Dr. Keith Poorbaugh is a licensed physical therapist and physical therapy clinic owner in Alaska. Dr. Poorbaugh is a member of our Sleepopolis Expert Network.
For many folks, there’s no cozier sleeping position than one in which they’re curled up on their side with a cuddly blanket or pillow. So the best mattress for side sleepers should greet their bodies with a mixture of pressure relief and support, ensuring a comfortable drift to dreamland free of any tension or pain.
Unfortunately, many mattresses aren’t actually built to meet the side sleeper’s specific needs. They’re either too firm (thereby inducing pressure at the shoulders and hips) or too soft (resulting in an overall lack of support). So what are these Goldilocks snoozers supposed to do?
Thankfully, it’s not all bad news for those who doze primarily on their sides as there are a TON of fantastic mattresses out there designed specifically for their slumber preferences. Below, we’ll highlight some of our favorites and dive into all the factors that contribute to a sound side-sleeping experience.
The Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
- Editor’s Pick – Helix Midnight
- Best Mattress for Combination Side Sleepers – Saatva
- Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers – WinkBed
- Best Cooling Mattress for Side Sleepers – GhostBed Luxe
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain – Casper Wave Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain – Brooklyn Bedding Signature
- Best Couples Mattress for Side Sleepers – Puffy Royal Hybrid
- Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers – Bear Hybrid
- Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers – Leesa Hybrid
- Best Value Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nectar
How I Chose These Mattresses
Each mattress in this roundup has been through a series of our specialized sleep tests and has been tested by sleep experts like myself and my colleagues. As I discuss each of my picks, I’ll make sure to explain why I selected them for this list and will share my expert tips for getting amazing sleep on your side.
At the end of this article, we’ll also dive deeper into the methodology behind this list. If you’re still not sure of the right mattress at the end of this article you can take our mattress quiz to be shown a selection of mattresses that are curated to your sleep preferences.
But enough chat! Let’s get into these mattresses.
Editor’s Pick – Helix Midnight
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight was designed with side sleepers in mind. It offers these sleepers the sinkage they need at the shoulders and hips to promote a neutral spinal alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight was designed with side sleepers in mind. It offers these sleepers the sinkage they need at the shoulders and hips to promote a neutral spinal alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight was designed with side sleepers in mind. It offers these sleepers the sinkage they need at the shoulders and hips to promote a neutral spinal alignment.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Side sleepers require a unique balance of cushioning for their shoulders and hips, plus support for their lower back. Helix provides both in their Midnight model, a bed designed specifically for side sleepers that has a comfort layer of memory foam (the cushioning) and another layer below of pocketed coils (the support). You can choose between a standard version and a luxe version, which is slightly firmer and comes with a soft pillow top and zoned support.
Pros
- The combination of soft memory foam and supportive coils is just what a side sleeper needs. The comfort layer even has a stretch of gel visco foam for extra contouring.
- The Helix Midnight has several features to help regulate temperature, starting with a breathable cover of eucalyptus-sourced Tencel and ending with the coils, which tend to have better airflow than an all-foam bed.
- The Luxe could be a good option for any side sleepers who prefer their mattress just a touch firmer.
Cons
- Heavy people may not find the support they need in the standard version, but the Luxe version could be a decent fit.
- If you share the bed with someone who’s a strict stomach sleeper, they may not find the exact support they need in the Helix Midnight.
- Off-gassing refers to the faint chemical smell that sometimes emits from bed-in-a-box mattresses when opened, and the Helix Midnight has a stronger-than-usual aroma. That being said, it goes away in 24 to 72 hours, as long as the mattress is placed in a well-ventilated room.
If you’re a side sleeper, we know you’ll love the Helix Midnight! Get our best deal here.
Best Mattress for Combination Side Sleepers – Saatva
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva comes in three firmness options. The Plush Soft version of the Saatva is a good choice for side sleepers, as it will cradle their joints nicely.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
180 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva comes in three firmness options. The Plush Soft version of the Saatva is a good choice for side sleepers, as it will cradle their joints nicely.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
180 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Mattress
The Saatva comes in three firmness options. The Plush Soft version of the Saatva is a good choice for side sleepers, as it will cradle their joints nicely.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
180 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva is our top choice for combination side sleepers because of its coil-on-coil construction, which should allow them to switch positions at night without sinking into the bed. Available in three different levels of firmness, the Plush Soft model will likely be the best fit for combo sleepers who tend to favor their side a little bit more than their stomach or back.
