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Do you sleep on your side and have been looking for the best mattresses for side sleepers.

Why wouldn’t you? Sleeping on your side is one of the most common methods for sleeping and has been shown to relieve pressure on the spine as well as help people with sleep apnea.

It can be tricky finding the right mattress for yourself especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for because at first glance they all look the same. But many are cheaply made and have toxic or allergen-prone materials.

However, don’t let this put you off.

I can help you with this as I’ve been looking at a whole heap of mattresses in a bid to find the best options out there at the moment, I’ve compared the fabrics used, the type of foam, as well as the firmness so you can see exactly which mattress suits your interests best.

In fact, here’s a quick tip – when on your hunt the deeper the comfort layer, the better! A nice thick layer will contour to your unique shape, so you can sleep on your side comfortably.

All of these products are here based on their quality and features so you can choose any of them and know you won’t have to worry about receiving some sub-par mattress that feels like a rock.

Now you know what awaits, let’s get straight into things.

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Here Are Our Best Mattresses For Side Sleepers

1.

Sweetnight Queen Mattress in a Box

best mattress in a box for side sleepers

The Sweetnight Queen Mattress in a Box is our top pick as the best hybrid mattress for side sleepers.

It offers motion isolation for undisturbed and peaceful nights of sleep. The 12-inch construction of the Queen mattress utilized about 775 individual coils as the innerspring alongside offering you gel memory foam for pressure relief and support.

This product is great for side sleepers who have problems tossing and turning throughout the night or experience a lot of back pain. This mattress also has the ability to move independently so as to prevent motion transfers between sleeping partners. As a result, both persons sleeping on this mattress will experience a truly undisturbed night of rest.

Now, can this get better?

Absolutely! The 3-zone pocket spring feature in this mattress is yet another interesting addition; it makes the mattress contoured for optimal levels of support so that your body weight is evenly absorbed and distributed from your head to toe. The gel memory foam, on the other hand, synergizes with the springs to adjust the body temperature and weight of both partners while acting as a great buffer between you and the coils.

If you opt for this then you can rest assured that there are zero risks. Sweetnight has manufactured a product that is the very best in terms of price and quality. The product also comes with a 10-year guarantee even though about 96% of its consumers have found it effective and recommended the product to others.

I love this mattress, it’s perfect for side sleepers and is a must-have if you want pressure relief and overall comfort.

Pros

R

Body weight is evenly absorbed and distributed from your head to toe

R

96% of consumers have found it effective

R

Offers pressure relief & support

Cons

Q

Some reports that the mattress did not rise to 12” after unpacking

Latest deal: Sweetnight Queen Mattress in a Box

2.

Casper Sleep Wave Foam Mattress

best mattress for side sleepers with back pain

There’s nothing worse than waking up in the morning with back pain because you sleep wrong in the night; we all dream of a mattress that has maximum support, cooling features and works wonders for alleviating aches and pains. It is the best mattress for side sleepers with lower back pain!

Well, for side sleepers with back pain, you need a memory foam mattress, and I’ve found your best pick!

Casper sleep offers zoned support to the max and AirScape technology to help relieve pressure points and support key areas in your body while sleeping as cool as a cucumber– which is rare for memory foam mattresses. 9 out of 10 Casper consumers reported less back pain after sleeping on a Casper Mattress, so you’re in great hands!

The Wave comes with five layers of supportive memory foam, refreshed with cooling technology all throughout the foam. It offers the best support and insane comfort, so you can really delve deep into those deep sleep stages and wake up feeling refreshed and ache-free!

So let’s talk about these layers. The top layer is made with AirScapeTM perforated breathable foam, which has a thin layer of cooling gel that gives the mattress a cool touch, plus the breathable foam helps promote airflow to help dissipate heat and regulate airflow.

The second layer is also another layer of AirScapeTM perforated breathable foam which helps you stay at the perfect temperature all night. The tiny holes allow hot air and body heat of the mattress, so as you are cradled by the memory foam, it won’t get overheated. 

Pretty cool so far, right? Wait until you heat this!

The third layer of AirScape helps prevent overheating, but in the third layer, Casper uses three ergonomic support zones to help align your spine and provide more relief where you need it. It is softer under the shoulders but firmer around the hips, waist and lower back. 

This makes this mattress not only ideal for side sleepers but also combination sleepers who suffer from back pain. 

