Legend is one of the best mattresses for side sleepers who prioritize optimal pressure relief and support.
Type
Memory Foam
Firmness
Medium to Medium-Soft
Sleep Trial
365-Nights
Warranty
Forever
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$699-$1598
The Nectar Premier is the ultimate solution for side sleepers. This memory foam mattress offers deep contouring and body compression without the usual sluggishness associated with traditional memory foam beds. It has a medium/medium-soft feel and features adaptive memory foam that alleviates painful pressure points and provides the necessary relief for side sleepers.
One common issue that side sleepers face when shopping for a memory foam mattress is heat retention. Luckily, the Premier is designed with advanced cooling technology to enhance the overall sleep experience. The mattress features gel-infused foams and phase-change materials that pull heat away from the body, ensuring sleepers do not overheat and stay comfortable throughout the night.
Moreover, the thick foam layers of the Nectar Premier provide excellent motion isolation for couples who are easily disturbed by their partner’s movements. Whether you’re a side sleeper, a hot sleeper, or simply looking for an all-around high-quality mattress, the Nectar Premier ticks a lot of boxes and is undoubtedly one of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium to Medium-Soft
Sleep Trial
100-Nights
Warranty
10-Year Limited
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$3199-$4399
The Purple Hybrid Premier is an excellent choice for heavier side sleepers due to its unique design. The mattress features a combination of Purple’s patented grid technology and pocketed coils that provide optimal comfort and support.
Finding the right mattress can be challenging for individuals who weigh more than 230 lbs. Heavier individuals place more pressure on a mattress, so choosing a bed that keeps your spine aligned is important to avoid discomfort and premature breakdown of the mattress. This is where the Purple Hybrid Premier shines. Its pocketed coils and trademarked hyper-elastic polymer grid provide exceptional pressure relief and support while offering optimal breathability and cooling. Additionally, its responsiveness makes it ideal for combination sleepers who move around throughout the night.
While the Purple Hybrid Premier is a great choice for most side sleepers, it’s particularly well-suited for heavier individuals looking for a supportive, comfortable mattress.
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple Options
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
Limited Lifetime
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$1599-$2499
One of the best hybrid mattresses for side sleepers, the Nolah Evolution 15 combines the comfort of memory foam with the support of an innerspring mattress. The mattress has a medium to medium-soft feel, making it ideal for side sleepers who want a bed that is soft enough to cushion their pressure points but firm enough to keep their spine aligned.
A 2″ premium Euro-topper provides excellent pressure relief for side sleepers, particularly those who suffer from hip and shoulder pain. The comfort layer is comprised of Nolah’s proprietary AirFoamICE, a cooling, pressure-relieving foam that adapts to the shape of your body, relieving painful pressure points.
The Nolah Evolution 15’s hybrid design also includes a zoned layer of supportive coils, which provide additional support and stability. The coils are individually wrapped, which helps to isolate motion and prevent sleep disturbances. This layer also helps to keep the spine aligned and prevent any sagging or sinking that could lead to back pain.
Overall, side sleepers looking for the best hybrid mattress would do well to consider the Nolah Evolution 15.
Type
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple Options
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
Lifetime
Shipping
FREE Standard
Price Range
$1149-$2049
Side sleepers who experience low back pain will find the WinkBeds mattress a great option. This hybrid mattress features a unique combination of individually wrapped coils and high-density foam layers that provide exceptional support and pressure relief. Like many of the mattresses on our list, the WinkBeds includes a zoned support system. The LumbarLayer is particularly beneficial for side sleepers, providing targeted relief to the hips and shoulders while maintaining spinal alignment.
Additionally, the mattress is constructed with breathable materials that help to regulate body temperature and prevent heat buildup, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep environment. It includes a Euro-style gel-infused pillow top that adds a layer of cushioning for maximum comfort, giving this mattress a luxury, hotel-style feel.
Overall, the WinkBeds mattress is a top choice for side sleepers with low back pain looking for a comfortable and supportive mattress.
Type
Air Adjustable
Firmness
Multiple Options
Sleep Trial
120-Nights
Warranty
30-Year
Shipping
White Glove $199
Adjustable air beds are an excellent choice for all sleep positions due to their unique ability to adjust mattress firmness based on your personal preferences. While Air-Pedic is a solid option for all sleep positions, it is an exceptionally good choice for side sleepers. Thick layers of memory foam sit atop the air chambers providing the much-needed pressure relief side sleeping requires.
Air-Pedic is one of the best adjustable air mattresses on the market. It boasts a 6-chamber air system that provides customization through the head, shoulders, lumbar, hips, and legs. This targeted relief allows you to create your own zoned support, which is particularly beneficial if you suffer from hip or shoulder pain when sleeping on your side.
