Why Trust The Spruce
Theresa Holland is a freelance writer specializing in home goods, textiles, and lifestyle within the commerce space. To find the best picks for this article, she spoke with Keith Cushner, a product expert at SleepFoundation.org, compiling his insights into the best materials and various uses for wedge pillows. Next, she researched today’s top options, considering dozens of models from myriad brands and retailers. Ultimately, our final picks stand out in terms of versatility, maintenance requirements, and overall value.
Theresa covers bedding, furniture, and cleaning products at The Spruce and has personally tested products from Brentwood Home, Boppy, Serta, and The Company Store.
Benefits Of Wedge Pillows
- When we sleep horizontally, gravity works against our respiratory system and can result in the collapse of your airway. This could lead to interruption of normal sleeping patterns a.k.a sleep apnea. A wedge pillow gently repositions the body and eliminates these occurrences.
- Caused by mucus dripping down the back of the throat and into the airways, post-nasal drip can create issues both during sleep and even upon waking. This could lead to a chronic cough- like the one that never seems to go away! A wedge pillow provides just enough elevation for the upper body, which prevents mucus from pooling at the back of the throat. Ultimately, this reduces inflammation and irritation, leading to better overall health.
- People experiencing certain types of back pain can use a wedge pillow to provide just enough of an inclination to stack the hips and vertebrae in the correct spinal position. People with upper back pain especially benefit more from a wedge pillow than those with lower back pain.
- For those suffering from nighttime asthma, a wedge pillow fights back against the adverse effects of gravity and prevents blood from pooling in the lungs. It protects us from the breathing issues we could be facing.
- Doctors also recommend wedge pillows in patients whove recently had surgery. Depending on where the pillow needs to be placed, it can reduce swelling and pain in sensitive joint areas. Some people even find two wedge pillows useful one for the knees and one for the upper body.
What To Consider When Purchasing A Wedge Pillow
Wedge pillows offer multiple benefits for sleepers, but there are several important factors to consider when shopping for a wedge pillow. These pillows are available in different sizes, shapes, and inclines, each of which accommodates certain needs and preferences. Understanding the following features will help shoppers prioritize what is most important to them, so that they can select the best wedge pillow for their needs.
Shoppers should also keep in mind that bedding companies can use misleading or exaggerated claims to entice shoppers. Though a wedge pillow can be beneficial for a multitude of ailments, it is important to consult with a doctor if you experience medical issues that interrupt your sleep.
Once you have determined that a wedge pillow is right for you, the following factors can help you narrow down your options.
SizeOn average, wedge pillows measure 20 to 24 inches in both length and width, with varying heights that determine the angle of incline. The size and shape of a wedge pillow keep sleepers elevated throughout the night. Since wedge pillows can be larger than standard pillows, shoppers should keep their mattress size in mind when shopping. Those with a twin or full mattress may want to opt for smaller wedge pillows, while shoppers with a queen or king mattress can select larger sizes.
Recommended Reading: Can You Wash A Mattress Pad
The Brentwood Home Zuma Pillow Is Our Number One Pick
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
The Spruce / Amelia Manley
A wedge-shaped pillow can prop you up at a comfortable angle while reading or watching TV and potentially alleviate various sleep woes like snoring, sinus pressure, and acid reflux. We caught up with a sleep product expert and researched today’s top options, narrowing down our picks based on material, design, and overall value.
Our number one choice is the Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow from Brentwood Home, a perfectly angled CertiPUR-US certified foam slab with a washable bamboo cover.
Scroll down for the best wedge pillows currently on the market.
Why Buy Wedge Pillows From Singaporehomefurniture
Heres what makes us different from other brands
Have you always had trouble sleeping? Maybe you get up a few times each night, awakened without really knowing why? Or your back and neck will start aching badly when you lie on your bed, and you have no proper remedy for it.
Dont let your sleep problems get unnoticed. Its very important to get that quality 8 hours of sleep everyday. It sets the tone for the next day. You notice how good a mood you are in when you wake up fully refreshed and awake. Dont you want that everyday?