Pros
- The bed has a layer of pocketed coils over a thicker layer of steel coils, offering plenty of support.
- Innerspring mattresses tend to fare better than foam mattresses for folks who sleep close to the end of the bed and need stronger edge support.
- In general, innerspring mattresses sleep cooler than many other beds on the market, as it’s easier for air to flow through the coils than dense layers of foam.
Cons
- As is the case with many innerspring mattresses, the Saatva has fairly high motion-transfer results, which means that if you’re easily disturbed at night and your partner moves around (or vice versa), you might feel it.
- While the Saatva isn’t an especially loud bed, coils can sometimes get noisier over time when compared to foam.
Sold on the Saatva Classic? Get our best deal here. Check out our other top picks for the best innerspring mattress if you are still searching!
Best Mattress for Heavy Side Sleepers – WinkBed
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed offers the support that heavy sleepers need. I'd recommend heavy side sleepers opt for the WinkBed Plus, which was designed with larger weights in mind.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed offers the support that heavy sleepers need. I'd recommend heavy side sleepers opt for the WinkBed Plus, which was designed with larger weights in mind.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed offers the support that heavy sleepers need. I'd recommend heavy side sleepers opt for the WinkBed Plus, which was designed with larger weights in mind.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
When lying on a bed with coil-on-coil construction, strict side sleepers are going to need some added softness in order to get pressure relief. That’s why the hybrid WinkBed has a euro-pillow top above the innerspring layer, which prevents side sleepers from sinking too far into the mattress. This offers some nice support for heavier folks, although if they want to feel extra-secure, they might want to opt for the WinkBed Plus, as it was designed specifically for larger people.
Pros
- Serving as the bed’s comfort layer, the Euro-pillow top gives side sleepers a feeling of softness right away.
- The WinkBed is available in a Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer model, all of which cater to a wide range of sleepers. Lightweight side sleepers will probably be most comfortable on the Luxury Firm.
- The coils are constructed with zoned support, meaning that each section targets a different part of the body.
Cons
- An innerspring bed—hybrid or otherwise—isn’t likely to isolate motion as well as an all-foam mattress.
- While we didn’t notice a particularly strong off-gassing smell, there have been some customer complaints about the WinkBed having a noticeable odor after it’s unboxed. If that’s the case, it should go away after a few days.
Think the WinkBeds give you the feel you crave? Get our best deal here. Not sure WinkBed is right for you? Browse the rest of the best mattresses for heavy people.
Best Mattress for Hot Side Sleepers – GhostBed Luxe
GhostBed Luxe Mattress
The GhostBed Luxe has a thick layer of gel memory that provides the pressure relief side sleepers need. And an added bonus: it sleeps super cool!
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
GhostBed Luxe Mattress
The GhostBed Luxe has a thick layer of gel memory that provides the pressure relief side sleepers need. And an added bonus: it sleeps super cool!
Material
Foam
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
GhostBed Luxe Mattress
The GhostBed Luxe has a thick layer of gel memory that provides the pressure relief side sleepers need. And an added bonus: it sleeps super cool!
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
GhostBed describes its all-foam Luxe model as “the coolest bed in the world.” While we can’t prove that statement, the mattress definitely has some impressive cooling technology that should appeal to any side sleepers concerned with temperature regulation. To start, its cover is made with proprietary Ghost Ice Fabric, a phase change material that’s cool to the touch and helps increase airflow. After a 1-inch layer of gel memory foam that gives side sleepers some contouring, there’s more custom technology with the Ghost Ice Layer. This material has been designed to detect heat and adjust to your body temperature.
Pros
- Many all-foam beds are supportive enough for lightweight and average-weight side sleepers, but not heavyweight side sleepers. But the GhostBed Luxe has a final support layer of high-density poly foam that should be thick enough to support anyone over 250 pounds.
- In keeping with most other foam beds, the GhostBed Luxe has fantastic motion-transfer results. If you sleep with a partner, kids, or pet, you’re unlikely to feel them moving around at night.
- For an all-foam mattress, the GhostBed has surprisingly good edge support. You should be able to sleep near the edge of the bed without feeling like you’re going to fall off.
Cons
- Some customers have complained that the Ghost Ice cover is a little slippery.
- If you share the bed with a stomach sleeper, they may need a firmer mattress.
Not sure the GhostBed Luxe will keep you cool enough? Check out more cooling mattresses to find your perfect fit. Ready to buy the Ghostbed Luxe? Get our best deal here!
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Back Pain – Casper Wave Hybrid
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
The Casper Wave Hybrid has zoned support, which means it's softer at the shoulders and firmer at the midsection. This construction helps promote a neutral spine alignment, which helps prevent back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
The Casper Wave Hybrid has zoned support, which means it's softer at the shoulders and firmer at the midsection. This construction helps promote a neutral spine alignment, which helps prevent back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
The Casper Wave Hybrid has zoned support, which means it's softer at the shoulders and firmer at the midsection. This construction helps promote a neutral spine alignment, which helps prevent back pain.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
If you’re a side sleeper who experiences back pain, you’re going to want to sleep with your spine in a neutral line, which the Casper Wave Hybrid helps you do with its zoned support system. In fact, it has two whole layers for this specific purpose—expanses of memory foam and poly foam that work to lift your lower back and hips while giving a slight amount of sinkage at the shoulders.
Pros
- In addition to the zoned support layers, there are two layers of Airscape foam (one of which has cooling gel) and a tall support layer of pocketed coils for extra bounce.
- The bed has reinforced foam at the edges, so you should be able to spread out comfortably and still feel supported.
- Because of the top layers of memory foam, the Casper Wave Hybrid has a slow response to pressure, which means that it’s great at isolating motion. If you share your bed with a partner, kids, or pets, this mattress could be a great option for helping you sleep soundly.
Cons
- If you weigh more than 250 pounds, you might need a firmer mattress than the Casper Wave Hybrid.
- While this mattress is a great option for people who experience back pain, anyone who experiences shoulder or hip pain might need something softer.
Think you’ve found the relief you need? Get our best deal here. Still searching for a remedy? Check out more picks for the best mattress for back pain.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain – Brooklyn Bedding Signature
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Signature comes in three firmness levels. The softest firmness level is best for side sleepers with hip pain, who need extra cushioning.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Signature comes in three firmness levels. The softest firmness level is best for side sleepers with hip pain, who need extra cushioning.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
The Brooklyn Signature comes in three firmness levels. The softest firmness level is best for side sleepers with hip pain, who need extra cushioning.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Because side sleepers put most of their weight on their hips and shoulders when they lie down, they may end up dealing with hip pain if they don’t have the right mattress. Brooklyn Bedding’s hybrid Signature model tackles this issue head-on by offering three different firmness levels, with the Soft catering to folks who sleep on their side. Its comfort layer of TitanFlex Foam combines the contouring properties of memory foam with the faster responsiveness of latex foam, resulting in a slight lift. After that, there’s a transition layer of Energex foam to help ease into a final support layer of individually encased coils.
Pros
- The cover is made of quilted memory foam for added contouring and softness.
- While foam can sometimes sleep hot, coils promote airflow, so the support layer of this bed helps keep the temperature cool.
- In keeping with the hybrid trend, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature has excellent edge support, which could make it a good option for couples and seniors.
Cons
- While the Soft model is a great fit for side sleepers, the other two models will likely be too firm. If you end up getting this mattress, make sure you select the right model.
- This isn’t a mattress with a ton of added technology. If you want something more luxurious with lots of different features, then it might not be the bed for you.
- Some customers have reported that the delivery boxes are banged up. That being said, a dented box is unlikely to damage the mattress itself.
Sold on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress? Get our best deal here! Not sure it’s right for you? See more mattresses for hip pain to find your perfect fit!
Best Couples Mattress for Side Sleepers – Puffy Royal Hybrid
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Royal hybrid provides the contouring and cushioning that side sleepers need. It also absorbs motion very well, which is great news for couples looking to sleep soundly.
Read Full ReviewMaterial
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Royal hybrid provides the contouring and cushioning that side sleepers need. It also absorbs motion very well, which is great news for couples looking to sleep soundly.
Read Full ReviewMaterial
Hybrid
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress
The Puffy Royal hybrid provides the contouring and cushioning that side sleepers need. It also absorbs motion very well, which is great news for couples looking to sleep soundly.