These zoned support systems are also infused with gel pods within the fourth layer under the waist and lower back to help not only support and align your spine but keep you at a comfortable temperature and prevent any night sweats throughout the night.

The fourth layer is really when the ZonedSupport Max works best, it reinforces the layer of memory foam above with continuous support zones to help provide full-body relief, and this is where the aches and pains relief really takes place– say goodbye to back pain!

The final layer is a durable base foam that works wonders in preventing you from sinking into the foam too much and also preventing the mattress from sagging while supporting your entire body. With this mattress, you can enjoy the wonders of memory foam and stay cool! 

Casper is so confident in their product that they offer a 100-night sleep trial and free returns so you can rest with comfort and confidence.

Pros

R

Five layers of comfort for optimal sleeping 

R

Zoned support, firm where you need it and soft where you want it

R

100-night sleep trial

R

Excellent cooling technology

Cons

Q

Off-gassing smell for a few weeks

Latest deal: Casper Sleep Wave Foam Mattress

3.

Nectar Gel Memory Foam Queen Mattress

best soft mattress for side sleepers

If you’re looking for a slightly softer mattress for sleeping on your side, then you might like the look of this one. It is the best-rated mattress on the market, loved by thousands of side sleepers who suffer from back pain; it is great for those on a budget too!

It is a solid example of high-quality mattresses that won’t break your bank.

Before we delve into what’s brilliant about this mattress, Nectar offers a 365-night sleep trial and a hassle-free warranty,  so if it’s not a right fit or if something goes wrong, you’re completely covered. Nectar offers the longest warranty in the biz.

So what’s it made of?

This 11-inch mattress comes with a whopping five layers of comfort, with a soft and air top layer which comes with cooling Tencel, supported by a layer of memory foam underneath to conform to all your shapes and curves while keeping you cool as a cucumber. 

As we delve into the deeper layers, the third layer is an adaptive response transition layer that prevents you from sinking into the mattress. The fourth layer is a base layer to reinforce this support. The final layer at the bottom is a mattress cover to prevent slippage.

So this mattress is not only best for hot sleepers, but it has an optimal level of firmness, breathability, comfort, and conforming capabilities. It can provide support for any sleeping position. I find this mattress the best mattress for side and back sleepers.

You’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a supportive cloud with the deep body contouring features.

Say goodbye to aches and pains when you wake up and hello to feeling refreshed and well-rested when you wake up. The conforming properties make it the ideal mattress for side sleepers of all sizes; even back and stomach sleepers can get a kick out of this mattress!

It is a medium-firm mattress that offers just the right level of firmness for support but also enough softness to feel comfortable. It also comes in a range of sizes from twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, so there’s a right size for everyone.

With Nectars 365 day sleep trial, you can’t go wrong– time to catch some serious Zzz’s.

Pros

R

Breathable, cooling mattress with 5 layers of comfort

R

High quality mattress, affordable price

R

Conforming memory foam to relieve aches and pains

R

Medium firmness but soft where you want it 

Cons

Q

None

Latest deal: Nectar Gel Memory Foam Queen Mattress

4.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain

Next up is this pretty incredible mattress for side sleepers who suffer from hip pain. Because side sleepers put most of their weight on their hips and shoulders, they are most prone to hip pain, especially if the mattress doesn’t offer the right support around these areas.

What’s brilliant about Brooklyn Bedding is that they offer three different types of firmness levels, soft, medium, and firm. So their mattresses can cater to hip and back pain while also offering the firmness level that is right for you. 

This hybrid mattress combines 6 inches of Individually Pocketed Ascension Coils with 2 inches of transitional Energex foam for deeper body contouring and support, followed by 2 inches of patented TitanFlex foam which offers the same contouring capabilities of memory foam but the responsiveness of latex. 

These top foam layers are also infused with cooling TitaniumGel infusion, which helps dissipate heat, optimize temperature and help keep you cool throughout the night. This, paired with the pocketed coils at the bottom, helps regulate temperature and airflow. 

But that’s not all…

All mattresses by Brooklyn Bedding are CertiPUR-US Certified, TCEP flame retardants, and don’t use any harsh metals in their mattresses which also means there won’t be an off-gassing odor which will last for weeks. It is even backed by a generous 10-year warranty. 