Dual adjustability also means that Air-Pedic is an excellent choice for couples with different firmness preferences. If you prefer a firm mattress and your partner prefers a softer mattress, an adjustable air mattress could provide the comfort you both crave.
Why Side Sleepers Need a Specific Type of Mattress
Side sleepers require a mattress that can support their body’s natural alignment and relieve pressure in key areas. When sleeping on your side, your body weight is concentrated on the hips and shoulders, which can cause discomfort and pain if the mattress doesn’t offer proper support. Therefore, choosing a mattress designed for side sleepers is important to provide the right support and cushioning.
What is the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?
Mattresses generally fall into 1 of 4 categories: all-foam, latex, hybrid, and adjustable air beds. But which mattress type is right for you? That depends on your individual sleep preferences, body weight, and budget. Below we will discuss the differences between the four major mattress types to help you determine which one is right for you.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are popular for side sleepers because they offer excellent contouring and pressure relief. The foam can conform to your body’s curves, particularly in the hip and shoulder areas, a significant perk for side sleepers and pain sufferers. Memory foam mattresses vary in firmness, so choosing one that provides adequate support without sinking too deeply is important.
Related: Best Memory Foam Mattresses
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are another great option for side sleepers because they offer similar contouring and pressure relief benefits. Latex is a natural material that is both supportive and durable. It can conform to the body’s curves while providing a bouncy and responsive feel. Latex mattresses can also help to regulate temperature and reduce motion transfer, which can be particularly beneficial for couples.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of different materials, such as memory foam, latex, and innerspring coils. By combining different materials, the best hybrid mattresses can offer a balance of support, contouring, and pressure relief.
Hybrids are also more breathable than other mattress types, encouraging airflow and regulating temperature throughout the night. Additionally, we recommend hybrid mattresses over all-foam mattresses for heavy sleepers.
Adjustable Air Mattresses
Adjustable air beds are highly customizable and versatile. Air chambers provide support and allow sleepers to modify the firmness of their mattress, making them a great choice for couples who share different firmness preferences or for those with changing needs. The best adjustable air beds for side sleeping allow sleepers to modify firmness levels independently through the shoulders, lumbar, and hips.
Choosing the Right Firmness Level for Side Sleepers
Choosing the right firmness level for side sleeping is crucial to ensure proper support and pressure relief. Firmness levels can vary from soft to extra firm. Finding the right balance can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with sleeping on your side. This section will explore how to choose the right firmness level for side sleepers.
Soft Mattresses
Soft mattresses are typically recommended for side sleepers because they can provide adequate contouring and pressure relief. These mattresses can help cushion the hips and shoulders, reducing pressure points and improving sleep quality.
However, a mattress that is too soft can cause the body to sink too deeply, leading to misalignment and discomfort. Side sleepers should choose a soft mattress with enough support to keep the spine aligned and prevent sinking too deeply.
Medium Mattresses
Medium mattresses can also be a good choice for side sleepers, providing a balance of support and cushioning. A medium mattress can offer the right level of contouring to relieve pressure points while still providing adequate support for the spine. Side sleepers who prefer a medium mattress should look for one that conforms to the body’s curves without excessive sinking.
Firm Mattresses
Firm mattresses are generally not recommended for side sleepers, as they can create pressure points and cause discomfort. However, some side sleepers may prefer a firmer mattress that provides more support and prevents sinking. In this case, choosing a firm mattress that still offers some contouring and pressure relief is essential.
Overall, side sleepers should aim for a mattress that offers a balance of support and cushioning, typically in the soft to medium range. When choosing a mattress, it is important to consider your personal preferences, body weight, and sleeping habits to find the perfect level of firmness. By choosing the right firmness level, side sleepers can enjoy a restful and comfortable night’s sleep.
Relieving Pressure Points: What to Look for in a Mattress
Side sleepers are particularly susceptible to pressure points, which can cause pain and discomfort in the hips and shoulders. The right mattress can help alleviate pressure points by distributing weight evenly and contouring to the body’s curves. Let’s take a look!
Contouring
Contouring is crucial when looking for a mattress to relieve pressure points. A mattress that conforms to the body’s curves can help distribute weight more evenly, reducing pressure points and preventing discomfort. Memory foam and latex mattresses are two materials that offer excellent contouring, providing a supportive yet cushioned surface for side sleepers.
Support
Support is another critical factor when looking for a mattress that can relieve pressure points. A mattress that is too soft can cause the body to sink too deeply. Conversely, a mattress that is too firm can create pressure points and cause pain. Mattresses with zoned support are an excellent option, providing sleepers with targeted pressure relief in common problem areas while ensuring proper lumbar support.