Read Full ReviewMaterial
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 4/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Do you and your significant other love sleeping on your sides? Then the Puffy Royal Hybrid might be the right mattress for you. It has several layers of cushiony memory foam to cradle pressure points at the shoulders, hips and knees, making it feel like you’re really sleeping on a cloud.
Pros
- The memory foam also is great at absorbing motion, which means you’re unlikely to feel your partner tossing and turning on your side of the bed.
- This is a hybrid bed made from foam and a bottom layer of strong, pocketed coils. Along with a layer of zoned poly foam, couples should find all the support they need.
- The Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress is also built with cooling technology to help keep it from trapping body heat, which is important for couples, as two people produce double the heat. There’s a breathable polyester cover at the top, followed by layers of gel-infused Cooling Foam and Climate Comfort Foam. The pocketed coils also have plenty of airflow to assist with temperature regulation.
Cons
- Sleepers over 250 pounds will likely need a bit with a bit more firmness and support.
- For a hybrid bed, the edge support isn’t particularly strong, so you might feel some sagging if you sit on the end of the bed.
Is the Puffy Royal Hybrid the perfect bed for you and your partner? Get our best deal here. Need to do some more searching? Check out my other picks for the best mattress for couples.
Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers – Bear Hybrid
Bear Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers looking for a bit of bounce should really like the Bear Hybrid. You'll feel cradled by this bed, but never stuck.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
20-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers looking for a bit of bounce should really like the Bear Hybrid. You'll feel cradled by this bed, but never stuck.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
20-year limited warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers looking for a bit of bounce should really like the Bear Hybrid. You'll feel cradled by this bed, but never stuck.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
20-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for average weight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
For a hybrid bed, the Bear is surprisingly soft, scoring a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, which should bode well for athletes. Many athletic sleepers tend to experience shoulder pain, and they should get some nice, subtle contouring from the thick layer of Bear’s Premium Comfort Foam, which is designed to cushion sensitive parts of the body. They may also find pressure relief in the Celliant cover, a fiber that some people believe can assist with recovery. At the bottom of the bed, a support layer of pocketed coils is designed to give the hips a buoyant lift.
Pros
- Working in conjunction with the Celliant cover, the comfort foam should give athletes the pressure relief they need.
- Right below the Celliant is a top cover quilted with hyper-soft cooling gel foam. The open design of the coils also helps with air circulation.
- Make no mistake—this is a soft bed. But lightweight and average-weight sleepers should still feel a slight lift at the hips from the coils in the support layer, preventing them from sinking into the bed.
Could the Bear Hybrid be the mattress you need? Get our best deal here. If you aren’t sold on the Bear Hybrid, check out my other picks for the best hybrid mattress.
Cons
- While the softness of the bed is a great fit for side sleepers, it likely won’t be supportive enough for anyone who sleeps on their stomach. So if you share a bed with a stomach sleeper, you might need a different mattress.
- Anyone over 250 pounds (side sleeper or otherwise) will likely need a firmer mattress. They may want to check out our Best Mattresses For Heavy People.
Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers – Leesa Hybrid
Leesa Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers after a soft feel should like the plush Leesa Hybrid. This bed will provide some nice pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers after a soft feel should like the plush Leesa Hybrid. This bed will provide some nice pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Hybrid Mattress
Side sleepers after a soft feel should like the plush Leesa Hybrid. This bed will provide some nice pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Combination Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight combination sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Soft mattresses can be fantastic options for folks who like to doze on their sides. They typically provide ample pressure relief to the shoulders and hips, especially as they press into the structure overnight. And of all the soft mattresses on the market, my personal favorite for side sleepers is the Leesa Hybrid.
Pros
- This hybrid mattress scored a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. (keep in mind that 6.5 is the industry standard for medium-firm). So, you should get plenty of pressure relief on this hybrid bed.
- Like many other hybrid beds, the Leesa Hybrid has a ton of edge support, which is a crucial factor for couples.
- This bed is especially good at isolating motion.
Cons
- While the Leesa Hybrid doesn’t sleep hot, it doesn’t have any additional features that make it especially cool, either. If temperature regulation is important to you, we suggest checking out our Best Cooling Mattresses.