So you can enjoy the best of both worlds with this mattress, the conforming of memory foam and bounce of hybrid. 

Pros

R

Memory foam and hybrid

R

Cooling technology

R

CertiPER-US Certified

R

Helps relieve hip and back pain

Cons

Q

None

Latest deal: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

5.

Tuft & Needle Mint Twin Mattress

best mattress for heavy side sleepers

This mattress is not only a brilliant bang for your buck for heavy side sleepers, but it is also brilliant for couples. It is earned its place for the best mattress for minimal partner disturbance and the best mattress for heavy side sleepers.

Constructed with thick layers of adaptive polyfoam, which contours to the body to alleviate pressure without hugging your body or feeling like you’re sinking into the foam too much. The transitional base layers of the denser form ensure the top layers remains flat.

This bad boy can take a fair amount of weight.

What I love about the Mint Mattress over the original T&D mattress are the cooling properties. The Original T&D uses blue gel, whereas in the Mint design, they use a green gel that offers five times better cooling qualities making it one of the best mattresses for hot sleepers.

Plus, with antimicrobial properties, it is also hypoallergenic and protects against bacteria.

The top two layers are infused with graphite and green cooling gel, which not only helps draw heat away from the body but also offers extra breathability to keep you cozy and comfortable– this has improved by 30% over the original too!

The breathability and body-conforming capabilities of this type of memory foam make the Mint Mattress perfect for couples. You’ll experience fewer sleep disruptions as the foam absorbs movement and eliminates motion transfer; it is also completely silent, making it perfect for when sleeping next to a restless partner.

Just like Casper, T&D also offers a 100-night sleep trial, but the Mint Mattress is also backed up with a whopping 10-year warranty, so you can buy worry-free with complete confidence. The price is also pretty impressive for the quality and components you get too.

Talk about a quality mattress for a price point that won’t break your bank!

Pros

R

Minimal disturbance

R

Green cooling gel

R

Conforms to your body’s shapes and curves

R

100 night sleep trial

Cons

Q
None

Latest deal: Tuft & Needle Mint Twin Mattress

6.

Linenspa 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress

best foam mattress for side sleepers

If you can’t decide what type of mattress you need to go for why not settle for something that isn’t too firm or too soft? I present to you the Linenspa 12.

This mattress for side sleepers will work really hard to hit that sweet spot of all comfortable sleep preferences and styles. The 12-inch hybrid mattress from Linenspa will combine the plush comfort of memory foam with the traditional support of innerspring mattresses to do so.

The construction of this mattress includes a thick layer of foam that has been quilted into something of a cozy knit cover. The simplest way of describing this construction is that it will feel like a cocoon of comfort until you have been successfully lulled to sleep every night.

Here’s the real deal though.

The foam of this product works in a manner that conforms to the shape of your body while aligning your spine efficiently and leaving you completely pain-free and rested. Next up are the other couple of layers of foam over a 6-inch base that uses very high-quality springs to give you the support you need.

This 60 inches x 80 inches x 12 inches mattress will be shipped over to you in a completely hassle-free delivery and all you would have to do is unroll it and begin enjoying the comfort. You can also choose to avail the same mattress in a 12-inch profile that features individually encased coils and gel infusions. What’s more? The manufacturer also offers all potential customers a 10-year limited warranty.

You can’t go wrong with this one and you’re crazy if you skip past it without clicking the link. What have you got to lose?

Pros

R

Hassle-free delivery

R

Offers traditional support of innerspring mattresses

R

Individually encased coils and gel infusions

Cons

Q

4 inches around the edges of the mattress seemed like wasted spaces

Latest deal: Linenspa 12 Inch Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress

7.

Classic Brands Mercer Pillow Top Cool Gel Memory Foam

best value mattress for side sleepers

The Classic Mercer provides a new technology for bedding.

This mattress for side sleepers combines the traditional wrapped coils in the innerspring with the next generation of gel memory foam for an optimal sleep experience. The quilted pillow of this product is beautifully detailed and features a top knot cover with coordinated knit sides and a corded edge for breathability.

While the gel-infused memory foam of this product has the ability to disperse your body heat while creating a more comfortable layer of the sleeping surface. The foam also brings forth orthopedic support for a deeper night’s sleep.

And as if that wasn’t enough.

