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Best Firm Memory Foam Pillow For Side Sleepers

Dreamcloud Best Rest Memory Foam Pillow

Best Pillows for Side Sleepers 2022 – Our Top 7 Picks!!
  • Available sizes: standard or king
  • Pros: financing available, 50-night trial, free shipping and returns
  • Cons: cover is not machine washable

This pillow from DreamCloud is designed to fully support your head, shoulders, and neck while sleeping.

The foam is infused with a copper gel to create a cooling effect, and after a few nights in the writers bed, she can attest to the fact that it really does stay cool.

The pillow also returned to its original shape after use, no matter how much she switched sides and sleeping positions in the night.

This memory foam pillow comes with a 50-night, risk-free trial as well as free shipping and free returns within that trial period window. Financing options are also available.

Pros And Cons Of The Coop Home Goods Original Pillow

Pros

Memory foam can offer a foundation of both snug comfort and exceptional support for your neck and shoulders as your rest. However, finding a pillow that uses foam that doesnt trap heat and is free of hazardous chemicals can be challenging. Fortunately, the Original Pillow from Coop Home Goods uses a strategic blend of shredded memory foam and fiber as its fill to maximize comfort while delivering healthy support. The foam is shredded to help airflow and prevent heat from getting trapped at the pillows core. In addition, Coop only uses Certipur-US, and GREENGUARD Gold certified foam in its Original pillow, meaning the foam is produced free of toxic chemicals. Beyond creating a foam-based pillow accessible to hot sleepers and eco-friendly consumers, this pillow is adjustable, allowing you to take out or add fill to customize the pillows loft according to your precise sleeping needs.

While foam typically gets a bad rap for trapping heat, the Original Pillows design allows for great temperature regulation , leading our testers to give the pillow a perfect 10 out of 10 for its construction. In addition, our testers gave the pillow a 9 out of 10 for responsiveness and a 9.5 out of 10 for its support. The Original Pillow from Coop is a perfect choice for all fans of memory foam!

Can Replacing Your Pillow Improve Neck Pain

If youre experiencing neck pain, it could be the fault of your pillow. Especially if its old, it might not be supportive enough anymore.

Swapping for a new pillow doesnt mean your neck pain will magically go away, though. Pillow preference is personal, and what works for one person might not work for you. So a bit of experimenting is to be expected.

Additionally, not all neck pain is the fault of a bad pillow. If a new pillow doesnt seem to help, be sure to talk with your doctor.

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Down / Down Alternative

Down and down alternative pillows often feel soft, fluffy, and luxurious. Down alternative pillows offer a similar fluffy feel, but are more eco-friendly. You also dont have to research manufacturing and sourcing to be sure that your new down alternative pillows are cruelty-free.

Since down compresses more easily than other pillow materials, we recommend it more for back sleepers and stomach sleepers than side sleepers. However, a firmer down option can also work for side-sleeping. Our best down pillows and best down alternative pillows roundups include some great side sleeping options.

How To Position Your Pillows As A Side Sleeper

Best Firm Pillow For Side Sleepers Reviews 2021

Before you drift off to sleep, consider positioning your pillows like this to improve your sleep posture and prevent pain.

  • When you lie down on your pillow, make sure your ears are in line with your shoulders and your chin is neutrally positioned. Tucking your chin against your chest or curving your neck down can lead to pain over time.
  • Place a second pillow between your knees and lift them up towards your chest. This helps keep pressure off your knees and hips, which means your back will stay straighter at night.
  • Make sure your arms and hands are below your shoulders. Some people find hugging another pillow near their waists can make this more comfortable. You can also try using a body pillow as a between the legs and under the arm solution.

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Boll And Branch Down Alternative Pillow

  • Pros: cooling, hypoallergenic, adjustable

With its blend of cross-cut, gel-infused memory foam and microfiber, the Eden is a breathable, cooling, hypoallergenic option for back and side sleepers. Its available in queen and king sizes.

The case is derived from sustainable bamboo, while a wide gusset adds airflow and structure. And because its adjustable, you can find the right level of support for your preferred sleeping positions. Every pillow comes with a half-pound bag of filler and has a 5-year warranty.

Its very well-reviewed, with over 2,000 customers raving about softness and support.

Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow

The Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillows five-inch loft works incredibly well for the average-sized person. This model is also CertiPUR-US® certified, so theres less exposure to harmful chemicals and emissions.

The Weekenders gel memory foam conforms to the sleepers neck and head while absorbing heat and pulling it away from the sleeper. The channeled ventilation provides another way for heat to escape and the sleeper to stay comfortably cool. A soft, removable cover completes the feel of this highly contouring pillow. Its not adjustable or contoured, but the memory foam has the adaptability and firm feel that many side sleepers prefer.