- Any side sleepers over 250 pounds will likely want a bed that’s more supportive than the Leesa Hybrid.
- If your partner is a stomach sleeper, they likewise might need a firmer mattress with more support.
Ready to sink into the Leesa Hybrid? Get our best deal here. Still looking for the best soft mattress for you? See my other top picks!
Best Value Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Side sleepers on a budget should take a look at the Nectar, a value memory foam mattress that provides lots of contouring.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Side sleepers on a budget should take a look at the Nectar, a value memory foam mattress that provides lots of contouring.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nectar Mattress
Side sleepers on a budget should take a look at the Nectar, a value memory foam mattress that provides lots of contouring.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Side sleepers who are on the lookout for a high-quality mattress that won’t break the bank might find a lot to love in the Nectar. All foam and affordably priced, it offers a lot of sinkage and contouring without giving you a stuck-in-the-bed feel. It should especially appeal to average-weight side sleepers, who are most likely to feel the maximum amount of pressure relief.
Pros
- The top layer of gel memory foam provides plenty of cooling and sinkage. After that comes a dynamic foam that adjusts to your body, followed by a final 7-inch layer of high-density foam for support.
- All-foam beds tend to be good at isolating motion, and the Nectar is no exception. This makes it a solid choice for couples and anyone who sleeps with a pet or kids.
- Any side sleepers who struggle with hip pain should feel relaxed on the Nectar. The foam has just enough cushioning for their sensitive pressure points.
Cons
- Some people have found it difficult to switch positions while sleeping on the Nectar’s contouring memory foam, so combination side sleepers may want to look elsewhere.
- If you weigh over 250 pounds, you might sink through the Nectar’s first two layers and into the firmer base layer. Heavier side sleepers might be better off with one of the other beds on this list. They can also take a look at our Best Hybrid Mattresses.
Will Nectar give you the most bang for your buck? Get our best deal here! Not sold on Nectar? Check out other value mattresses!
What to Look for In A Mattress for Side Sleepers
After reading through our picks, you might be wondering: How in the world did Sleepopolis land on these mattresses as the best of the best for side sleepers? It’s a great question and one I’m happy to answer!
First, I’ll start with a few features side sleepers should make sure they look for in a mattress. Next, I’ll share which firmness is best, what mattress types are ideal for side sleepers, and some mattress accessories side sleepers might want to add to their beds.
Side Sleeper Support
While support is an important factor for all sleepers to consider, it’s perhaps especially so for side sleepers, who tend toward nighttime contortions that aren’t necessarily conducive to healthy spine alignment (think fetal position). A mattress with fantastic support will adapt to the body no matter the shape, bringing the “musculoskeletal chain,” as Dr. Poorbaugh describes it, into a comfortable synergy.
It’s important to note that support is not the same thing as firmness: A softer mattress can still provide great support. When looking for a new mattress that will meet your side sleeper needs, you’ll want to:
- Look for one that contours to your body’s unique shape.
- Find a bed that supports your hips and shoulders as you move and change sleep positions.
- Choose a mattress that alleviates tension across all parts of your body without leaving you feeling “swallowed” by the structure.
Contouring
Similar to support, contouring is especially important for side sleepers. When you sleep on your side, you’re creating uneven space between your hips and shoulders. Rather than leaving this space unsupported, you’ll want a mattress that’s going to fill it in — that’s where contouring comes in. A mattress with good contouring will give you a little boost of support where you need it and will help you feel as if the mattress is cradling you rather than pushing up against your hips and shoulders.
The mattresses with the most contouring are going to be memory foam mattresses. Memory foam has a slow response to pressure and is known for adapting to your body’s unique shape.
Pressure Relief and Pain Relief
When you sleep on your side, you’re putting more pressure on your hips and shoulders than you would by resting on your back or stomach. This added pressure is fine — as long as you have the right mattress. You’ll want a mattress that’s going to both support you and relieve pressure at your hips and shoulders, which should help prevent pain from developing or worsening if you already have it.
The best mattresses for pressure relief are soft mattresses. These mattresses are especially good for side sleepers because they have the give necessary to allow hips and shoulders to really sink in.
Shoulder Pain
The best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain is going to be one that’s decidedly soft — a 5.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale or lower. Side sleepers put more weight on their shoulders, and if you have pain in that area you’re going to want a mattress that cushions it as much as possible.