The wrapped inner coils are sized at 8 inches and all of them move independently in order to reduce motion disturbances and the sensation of movement. Furthermore, both the gel memory foam and high-quality memory foam are naturally resistant to dust mites, bacteria, mold, and allergens.

The naturally antimicrobial mattress for side sleepers offers you a 100 night risk-free trial with a full refund if you aren’t satisfied. So, you have about 100 nights of sleep to experience the pillow top with the cushion firm feel. Other than this, the manufacturer also offers you a 10-year warranty while the product so you can feel confident in your purchase and know there’s help available should the worst case happen.

There’s something special about this one and I just know you’re going to love it!

Pros

R

Optimal sleeping experience for side sleepers

R

Breathable

R

Disperses your body heat 

Cons

Q

Some users found that the mattress did not provide pressure relief 

Latest deal: Classic Brands Mercer Pillow Top Cool Gel Memory Foam

8.

Layla Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress

best mattress for hot side sleepers

So you may be looking at this product and wondering to yourself why copper-infused? Well, you’ll actually be shocked by the cooling properties of copper; it has some serious thermal benefits through dispersing your body heat evenly.

You’ll feel super rested and relaxed after waking up in this bed.

What I love about this mattress over the others on my list is that Layla offers a flippable mattress so you can completely customize your rest. One side is a firm mattress, while the offer is medium soft, making it ideal for those whose preferences vary from night to night.

This mattress was designed for any kind of sleeper; from side to back to stomach sleepers, you can find the right comfort levels by choosing the right amount of support for you by simply flipping the mattress.

But let’s talk cooling technology…

The copper-infused mattress works wonders for keeping you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night with their natural cooling technology. The copper infusion reacts to body temperature and keeps you cool by dispersing body heat to provide a healthier, better-quality sleeping experience without any hot flushes or disturbances in the night.

The medium-soft side is constructed with three inches of memory foam, along with some convoluted polyfoam for that little extra padding. The surface contours closely to the body, making it comfortable for both back and side sleepers.

While the other side offers 1 inch of memory foam, giving the mattress a firm feel for those that want that little extra support. The layer of dense polyfoam is located between the comfort layers, which acts as a shared support core for ultimate stability on both sides.

But wait, get this, this mattress even comes with two free pillows!! You’ll be all set with this awesome mattress.

If you’re a combination sleeper that likes a little bit of both firmness on one night and softness on another them this super easy flippable mattress by Layla will be your very best match, the technology of this mattress is pretty impressive.

Pros

R

Flippable mattress ideal for combination sleepers

R

Infused with copper

R

120 night sleep trial

R

Conforming memory foam to relieve aches and pains

Cons

Q

None

Latest deal: Layla Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress

Best Mattresses For Side Sleepers – A Buyers Guide

If you’re a side sleeper then hats off to you, if you find sleeping on your side or back most comfortable then you’re sleeping in the best position for your health. Not only can it reduce snoring but it is also brilliant for digestion and reducing heartburn. 

The only issue with sleeping on your side is if you choose the wrong mattress. Since when sleeping on your side you put a lot of pressure on your shoulders and hips, buying a mattress that doesn’t provide extra support in these areas will lead you to wake up with aches.

This is why innerspring mattresses are not recommended for side sleepers. Instead, you’ll want to go for memory foam, latex, or even a hybrid mattress that combines foam and coils to help offer body contouring and pressure relief in the areas you need.

There are a few things you need to know when buying a mattress for side sleeping, but don’t you worry I’m going to break it all down in an in-depth guide. I’ll even share some tips for sleeping on your side if you’re wanting to train your body to do so, so stay tuned. 

Let’s jump in, shall we?

How Sleeping On Your Side Affects Your Sleep:

There are many questions about sleeping on your side, such as is sleeping on your side bad? Why is sleeping on your left vs right side better? What causes hip pain when sleeping on your side? There are some crazy benefits of sleeping on your side if you sleep correctly.

Sleeping on your side is highly recommended by the medical community; it helps open your airways, reduces snoring, helps with sleep apnea, but it can also improve brain health and prevent certain neurological issues. Sleeping on your side can even help with acid reflux.

Sleeping on your side is also best to keep your spine aligned, but you need to be sure that your body is getting proper support when sleeping on your side; putting too much pressure on your neck, shoulders, and back can result in aches and pains.

