Side sleepers need a mattress that cushions pressure points around the shoulders and hips while also keeping the spine aligned. The best options use soft-to-medium firmness and cooling materials to keep you comfortable through the night. Here are three standout choices for side sleepers in 2025:
Top Mattress Picks for Side Sleepers in 2025
1. Layla Sleep Mattress
Best for Hot Sleepers
Layla’s flippable mattress features two firmness levels in one: soft on one side and firm on the other. The soft side is ideal for side sleepers, especially those who run warm. It uses copper-infused memory foam that helps pull heat away from the body and prevents bacteria buildup.
Key Features:
- Flippable design (soft and firm)
- Copper-infused gel memory foam
- Excellent motion isolation
- Made in the USA
2025 Price: Starts at $1,099 (Queen)
2. Helix Midnight Luxe
Best for a Luxurious Night of Sleep
Helix Midnight Luxe is designed specifically for side sleepers. It includes a plush pillow top, memory foam for pressure relief, and a zoned coil layer that adds lumbar support. Great for couples and those who need balanced softness and support.
Key Features:
- Zoned support coils
- Pressure-relieving foam layers
- Tencel cooling cover
- 100-night trial and 15-year warranty
2025 Price: Starts at $1,899 (Queen)
3. Nolah Original 10
Best for Back + Side Combo Sleepers
Nolah’s AirFoam™ offers a contouring feel without the heat retention of memory foam. It provides gentle pressure relief and is great for side sleepers who also turn onto their backs. The mattress is entirely foam-based, making it a quieter choice too.
Key Features:
- Proprietary AirFoam™ for cooling
- Medium firmness
- Motion-isolating and noise-free
- Eco-friendly materials
2025 Price: Starts at $999 (Queen)
What Type of Mattress Do Side Sleepers Need?
Side sleepers need a mattress that supports spinal alignment and cushions pressure points. Because of how the body presses into the surface at the shoulders and hips, certain mattress features are more important than others.
Find a Bed with “Give”
Side sleepers often benefit from mattresses that are medium-soft to medium in firmness. These types of beds allow the hips and shoulders to sink in slightly without throwing off alignment. Materials like memory foam, latex, or hybrid designs with plush top layers work well. Too-firm beds can create pressure and lead to pain.
Don’t Forget About Your Neck
Spinal alignment doesn’t stop at your back. Your neck also needs support. A pillow that’s too flat or too tall can cause tension. Look for pillows that keep your head in line with your spine. For most side sleepers, a medium- to high-loft pillow works best.
Use a Pillow to Correct Your Posture
To improve posture while sleeping on your side, place a pillow between your knees. This helps keep your hips and spine in a more natural position. It can also reduce strain in the lower back and hips. Full-body pillows are another great option if you tend to shift during the night.
Choosing the right mattress and using the right sleep accessories can go a long way in improving sleep comfort and reducing morning aches.
Final Thoughts: What Mattresses Will Suit Side Sleepers Best?
Side sleepers sleep best on mattresses that offer gentle contouring, pressure relief, and proper spinal support. A medium to medium-soft mattress with a cushioning top layer is typically ideal.
Summary of Mattress and Pillow Features to Look For:
- Medium to medium-soft firmness: Allows for light sinking at the shoulders and hips
- Pressure-relieving materials: Memory foam, latex, or hybrid designs with foam top layers
- Zoned support coils (optional): Add structure around the lumbar region
- Breathable materials: Help keep the body cool overnight
- Proper pillow height: Medium to high loft to keep the neck aligned
- Knee pillow or body pillow: Supports the hips and reduces lower back strain
What Side Sleepers Should Avoid:
- Extra-firm mattresses: Can cause shoulder and hip pressure
- Flat pillows: Lead to poor neck alignment
- Inconsistent support zones: Can cause misalignment and tossing at night
Investing in the right mattress and pillow setup helps ensure restful, pain-free sleep for side sleepers. It’s all about alignment, pressure relief, and consistent comfort throughout the night.
