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The 10 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers, According to Experts

These top picks will provide support for some good ol’ rest and relaxation.

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two mattresses side by side that are the best mattresses for side sleepers
Tempur-Pedic and Brooklyn Bedding

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We updated this article in January 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.


Finding the right mattress is one way to ensure you sleep well all night long, and that’s doubly true when you’re looking for the best mattress for side sleepers. According to Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., M.S., R.N., medical director at Aeroflow Sleep, the “right mattress” for side sleepers is one that will provide spinal support for cervical and lumbar areas while maintaining a comfortable body temperature. But, what does that mean in terms of finding the right mattress for you?

“In general, a medium-firm mattress is ideal for side sleepers, as it allows for spinal support, but it is flexible to adjust to the body curvature,” she says, adding that those who weigh more will see greater benefits by opting for a firmer mattress. “Considering the material, one (or multiple) layers of memory foam on top of a medium-firm mattress will provide comfort and flexibility for the body curvature while preserving a steady spinal support,” she says.

Side sleepers who find themselves in the market for a new mattress should focus on finding one that will relieve the pressure from their shoulders and hips, advises Chelsie Rohrscheib, Ph.D., lead sleep specialist at Wesper. “With this in mind, softer mattresses or memory foam mattresses are probably going to be your best option for optimum side sleeping support and comfort.”

Meet the Experts: Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., M.S., R.N., is the medical director at Aeroflow Sleep. Chelsie Rohrscheib, Ph.D., is the lead sleep specialist at Wesper. Allison Brager, M.D., is a neuroscientist and sleep specialist for Molecule.

Our top picks

Fortunately, the experts we tapped had plenty of suggestions about which mattresses will get you (and anyone you share a bed with) the best night’s rest—particularly if you prefer snoozing on your side.

1
Best Overall

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress

TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress
1
Best Overall

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress

$2,799 at Tempur-Pedic
Credit: Tempur-Pedic
Pros
  • Four different firmness levels to choose between
  • Motion cancellation technology prevents you from feeling the movements of your sleeping partner
  • Adaptive support helps reduce pressure points
Cons
  • Not compatible with box springs

The Tempur-Pedic Adapt mattress combines firmness with top layers of memory foam for dynamic spinal support, while adapting to your body as you change positions during the night, according to Weiss. “In addition, it has cooling technology that helps maintain a cool body temperature (an essential feature to sleep),” she says. This product also has a motion cancellation feature, meaning that your side of the mattress will not move when your bed partner moves or gets up to use the restroom during the night.

What reviewers say: “This is hands down the most incredible mattress I’ve ever slept on. It’s fantastic for both side sleepers and back sleepers. The mattress is firm/supportive for your spine, however, the memory foam ensures that the surface is soft. It’s definitely worth the price!” shares a reviewer on the Tempur-Pedic website.

Firmness LevelSoft, Medium, Medium Hybrid, Firm
Warranty10 year
Trial Period90 nights
Mattress Depth11, 12, or 13 inch
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King
2
Best Value

Nectar Mattress

Nectar Mattress
2
Best Value

Nectar Mattress

Now 28% Off
Pros
  • Good for all sleep styles (side, back, or stomach)
  • Good for those with back pain
Cons
  • Some users note it takes longer than expected to expand after unboxing

If you’re looking for the perfect mattress to help you catch some z’s, but don’t want to spend too much money, Rohrscheib suggests opting for one from Nectar. “Nectar makes a 100 percent memory foam mattress, which is extremely high quality while maintaining affordability,” she explains. “Nectar has multiple levels of memory foam, which helps to cradle the body and keep pressure off the hips and shoulders during sleep.” Nectar is also appropriate for back sleepers so your back sleeping partner should sleep soundly as well.

What reviewers say: “The mattress was easy to set up, is exactly what me and my partner wanted — it’s firm yet comfortable. Very good for side sleepers. completely recommend!” shares a customer on Amazon.