Mattress Topper
Perhaps a new mattress is not an option. In that case, a mattress topper can be a cost-effective solution to alleviate pressure points. Mattress toppers come in various materials, including memory foam and latex, and can provide extra cushioning and contouring to an existing mattress. A mattress topper can be particularly helpful for side sleepers who experience pressure points in specific areas.
We recommend checking out the Lift by Amerisleep. This 3″ mattress topper is available in 2 options: comfort or support. If you’re looking to alleviate hip or shoulder pain, we recommend the comfort layer. Made with Bio-Pur foam, the Lift by Amerisleep mattress topper is zoned, maintaining adequate support through the lumbar region. Or check out these best-selling mattress toppers on Amazon.
Pillow
In addition to a supportive mattress, a proper pillow can also help alleviate pressure points. A pillow that is too high or too low can cause the neck to be misaligned, leading to pain and discomfort. Side sleepers should choose a pillow that offers adequate support for the neck while still conforming to the head’s shape. To create a custom fit, look for pillows with an adjustable loft, like the Coop Eden.
If you suffer from back or leg pain when you wake up, you may need extra support from additional pillows. It is recommended that side sleepers use a pillow between the knees to relieve pressure on the joints; this also helps keep the pelvis from rotating and keeps the spine aligned. I’m particularly fond of this Amazon body pillow and can’t sleep without it.
A pillow in front or behind you can also keep you from rolling over at night; this is especially helpful if you are trying to train yourself to sleep in a side sleeping position. In addition to offering some cuddly comfort, a pillow in front of you can keep the shoulder, and upper body lifted and the chest open, promoting better spine alignment. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love more pillows? :)
Staying Cool While Side Sleeping
Staying cool while sleeping is essential for all sleepers, but it is particularly crucial for side sleepers. Sleeping on one side can cause pressure points and restrict blood flow, leading to discomfort and difficulty sleeping. Additionally, side sleepers are more likely to experience hot flashes and night sweats, which can further disrupt sleep. So, how can side sleepers stay cool and comfortable while sleeping?
Breathable Materials
One of the most important factors in staying cool while sleeping is choosing a mattress and bedding made from breathable materials. Mattresses made from memory foam can trap body heat, causing discomfort and sleep disturbances. Look for mattresses and bedding made from breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo, which allow for airflow and can help regulate body temperature.
Related: 6 Benefits of Bamboo Bedding
Gel Infusions
The best mattresses for hot sleepers have built-in cooling technology, such as cooling gels or phase-change materials, which can further regulate body temperature. Gel-infused memory foam mattresses can also be an excellent option for side sleepers who tend to overheat. The gel infusion helps to draw heat away from the body, providing a more comfortable sleeping surface.
Room Temperature
Another critical factor in staying cool while sleeping is room temperature. Side sleepers should aim for a room temperature between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit, promoting better sleep and preventing overheating. A fan or air conditioner can also help improve airflow and create a cooler sleeping environment.
Additional Tips for Side Sleepers to Improve Sleep Quality
Side sleeping is a popular and comfortable sleeping position for many individuals. However, it can also present unique challenges that can affect sleep quality. In addition to choosing the right mattress and bedding, there are several additional tips that side sleepers can implement to improve their sleep quality.
Stretching
Stretching before bed can help relax muscles and reduce tension in the body. Side sleepers can benefit from stretching the hips and shoulders, as these areas are prone to stiffness and discomfort in this sleeping position.
Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene is critical for all types of sleepers, including side sleepers. This includes establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime, and creating a relaxing sleep environment. Side sleepers can benefit from investing in comfortable bedding, such as high-quality sheets and a supportive mattress.
Sleeping Aids
In some cases, side sleepers may benefit from using sleeping aids to improve sleep quality. These can include earplugs, white noise machines, or even a sleep mask to block out light. Experimenting with different sleeping aids can help side sleepers find what works best.
Overall, implementing these additional tips can help side sleepers improve their sleep quality and wake up feeling rested and refreshed. By combining a supportive mattress and bedding with proper pillow placement, stretching, sleep hygiene, and sleeping aids, side sleepers can create an optimal sleep environment.
Conclusion
Side sleeping is preferred for many individuals, as it offers a comfortable and restful sleep experience. Choosing the right sleep setup is important to ensure that side sleepers can maximize the benefits of this sleeping position. Side sleepers should choose a sleep surface that suits their needs by considering factors such as mattress firmness, pressure relief, and spinal alignment.
With this knowledge, side sleepers can now confidently choose the perfect mattress. If you are looking for more information before making a purchase, check out our comprehensive guides covering everything you need to know about finding the perfect mattress for your sleep needs.
Other Reading:
