5 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers for Pain Relief

Tossing and turning all night only to wake up feeling stiff and unrested is incredibly frustrating. It’s easy to think you just slept in a weird position, but more often than not, your mattress is to blame. Side sleepers have unique needs that many mattresses simply don't meet. Your body isn't a straight line, and your bed shouldn't treat it like one. The right mattress for side sleepers will contour to your curves, cushioning your shoulders and hips while supporting your waist to keep your spine straight. This guide will show you how to find that perfect match.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize the Balance of Comfort and Support: The best mattress for a side sleeper isn't just soft; it must provide targeted pressure relief for your shoulders and hips while being supportive enough to keep your spine in a straight, neutral line.
• Match the Firmness to Your Body Type: While medium-firm is a great starting point, your body weight is the most important factor. Lighter individuals typically need a softer mattress for proper cushioning, while heavier individuals require a firmer one to prevent excessive sinking.
• Complete Your Setup with the Right Accessories: A great mattress is the foundation, but it can't do the job alone. A pillow with the correct height is essential for neck alignment, and an adjustable base can provide customized support to eliminate pressure points entirely.

What Makes a Mattress Perfect for Side Sleepers?

If you’re a side sleeper, you’re in good company—it’s the most popular sleeping position out there. But it also means you need a mattress that works with your body, not against it. Finding the right one isn't about choosing the softest or firmest option; it's about finding a perfect balance that keeps you comfortable and pain-free.

The two most important jobs of a mattress for a side sleeper are providing pressure relief and maintaining spinal alignment. When you lie on your side, your body’s weight is concentrated on your shoulders and hips. A mattress that’s too firm will push against these areas, creating painful pressure points. The ideal mattress offers generous pressure relief by cushioning these curves, making you feel cradled instead of propped up.

At the same time, your mattress needs to keep your spine in a straight, neutral line. Think of a straight line running from the base of your neck all the way down to your tailbone. A great mattress for side sleepers allows your shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to maintain that alignment. If it’s too firm, your spine will bow upwards. If it’s too soft, you’ll sink into a hammock-like position. Both can lead to waking up with aches and pains. That’s why most side sleepers feel best on medium to medium-firm mattresses, which offer the perfect blend of contouring comfort and essential support.

Which Mattress Type Is Right for You?

Walking into a mattress store or browsing online can feel overwhelming with all the different terms and materials out there. But once you understand the basic types, you can quickly narrow down what works for you. The perfect

The main categories you’ll encounter are memory foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring. Each has a distinct feel and set of benefits, especially for side sleepers. Think about whether you prefer to sink into your bed or feel like you’re sleeping on top of it. Do you tend to get hot at night? Do you like a bouncy feel or something that absorbs movement? Answering these questions will point you toward the right type of mattress for your needs. Let’s break down what makes each one unique.

Memory Foam: The Classic Hug

If you love the feeling of being cradled by your bed, memory foam might be your perfect match. This material is famous for its contouring properties, meaning it molds to your body’s unique shape. For side sleepers, this is a huge plus. Memory foam excels at providing pressure relief for your shoulders and hips, allowing them to sink in just enough to keep your spine properly aligned. This "hugging" sensation helps distribute your weight evenly, which can significantly reduce aches and pains. It’s an excellent choice if you want a bed that absorbs motion and gives you that classic, deep-sinking comfort.

Latex: Responsive and Cool

For those who want pressure relief without the deep sink of memory foam, latex is a fantastic alternative. Latex mattresses are known for being responsive and durable, offering a more buoyant, lifting feel. You’ll feel like you’re sleeping on the bed rather than in it. This material provides a bit of a bounce while still cushioning your pressure points effectively. Another major benefit is that latex naturally sleeps cooler than traditional memory foam, making it a great option for anyone who tends to overheat at night. It’s a durable and supportive choice for side sleepers who prefer a more responsive surface.

Hybrid: The Best of Both Worlds

Can’t decide between the contouring comfort of foam and the sturdy support of coils? You don’t have to. Hybrid mattresses combine the best features of both, creating a balanced and supportive sleep experience. They typically feature a base layer of pocketed coils for support and airflow, topped with layers of memory foam or latex for pressure relief. This combination is ideal for side sleepers, as the plush foam layers cushion the shoulders and hips while the coils provide targeted support to keep your spine aligned. Brands like Helix have perfected this design, offering a great mix of comfort and support.

Innerspring: Traditional Bounce and Support

Innerspring mattresses are the classic choice many of us grew up with. They are built around a core of steel coils, giving them that traditional bouncy feel and reliable support. While a basic innerspring mattress might be too firm for a side sleeper on its own, modern versions have come a long way. To get the comfort you need, look for an innerspring model that includes a substantial comfort layer or a plush pillow top. This top layer provides the necessary cushioning for your shoulders and hips, preventing pressure points while the coil system maintains excellent support and promotes airflow for a cooler night’s sleep.

Finding the Right Firmness: From Soft to Firm

Finding the right mattress firmness as a side sleeper can feel like a real "Goldilocks" situation. A mattress that’s too firm won’t give way for your shoulders and hips, leading to painful pressure points and a misaligned spine. On the other hand, one that’s too soft will let you sink in too deeply, causing your spine to curve unnaturally. The goal is to find a surface that’s just right—one that cushions your body’s widest points while keeping your spine in a straight, neutral line from your neck to your hips.

For most side sleepers, this sweet spot is a medium to medium-firm feel, typically scoring between a 5 and 7 on a 10-point firmness scale. This range offers the perfect compromise. It’s soft enough to contour to your body’s natural curves and relieve pressure, but it’s also supportive enough to prevent your midsection from dipping too low. When you’re browsing different mattresses, keeping this balance in mind is the key to waking up refreshed instead of achy.

Of course, firmness is subjective, and how a mattress feels to you depends heavily on your body weight. A mattress that feels perfect to a heavier person might feel like a rock to someone lighter.

• If you weigh under 130 pounds, you’ll likely get the best results from a softer mattress (around a 3-5 on the scale). You need a surface that can compress easily to cushion your joints.
• If you’re between 130 and 230 pounds, you’ll probably feel most comfortable on a true medium to medium-firm mattress (a 5-7 on the scale).
• If you weigh over 230 pounds, you’ll want to look for a slightly firmer mattress (a 6.5-8 on the scale) to get the necessary support and prevent excessive sinking. Brands like Helix even design specific models with enhanced support to ensure your spine stays perfectly aligned all night long.

Our Top-Rated Mattress Brands for Side Sleepers

When you’re looking for a mattress that will finally put those aches and pains to rest, it helps to know which brands consistently deliver for side sleepers. We’ve done the research and listened to what our customers love, and a few names always rise to the top. These brands are known for their thoughtful design, quality materials, and focus on pressure relief—exactly what a side sleeper needs. Let’s look at some of the best options we carry right here in our stores.

Helix Mattresses

Helix has made a name for itself by creating mattresses that cater to specific sleep styles, and their options for side sleepers are fantastic. They focus on creating a sleep surface that cushions your pressure points while keeping your spine perfectly straight. According to Sleep Foundation, "The Helix Midnight Luxe is our top pick for side sleepers, offering a medium-firm feel that strikes a perfect balance between softness and support." The review highlights that its foam layers are specifically designed to cushion your shoulders and hips. This targeted support is key to relieving tension and waking up feeling refreshed instead of sore.

Nectar Mattresses

If you love the deep, contouring hug of memory foam, Nectar is a brand you need to know. They’ve perfected the all-foam mattress, creating a feel that’s both comforting and incredibly supportive. As noted by the experts at Mattress Clarity, "The Nectar Premier Mattress is an excellent choice for side sleepers seeking a medium-firm option." They explain that this mattress provides significant pressure relief and uses advanced cooling materials. For side sleepers who tend to get warm, this combination of pressure-point cushioning and temperature regulation makes Nectar’s mattresses a truly comfortable choice for a great night's sleep.

WinkBed Mattresses

For those who want a touch of luxury with their support, WinkBed delivers a high-end hotel bed experience. These hybrid mattresses are celebrated for their durable construction and targeted support systems. Sleep Foundation praises the WinkBed for its ability to combine comfort and stability, noting that it "is celebrated for its luxurious comfort, making it a top choice for side sleepers." The review points out that its specialized coils gently conform to your shoulders and hips, which is crucial for keeping your spine aligned. This thoughtful design makes WinkBed’s mattresses a fantastic investment in your sleep health.

Leesa Mattresses

Leesa is another brand that excels at creating hybrid mattresses perfect for side sleepers. They blend responsive foam with supportive coils to give you the best of both worlds: contouring comfort without feeling stuck. Mattress Clarity recommends the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid, describing it as "ideal for side sleepers, offering a medium-firm feel with a plush pillow top and supportive coils." This balance is exactly what you need to cushion your joints while the coil system provides the underlying support to prevent your hips from sinking too low. It’s a great all-around choice for side sleepers looking for reliable comfort from their mattress.

Brooklyn Bedding Mattresses

Brooklyn Bedding offers a wide range of options, making it easy to find a mattress that feels like it was made just for you. They are particularly great for side sleepers who prefer a softer feel without sacrificing support. Mattress Clarity names the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe as "the best soft mattress for side sleepers," pointing out its exceptional pressure relief. Because it comes in multiple firmness levels, you can really dial in your comfort. This versatility makes Brooklyn Bedding’s mattresses a go-to for side sleepers who haven’t found their perfect match with firmer models.

Say Goodbye to Aches: Key Features for Pain Relief

Waking up with a sore back or aching hips is a clear sign your mattress isn't doing its job. For side sleepers, the right mattress does more than just feel comfortable—it actively works to relieve pain by providing support and cushioning exactly where you need it. When you’re shopping, it’s easy to get lost in marketing terms. Instead, focus on these five core features that directly impact how you’ll feel each morning. Getting these right is the key to transforming your sleep from a nightly battle into a restorative retreat. From cradling your curves to keeping you cool, these are the non-negotiables for pain-free side sleeping.

Gentle Pressure Point Relief

As a side sleeper, your hips and shoulders bear the brunt of your body weight all night long. If your mattress is too firm, it pushes back against these sensitive areas, leading to stiffness and pain. The solution is a mattress with excellent pressure relief. This means it has a thick, comfortable top layer that allows your shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to be cushioned. Think of it as a gentle hug for your body’s curves. The goal is to find a surface that contours to your shape, distributing your weight evenly instead of letting it concentrate in a few spots. This feature is crucial for preventing that all-too-familiar morning soreness.

Smart Spinal Alignment

While cushioning your pressure points is important, your mattress also needs to provide proper support to keep your spine straight. If a mattress is too soft, your hips can sink too far, throwing your spine out of alignment and causing lower back pain. The ideal mattress for a side sleeper supports the heavier parts of your body while contouring to the lighter parts. Most side sleepers find their perfect match in a medium to medium-firm mattress, which offers a great balance of softness and support. Brands like Helix even offer customized options to ensure your spine stays in a healthy, neutral position all night long.

Undisturbed Sleep with Motion Isolation

If you share your bed with a partner, you know how disruptive a restless sleeper can be. Motion isolation is a feature that absorbs movement, so when one person tosses and turns, the other person barely feels it. Mattresses made with memory foam or those with individually wrapped coils are fantastic at minimizing this motion transfer. This means you can sleep soundly through the night without being woken up by your partner’s every move. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in the quality of your sleep, especially if you’re a light sleeper.

Stay Cool All Night

Waking up sweaty is a guaranteed way to ruin a good night's rest. Some mattresses, particularly older memory foam models, are known for trapping body heat. Thankfully, modern mattresses are designed with cooling technology to prevent this. Look for features like gel-infused foam, breathable covers, or hybrid designs that allow for better airflow. These materials work to pull heat away from your body, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. A cooler sleep environment leads to deeper, more restorative rest, so you can wake up feeling refreshed instead of overheated.

Sturdy Edge Support

Edge support might not be the first thing you think of, but it’s a feature you’ll appreciate every day. It refers to the strength and stability of the mattress's perimeter. A mattress with good edge support means you can sleep right up to the edge without feeling like you’re going to roll off. It also provides a stable surface for sitting on the side of the bed, making it easier to get up in the morning. This feature maximizes the usable surface area of your mattress, giving you and your partner more room to spread out comfortably and securely.

Does Your Body Type Change Your Mattress Needs?

The short answer is: absolutely. A mattress isn't a one-size-fits-all product, and what feels like a dream to one person might be a nightmare for another. Your unique body composition plays a huge role in determining which mattress will give you the support and comfort you need for restorative sleep. When you sleep on your side, your hips and shoulders bear most of your weight, creating major pressure points. The right mattress works with your body to relieve that pressure instead of fighting against it. We'll look at how your weight, height, and overall body shape are key factors in finding your perfect match.

How Your Weight Influences Your Choice

Your body weight is one of the most important factors when choosing a mattress because it determines how much pressure you put on the bed. If you weigh less than 130 pounds, a softer mattress is often a better fit. You need a surface that can contour to your curves without a lot of downward force. On the other hand, if you're a heavier individual, a firmer mattress will provide the necessary support to keep your spine aligned and prevent you from sinking in too deep. Finding the right balance in our collection of mattresses ensures you get both comfort and support, no matter your weight.

Factoring in Height and Body Shape

Beyond weight, your height and body shape also come into play. As a side sleeper, you need a mattress that allows your hips and shoulders to sink in just enough to keep your spine straight. If you have broader shoulders or curvier hips, you'll want a mattress with excellent pressure relief and a thicker comfort layer to accommodate your shape. This is where materials like memory foam and latex really shine. Many Helix mattresses, for example, are designed as hybrid models that combine supportive coils with contouring foam layers, making them a fantastic option for side sleepers of all shapes and sizes.

It's Not Just the Mattress: What Else Do You Need?

You’ve found the perfect mattress, and that’s a huge step toward better sleep. But to create a truly restorative sleep environment, a few other elements are just as important. Your pillow, your sleeping position, and even what’s under your mattress play a crucial role in waking up refreshed and pain-free. Think of these as the essential supporting characters to your mattress’s starring role. By paying attention to these details, you can fine-tune your setup for the best sleep of your life.

Choose the Right Pillow for Neck Alignment

A great pillow is non-negotiable, especially for side sleepers. The goal is to keep your head and neck in a straight line with your spine, and the wrong pillow can throw everything off, leading to neck and shoulder pain. Look for pillows with enough height and firmness to fill the space between your ear and the mattress. A pillow that’s too flat or too puffy will force your neck into an unnatural angle. The right one provides the support needed to maintain proper alignment all night long, making it just as important as the mattress itself for a comfortable rest.

Fine-Tune Your Sleeping Position

As a side sleeper, your body needs support that relieves pressure from your hips and shoulders. While your mattress does the heavy lifting, a simple trick can make a world of difference. Try placing a pillow between your knees before you drift off. This small adjustment helps keep your hips aligned and prevents your top leg from pulling your spine out of position. It’s an easy way to reduce strain on your lower back and wake up with fewer aches. This simple habit can significantly enhance your comfort and improve your overall sleep posture.

Explore the Benefits of an Adjustable Base

If you want to take your sleep setup to the next level, consider an adjustable base. This isn't just a luxury item; it's a tool for customized comfort. An adjustable base allows you to change the angle of your mattress, which can be a game-changer for side sleepers. By slightly elevating your head or feet, you can find the perfect position to alleviate pressure points on your shoulders and hips. This customization helps improve circulation and makes it easier to find a comfortable, supportive position that lasts the entire night, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.

Common Mattress Myths Side Sleepers Should Ignore

When you start shopping for a new mattress, you'll hear a lot of "rules" that get passed around as facts. The problem is, many of them are outdated or just plain wrong, especially for side sleepers. Believing these myths can lead you to a mattress that causes more aches than it solves. Let's clear the air and debunk a few of the most common ones so you can shop with confidence.

Myth: A Rock-Hard Mattress Is the Only Way to Go

You've probably heard that a firm mattress is the key to good back support. While that might be true for some back or stomach sleepers, it's a recipe for discomfort if you sleep on your side. Side sleepers need a surface that allows their shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to keep the spine straight. A mattress that’s too firm will create pressure points and push your spine out of alignment. Instead of defaulting to "firm," look for a medium-soft to medium feel that offers both contouring and support. You can explore a wide range of mattresses to find the perfect balance for your body.

Myth: Memory Foam Is Always Soft and Swampy

Memory foam has a reputation for being a bit like quicksand—you sink in and get hot. While early versions might have earned that stereotype, modern memory foam is a different story. Today's foam mattresses come in various firmness levels, from plush to firm, and many incorporate advanced cooling technologies like gel infusions or open-cell structures to keep you comfortable all night. If you love the pressure relief of foam but want some bounce, a hybrid model like the Helix Mattress could be your perfect match, as it combines foam with supportive innersprings.

Myth: You Need to Buy a New Mattress Every Few Years

The old "replace your mattress every eight years" rule isn't a hard-and-fast deadline. The lifespan of a mattress depends entirely on its quality, materials, and how well you care for it. A well-made mattress can provide excellent support for a decade or more, while a cheap one might give out in just a few years. The best way to extend its life is to use a high-quality mattress protector from day one. It shields your mattress from spills, dust, and allergens, keeping it in great shape for years to come.

Myth: A Good Mattress Has to Cost a Fortune

It’s easy to assume that a better night's sleep comes with a hefty price tag, but that's not always the case. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars to find a supportive and comfortable mattress. Thanks to better materials and direct-to-consumer options, there are fantastic mattresses available at every price point. The key is to focus on the features that matter for side sleeping—like pressure relief and spinal alignment—rather than just the brand name or the price. We believe everyone deserves great sleep, which is why we offer options for every budget.

How to Find a Great Mattress Without Overpaying

Finding the perfect mattress for your sleeping style shouldn't feel like a financial puzzle. You can absolutely get a high-quality bed that supports your side-sleeping habits without draining your bank account. It’s all about shopping smart and knowing what to look for.

First, focus on what your body actually needs. As a side sleeper, you put the most pressure on your hips and shoulders. A mattress that’s too firm will create painful pressure points, while one that’s too soft will let your spine sag out of alignment. The goal is to find a sweet spot that offers both cushioning and support. The experts at the Sleep Foundation agree, noting that the best mattress for side sleepers should let your hips and shoulders sink in just enough to keep your spine straight.

Your body weight is also a key factor in finding that perfect firmness. A heavier person will sink into a mattress more than a lighter person. If you weigh under 130 pounds, a softer mattress will likely provide enough contouring. As NapLab's testing of over 350 mattresses shows, most side sleepers find their ideal match in a medium-firm mattress, which offers a great balance for a wide range of body types.

Don't be afraid to test-drive your mattress. Many brands, including Helix, offer generous in-home sleep trials, giving you plenty of time to ensure it's the right fit. This takes the pressure off making a perfect decision in a showroom. You get to see how the mattress feels after a full week or month of sleep, which is far more telling.

