Pillow finder for side sleepers

The best pillow for side sleepers

Most of us sleep on our side, and most of us use a pillow that is too low. Seven questions get you the height, firmness and filling that keep your neck straight.

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What the best side sleeper pillows have in common

High loftUsually 10 to 15 cm when squashed, more for broad shoulders and firm mattresses.
Medium-firm to firmSoft pillows sink under the weight of your head, and your neck bends down.
Box-sided or adjustableA box (gusseted) edge keeps the height even; an adjustable filling lets you tune it.
A knee pillowA pillow between the knees keeps your hips level, which helps lower back and hip pain.
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Want what everyone is buying this week? These open Amazon's live lists, which update every hour. Popular isn't always best, so check the loft and fill against your quiz result.

Movers and shakersBest sellersTop-rated: side sleeper pillows

Fill

FillFeelFirmnessWarmthAdjustablePriceLasts
Shredded foamSupportive but mouldable. Unzip it and take fill out until the height is right.MediumAverageYes$$2 to 3 years
Memory foamSlow sink that holds its shape all night. Often comes as a contoured (cervical) shape.Medium-firmWarmNo$$2 to 3 years
LatexSpringy and supportive, pushes back quickly so it is easy to turn over. Stays cooler than memory foam.Medium-firmCoolNo$$$3 to 4 years
DownSoft, light and squishy. Lovely for stomach sleepers, too flat for most side sleepers.SoftAverageYes$$$3 to 5 years with fluffing
HollowfibreSoft like down, cheap and washable, but goes flat sooner.Medium-softAverageNo$1 to 2 years
FeatherMouldable and cheap, needs plumping, and the odd quill pokes through.Medium-softCoolYes$1 to 2 years
BuckwheatFirm, heavy and very cool. It rustles when you move, which some people love and others hate.FirmCoolYes$$5 to 10 years

Questions side sleepers ask

What pillow height do side sleepers need?

Most need 10 to 15 cm when the pillow is squashed under the head, roughly the distance from the base of the neck to the edge of the shoulder.

Is memory foam good for side sleepers?

Yes, if it is high enough. Solid memory foam holds its height but sleeps warm. Shredded memory foam lets you add or remove filling, which makes the height easier to get right.

Should side sleepers use one pillow or two?

One pillow at the right height is better than two low ones stacked, which tend to slide apart and tip your head.

How we pick. We match product specs to you using published sleep and physiotherapy guidance. We have not lab-tested individual products and never invent reviews. Not medical advice: for ongoing pain, see your GP or a physiotherapist. We may earn a commission from shop links. Details