Many people say that sleeping on your side is better, but why is sleeping on your left side better?

Sleeping on your side actually helps alleviate acid reflux and heartburn; it boosts digestion and stimulates the drainage of toxins from your lymph nodes. All in all, it helps improve circulation and helps your brain filter out waste. Sleeping on your right can cause more acid to leak through your esophagus. 

But let’s run through  all the other ways how sleeping on your side affects your sleep.

Spine Alignment:

Sleeping on your side with the right support can help keep your spine in a straight, neutral position. If your spine is twisted in your sleep, it can result in back pain and other issues, but sleeping on your side is the best way to keep your spine aligned.

Memory foam, latex, or a hybrid mattress is the best mattress type of side sleepers as the contouring capabilities of these mattresses respond proportionately to pressure points to help cushion hips and shoulders to keep your spine in a neutral position.

You should try to sleep on your side with your legs stretched out and with a higher loft pillow underneath your head; plus, to keep your hips square, it is also recommended that you keep a thinner pillow between your knees. You should also try to avoid tucking in your chin.

This will help keep your spine aligned and in a neutral position which can help combat aches and pains.

Side Sleepers With Shoulder Pain:

Many sleepers who don’t have a mattress that supports their shoulders tend to suffer from shoulder pain as pressure tends to be placed on one shoulder; this also causes pain down one side of the body. This can result in shoulder and neck pain.

Plus, many sleepers tend to push one shoulder up towards their neck, which causes the spine to become misaligned.

Purchasing the right firmness in your mattress is crucial for reducing shoulder pain across side sleepers; this tends to depend on your weight too. Lighter sleepers would need a softer mattress, while heavier people would need a firmer one to prevent sinking into the mattress too far or not enough.

Finding the right pillow for side sleepers is also key for keeping your head and neck in line; it also prevents your shoulder from pushing up towards your neck, so pairing the right mattress firmness and type along with the right pillow will make a world of difference.

Side Sleepers With Back Problems:

The right mattress can change your whole sleeping game if you suffer from back pain; if the mattress doesn’t contour the shape of your body or provide ample support, this can misalign your spine and joints, causing back pain. Your muscles can’t relax, and work overtime to keep your spine aligned.

This is also why innerspring mattresses are not recommended for side sleepers as they don’t contour your body like memory foam or latex.

A foam mattress can help keep your spine aligned as well as relieve joint pain, it can also help keep your hips and shoulders aligned, and many mattresses for side sleepers have customized support in the lumbar region.

If your back pain gets better during the day and only usually hurts when you first wake up in the morning, this is a key indication that your mattress is the culprit rather than any other reason. So switching your mattress may really help.

A responsive material like memory foam is best for back pain as it helps cushion pressure points and keeps the spine aligned while providing full-body support, so you wake up feeling refreshed rather than achy and fatigued.b

What Type Of Mattress Is Best For Side Sleepers:

There are many different types of best mattresses that suit side sleepers well but choosing the best one can be quite tricky as it is different for different people; it is all about your body type, body weight, your sleep concerns/preferences, and what you want out of a mattress.

Most commonly, memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are the most popular mattress type for side sleepers over innerspring as the materials used in these mattresses offer brilliant conforming capabilities, comfort, and full-body support to offer pressure relief. 

But let’s break down what mattress is best for side sleepers. 

Memory Foam Mattresses:

Memory foam is the most popular choice for side sleepers as it offers serious body contouring and pressure relief around the shoulders, hips, and back by popping your spine in a neutral position and lifting pressure points in these areas. 

It is a brilliant option for those that suffer from chronic back and joint pain or just regularly suffer from aches and pains across their body. However, you’ll need to go for an all-foam mattress with a good support core system to prevent sinking into the mattress too far.

Memory foam is not always ideal for overweight side sleepers as there is the chance of sinking too far into the mattress if you are quite heavy, instead hybrid mattresses are better as the support core coils so it is much more stable and prevents sinking. 

Memory foam is also not recommended for hot sleepers, no matter what sleeping position you’re sleeping in. Because memory foam is very dense, body heat tends to get trapped within the foam; since memory foam reacts with body heat and pressure, the heat stays around your body and so not ideal if you suffer from night sweats.

Many modern memory foam mattresses now come with a ventilated design with some phase-changing material infusion like gel or copper to help dissipate heat, regulate body temperature, and promote airflow. However, this can only do so much, so hybrid or latex may be better.