Finally, think of your mattress as an investment in your health. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, a quality mattress can make a world of difference in your sleep quality and overall well-being. You spend about a third of your life in bed, so it makes sense to get the best you can comfortably afford.

Your Final Checklist for Choosing a Mattress

Alright, you're almost ready to find your perfect match. Shopping for a mattress can feel overwhelming, but it's much easier when you know exactly what to look for. Keep this simple checklist handy as you compare your options, and you'll be on your way to better sleep in no time.

• Does it support your spine? The number one job of any mattress is to keep your spine in a straight, neutral line while you sleep. As a side sleeper, you need a surface that allows your shoulders and hips to sink in just the right amount. If it’s too firm, you’ll feel pressure; too soft, and your spine will curve. The goal is to find a mattress that properly supports your body in its natural alignment.

• Does it relieve pressure? Pay close attention to how your shoulders and hips feel. These are the areas that press deepest into the mattress when you're on your side. A good mattress for side sleepers will have a comfortable top layer that cushions these points, preventing you from waking up with sore joints or a tingly arm.

• Is the firmness right for you? Most side sleepers feel best on a medium to medium-firm mattress. However, your body weight is a key factor. If you're on the lighter side, you might prefer something a bit softer to get enough pressure relief. If you're heavier, a slightly firmer option will provide the necessary support to prevent sagging.

• What's it made of? Think about the feel you prefer. Do you love the deep, contouring hug of memory foam, or do you want the responsive bounce of latex? Hybrid models offer a combination of foam comfort and innerspring support, which many side sleepers find ideal. There’s no single right answer—it’s all about what feels most comfortable to you.

• Will it last? A mattress is a long-term investment in your health. Look for durable materials and check the warranty details. A solid warranty shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product. And once you've found the one, be sure to protect your investment to keep it feeling great for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I wake up with shoulder pain. Does that automatically mean my mattress is too firm? Waking up with sore shoulders or hips is a classic sign that your mattress isn't providing the right kind of pressure relief. While a mattress that's too firm is often the culprit, a mattress that's too soft can also cause issues by letting your body sink into an unnatural position. The key is finding a surface that cushions your body's curves while keeping your spine straight. A medium-feel mattress is usually the sweet spot for most side sleepers, as it offers that perfect balance of contouring comfort and underlying support.

My partner and I have different sleeping positions. How do we choose one mattress? This is a very common challenge, but you don't have to compromise on a good night's sleep. A hybrid mattress is often a fantastic solution for couples with different needs. The combination of supportive coils and contouring foam layers provides a balanced feel that works well for various sleep styles. Plus, hybrids with individually wrapped coils are excellent at isolating motion, so you won't feel every toss and turn from your partner.

Is a hybrid mattress always the best choice for a side sleeper? While hybrid mattresses are an excellent option for many side sleepers because they blend pressure relief with sturdy support, they aren't the only choice. The "best" mattress is highly personal and depends on the feel you prefer. If you love the deep, cradling sensation of being hugged by your bed, a quality memory foam mattress might be your perfect match. If you prefer a more buoyant, responsive feel, you might fall in love with latex. It's all about finding the material that feels most comfortable to you.

How important is a pillow compared to the mattress? Think of your pillow and mattress as a team—one can't do its job properly without the other. A great mattress aligns your spine from the hips up, but your pillow is responsible for keeping your head and neck in that same straight line. For side sleepers, this means you need a pillow with enough loft, or height, to fill the space between your ear and the mattress. Using the wrong pillow can lead to neck pain, even if you have the perfect mattress.

I tend to sleep hot. Should I avoid memory foam completely? Not at all! While traditional memory foam had a reputation for trapping heat, modern materials have come a long way. Many of today's memory foam mattresses are designed with cooling features, like gel infusions or open-cell structures, that help pull heat away from your body. If you're still concerned about temperature, a hybrid mattress is a great alternative, as the coil layer naturally allows for more airflow, helping you stay cool all night.

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