Finding the perfect pillow for a good night’s sleep can be a daunting task, particularly for side sleepers who require a pillow that keeps their shoulder, neck and head in a neutral, comfortable position. With hundreds of pillows catering specifically to side sleepers on the market, CNN Underscored set out to determine the best ones, testing 23 pillows in total. The results led to the selection of three great choices, including the supportive Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow, the squishy yet supportive Casper Hybrid pillow, and the affordable Beckham Hotel Collection pillow. The article also highlights the benefits of body pillows for side sleepers and recommends the Coop Original Body Pillow, an adjustable cushion that provides extra cushioning and support.
Important Details about The best pillows for side sleepers in 2023, tried and tested –
– Side sleepers need a pillow that keeps their shoulder, neck, and head in a comfortable, neutral position
– Hundreds of pillows are sold for side sleepers, and the article tested 23 to find the best options
– Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow is the best overall for its U-shaped cutout and adjustable fill
– Casper Hybrid pillow is the best memory foam option, offering a balance between softness and support with good ventilation
– Beckham Hotel Collection pillow is the best budget option with a denser fill for firm support
– Coop Original Body Pillow is a great option for side sleepers who need extra support and customization with adjustable fill of memory foam and microfiber; the pillow also conforms better to the body than plain fiber-filled options
– These pillows were tested by sleeping on them and consulting doctors, sleep specialists, and researchers
This article is a part of CNN Underscored’s Guide to Sleep, a week-long focus on everything you need to sleep better. We’ll be featuring new products and exclusive deals all week, so check in every morning to see what’s new.
For many people, getting a good night’s sleep means finding the right pillow that supports their sleeping style. For those who sleep on their side, finding the perfect pillow can be particularly challenging, as it necessitates a pillow that keeps the head, neck, and shoulders in a neutral, comfortable position.
Despite the availability of hundreds of pillows designed specifically for side sleepers, it can still be challenging to find the perfect fit. As a result, we tested 23 pillows, ranging from those meant for side sleepers to those designed for all sleeping positions, to determine which pillows are the best for side sleepers. We also consulted with doctors, sleep experts, and academic researchers who specialize in sleep positions to find out which pillow shapes and fills work best for side sleepers.
In the end, we identified three standout pillows that cater to the needs of those who sleep on their sides. They include the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow, the Casper Hybrid pillow, and the Beckham Hotel Collection pillow. We also identified the Coop Original Body Pillow as a particularly great option for side sleepers looking for a comfortable body pillow.
Best pillow for side sleepers overall
The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper pillow stands out from other pillows with its U-shaped cutout that provides space for the shoulder when sleeping on the side. This feature ensures that the neck, head, and shoulder remain in a comfortable, neutral position. It also cradles the neck well when sleeping on the back, making it great for those who shift positions during sleep.
The pillow’s fill is a blend of latex and polyester that is adjustable and removable. This feature allows you to take out as much fill as you need to achieve the ideal height and firmness level for you. The pillow comes with enough fill for people who prefer a firmer pillow, but extra fill can be purchased for those who like an even firmer pillow.
The pillow has two minor drawbacks. First, it can sleep slightly hot, making it uncomfortable for sensitive sleepers. Second, the unusual shape does not fit standard pillowcases well. However, its cover is removable and washable, allowing you to use it without a pillowcase. Alternatively, you can purchase a custom pillowcase from Eli & Elm.
Finally, the company offers a 45-day return policy in case the pillow does not work for you.
Best memory foam pillow for side sleepers
The Casper Hybrid pillow offers a perfect balance between softness and support, thanks to its synthetic fill core surrounded by an outer layer of memory foam. This design ensures that the pillow provides enough support without feeling too firm or too soft. The pillow’s rectangular shape and substantial side gusset help to keep the head elevated comfortably without digging into the neck or shoulder.
The Casper Hybrid pillow is well ventilated, thanks to the ventilation holes in the foam layer. Therefore, you won’t overheat while sleeping, making it perfect for hot sleepers. You can choose between two heights, regular and low loft. Casper offers a quiz on their website to help you determine the ideal loft height for you.
The pillow comes with a removable, machine-washable cover, and Casper provides a 30-night return policy on most pillows.
Best pillow for side sleepers on a budget
The Beckham Hotel Collection pillow has a denser fill compared to most down alternative pillows, giving it a firmer and more supportive feel. It cradles the head comfortably as you sleep on your side, and its support does not fade during the night. Although it can be machine-washed, it should be air-dried, which is less than ideal for some people.
This pillow is one of the most budget-friendly options available, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
A great body pillow for side sleepers
Body pillows can offer additional comfort and support during sleep, especially for side sleepers. The Coop Original Body Pillow is long and narrow, allowing side sleepers to wrap their limbs around it comfortably. Better still, its adjustable fill enables you to customize it to your comfort level.
The fill is a blend of memory foam pieces and microfiber fill, making it conform well to the body. The outer cover is made of Coop’s signature quilted fabric, which makes it feel extra plush.
In conclusion, sleeping on the side requires finding the right pillow that supports the head, neck, and shoulders. Choosing the right one necessitates considering the pillow’s shape, fill, and overall support level. By testing different pillows and talking to experts, we identified four exceptional pillows that cater to a range of side sleepers’ needs.