Firmness LevelMedium firm
WarrantyLifetime
Trial Period365 nights
Mattress Depth12 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
3
Best for Hip and Shoulder Pain

Helix Sleep Midnight LUXE

Midnight LUXE
3
Best for Hip and Shoulder Pain

Helix Sleep Midnight LUXE

Now 25% Off
Pros
  • Comes with a set of pillows
  • Made in the USA
  • Includes a premium quilted pillow top
Cons
  • Some users note the outside edges are a bit too soft

You can find a mattress tailored to your exact needs when shopping Helix Sleep, according to Rohrscheib. She says the brand offers a range of memory foam mattresses that are ultra-supportive for side sleepers. “You can take a quick survey on Helix Sleep’s Website to find the best option for your situation,” she explains, adding that if your partner needs a different level of support or firmness, the mattress can be made to have to custom sides. The Midnight Luxe model is especially good for side sleepers because it relieves that shoulder and hip pain that is so common with side sleepers.

What reviewers say: “The Helix Midnight Luxe was recommended by a friend. I am a side sleeper and often had neck and arm pain. Not anymore, I love my mattress and going to bed and waking up are joys again! It is the perfect balance of soft and firm. Delivery and set up was super easy,” shares a reviewer on the Helix website.

Firmness LevelMedium to medium-firm
Warranty10-15 year
Trial Period100 nights
Mattress Depth13.5 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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4
Best Cooling Technology

Harmony Lux

Harmony Lux
4
Best Cooling Technology

Harmony Lux

Now 34% Off
Pros
  • The different types of foam provide pressure point relief
  • Users note the edges don't dip or bend
Cons
  • Users note the deep mattress requires deep sheets

The Harmony Lux Series from Beautyrest offers medium firmness for spinal support and has top layers of memory foam, cooling technology, and pressure-relieving points with gel. These are all important features Weiss says can help to adjust to the body curvature as you change positions during the night.

What reviewers say: “Hands down the best bed we’ve ever owned. It’s the perfect combination of firm and plush. I am a back sleeper and wife is a side sleeper, the bed works perfectly for both of us. The bed we upgraded from had a huge pillowtop and was too soft, causing both of us to be sore on and off. This one is perfect and neither of us has one complaint. The material is top quality and made very well. It’s nice that the mattress stays cool, and we don’t get sweaty at all. I feel like my sleep quality has improved,” says a reviewer on the Beautyrest website.

Firmness LevelSoft, Medium, Extra Firm
Warranty10 years
Trial Period100 nights
Mattress Depth13.5 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
5
Best for Relieving Pressure

Saatva Classic Mattress

Classic Mattress
5
Best for Relieving Pressure

Saatva Classic Mattress

Pros
  • Comes with a plush pillow top
  • Breathable cover made of hypoallergenic organic cotton
  • Enhanced durability in center of the mattress to enhance low back support
  • Edges don't sag
Cons
  • Returns involve a processing fee (they aren't completely free)

If you’re looking for a mattress that will relieve pressure while still offering plenty of support, Weiss says Saatva may be a more inexpensive way to get a good night’s sleep. The classic version of the mattress offers a hybrid makeup, combining the comfort of memory foam and the support of traditional springs. This could be the perfect option for side sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress than is often recommended for their sleep position.

What reviewers say: “Few months ago I purchased a Saatva Classic soft and I love it. I am a side sleeper, and my previous memory foam bed was causing a lot of back pain. After the first night in my new bed, my pain was gone. I’m getting better sleep, and am very happy with my purchase,” a reviewer on the Saatva website shares.

Firmness LevelSoft, Medium Firm, Firm
WarrantyLifetime
Trial Period365 nights
Mattress Depth11.5 or 14.5 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King
6
Best Adjustable

Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed

Climate360 Smart Bed
6
Best Adjustable

Sleep Number Climate360 Smart Bed

Credit: Sleep Number
Pros
  • Individualized temperature control on each side of the bed
  • Individualized support control on each side of the bed
  • Head and foot of the bed can be adjusted
Cons
  • Pricey

Another side-sleeper-friendly mattress option that Weiss suggests is the Sleep Number Mattress. “[It offers] good spinal support at a lower price),” she says. The Sleep Number 360 Smart Bed offers a stretchy and conforming feel that will cradle your body. It also tracks just how well you’re sleeping at night, so you can make adjustments to your bed settings and nighttime accessories to get the best night of sleep possible.

