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Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief, and more.
We’ll be discussing our top picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers with special consideration for softness, pressure relief, and spinal alignment.
Most people choose side sleeping when they tuck themselves in at night—myself included. Although it consistently wins the sleep position popularity contest, side sleeping comes with unique challenges due to the pressure you can put on your shoulders and hips.
Fortunately, my fellow sleep testers and I have tested more than 600 mattresses to determine which work best for every type of sleeper, side sleepers included. Below I’ve rounded up the ones that provide exceptional pressure relief, so that you can curl up comfortably—and wake up every morning feeling positive and pain-free.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers?
Based on our expert mattress tester’s findings, the Helix Midnight is the best mattress for side sleepers due to its thick memory foam comfort layer. It cushions the shoulders and hips to relieve pressure while the coils keep the spine in neutral alignment.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Our Top Picks
Helix Midnight – Best Overall Mattress for Side Sleepers
Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nectar Premier– Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
All mattresses we test undergo a rigorous process that combines scientific data gathering with hands-on evaluations. Since pressure relief is often a big concern for side sleepers, we focused on this feature by conducting a pressure map test, which uses thermal imaging to show where stress can build up in the body when lying on a mattress. We also performed our own “rest tests” and noted how we felt on the beds to make sure the pressure map information aligned with our feedback.
Side sleepers also need adequate support to keep them from sinking too far into the mattress. After spending considerable time on each mattress, we noted how well it kept our hips elevated and our spines aligned and assigned each mattress a score from 1 to 5. For a bed to be considered for this roundup, it needed to score a 3.5 or higher on support. We also tested features such as motion isolation by placing a glass of water on the mattress and pressing the layers around it, and edge support—or how well a mattress supports you along its sides—by sitting at the perimeter of the bed and measuring the sinkage with a tape measure.
Hands-on mattress testing in our sleep lab in Austin, TX
How We Chose Our Top Picks for Side Sleepers
We test mattresses across a myriad of factors; however, the beds we selected for this roundup had to excel in these particular categories to meet the needs of side sleepers:
Firmness
Side sleepers naturally put a lot of pressure on the shoulders, hips, and spine. A big factor in weighing a bed’s suitability for side sleepers is whether it’s soft enough to relieve pressure points and not cause major aches and pains. We excluded all beds that exceeded a 7.5/10 on our firmness scale.
Support
As a side sleeper, I know that sleeping on a supportive foundation is vital for maintaining proper alignment throughout the night. To ensure this, I recommend a medium-firm mattress, which is about a 6.5/10 on our firmness scale. There are a few slightly softer beds on our list, but these beds typically have the additional support of pocketed innerspring coils to keep sleepers elevated.
Pressure Relief and Contouring
Side sleepers put a lot of their weight on their shoulders and hips, which makes contouring and pressure relief essential for a good night’s sleep. I recommend a mattress that has a top layer that cradles body parts prone to pressure buildup, such as the hips and shoulders. This is especially important if you suffer from recurring hip or shoulder pain. My top mattress picks all have better contouring and pressure relief than the typical mattress. I’ll also further specify which body types will be best suited to each type of mattress.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight
Medium-Firm Feel
Breathability
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$936-$1,748 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Provides good pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
This mattress offers good support and body contouring for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
This bed absorbs motion well for a hybrid mattress, so couples shouldn’t notice their partner’s movements.
Pros of the Helix Midnight Mattress
The Helix Midnight mattress is a fantastic choice for back and side sleepers. It’s a perfect medium-firm mattress that offers a lot of comfort from the foam at the top with supportive coils at the bottom.
This mattress shouldn’t trap too much heat thanks to the coils, which allow for airflow. You also have the option to add a specialized cooling cover.
Hybrid mattresses can be bouncy and disturb others who are in bed, but the Helix Midnight absorbs motion very well for this type of mattress.
Cons of the Helix Midnight Mattress
This mattress is too soft to support stomach sleepers. The hips will dip into this bed over time, which can cause strain on the lower back.
While this bed absorbs motion well, it’s still a hybrid. If you don’t want that bouncy, coil feeling to your mattress, you should look for an all-foam bed.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10 years
Returns
Free returns during the trial period
The Helix Midnight is Helix’s most popular model because of its medium-firmness and works well for back and side sleepers. The top layers of foam provide good pressure relief, but the coils offer a good amount of support. It won’t trap heat thanks to those coils, and you can even opt for a cooling cover. Be sure to watch our video review to learn more about the Helix Midnight.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.2
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4
Response
4.5
Durability
4.5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight is the company’s most popular mattress model. This high-quality hybrid’s classic medium-firm build offers a contouring, hug-like feel and excellent lumbar support, which side sleepers need. Its bouncy responsiveness makes it easy to move around for sleepers who tend to switch positions throughout the night.