I’ll go into these in more detail below. 

Hybrid Mattresses 

Hybrid mattresses are the next best thing to memory foam; it is the universal option for sleepers because it offers layers of memory foam or latex and then a support base layer of coils to give the mattress more of a responsive feel and stability while also offering body contouring. 

Hybrid mattresses are brilliant for side sleepers as you can have the comfort and body contouring of the latex or memory foam layers but the bounce, ventilation, and support of the coils underneath. Hybrids also tend to sleep a lot cooler too.

Because there are many gaps between the oils, it helps promote better airflow underneath, so when paired with ventilated and gel/copper infused memory foam layers with a breathable top cover, hybrid mattresses can really keep the temperature cool. 

Memory foam hybrid mattresses are a brilliant option for couples, especially ones with pocketed springs, as they absorb a lot of movement, and they’re a lot more versatile and breathable than solid memory foam. So if you’re a side sleeper, but your partner is a back or combination sleeper, then a hybrid offers support for most sleeping positions. 

If you sleep especially hot, then a latex hybrid is a brilliant alternative as latex offers similar contouring and pressure relief to memory foam but keeps a neutral temperature– they’re slightly more pricey, though. 

Latex Mattresses:

Latex is another popular option as it has very similar qualities to memory foam but has a neutral temperature. You’ll most commonly find latex hybrids over regular latex mattresses as most companies use latex in the comfort layers with a coil base. 

Latex mattresses tend to be very natural, making them ideal for those with allergies, so if you’re a side sleeper prone to allergies then a latex mattress may be ideal. They tend to have a bunch surface but do offer a good level of pressure relief. 

Latex mattresses are brilliant for

combination sleepers, too, as it provides enough support for your hips and shoulders all while keeping your spine in a neutral position. 

Innerspring Mattresses:

Innerspring mattresses are the most common mattress type on the market, but in my personal opinion, they are not best for side sleepers as they tend to be very firm and don’t tend to offer much body contouring or support. 

The innerspring coils are typically made from steel; they give the mattress a bouncy feel and provide plenty of responsiveness; however, since they are so firm, they do not offer pressure relief in the key areas that memory foam would. 

Many people love innerspring mattresses, but for side sleepers, I would not recommend it. 

What Features Are Best For A Mattress For Side Sleepers:

Before buying any new mattress, there are a few things you should consider, which especially cater towards sleeping on your side and a few other preferences and needs to ensure you’re getting the very best match for you. 

I’ll run through a few things to look out for when looking to buy a mattress for sleeping on your side.

Mattress Type: As I run through earlier, there are a few different mattress types that best suit side sleepers, but every mattress does have its pros and cons. The important factor to look for is full-body support to relieve pressure points. 

Check out the qualities above and see which is best for you. I would recommend going for a memory foam or latex hybrid as it offers great support and comfort for side sleepers while keeping a cool temperature for you to sleep on. 

Understanding your needs, pressure relief wants, and firmness levels will really help you choose the right mattress type for sleeping on your side. Your weight is another super important factor, too, as it can affect how firm the mattress should be. 

Contouring: Body contouring is a super important factor to consider for side sleepers as a lot of pressure builds up around our neck, hips, and back as we sleep on our side. Body contouring is offered in materials like memory foam and latex by cradling your body shape.

Memory foam and latex lift sensitive areas around your body to put them in a more neutral position and help relax your muscles which also help to relieve aches and pains across your body.

It also helps keep your spine aligned and cushion pressure points which are key for side sleepers. 

Quality materials: Material quality is super important when it comes to the durability and comfort of the mattress. High-quality materials tend to come at a slightly pricier price tag, but they mean that your mattress lasts much longer in the long run. 

Mattresses are an investment, after all, so the more you pay, the longer it will last. Many cheap mattresses use cheap polyurethane foam or Bonnel coils that won’t last near as long as more expensive options– they’re also more likely to sag prematurely. 

So while it may seem quite a steep price tag to begin with, especially with hybrids, the technology used within will make it worth it. 

Firmness Level: The firmness is quite subjective and unique to you because it depends on your weight and firmness preference. Side sleepers need a balance of soft cushioning around the shoulders and hips and support to help keep the spine aligned. 

Before buying online, I would recommend hopping on down to your local bed shop and trying some of their memory foam/latex or hybrid mattress range so you have an idea of what firmness you’d like. Or go for a mattress with a sleep trial– these are super handy!

The firmness can affect the comfort and support you get out of the mattress. 

Typical Construction Of A Hybrid Mattress For Side Sleepers:

There are many health benefits you can benefit from when you get yourself the best hybrid mattress for side sleepers. The real question is, which of these benefits do you want to focus on while making your selection solely.

Comfort and Base Foam Layers

The best hybrid mattress for side sleepers will have layers for comfort that will be made from memory latex or foam. The very thickness of these layers may vary according to brand, but some mattresses have 2-inch comfort layers while others may even stand somewhere between 3 and 5 inches.

The top layers of hybrid mattresses are enough to determine the firmness or softness of the sleeping surface you’re going to choose. You can also be sure that these top layers will be designed in order to accommodate the curves of your body for improved levels of comfort.

Support Core

Hybrid mattresses usually have support cores that are made up of encased or pocketed coils. These very coils act as the main bulk of your mattress’s design and also provide for a solid base, so you don’t sink in.

With the help of the support core, you will also be able to keep your spine in a healthy form and alignment. With the help of these cores, you will also notice quite a lot of responsiveness to cuts in motion transfer.

This is an important consideration if you are going to be sleeping with a restless sleeper.

Extra Features

Most of the hybrid mattresses nowadays can be bought with additional features that are meant to boost your levels of comfort. These extra features may include copper infusion or gel layers to draw heat out of your body.

There may even be some mattresses out there that will have additional pillow tops that are sewn directly into the comfort layer in order to give you a more even sleeping surface.

 Typical Construction Of A Memory Foam Mattress For Side Sleepers:

So the best choice and most common choice of mattress for side sleepers is either memory foam or hybrid. Hybrid’s offer the best of both worlds and are ideal for side sleepers who tend to sleep hot who want to experience the feel of memory foam without the heat. 

Memory foam is best known for its conforming capabilities; it molds around the shape of your curves and helps lift pressure points, making it ideal for side sleepers as pressure tends to build up around the hips, lower back, and shoulders. 

Comfort and Base Foam Layers:

Just like with hybrid mattresses for side sleepers, the best memory foam mattress or latex mattresses for side sleepers use layers of memory foam or latex. The top layer tends to be plush protection and comfort on delicate pressure points around the shoulders and hips. 

This plush layer also a good level of comfort while lifting and relieving aches and pains. 

Transition Layer:

This is then followed by a transition layer that is a little firmer than the comfort layer and supports and contours and conforms your body shape to relieve pressure points and provide support.

It tends to be a little bit firmer than the first layer, and many companies use Zoned Support, where parts of the mattress are softer to provide comfort around sensitive pressure points and firmer around areas that need more support like the lower back.

Support layer: the final layer tends to be a support layer or base layer often found at the bottom of memory foam mattresses. It is a high-density foam that helps enhance the durability of the mattress and protects it from sagging over the years.

It also helps with spinal alignment and keeping your side in a neutral position while sleeping on your side, so the memory foam or latex layers on top cradle your body and relieve pressure points and provide extra comfort. 

The support core also prevents you from sinking too far into the mattress so you can enjoy the conforming qualities without feeling like you’re drowning within the mattress. 

Extra Features:

While memory foam is perfect for side sleepers, it does tend to sleep hot, so many manufacturers add added features like an open-cell design and gel or copper infusion within the mattress to help it sleep cooler and help regulate body temperature at night. 

The gel or copper infusion helps draw heat away from your body, and it uses phase-changing materials that help keep your body at the same temperature throughout the night. This helps regulate body temperature and keep you cool. 

This paired with an open-cell design can also help promote airflow instead of heat getting stuck within the mattress. If you want to go for an all-foam mattress but tend to sleep hot, then I would recommend latex over memory foam as latex has a neutral temperature. 

How To Sleep On Your Side

Knowing how to properly sleep on your side without hurting your shoulder and/or hips is super important as there are some crazy health benefits of sleeping on your side. Side sleeping isn’t always natural for everyone; many people sleep on their stomach or back. 