Hip Pain
Similar to shoulder pain, those who suffer from hip pain also want a plush mattress. They need a bed that’s going to cradle their sensitive joints. Again, a mattress that’s a 5.5 out of 10 or lower on the firmness scale is going to be best for these individuals.
Back Pain
If you’re a side sleeper who suffers from back pain, your main focus should be finding a bed that helps you achieve a neutral spine alignment. Keeping your spine in a straight line is key to preventing and alleviating pain, since straight is the spine’s natural position. The right mattress for you is going to be one that allows your hips and shoulders to sink at a level that helps you achieve that ideal neutral spinal alignment. I’d recommend seeing if a mattress has zoned support. Mattresses with zoned support are typically a bit firmer at the hips and softer at the shoulders, which helps keep your spine in a nice straight line.
What is the Best Mattress Firmness for Side Sleepers?
In terms of firmness, side sleepers will want to look for something soft to moderate on the firmness scale. While many folks assume firmer mattresses are the most supportive (including Dr. Poorbaugh), a special exception needs to be made for those who spend most of their slumber time on their sides. Per Poorbaugh:
“A firm mattress gives better support for pushing yourself up to a seated position. However, if you need pressure relief [as most side sleepers do], a plush mattress will have more cushion for those sensitive areas.”
So what exactly constitutes a plush mattress? In my opinion, a plush mattress:
- Comes in at a 4.5-6 out of 10 on the firmness scale (with 6.5 being medium firmness).
- Provides ample pressure relief and support to the neck, hips, and shoulders.
- Allows for deep sinkage to buffer against the formation of pressure points along the spine.
Firmness is perhaps the most important attribute for side sleepers due to the very nature of the position. (1) In order to provide proper support, the mattress must be able to contour to the curves of the body so the sleeper’s not “digging” into the structure.
What is the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?
I could make the argument for any type of mattress to be the best type for side sleepers, it really all depends on the sleeper’s body type, body weight, special concerns / preferences and what they really need out of a mattress.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam can be a good option for side sleepers because it really cradles the areas that can sometimes feel “jammed” into a mattress. Memory foam is the best material for contouring to the body (think filling in where your body naturally lifts and sinking where your body applies more pressure) which can be great for people who have certain pain concerns and are looking for some relief. Memory foam can get tricky for side sleepers if the bottom layer of foam is too soft that there is nothing to stop the body from sinking all the way to the bed frame. This is usually a more common problem for heavier side sleepers.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrids are one of the most universal options for most sleeping positions, and side sleeping is no different. A hybrid mattress is a combination of a coil base with either a foam or latex layer(s) on top. This construction results in a mattress that can be very supportive, but also has that cushioning, cradling feeling that a lot of side sleepers are looking for. Memory foam hybrid mattresses are also a great option for couples because the coils make them easy to move around on but the foam absorbs a lot of the movement. The coils also allow for additional airflow, making these mattresses more breathable than solid memory foam beds.
Latex Mattresses
Most latex mattresses on the market are technically “latex hybrids” meaning they have a coil base with a layer of latex on top. Latex beds are known for their bouncy surface, and their tendency to be more natural. If you are a strict side sleeper, you’ll want to make sure the latex has enough give for your hips and shoulders, but you should find plenty of support on latex mattresses. Latex mattresses are also a good option for combination sleepers who move between being back sleepers, side sleepers, and stomach sleepers all in one night.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are the most traditional type of mattress. The majority of their materials are made of innerspring coils, which are typically made from steel. These coils give the mattress a bouncy feel and provide plenty of responsiveness (think the opposite of memory foam). However, side sleepers beware — these mattresses tend to be on the firmer side. If you’re a fan of that classic innerspring feel and sleep on your side, I’d check to make sure the mattress is going to be soft enough to prevent jamming at your shoulders and undue pressure at your hips.
Mattress Accessories for Side Sleepers
Pillows
Good pillows are just as important as a good mattress. You may have an exceptionally well-made and comfortable mattress, but without a good pillow, you may still find that your sleeping experience is less than ideal.
A high quality pillow is critically important for side sleepers due to their increased — and somewhat more complex — support needs. (3) Pillows made from latex, shredded foam, memory foam, or other poly foams can help provide consistent and stable support by responding to the varying pressures of your head and neck. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a pillow that is tall enough to cradle your head and neck but not so tall that you introduce a new form of pressure.