When I tested this mattress, I sunk into the top layer a little. However, at 6’7” and 270 pounds, I’m not your average sleeper. The lightweight and average-weight folks on our test team found that the Midnight balanced solid support and a cradling feel, making it a versatile fit for many side sleepers. The mattress also worked well for back sleepers and received excellent edge support and motion transfer scores. This bodes well for side sleepers who sleep with a partner—not only can you comfortably spread out to the far reaches of this bed, but you’re also unlikely to be awakened by a restless partner.
What the testers say:“Simply put, I’m a big guy, and although the Midnight’s top layer of memory foam sank some, it was still a comfortable match for me. According to our other testers, it’s a fantastic fit for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About Helix Midnight Mattress
This medium-firm mattress has sturdy coils to keep you propped up and plush foams to contour around the lower back, giving it a balance of support and comfort.
The Helix Midnight’s coils and gel-infused foams help hot sleepers stay cool. The mattress’s surface temperature only increased by 3.4 degrees during our thermal gun test, earning it a cooling score of 4.5/5.
Those looking for one of the best orthopedic mattresses should consider the Helix Midnight. The soft memory foam in this mattress is excellent for alleviating joint pain.
What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight Mattress
Stomach sleepers needing specific midsection support should consider another option, like the firmer Helix Dawn, designed for stomach sleepers.
Heavier side sleepers will need a firmer and more supportive mattress. We recommend the Helix PLUS, which was made specifically for heavy people.
Other User Reviews
On Helix’s site, buyers rated the Helix Midnight 4.5/5 stars with over 6,100 reviews. They generally praised the comfort, quality of the materials, and pain relief factors, but some reviewers found it either too firm or too soft, depending on their needs.
Saatva – Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
Best Innerspring Mattress for Side Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Multiplem Firmnesses
Durable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
The Saatva appears in many of our best-of articles because its quality materials and innerspring hybrid construction give it such a luxurious “hotel mattress” feel. It’s also offered in three different firmness options—Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm—which allows side sleepers to pick a firmness that appeals to their personal preferences and best supports their body types.
I reviewed the Saatva Luxury Firm model, and while I don’t recommend this firmness for lightweight side sleepers, I think that average-weight and heavyweight folks will love how the plush upper layers contour around them, while the sturdy innerspring layer supports their hips and keeps their spines aligned. As for lightweight sleepers, I’d recommend the Plush Soft version, which should provide plenty of pressure relief for your hips and shoulders.
What the testers say:“The Saatva has a classic innerspring feel. It’s bouncy and responsive, but the tufted pillow top offers plush cushioning. By not sinking too far into the layers, I felt like I was sleeping “on top of” the mattress rather than “inside” it.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Saatva
Regardless of your firmness selection, the Saatva contains high-quality materials that provide solid durability and support, making it an outstanding option for those who want to invest in a long-lasting mattress.
The two layers of high-grade coils promote air circulation and body heat dissipation.
The Saatva is responsive and springy, making it easy to move around on. This is great news for combination sleepers who don’t want to feel stuck when repositioning.
What to Keep in Mind About the Saatva
The Saatva doesn’t isolate motion very well. If you sleep with a partner, you might feel their movements as they shift or get in and out of bed. For more recommendations, check out our best mattresses for motion isolation.
While the Saatva is affordable for a luxurious mattress, it might still be out of your price range. If you want a cheaper mattress that works well for side sleepers, check out the Nectar.
Other User Reviews
The Saatva mattress has an average rating of 4.8/5 based on 3,225 reviews from the company website. Many people comment on how the Saatva has made side sleeping much more comfortable. However, 35 people greatly disliked the mattress, leaving it a 1-star rating. Complaints touch on poor delivery and the mattress not lasting as long as expected.
Nectar Premier– Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
Best Medium-Firm Mattress for Side Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Nectar Premier is an all-foam mattress with a high-density base layer and several layers of plush foam on top.
Firmness
The Nectar Premier is softer than average. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 6/10. For reference, 6.5/10 is considered the industry standard of medium-firm.
Price
$1,049-$2,398 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Hot Sleepers
The Phase Change Material cover, paired with the cooling gel foam, helps dissipate body heat.
Side Sleepers
It offers lots of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 275 lb.
Pros of the Nectar Premier
It has a balanced foam feel. You’ll feel like you’re resting “on top” of the bed, rather than “inside” it.
The plush foam layers offer lots of pressure relief for side sleepers.
The cooling materials help dissipate body heat.
Cons of the Nectar Premier
It’s not supportive enough for most heavyweight back sleepers.
It lacks a bouncy and responsive feel.
This mattress might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period.
The Nectar Premier mattress is a luxurious bed that offers lots of pressure relief. It’s softer than average, which makes it a nice option for many side sleepers. This mattress has cooling gel foam and a cover made with Phase Change Material, so it works well for hot sleepers. However, it may not be supportive enough for many back and stomach sleepers. And because it’s a high-end model, it could be out of some people’s budgets. To learn more, watch our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4.5
Motion Transfer
3.5
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
The Nectar Premier’s all-foam construction and medium-firm firmness make it an excellent side sleeper mattress. It features two comfort layers: 2” of soft memory foam that provides gentle cradling, and 3″ of more supportive foam that keeps sleepers elevated and aligned. These layers work together to ease pain and tension around a side sleeper’s shoulders and hips, providing much-needed pressure relief.