The Weekender does not come with a trial period, but it does have a three-year warranty for defective materials or construction.

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How Do You Sleep On Your Side With A Wedge Pillow

Wedge pillows have many benefits. They help people sleep apnea and those who suffer from acid reflux. But they can also aid side sleepers! If you choose a wedge pillow, however, make sure to place your head at the correct place. This differs from person to person, but no matter what, your ears should line up with your shoulders. For the best results, find a wedge pillow with a 35-45 degree incline.

Which Memory Foam Pillow Sizes Are Available

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Memory foam pillows typically come in the following sizes, although the exact dimensions may vary by manufacturer:

  • Standard : Standard pillows are the smallest and most commonly used size, and can be used on any size bed.
  • Super Standard : Super standard pillows are relatively rare. With a length halfway between the size of a standard and a queen pillow, they may be suitable for any mattress up to a queen.
  • Queen : Queen size pillows are commonly available as an alternative to standard pillows. They give a little more playing room to people who move around during the night, or who like to sleep with their pillow folded or scrunched up.
  • King : In addition to providing plenty of room while sleeping, king pillows are also one of the most comfortable sizes to lean against while sitting up in bed. Most online bedding companies offer king size pillows.
  • Body Pillow : Body pillows are long and skinny, meant to be cuddled against. These are most frequently used by side sleepers, who tuck them between the legs to keep the hips aligned and reduce strain on the lumbar area. Body pillows may also be an invaluable sleep tool for pregnant women, and can be a comfortable backrest when sitting.

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Coop Home Goods Pillows

With very strong customer feedback, we couldnt have our best 3 memory pillow recommendations without having the shredded memory foam pillow product by Coop Home Goods.

This product has an average customer rating of 4.6 out of 5, with a whopping 1,740 customer reviews and more being added daily. The cover has been made from a combination of Polyester and Bamboo for easy breathing, whilst the inner is a shredded Visco elastic memory foam allowing the pillow to comfortably mold to your needs.

Who Should Use A Firm Pillow

Side and back sleepers should use a firm pillow, whereas stomach sleepers may prefer softer models. Firm pillows provide superior support for the head and neck, keeping everything in alignment with the spine. Heavier individuals weighing over 230 pounds may also like a firm pillow that doesnt compress under their weight.

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Best Kapok Pillow: Layla Kapok Pillow

While kapok is a popular option for stomach sleepers, pillows stuffed with this silky fiber are also an excellent option for side sleepers. Foley recommends this Layla pillow, in particular. Its luxurious, soft, and supportive, and it conforms to your body. This pillow will make your bed 10 times cozier and make you feel like youre sleeping in a fancy hotel.

via Leesa.com

Does Your Mattress Make A Difference In Your Pillow Choice As A Side Sleeper

Best Firm Pillow For Side Sleepers Reviews 2021

The short answer is yes. “In order to maintain your head and neck in neutral alignment, you will want to consider your mattress type when selecting your pillow,” says Dautovich. “If you have a softer mattress, you’re more likely to sink compared to a firmer mattress.” Be sure to choose a pillow that will fill the gap between your head and the mattress. If you have a softer mattress, this may mean choosing a thicker pillow.

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Does It Keep You Cool Or Warm Enough

If you sleep hot, you should probably avoid foam mattresses, which are notorious for trapping heat. Innerspring mattresses tend to be more breathable because body heat moves from the surface through the spaces in the coils and disperses out to the room. If youre a hot sleeper but you prefer the feeling of foam, look for foam hybrids or innersprings quilted with a foam topper. Many foam mattresses tout materials designed to allow for varying levels of heat transfer, such as foam with air channels or gel, copper, or graphite infusions. But be aware that they usually cost more and wont work for everyone, and the effects can be minimal. Mattresses made of latex sleep cooler and feel springier than those made of memory foam.

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Other Pillows For Side Sleepers We Tested

The Tempur-Cloud Breeze is a hefty, solid-foam pillow that offers a lot of loft and support. Its dense, making it a great pick for people who prefer a firm, supportive feel. Nonetheless, even with my smaller frame and fairly narrow shoulders, I didnt find it was too thick or too firm. It gave a sensation similar to memory foam, adapting to the pressure of my head and letting it sink in just enough.

The cooling abilities of this pillow cant be glossed over. Ive been skeptical of cooling products since testing the Tempur-Cloud foam mattress, which cooked me overnight, so my expectations for this pillow were virtually nonexistent.

Other pillows we tested claimed to be cooling pillows, but didnt performyet this pillow came through. In sleep tests, this pillow was remarkably cooling even through a protector and pillowcase. In the lab, it diffused heat better than any of the other pillows we tested. The performance lives up to the high expectations its $100-plus price sets.

