What type of mattress is best for side sleepers?
The best mattress for side sleepers is one that cushions pressure points while still offering enough support to keep your spine properly aligned. Side sleeping naturally puts more pressure on your hips and shoulders, so a mattress that’s too firm can cause discomfort or even joint pain over time. On the other hand, a mattress that’s too soft might not support your waist and lower back properly, leading to poor posture and backache by morning.
A medium or medium-soft mattress will generally give just the right balance of sink and support. Memory foam mattresses are especially popular among side sleepers because they contour to the shape of your body and help relieve pressure. For those who prefer more bounce and airflow, there are hybrid mattresses, combining pocket springs with layers of foam or gel. If you’re struggling with hip or shoulder pain, prioritising pressure relief and ergonomic design is key.
How many pillows should side sleepers use?
If you’re a side sleeper, getting the right number (and type) of pillows is just as important as finding the best mattress for side sleepers. Most experts recommend using one firm, supportive pillow to keep your head and neck in line with your spine. The goal is to fill the gap between your head and the mattress without lifting it too high or letting it droop downwards.
Some side sleepers also benefit from a second pillow between the knees, especially if you struggle with hip or lower back pain. This can help keep your spine better aligned throughout the night and reduce strain on your joints.
What to look for when choosing a mattress for side sleepers
Choosing the best mattress for side sleepers means thinking about more than just firmness. Here’s what to consider:
Pressure relief: Look for memory foam or hybrid mattresses that cushion your hips and shoulders. These areas take the brunt of your weight when side sleeping.
Spinal alignment: A good mattress will keep your back and neck in a straight line to prevent morning aches.
Motion isolation: If you share your bed, a mattress with good motion control (like memory foam) will help you stay asleep when your partner tosses and turns.
Breathability: If you tend to overheat, a cooling memory foam mattress or a hybrid model with airflow-enhancing springs is a solid pick.
Durability: Side sleeping puts more pressure on certain spots, so a high-quality, well-built mattress is key for long-term comfort.
Firmness level: Most side sleepers prefer medium to medium-soft mattresses, but if you’ve got extra back pain, a firm mattress for side sleepers with a plush top layer might work better.
Whether you’re after the best orthopaedic mattress for side sleepers, a budget-friendly option, or something luxurious for tackling joint pain, there’s a perfect pick out there. And don’t forget to check trial periods as it can take a few nights (or weeks) to know if your new mattress is really “the one.”
What’s the best mattress for side sleepers to buy?
The best mattress for side sleepers should cushion the hips and shoulders while keeping your spine aligned. Our top overall pick is the Harrison Spinks Canterbury 4450, thanks to its 4,450 pocket springs and natural materials like wool and cotton, which offer zoned support and breathability.
On a tighter budget? The IKEA VÅGSTRANDA is the best budget mattress for side sleepers, with seven comfort zones and a medium-firm feel that works well for pressure relief without breaking the bank.
If you tend to overheat, the Hypnos Pillowtop Classic is the best cooling mattress for side sleepers, using natural, breathable fibres like wool and Solotex™ to help regulate temperature throughout the night.
Why you should trust us
At Mumsnet, we only recommend products that are tested, vetted, and genuinely work for real families. We don’t just skim specs. Instead, we scrutinise, research, and assess every mattress with care, comparing expert reviews, industry tests, and most importantly, honest feedback from Mumsnet users who’ve been there, bought that, and slept on it.
As a shopping writer with over five years' experience, I’ve developed a strong interest in what makes a mattress genuinely supportive and worth the money. And as a mum of four, I know just how vital proper rest is. I understand how hard it is to get comfy when your mattress presses in all the wrong places, and I know how much better everything feels when your bed finally works with your body, not against it.
While we may earn a small commission from affiliate links, everything we recommend has been independently researched, reviewed, and considered with one aim in mind: helping you find a trusted, high-quality mattress for side sleepers that suits your body, your budget and your sleep.
About the author
Zoe Griffin is a mum of four and a content writer at Mumsnet, specialising in home essentials and family appliances. With over 15 years of journalism experience, she has written for publications including The Daily Telegraph, Mail Online, Sunday Mirror, and The Independent. She began her career in showbiz journalism before transitioning to parenting and lifestyle content following the birth of her first child in 2016.
At Mumsnet, Zoe focuses on testing and reviewing products that support busy households, from the best energy-efficient washing machines to cooling blankets and mattress toppers designed to improve sleep quality. She enjoys testing products, scouring forums and researching prices, chasing the eternal thrill of bagging a bargain.
When not writing or reviewing products, Zoe balances family life with fitness, often practising karate with her daughter or fitting in early morning gym sessions. She’s run marathons in Europe, Asia and North America and is weighing up Africa next.
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