Our average-weight tester said this bed cradled her pressure points and made her want to melt into the mattress. However, those with a larger stature, like me, might need a slightly firmer mattress. I appreciated the initial pressure relief, but I slowly began to sink too far into the mattress, which caused some discomfort to build through my hips. I’d recommend the Nectar Classic for heavier side sleepers.
What the testers say:“When I was side sleeping, I only felt a bit of pressure on my shoulders and hips. I can see how this mattress could be good for those living with chronic pain or arthritis.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nectar Premier
It’s an excellent option for sleepers with any type of joint pain. The Nectar Premier’s all-foam construction offers gold-star pressure relief, which can help ease joint pain.
The Premier’s medium-firm feel also makes it great for back sleepers, providing versatility for couples with different preferred sleep positions.
This mattress proves that a bed doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be considered one of the best. A queen-sized Premier can often be found for under $1,000.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar Premier
Stomach sleepers might not want something this soft. These sleepers will likely want to look for a firmer mattress—stomach sleepers need a bed that ranks at least a 7.5/10 on the firmness scale to keep their hips elevated.
If you’re a fan of traditional, slow-moving memory foam mattresses that feel like they wrap you in a gentle hug, this probably isn’t the bed for you, as you sleep more “on top” of this mattress than in it.
Other User Reviews
On Nectar’s site, customers gave the Premier 4.5/5 stars, with 6,256 reviews at the time of writing. Many lauded this bed for its great quality and affordable price, but some commented that the Nectar Premier was too hard for their taste.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool night’s rest.
Cons
This isn’t the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesn’t have a traditional “sink-in” memory foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bed’s excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed that’s easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isn’t the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
4.5
Response
3.5
Motion Transfer
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Sleeping with another person is a different experience than snoozing solo. Couples need a bed that provides plenty of room to spread out—and allows for easy repositioning during sex. Of course, you’ll also need one that offers contouring and pressure relief when sleeping on your side.
I recommend the WinkBed to most side-sleeping couples because it ticks all of these boxes—and is even so effective at contouring that we’ve chosen it as one of our best mattresses for hip pain. The mattress has a plush pillow-top that cradles the hips and shoulders. However, it won’t cause you to sink so far into foam that it throws your spinal alignment out of whack; it keeps you elevated and aligned with two sets of supportive innerspring coils. Since the WinkBed is offered in multiple firmnesses, couples can pinpoint the one that works best for both of them (we tend to recommend the “Luxury Firm” model to most side sleepers).
What the testers say:“During my tests, the WinkBed exhibited great edge support. This is good news for couples. Both partners will be able to use the full surface area of the mattress.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the WinkBed Mattress
This bed has zoned support, which means it is firmer at the center and softer at the shoulders. This design supports a neutral spinal alignment, which makes it a particularly great mattress for back pain.
It has four different firmness options, so all sleeper types should be able to find a model that works for their needs.
It’s made with high-quality materials, like a soft Tencel cover and extra coils for edge support.
What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed Mattress
It is one of the most expensive mattresses on our list. Because this mattress is made with many high-quality materials, the WinkBed has a higher price point.
It doesn’t have the best motion isolation so you might feel your partner’s movements on your side of the bed.
Other User Reviews
On the WinkBeds website, customers gave this mattress 4.8/5 stars. People said they were very happy with how comfortable and supportive this bed felt. However, some customers complained that the mattress was too firm.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nolah
Nolah Evolution
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, which means it has coils at the bottom and memory foam on top.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,499-$3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid offers great lumbar support for most back sleepers under 300 lb.
Hot Sleepers
This bed has graphite-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat. It also has coils that promote airflow.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
It has great cooling features, such as graphite-infused foam and airflow-promoting coils.
Even though it has coils, it isolates motion well. This makes it a great mattress for couples.
It’s available in three firmness levels, so it works for a variety of people.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
It lacks a slow-moving feel.
It’s not supportive enough for most people who weigh more than 300 lb.
Because it’s a luxurious mattress, it might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. It’s not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
4
Support
4
Edge Support
5
Cooling
4
Response
4
Motion Transfer
5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
The Nolah Evolution is a luxury mattress that balances comfort and support and comes with a number of cooling features to help hot sleepers. This includes an ArcticTex cover with a quilted Euro topper, which helps draw warmth away from the body. The bed’s proprietary AirFoamICE, a graphite-infused foam, is designed to prevent heat from getting trapped in the bed; its “heat escape” gusset helps promote airflow.
The Nolah Evolution is an excellent choice for heavier side sleepers, since the robust construction of thick foams and individually wrapped coils won’t let you sink in too far. For even more support, check out the Nolah Evolution Comfort+, a bed designed for sleepers who weigh 300 lbs or more.