It ranked lower on our list due to its high price and limited washing options. And while its cooling is impressive, its not a feature that everyone wants or needs in a pillow. Plus, Tempur-Pedic has one of the strictest return policies on our list. If you use it, you keep it. Theres no trial period, and used pillows can only be returned if they have manufacturer defects.

Pros

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Saatva Memory Foam Pillow

This Saatva is made entirely of memory foam, so its an excellent choice for those who want an all-foam feel. The pillow has a shredded memory foam core that supports the neck and head but offers a bit of contouring to prevent pressure build-up.

Although memory foam is known to overheat, this Saatva has advanced graphite technology that helps draw the heat away from you. This way, the pillow’s surface remains cool, helping hot sleepers achieve better sleep. In addition, the memory foams are CertiPUR-US® certified to be free of toxins, chemicals, and other harmful substances.

What should you know?

  • Saatva comes with an organic cotton cover that helps it remain cool throughout the night. The fabric is breathable and machine-washable for easy care.
  • The memory foam in this pillow is infused with graphite to help achieve a better cooling effect. The technology draws the heat away so that the surface doesnt overheat.

Best Firm Adjustable Pillow

How We Chose The Best Memory Foam Pillows

Best Memory Foam Pillows – Our Top 5 Picks!

To find the best memory foam pillows, heres what we considered:

  • Real-world testing. Our writer and the Healthline editorial team tried out some memory foam pillows and picked the best of the best.
  • Sleep styles. We made sure to test the pillows in various sleeping positions so you can find a comfortable pick no matter your preferred sleeping style.
  • Warranties and company policies. Finding the perfect pillow may take some trial and error. We included pillows with good return policies and warranties to help alleviate any testing concerns.
  • Variety. We included both solid and shredded memory foam pillows on our list.

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What Is Real Simple Selects

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our teamput through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. If that’s the case, we test the product just like we test anything we buy, but we also disclose that we received it for free to be as transparent with you as possible.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

Are Firm Pillows Better Than Soft Pillows

Firm pillows arent necessarily better than soft pillows. The firmness youll choose depends on the position you sleep in and what you find comfortable. Although firm pillows are better for some people, like side or back sleepers and heavier people, they arent better for stomach sleepers or lightweight people. So, ultimately, firmness is a matter of preference.

Olivera Janckin

Olivera is a content writer for Sleep Advisor and is enthusiastic about sleep. She firmly believes in the benefits of daytime naps on top of getting a full 8-hour sleep at night.

She started writing in 2016 and never looked back. What she appreciates the most is her flexible working hours and the ability to work with people worldwide.

In her free time, Olivera enjoys reading Spanish literature, taking pilates classes, and trying out new cocktails with friends.

Transparency Disclosure We may receive a referral fee for products purchased through the links on our site or other applicable pages. To learn more, please read our full disclosure page here. We also encourage you to read about how we may research and/or test Products here.

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Best Firm Pillows Reviewed

This Tempur-Pedic is one of the firmest pillows, maintaining its shape throughout the night, regardless of whether you sleep on your back or side. This pillow features the brands proprietary TEMPUR® material that should support the neck and shoulders well.

The contoured design follows the sleepers natural curves while still supporting the neck for a healthy spine alignment. As a result, youre unlikely to wake up with a stiff neck. This neck pillow is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The multiple sizes are great for a customized comfort experience.

What stands out?

  • Although Tempur-Pedic doesnt offer any trial period for the pillow, you get a 5-year warranty that covers defects caused by faulty materials and manufacturing.
  • This extra-firm pillow has a polyester-knit hypoallergenic cover you can remove for easy maintenance. The cover is safe to wash in a machine using warm water and a gentle cycle.

Firm Best Firm Down Pillow

What If I Toss And Turn

Slumberdown Memory Cool Firm Support Side Sleeper Pillow, Pack of 1

Maybe you’re all over the place when you sleep? Starting on your side, rolling onto your back, waking up on your stomach. What kind of pillow could possibly support all of that? For combination sleepers, we recommend opting for a higher loft that will provide the necessary support in your side sleeping positions while still offering optimal plush comfort when you roll over.

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How Do You Pick A Side Sleeper Pillow

Start by measuring the space between your head and the mattress when lying on your side. Youll need a pillow with at least that much loft. Depending on the fills softness, you may need a higher loft to completely fill the space.

Youll also have to think about what kind of feel you like. Firm pillows prevent the head from pressing too far into the pillow and pushing the spine out of alignment. However, if you like a soft pillow, you may need something with more loft that will pack down under the weight of your head.

Do you mind a lumpy surface, or do you prefer a smooth pillow? A shredded pillow gives you some adaptability, but if the lumps will bother you, youre better off with a solid pillow.

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