“Improved [spinal] alignment… can be easily achieved inside lying with proper pillow positioning,” explains Dr. Poorbaugh. “Pillow placement at the head and neck can reduce an irritating kink in the neck, while a pillow between the knees should help keep the lumbar spine in neutral alignment.”
For more, check out our breakdown of the absolute best pillows for side sleepers.
Mattress Toppers
Mattress toppers can be a great way for side sleepers to add some plushness to their mattress. If your mattress is slightly firmer than you’d like, a quality mattress topper can create a softer overall feel, helping you achieve that perfect side sleeper firmness.
I’d recommend going for a taller profile mattress topper if you’re a side sleeper. A lower profile topper won’t soften your mattress, and can actually make it feel firmer, especially if it’s made from dense foam. One of our best soft mattress toppers is a good place to start.
I also particularly like memory foam mattress toppers for side sleepers. This is because memory foam toppers are typically made to provide more pressure relief, and tend to have a soft, squishy feel. Memory foam is a great material for those who doze on their sides because it offers plenty of contouring, which helps cradle side sleepers’ shoulders and hips and fill in the space between.
Check out our best mattress topper roundup for even more options.
FAQs
Recap: Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2021
What is the best type of mattress for side sleepers?
Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question! The best mattress for side sleepers is mostly a matter of personal preference. That said, your preferences can help guide you to the right mattress for you. For instance, side sleepers who like a bouncy bed might want to look at a hybrid or innerspring mattress. People who like to sink deep into their mattress might consider an option with memory foam or thick foam layers. And people who want a mattress made from natural materials might prefer latex options.
How firm should a mattress be for side sleepers?
For the most part, side sleepers are generally going to prefer softer mattresses. This helps protect against jamming at the shoulders or hips. At the same time, it’s important to look for a mattress that’s still supportive enough to promote healthy spinal alignment.
Where should your arms be when sleeping on your side?
While a lot of side sleepers keep their arms pulled up near their chins, it’s actually optimal to keep the arms further down to avoid feeling “jammed up”. Another side sleeping alignment tip? Consider tucking a pillow between your legs to support healthy spinal alignment.
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight | Editor's Pick | $1,099 | Helix Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Saatva | Combination Side Sleepers | $1,574 | Saatva Coupon | Read Review |
| WinkBeds | Heavy Sleepers | $1,599 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Review |
| GhostBed Luxe | Cooling | $2,245 | GhostBed Coupon | Read Review |
| Casper Wave Hybrid | Back Pain | $2,695 | Casper Coupon | Read Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature | Hip Pain | $1,124 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Review |
| Puffy Royal Hybrid | Couples | $2,699 | Puffy Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Bear Hybrid | Hybrid | $1,695 | Bear Coupon | Read Review |
| Leesa Hybrid | Soft | $1,799 | Leesa Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Nectar | Value | $1,198 | Nectar Coupon | Read Review |
Our Review Process
Our Sleepopolis reviewers personally test each mattress. We start by unboxing the mattress to figure out how difficult (or easy) it is to get the mattress from the box to the bed. Then, we spend time laying on the bed in different positions, taking time to assess it on our backs, stomachs, and sides. Next, we perform our Sleepopolis tests, using specialized tools to measure qualities like motion transfer, bounce, and pressure relief. Our last step is to open up the mattress and take a look at each layer. These steps allow us to give our final verdict on the mattress.
Jump back to our mattress picks
References
- Leilnahari, Karim, et al. “Spine Alignment in Men during Lateral Sleep Position: Experimental Study and Modeling.” BioMedical Engineering OnLine, vol. 10, no. 1, 30 Nov. 2011, p. 103., doi:10.1186/1475-925x-10-103.
- Herrington, Lee. “Assessment of the Degree of Pelvic Tilt within a Normal Asymptomatic Population.” Manual Therapy, vol. 16, no. 6, 11 June 2011, pp. 646–648., doi:10.1016/j.math.2011.04.006.
- Gordon, Susan, et al. “A Randomized, Comparative Trial: Does Pillow Type Alter Cervico-Thoracic Spinal Posture When Side Lying?” Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 17 Aug. 2011, p. 321., doi:10.2147/jmdh.s23028.