What the testers say: “As someone who sleeps hot, I’m prone to waking up because I’m overheating. Because of this, the Nolah Evolution was perfect for my situation and nailed the nap test. Its thick coils and high-density foams were supportive enough to handle my weight, and its cooling cover and foams helped me nap without overheating in our Austin, TX mattress lab.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nolah Evolution
For sleepers who are looking for a good balance of comfort and support, the Nolah Evolution’s foams provide pressure relief, while the individually wrapped coils add some sturdiness.
As we mentioned above, the Nolah Evolution has some great cooling features such as a cooling cover, temperature-neutral foam, a heat escape gusset, and a layer of coils that help promote airflow.
The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, and while many mattresses with coil layers cause significant motion transfer, this bed has a slower-moving feel thanks to multiple comfort layers that help absorb movement.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Evolution
While the bed excels at isolating motion, the Nolah Evolution has below-average edge support for a hybrid, which might affect sleepers who tend to drift to the edge of their mattress.
This mattress is often sought after by sleepers seeking a luxury bedroom upgrade, making it one of the more expensive beds included in this roundup. If you’re on a tighter budget, you might want to consider the Nolah Original.
Other User Reviews
Customers on the Nolah site rated the Evolution mattress 4.9/5 stars. Since Nolah doesn’t allow users to filter through ratings on their site, we mostly noticed 5-star reviews on the mattress that highlighted how luxurious and cooling the mattress felt.
Nectar Luxe – Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers
Best Luxury Mattress for Side Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Nectar Luxe is softer than average. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated it a 6/10. For reference, 6.5/10 represents the industry standard of medium-firm.
Price
$1,499-$3,298 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Couples
It isolates motion well, which makes it a nice choice for couples.
Hot Sleepers
This mattress has many cooling features that help dissipate body heat.
Side Sleepers
It offers plenty of pressure relief for side sleepers who weigh less than 275 lb.
Pros of the Nectar Luxe
This mattress has many cooling features, such as copper-infused foam, that help pull heat away from the body.
The Nectar Luxe works well for side sleepers, because the soft foams cushion shoulders and hips.
This mattress is made with durable, high-quality materials. It should last at least 10 years.
Cons of the Nectar Luxe
It might be out of some people’s budgets
It may not be supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Nectar Luxe is the brand’s most luxurious mattress. This bed has many cooling features that help dissipate body heat. Thanks to its soft feel, this mattress works well for many side sleepers. That said, this mattress isn’t supportive enough for many heavyweight people and stomach sleepers.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4
Support
3
Edge Support
5
Cooling
4.5
Motion Transfer
3.5
Response
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
Although you don’t have to break the bank to find a quality, durable mattress, if your budget allows for a luxury mattress, why not treat yourself? It’s a bonus if you can snag a luxurious bed for a reasonable price, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with the Nectar Luxe—my pick for the best luxury mattress for side sleepers.
The Luxe’s plush upper foams cradle a side sleeper’s shoulders and hips, providing rave-worthy pressure relief. But despite its softer feel, this all-foam bed also offers ample support. Of course, since this is a luxury mattress, it will cost a bit more, but it comes with a 365-night sleep trial that gives you plenty of time to make sure it’s the right bed. It also has a lifetime warranty, indicating that the manufacturer believes in this bed’s materials, construction, and durability.
What the testers say: “Nectar is a brand we love here because of its value. So if you’re wanting to get that luxury mattress experience without breaking the budget, the Luxe is a fantastic choice.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Nectar Luxe Mattress
Luxury and cooling are inseparable concepts when it comes to mattresses, and the Nectar Luxe nails both. Unlike other foam mattresses that trap heat, this bed features advanced cooling elements that help dissipate it.
This all-foam mattress has a balanced feel that provides pressure-relieving contouring and enough bounce and responsiveness to help you move around and reposition with ease.
Nectar’s policies provide peace of mind as they allow you to sleep on your bed for a full year before making up your mind. Its beds also come with a lifetime warranty.
What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar Luxe Mattress
One reason this bed costs more is because of its advanced cooling features. If you’re not a particularly hot side sleeper, you might be able to find a more affordable yet still luxurious mattress.
Traditional memory foam fans who enjoy a slow-moving, sinking feeling might not enjoy the Luxe’s construction. Although you’ll receive some cradling, it won’t be like the deep hug of some other all-foam beds.
Other User Reviews
On Nectar’s site, customers gave the Luxe a rating of 4.4/5, collected from 2,549 reviews at publication time. Verified buyer, Sharron H., stated that this was the best bed for lower back and hip pain. However, another verified purchaser, Alberto F., gave it only one star because it was “really hard on the pressure points.”
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Muscle Recovery
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers and Muscle Recovery
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid
Medium-Firm Feel
Lifetime Warranty
Sturdy Edges
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,893-$3,920 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers
Hot Sleepers
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
This mattress offers great value. It’s made with high-quality materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, but available at a relatively affordable price point.
It comes with excellent edge support. The Bear Elite Hybrid’s sturdy perimeter is helpful if you need a stable surface to get in and out of bed.
The bed’s cover and foam layers contain cooling materials to help regulate your body temperature. Its coil layer also promotes plenty of airflow to keep you cool.
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Doesn’t do the best job of isolating motion.
Likely not supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most high-end mattress. It offers luxury features, like zoned support and extra height, while still offering the temperature regulation Bear mattresses are known for. Based on our testing results, we’d recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
3.5
Motion Transfer
4
Response
4.5
Durability
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
If you’re a weekend warrior or dedicated athlete, the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress should be a fantastic fit due to its supportive hybrid construction and cooling. Bear also uses a material called Celliant in its optional cooling cover, which it claims can help with muscle recovery. This bed is offered in three firmness options, so it suits all types of sleepers depending on which firmness you choose.
I recommend the Soft or Medium beds for most side sleepers, as those models will likely provide the most pressure relief. The Bear Elite has cushioning memory foam that should relieve most of the tension on your shoulders and hips, but there are also coils at the bottom to keep your spine aligned. From testing this bed, I know Celliant is a cooling material, so in addition to easing your sore muscles, it should also help cool you down after an evening workout.
What the testers say:“As a larger side sleeper, it is often hard for me to find a bed that provides both pressure relief and support. I love that this bed is offered in three firmness options. I can choose the firm model, while a petite person could choose the soft, and we would both get what we need.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Bear Elite Hybrid
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a great bed for hot sleepers. Its coils promote lots of airflow, and it has a cooling cover, which is quilted with phase change material, a thermal fabric that helps dissipate body heat.
Bear claims that Celliant, which is woven into this mattress, may help improve blood flow and promote muscle recovery.
The Bear Elite Hybrid has zoned support, which means it’s firmer at the hips and softer at the shoulders. This construction helps promote a healthy, neutral spinal alignment.
What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid
Stomach sleepers will want to look for a firmer mattress. These sleepers would sink too far into this bed, throwing their spines out of alignment.
The Elite Hybrid is Bear’s luxury offering, and as such, it comes with a luxury price tag.
Other User Reviews
Bear customers gave the Elite Hybrid 4.4/5 stars, with 265 reviews at the time of writing. Many raved about this mattress’s ideal level of support and comfort. However, some users wrote that the bed sagged in the middle after some use.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available.
Price
$1,199 – $2,665 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, split California king, RV king, RV bunk
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Available in a large variety of sizes. Whether you’re looking to add this to your bedroom or fit it in your RV, you should be able to find the right size.
This bed performed well on our cooling tests, making it a good fit for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
This bed isn’t supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Heavyweight sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs won’t find enough support on this bed.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers a responsive surface great for combination sleepers. It’s also a good choice for hot sleepers looking for a bed that can keep them cool but that’s available in a wide array of sizes. Learn more in our video review.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4
Overall Rating
4
Support
3.5
Edge Support
4
Cooling
3
Motion Transfer
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
4
Response
Our Expert’s Take
The Aurora Luxe’s combination of lower back support and luxurious pressure relief is a huge win for side sleepers—particularly those in search of a mattress on the softer side. Hot sleepers will also get good relief from this bed, thanks to three major cooling features: a cooling cover that helps dissipate heat and wick moisture, a memory foam layer interwoven with dedicated cooling fibers, and an innerspring layer with well-spaced coils designed to promote airflow and breathability.
The Aurora Luxe comes in three firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm, which makes it an appealing choice for many consumers. The Medium model I tested is excellent for average-weight side sleepers. However, lightweight sleepers and those who enjoy a plush bed will want to choose “Soft” when adding this bed to their cart.
What the testers say:“As I was lying on my side on the Aurora Luxe, I felt good body contouring happening around my hips and shoulders. This should help alleviate pain along those pressure points. But the coils still supported me enough so that I didn’t feel like I was sinking into it too much.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
This is an incredibly affordable luxury mattress. Brooklyn Bedding owns its factory, so it can keep costs low.
The Aurora Luxe has three firmness options, making it a great choice for different body types and sleep preferences.
It sleeps very cool thanks to an advanced cooling panel inside the cover and a high-quality coil system that helps air flow easily through the mattress.
What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
If you’re after a slow-moving memory foam bed that will contour around your whole body, you might want to look elsewhere. This bed has a more responsive feel.
This bed is not firm enough for heavier-weight stomach sleepers. They need a bed that will keep their hips propped up in line with their shoulders.
Other User Reviews
Brooklyn Bedding customers gave the Aurora Luxe 4.7/5 stars, from 3,500+ reviews at the time of writing. Many remarked that the bed provided a nice, memory foam-like feel without too much sinkage. Some users remarked that the bed felt too firm, but others found it too soft.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Titan Plus Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$899-$1,799 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers, especially those over 300 lbs.
Pros of the Titan Plus Luxe
Heavyweight side sleepers will feel excellent pressure relief on this mattress. Its plush top will relieve almost all pressure on the shoulders and hips.
Heavyweight back sleepers will experience an excellent balance of comfort and support on this mattress. This plush layers will provide some contouring while the extra-supportive coils will hold up the body.
Hot sleepers should not overheat on this mattress. Gel infusions, airflow-promoting coils, and a breathable cover will help you sleep cool all night long.
Cons of the Titan Plus Luxe
If you are a lightweight person, the Titan Plus Luxe is not made with you in mind.
Heavier stomach sleepers will find this mattress to be too firm.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Titan Plus Luxe is an extra-supportive mattress that offers some nice comfort as well, making it a great option for heavier back and side sleepers. And, while most mattresses for heavy people are quite expensive, the Titan Plus Luxe is a great value. However, heavier stomach sleepers may need a firmer mattress. Learn more in our video review.
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.25
Overall Score
4.5
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4
Response
4
Durability
5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
Mattress Performance Ratings
Our Expert’s Take
As a heavy side sleeper, I know how tricky it is to find a suitable mattress. Heavyweight side sleepers need a bed that has a pressure-relieving comfort layer to contour the shoulders and hips while also providing enough firm support to offset excess sinkage. Enter the Titan Plus Luxe by Brooklyn Bedding.
This bed was explicitly designed for people who weigh more than 230 lbs so it’s built with abundant support from a robust coil system. But it also has some welcoming comfort features, like a soft, quilted foam top layer. Hot sleepers will also find a lot to appreciate here: The foam layers of the mattress are infused with gel, which helps dissipate heat, and the coil layer promotes better airflow.
What the testers say:“I’m a bigger guy, and the Titan Plus Luxe is made for larger and taller people like me. In my testing, the Titan Plus Luxe offered great pressure relief and response. It was easy to move around, and I didn’t feel too much pressure on my shoulders and hips.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Titan Plus Luxe
The Titan Plus Luxe is the upgraded version of the Titan Plus. It has added features like plusher foams for more comfort and taller coils for added support.
This bed was designed to support up to 1,000 lbs. Its sturdy hybrid construction prevents sagging. I’d recommend the Titan Plus Luxe as one of the best mattresses for heavy people.
The Titan Plus Luxe’s airflow-promoting coils and the gel-infused memory foam quilted into its cover keep sleepers cool. For an additional fee, you can add a cooling panel cover, made with phase change material, a special thermal fabric that dissipates body heat.
What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus Luxe
If you really like to sink into your mattress and feel it contour to your body, you will likely want to look elsewhere. This bed has a more “on top” of the bed feel.
This bed isn’t going to be a great option for lightweight sleepers. Since it was designed with heavy people in mind, it has an ultra-supportive, firmer feel that most light sleepers don’t enjoy.
Other User Reviews
On Titan’s website, 1,490 reviewers gave the Titan Plus Luxe 4.6/5 stars. Many customers remarked on how supportive the mattress was, and that it was great for heavy people. However, some customers complained that the mattress was too soft.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Leesa
Leesa Sapira Chill
Multiple Firmnesses
Pillow Top
Breathable
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale-Extended
30% off select mattresses + 2 free sleep bundle with mattress purchase See Details
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Medium-Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium-Firm model a 6/10, which is slightly softer than average.
Price
$1,499-$2,399 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Pros of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This bed is available in several firmness options. That means a variety of sleepers should be able to pick a feel that works for their needs.
It sleeps impressively cool. The cooling cover and breathable foam and coils mean it offers strong temperature-regulation.
The pillow top gives the bed a hotel-like feel. This provides plenty of cushion while the coils offer zoned support.
Cons of the Leesa Sapira Chill
This is a more responsive mattress, so you won’t get that signtaure memory foam sinking feeling.
The Leesa Sapira Chill isn’t a cheap mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a cool, comfortable bed that pairs a plush pillow top with supportive zoned coils. It’s available in three firmness options, so many sleepers should be able to choose a model that works for their sleeping position. This isn’t the cheapest option for a cooling mattress, though. Instead, check out the Cocoon Chill.
Mattress Performance Ratings
Poor
Average
Excellent
1
2
3
4
5
4.3
Overall Rating
4.5
Support
4
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
4
Motion Transfer
4.5
Durability
4.5
Trial Period
4
Warranty
Our Expert’s Take
According to our testers, the Leesa Sapira Chill is a crowd-pleaser suited to all body types, thanks to its ideal balance of cushion and support. Side sleepers will love that it has the deep contouring and next-level pressure relief of an all-foam mattress, while also providing the superior edge support and temperature regulation we associate with hybrid beds.
The Sapira Chill has three firmness options; I reviewed the medium-firm model and found its plush pillow top to feel slightly softer than the standard mattress surface, which helped to cushion my body’s pressure points. I didn’t sink too far into it, however—a zoned support system, which was designed to feel firmer through the lumbar region, did a great job of keeping my hips elevated and spine aligned.
What our testers say: “The surface of the Leesa Hybrid mattress has a balanced foam feel. Thanks to the layers of coils and high-density polyfoam, this is a bouncy and responsive mattress. It’s easy to move around on top of this bed, as you have a really propped-up, ‘floaty’ feeling from the innerspring coils.”–Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress
Hot sleepers can enjoy the Sapira Chill’s foam layers without feeling clammy due to the cooling technology and the airy coiled layer that helps dissipate body heat.
Heavier side and back sleepers should be able to find the support they need on the Sapira Chill. Its sturdy coil layer and hybrid design should help prevent heavier sleepers from sinking too far into the foam layers.
I was impressed with the Sapira Chill’s durable construction and believe it’ll take a lot to make this mattress sag. (I estimate it should last at least seven to 10 years.)
What to Keep in Mind About the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress
If you like slowly sinking into a traditional memory foam bed, you might find the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid to be too bouncy and responsive.
The Sapira Chill might be too pricey for budget-minded consumers.
Other User Reviews
On Leesa’s website, the Sapira Chill Hybrid has nearly 2,500 reviews, averaging a score of 4.4/5. After purchasing the hybrid mattress, one verified customer boasted on Leesa’s site, “Loving my new Sapira mattress. Slept great since the very first night. The perfect combo of soft and solid, sleeps nice and cool, too. Love!”
While these mattresses didn’t make our top 10 recommendations, they’re still a great option for people who are looking for a top-notch bed for side sleepers. Check out our recommendations below.
DreamCloud Premier Rest
The DreamCloud Premier Rest is a luxury mattress option that sleeps cool and is a particularly good option for side sleepers.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Side Sleepers
This bed offers pressure relief at both the shoulders and hips, making it a great fit for side sleepers.
Back Sleepers
This bed’s strong support is ideal for back sleepers because it helps keep the spine neutrally aligned.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is a good match for anyone struggling with back pain, as it cushions the lumbar region and has enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers, as it provides them support and easy mobility.
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Isolates motion well, making it a good mattress for couples
The soft feel helps to alleviate pressure on the shoulders and hips making it a suitable mattress for side sleepers
Cons
Has a balanced hybrid feel, if you’re looking for a memory foam feel this mattress might not be for you
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the compression they need from this mattress
What to Look for in a Mattress for Side Sleepers
Sleeping on a high-quality mattress that offers both support and cushioning comfort will benefit both your sleep quality and general quality of life. For these reasons, we’ve made a comprehensive guide on what to look for when shopping for the best mattress for side sleeping.
The Right Firmness
A bed’s firmness level will significantly impact how comfortable it is for side sleepers. Beds too soft for your weight or sleep position won’t keep you elevated enough, which could put your spine at an uncomfortable angle. However, a bed that is too firm likely won’t offer enough contouring, and could cause pressure to build up at your hips and shoulders over time. That said, there’s no one right firmness level that works for all side sleepers—much of it will depend on your body size and personal preferences.
Check out our chart for the full breakdown of body type and optimal firmness levels:
Weight Range
Firmness Level
Lightweight: under 130 lb
6/10, medium-soft
Average Weight: 130 – 230 lb
6/10, medium-soft
Heavyweight: Over 230 lb
6.5 – 7/10, medium-firm
Lots of Pressure Relief and Contouring
Sleeping on your side puts a lot of pressure on your hips and shoulders, which can cause tension throughout the spine. To sleep comfortably, you’ll want a mattress that is soft enough to contour your body and provide pressure relief. Beds that do a solid job of relieving pressure are built with materials (such as slow-moving memory foams) that absorb the pressure put on relatively small parts of the body. This allows sleepers to feel comforted rather than strained.
Support
Side sleepers often like softer mattresses because the plushness feels comforting around their shoulders and hips. However, solid-feeling support is also essential because it keeps your body elevated and aligned. A mattress that lacks good support can leave you sleeping at awkward angles and increase pressure buildup. If you consistently sleep unsupported it will likely lead to aches and pains.
Other Comfort Preferences
Although pressure relief, support, and firmness are the most important factors to note, there are other mattress features that can bring side sleepers comfort, as well.
Cooling – If you’ve ever woken up in a hot sweat, you know how uncomfortable a stuffy-feeling bed can be. Memory foam beds typically work well for side sleepers, but some people might shy away from them because they have a reputation for trapping heat. Fortunately many newer models use cooling gels and other technology to help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night.
Motion Isolation – Back and stomach sleepers distribute their weight more evenly across the bed, which makes them less likely to be jostled awake by a restless partner’s tossing and turning than a side sleeper might be. If your bedmate’s movements keep you up at night, look for a mattress that absorbs motion and prevents it from transferring across the bed.
Edge Support – Side sleepers are more likely to slip off the edge of a bed because they’re sleeping on a mere sliver of the body. Beds with strong edge support can provide a sense of security and keep you from being jolted awake by the feeling that you might tumble off onto the floor.
What’s the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?
With so many mattresses on the market, finding the right one for your sleep needs can be difficult. It’s crucial to look at the construction of the mattress before making a final decision. Here is a breakdown of the best types of mattresses for side sleepers based on design and materials used.