But it is best to try and train yourself to sleep on your side. It has crazy benefits, especially if you suffer from sleep apnea or snoring. I will run through this in a full article, but here are a few tips for sleeping on your side:

  • While training yourself to sleep on your side, it is recommended that you hug a second pillow while you sleep; it provides additional upper body support.
  • It is also recommended that you tuck a pillow between your knees to reduce pressure in your lower back and hip. Many people love using a full-body or pregnancy pillow so you can hug the whole pillow; you don’t need to be pregnant to enjoy this comfort. 
  • Ensure that your pillows have enough loft to maintain spinal alignment. Most side sleepers use a pillow with a medium-to-high loft to provide support around the head and neck. 
  • Invest in a soft mattress topper if your mattress is too firm. Mattresses that are too firm don’t offer much support and pressure relief which is much needed for side sleepers. So a little extra cushioning and body contouring can make sleeping on the side much comfier. 
  • Sleep closer to the center of your bed; many mattresses tend to sag around the edges as they age, so sleeping in the middle will help support your shoulders and hips the best. Also, flip your mattress every six months if you have a latex or memory foam mattress– not a hybrid. 

Sleeping on your side may take some training, but there are some crazy benefits of sleeping on your side, so it’s worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What side should you sleep on?

If you’re a newbie or don’t know too much about buying a mattress and just sleeping on whatever side is comfiest, you may not realize that there is a right and wrong side to sleep on, but does it really make much of a difference?

Yes, there actually is; sleeping on your left side is actually best if you’re a side sleeper. Sleeping on your right side can cause acid to leak up your esophagus, which can worsen heartburn and sleep apnea symptoms.

On your left side, however, there are the most benefits for your overall health. In this position, your organs are freer to get rid of toxins while you sleep; it can also help relieve sleep apnea, reduce snoring, offer back pain relief, and even help with brain cognition.

Where should you put your arms when sleeping on your side?

Many side sleepers pop their arms overhead or around their pillow, which can actually pinch your lower shoulder, so it’s best to sleep with your arms down by your side. This, paired with sleeping with a pillow between your leg, can help relieve pressure and align your spine.

For those training to sleep on their side, you can cuddle an extra pillow for upper body support or use a full body pillow to wrap your legs and arms around to ease pressure points and help keep your spine in a neutral position and prevent straining your back.

What causes hip and leg pain when sleeping on your side?

Since when sleeping on your side, you pop a lot of pressure on your shoulders and hip; if you’re sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t offer enough pressure relief, this can cause you to wake up with hip and leg pain.

If your mattress is too firm, it cannot contour around your body and offer support around your pressure points. This is why memory foam, latex, and hybrids are most recommended, as these materials contour around your body’s shapes to offer support and pressure relief.

If you don’t want to make the splurge, then buying a memory foam mattress topper can help soften your firm mattress and make sleeping on your side much more comfortable– it is a much more budget-friendly option.

What is the best sleeping position?

The best sleeping position is between sleeping on your side and back, but it depends on what you need and preference. Those who suffer from Sleep Apnea and Acid Reflux would benefit from side sleeping over the back sleeping. 

For pregnant women sleeping on your side is better than sleeping on your back or stomach as it helps promote blood flow and helps ease pressure off of the liver and heart when sleeping. Whereas those that suffer from neck and backache may find that back sleeping is better. 

It all depends on your needs and preferences, but I broke them all down in a full guide here. So be sure to check it out. 

Summary

So, now you know where to find the best mattress for side sleepers.

All of the products here are going to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep with their high-quality materials and ventilation. You’ll wake up better prepared and have pressure relief from these mattresses which all contribute to a better, healthier lifestyle.

My top pick was the Sweetnight Queen mattress and it is the best for a reason. Your body weight will be evenly distributed from head to toe while you’ll feel no pressure on your spine allowing for a relaxing sleep.

Whichever mattress you decide on make sure it’s right for you. Us side sleepers want and need the best night’s sleep available and luckily, the five options above all provide it in their own way. Good luck with your search.

Sleep tight!

Lauren Hall

Head of Content at Sleepedia

ABOUT

Lauren is Sleepedia's Head of Content and is a certified sleep therapist who loves her sleep. Lauren helps people to get back to those deep, dream-filled nights they once had by helping to identify problems with their routine and sleep setup. Whether it's a mattress or pillow, Lauren researches the best products in the industry to provide you with an in-depth review of everything you need to know to encourage your buying decision.