Best Pillow for Side Sleepers in 2025: Wake Up Pain-Free!
If you’re a side sleeper, you know the struggle—waking up with a sore neck, tight shoulders, or even numb arms. The solution? A pillow designed specifically for side sleepers. In 2025, pillow technology has come a long way, with brands offering memory foam, cooling gel, adjustable lofts, and ergonomic shapes that support your neck and spine perfectly.
In this expert guide, we’ll cover the best pillows for side sleepers in 2025, why they matter, what features to look for, and which models are actually worth buying.
Why Side Sleepers Need a Special Pillow
Sleeping on your side can put pressure on your shoulders and misalign your spine if your head isn’t supported at the right height. A pillow that’s too flat or too high can cause neck and back pain. That’s why side sleepers need:
Higher loft (thickness) to fill the gap between shoulder and head
Firm or medium-firm support to maintain alignment
Pressure relief for ears and neck
Breathability to avoid night sweats
Best Pillows for Side Sleepers (2025 Edition)
Here are our top picks based on comfort, durability, support, and customer reviews in the US market.
1. Coop Home Goods Original Loft Pillow (Adjustable & Hypoallergenic)
Price: ~$72
Filling: Memory foam + microfiber blend
Loft: Adjustable
Best For: Customizable comfort and back/side combo sleepers
Why We Love It:
This pillow is a cult favorite for a reason. You can add or remove filling to get the perfect height. It’s ideal for side sleepers who want neck support without stiffness.
✅ Pros:
Machine washable cover
CertiPUR-US certified
Great for hot sleepers
❌ Cons:
Might require fluffing occasionally
2. TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable Pillow (Premium Feel)
Price: ~$89
Filling: TEMPUR memory foam
Loft: Medium
Best For: Side and back sleepers needing deep support
Why We Love It:
TEMPUR material adapts to your unique shape, offering pressure relief that other pillows can’t match. It’s an investment in sleep quality.
✅ Pros:
Dense support for better alignment
Durable and long-lasting foam
❌ Cons:
A bit pricey for budget shoppers
3. Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow (Ergonomic Contour Design)
Price: ~$129
Filling: Latex + polyester fiber
Loft: High
Best For: Those with shoulder or neck pain
Why We Love It:
With a U-shaped cutout for your shoulder, this pillow keeps your neck aligned and reduces pressure while sleeping on your side.
✅ Pros:
Organic cotton cover
Highly breathable
Ergonomic shape for true side sleeping
❌ Cons:
Firm feel may not suit all
4. Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow (Cooling + Eco-Friendly)
Price: ~$89
Filling: Natural latex
Loft: High
Best For: Hot side sleepers
Why We Love It:
This pillow has excellent bounce and stays cool all night. Natural latex resists dust mites and allergens.
✅ Pros:
Great ventilation
Naturally antimicrobial
Long-lasting structure
❌ Cons:
Not adjustable
5. Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (Budget Pick)
Price: ~$45 (2-pack)
Filling: Gel-infused down alternative
Loft: Medium
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers
Why We Love It:
Affordable and comfortable, this pillow gives solid support without feeling too stiff.
✅ Pros:
Hypoallergenic
Machine washable
Suitable for all positions
❌ Cons:
May flatten over time
Comparison Table: Best Side Sleeper Pillows in 2025
| Pillow Name | Loft | Filling Type | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coop Home Goods Original | Adjustable | Memory foam blend | ~$72 | All-round side sleepers |
| TEMPUR-Cloud Adjustable | Medium | Tempur foam | ~$89 | Deep contouring support |
| Eli & Elm Side Sleeper | High | Latex + fiber | ~$129 | Ergonomic support |
| Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex | High | Natural latex | ~$89 | Hot sleepers |
| Beckham Hotel Collection (2-Pack) | Medium | Gel down alternative | ~$45 | Budget-friendly option |
How to Choose the Right Pillow for Side Sleeping
When shopping for the best pillow, keep these points in mind:
Loft: Look for high or adjustable loft
Material: Memory foam, latex, or gel for support and cooling
Shape: Ergonomic or contoured options are great for neck pain
Breathability: Cooling covers or ventilation for hot sleepers
Trial & Warranty: Choose brands with good return policies
Final Thoughts: Sleep Better, Feel Better
A great pillow can transform your sleep—especially if you’re a side sleeper. Whether you’re struggling with neck pain, overheating, or just want a better night’s rest, investing in one of these 2025 picks will make all the difference.
Our Top Recommendation: Coop Home Goods Original Pillow for its adjustability, comfort, and value.
Bookmark This 4 You for more expert sleep product reviews and tips!
❓ FAQs – Best Pillow for Side Sleepers
Q1. What type of pillow is best for side sleepers?
A: Side sleepers need a pillow with a high loft and firm support to keep the spine aligned. Memory foam, latex, or adjustable-fill pillows are ideal.
Q2. Is a soft or firm pillow better for side sleepers?
A: Medium-firm to firm pillows are better for side sleepers as they provide enough support to prevent neck and shoulder strain.
Q3. Should side sleepers use one or two pillows?
A: One well-designed pillow is usually enough. However, some side sleepers place a second pillow between their knees for better hip and spine alignment.
Q4. Are memory foam pillows good for side sleeping?
A: Yes, memory foam molds to the shape of your head and neck, providing excellent support and pressure relief for side sleepers.
Q5. How high should a pillow be for side sleepers?
A: Ideally, a side sleeper’s pillow should be 4 to 6 inches thick to fill the gap between the neck and shoulder.
Q6. Can the wrong pillow cause neck and shoulder pain?
A: Absolutely. A pillow that’s too flat or too high can misalign your spine, leading to neck, shoulder, and even back pain.
Q7. How often should I replace my side sleeper pillow?
A: Most pillows should be replaced every 18 to 24 months, especially if they lose shape or support.