What reviewers say: “Going with the Sleep Number Climate360 is the best decision we’ve made as a couple! We can sleep in our preferred positions and comfort levels and even put each other in snore mode. Love the bed and would recommend it to anyone,” shares a customer on the Sleep Number website.

Firmness LevelAdjustable
Warranty15 year
Trial Period100 nights
Mattress Depth13 inches
Size OptionsQueen, King, Split King, FlexTop King, California King, Split California King, FlexTop California King
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7
Best for Lighter Weight Individuals

Purple The Purple Mattress

The Purple Mattress
7
Best for Lighter Weight Individuals

Purple The Purple Mattress

Now 27% Off
Credit: Purple
Pros
  • Hypoallergenic and Certified Clean Air Gold
  • Air channels built into the foam for improved breathability and temperature control
Cons
  • The mattress’ grid material feels different from traditional foam; may not appeal to all users

When shopping for mattresses for side sleepers it’s important to find one that will help distribute your weight away from your pressure points, which is why Weiss suggests Purple Mattress. These mattresses are made with a grid system that supports your entire body, eliminating some of those common side sleeping pain spots like the shoulder and hip while remaining breathable. “As a reminder, when choosing from these options, consider your body weight and select a firm mattress base for a longer duration of the spinal support,” she adds.

What reviewers say: “Purple Plus king size is the right size and the right amount of cushioning for both of us. We are side sleepers in our 60s and this mattress offers the perfect support for our joints. We have had Saatva, Bob’s, And LULL. Finally, Purple Plus is perfect for us,” says one Purple customer.

Firmness LevelMedium-firm
Warranty10 year
Trial Period100 nights
Mattress Depth9.25 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
8
Best Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Signature Hybrid
8
Best Hybrid

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Pros
  • Includes springs and memory foam for a comfortable and supportive mattress
  • Includes premium quilt top
  • Wide range of size options, including for RVs
Cons
  • Some users note the “firm” mattress doesn’t feel firm enough

If you live in a warm climate or find yourself getting over heated at night, then Rohrscheib says a cooling mattress is probably going to be the best option for you. “The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress is not only going to help you stay cool at night, but it will also keep you comfortable in a side sleeping position,” she explains. “The mattress has a system of coils that promote better airflow, helping you to stay cool.” The mattress also has multiple levels of firmness, making it easy to select the most appropriate mattress for your situation.

What reviewers say: “Very happy with signature hybrid medium. Great edge support. No movement between my husband and I. Just soft enough. I sink in just enough that I no longer wake up with pain in my shoulder and hip. We are mostly side sleepers and weigh 150 and 160 pounds,” notes a customer on the Brooklyn Bedding website.

Firmness LevelSoft-medium to Firm, depending on mattress depth
Warranty10 year
Trial Period120 nights
Mattress Depth6-14 inches, depending on mattress size
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Full Short, Queen, Short Queen, Olympic Queen, King, Short King, CA King, Split CA King (more options available for RV beds)
9
Best for Couples

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze

TEMPUR-breeze
9
Best for Couples

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze

Pros
  • Options to keep you 3-8 degrees cooler at night
  • Developed with NASA technology
Cons
  • Not compatible with box springs

Sleep cooler while also receiving the support you need with the Tempur-Pedic Breeze. “It’s a great mattress for how it shapes to your body,” explains Allison Brager M.D., neuroscientist and sleep specialist for Molecule. The cooling technology promises a more comfortable night’s sleep while the motion cancelation feature can help keep both you and your partner sleeping longer by preventing jostling from waking you up. The TEMPUR® proprietary material, which was developed by NASA, promises to conform to your body and eliminate any pressure points common with side sleepers.