Our lead mattress reviewer, Marten, testing in our sleep lab
Memory Foam Mattresses
It’s no coincidence that there are multiple memory foam mattresses on this list. They do a fantastic job of relieving pressure when compared with other types of materials, and they’re also great at isolating motion.
A lot of memory foam owners complain about “sleeping hot.” That’s because memory foam can trap heat more than other mattress materials. But many brands combat this problem by infusing their beds with cooling technology such as gel- or copper-infused foam. A breathable mattress cover is also important.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are unique in that they combine some or all of the materials mentioned here. The most common construction is a support layer of steel innerspring coils topped with layers of foam—usually memory foam, latex foam, or a proprietary material specific to the mattress brand.
Because of the breadth of materials involved, hybrid mattresses can be wide-ranging in their feel and firmness. In general, they’re going to be more supportive than all-foam beds, in addition to being bouncier and more responsive. They tend to be a good pick for side sleepers who want a blend of comfort and support without the sleep surface feeling too soft.
The coil and foam layers of a hybrid mattress.
Our top pick, the Helix Midnight, is an example of a hybrid mattress. It contains coil layers that add more support to the softer foams above. This provides a nice balance of contour and pushback that side sleepers need.
Latex Mattresses
It’s not an iron-clad rule, but our testers tend to shy away from recommending latex mattresses to side sleepers. Latex foam, even “Talalay latex” manufactured to feel softer, tends to feel firmer and less pressure-relieving than memory foam comfort layers. However, naturally derived latex does tend to be more breathable and sleep less hot than memory foam does, so if you like a mattress with more bouncy responsiveness and don’t mind a firmer surface, latex could be a good option.
Innerspring Mattresses
A proper innerspring mattress—not to be confused with the aforementioned hybrid mattress, as sometimes the terms are used interchangeably—will lack the foam comfort layers of a hybrid. Instead, an intertwined coil system, or rows of pocketed coils, will comprise the bulk of the bed’s build. Although the coils will provide lift and support, the lack of a contouring and pressure-relieving memory foam layer could make for an uncomfortable night’s sleep for most side sleepers, especially those who like to cozy into their bed’s surface.
If you already have an innerspring mattress and are on a tight budget, consider adding a memory foam mattress topper. Just note that if the springs in your mattress are uneven or sagging after years of wear, a mattress topper won’t be enough to keep your hips supported and spine aligned.
Is Side Sleeping Good for You?
Although the medical community doesn’t offer a clear-cut consensus on the “best” sleep position, physicians from trusted institutions like Johns Hopkins assert both benefits and drawbacks to side sleeping. On the pro side, research shows you can alleviate sleep apnea with side sleeping, and it’s one of the healthiest sleep positions for combatting back pain.
Benefits of Side Sleeping
Side sleeping is one of the healthiest sleep positions, especially for back pain. Learn how to become a side sleeper in our comprehensive guide, and be sure to check out our article on which side you should sleep on to get the best night’s sleep.
However, there are some proposed downsides, as well. Side sleeping can agitate heartburn—and possibly even dicier conditions when you lie on your side after a long night of drinking, such as the compression of the radial nerve colloquially known as “Saturday Night Palsy.”
Luckily the aches, pains, and numbness that associate this condition can be offset by sleeping on a pressure-relieving mattress like one of our picks.
Tips for Sleeping on Your Side
In addition to choosing the right mattress and pillow, here are some other tips side sleepers can take to get a good night’s rest.
Keep a neutral posture: When you turn on your side to fall asleep, make sure your body is relaxed and not twisted into an uneven position.
Put a pillow between your legs: Some side sleepers cause themselves discomfort when their knees rub up against each other. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs can minimize this friction and treat your lower body to some added plushness.
Add more pillows: Side sleepers usually need a higher pillow loft to keep their necks, shoulders, and spines in a neutral alignment. If you feel like you need a taller loft, create one yourself by stacking up your pillows. Find the best pillows for side sleepers here.
Although firmness is subjective, side sleepers tend to gravitate towards plusher beds, making soft to medium-firm mattresses the best fit for them. However, you don’t want to go too soft—side sleepers should also have a mattress that offers enough support to keep their spines in a healthy alignment.
Is a memory foam or hybrid mattress better for side sleepers?
Memory foam mattresses are great for side sleepers. These beds have a slow-moving, contouring feel, which allows sleepers to sink into the layers and feel the pressure relief they need.
You could also opt for a hybrid mattress that has a soft pillow top, such as the Saatva Classic. This primarily innerspring bed offers both comfort and support.
What type of mattress should a side sleeper use?
Memory foam mattresses are great for side sleepers. These beds have a slow-moving feel, which allows sleepers to sink into the layers and feel the pressure relief they need.
You could also opt for an innerspring mattress that has a soft pillow top, such as the Saatva Classic. This bed offers both comfort and support.
Should side sleepers use a mattress topper?
If a side sleeper has a mattress that is so firm that it’s causing pressure buildup, a mattress topper can be an easy and economical option to soften the overall feel of the sleep surface. Look for a thick, foam topper to add more plush contouring to your bed.
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