What reviewers say: “We’ve tried so many mattresses and all seem to work well for a month or two, but this one is endgame. I am a side sleeper and usually prefer a soft bed, while my husband sleeps on his back/side and prefers firm. We got the medium and it’s definitely not plush, but with back issues, I knew I needed better support. I used to wake up 2-3 times per night, but since night one, I’ve slept all night long. My back feels great, and I feel fully rested for the first time in forever! My husband loves it too, and Id recommend it to anyone with restless/hot sleeping and back pain,” shares a reviewer on the Tempur-Pedic website.

Firmness LevelSoft, Medium Soft, Medium, Firm
Warranty10 year
Trial Period90 nights
Mattress Depth12 or 13 inches
Size OptionsTwin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King
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10
Best Organic

Avocado Organic Luxury Plush

Organic Luxury Plush
10
Best Organic

Avocado Organic Luxury Plush

Pros
  • Made of non-toxic, organic materials
  • Climate neutral certified
Cons
  • Requires deep pocket sheets

If you’re worried about environmental impact, Brager suggests opting for a mattress by Avocado. The Organic Luxury Plus Mattress is not only green but offers 21 layers made up of natural products like latex, wool, and mohair, which are then distributed among up to 3,136 individually pocketed coils. All of this is spread out over five zones, ensuring your shoulders and hips will feel well-supported after you catch your eight hours of shut eye.

What reviewers say: “I used to get pain in my hips when sleeping on my side and I no longer do with this new mattress,” says a reviewer on the Avocado website.

Firmness LevelSoft or Medium
Warranty25 year
Trial Period365 nights
Mattress Depth13.25 or 17 inches
Size OptionsTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
11

How to choose the best mattress for side sleepers

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✔️Look for the right firmness. Side sleepers tend to place more pressure on their shoulders and hips, which means you need a mattress with enough give to reduce pressure points, but one that will still offer support for the spine. While most side sleepers would do well with a medium or medium-firm mattress, this depends somewhat on body size and weight. A heavier side sleeper may need to opt for a firmer mattress overall.

✔️Consider memory foam or hybrid mattresses. While mattress firmness is an important consideration, pressure point relief is also important. Mattresses with memory foam or that are made with a hybrid of foam and coils tend to provide more “give” at pressure points that can help reduce pain.

✔️Look for mattresses that come with a trial period. Everyone’s needs are different when it comes to mattresses, so it’s important to have a chance to test-drive a mattress to see if it’s right for you. Most mattress companies allow for a 90-day trial period (some give you up to a year), which can give you time to see how you adjust to the mattress’ support (and how it adjusts to your body over time). Take advantage of these trials and don’t be shy about returning a mattress that doesn’t improve your overall sleep.

12

Is memory foam better for side sleepers?

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Memory foam mattresses, or those with several memory foam layers, tend to be better for side sleepers. This is because side sleepers place more pressure on their hips and shoulders while sleeping, and the “give” of the memory foam helps absorb this pressure and prevent pain or numbness that can occur.

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13

What type of mattress should a side sleeper use?

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It’s important to get a mattress that offers pressure point relief and contours to the body while still providing support for the spine. This typically means finding a medium or medium-firm mattress with memory foam layers. You may also want to look for a mattress that offers different support zones that are softer (reducing pressure points) around the shoulders but are firmer at the hips to provide spinal support.

14

How we chose the best mattresses for back pain relief

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First, we consulted sleep experts, including Weiss, Rohrscheib, and Brager, to determine what features are best for side sleepers. Then, we considered dozens of mattresses and read through hundreds of reviews to choose the top mattresses available for side sleepers.

15

Why trust us

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For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

Headshot of Lauren Wellbank
Lauren Wellbank
Contributing Writer

Lauren Wellbank is a freelance writer based in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Martha Stewart Living, and more. She has three small children, a husband, and an over eager dog at home. When she's not writing she likes to work in her garden with her family.

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