At SingaporeHomeFurniture, we are determined to offer only the most premium wedge pillows. When you get one from us, you can be assured that it is made from top quality materials. Our wedge pillow can fit into any bedroom. It doesnt matter if you are living in a HDB, condominium, or bungalow. Youll find that a quality wedge pillow makes all the difference. pillow. One that is perfect for you and your living quarters.
As a truly authentic Singaporean brand, we understand too well the daily frustrations a bad night sleep experiences. Especially when you live in a country as stressful as Singapore. You sleep, wake up, and have to face another day of challenges and problems. Thats why we have dedicated our lives to making furniture that brings a smile to you. Furniture that welcome you back to a cozy home, every single day. The house after all, is where you live and spend most of your time.
It all starts with a wedge pillow.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Old Mattress Tucson
How To Choose A Wedge Pillow
Each sleeper is unique, and shoppers will need to keep their preferences in mind when choosing a wedge pillow. All wedge pillows are designed to offer support and elevate the upper or lower body. They can be used to help alleviate a variety of ailments, but are also used to relax in bed while reading a book or watching a movie. Since there is an overwhelming number of wedge pillows on the market, shoppers should keep the following in mind to help them make a purchase.
Best Overall: Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Wedge Pillow
-
Not adjustable
If we had to pick just one wedge pillow, we’d have to go with the Zuma from Brentwood Home. It’s made of a firmyet not uncomfortably hardfoam that meets CertiPUR-US certification standards for product safety and chemical emissions. The cover is a supremely soft and naturally breathable bamboo fabric with four-way stretch, and it zips off for easy washing.
Measuring 24 x 24 inches, the Zuma is comfortably large without taking up too much space on your bed. To accommodate all types of sleepers and uses, it comes in three heights: 7, 10, and 12 inches. Though this wedge pillow isn’t adjustable, we appreciate the different sizing options. You can use it for gentle elevation while sleeping or flip it to an upright position when you want to sit up and read or watch TV. It also works as a handy laptop stand or lower-body support when you want to elevate your legs or feet.
Cover Material: Bamboo rayon | Fill Material: Foam | Firmness Level: Firm | Adjustable: No
Read Also: What Is The Best Kind Of Mattress To Buy
Best Down: The Company Store Company Essentials Feather And Down Reading Wedge Pillow Insert
-
Pricey
-
No removable cover
We’re also big fans of this wedge insert from The Company Store. It’s filled with a blend of feathers and natural down fibers to deliver a uniquely lofty, plush feel and gentle support. We appreciate that it’s certified by the Responsible Down Standard , ensuring the materials were sourced from humanely treated animals.
This pillow comes in two sizes, 20 x 15 x 8 inches or 36 x 18 x 12 inches, to accommodate different sleeping styles and uses. It doesn’t have a removable cover, but the insert itself is machine-washable. And while the price is pretty steep, you can count on quality with this brand.
Cover Material: Cotton twill | Fill Material: Feather-down blend | Firmness Level: Plush | Adjustable: No
Our top choice is the Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge, a high-density foam pillow designed to minimize back and shoulder strain while clearing your airways at a comfy angle. On a budget? The DMI Wedge Pillow has a similar design and comes at a more agreeable price.
Do Pillow Wedges Help With Acid Reflux
Often, the simple act of lying flat can make acid reflux act up because your stomach is on the same plane as your esophagus, which allows the acid to back up. By adding a pillow wedge underneath your upper body, however, you may be able to use the force of gravity to keep stomach acid down. Many people find that adding a wedge allows them to sleep more soundly and may help relieve common reflux side effects like sore throat and coughing.
In addition to pillow wedges, you can also find covers and accessories here at Walgreens. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your concerns and ask if pillow wedges are a good option for you.
*The total item count is approximate. The count will be inaccurate when sponsored products are displayed, when multiple sizes or colors of a product are grouped on a single product card, and when the in-stock filter is applied.
You May Like: How Often Does Mattress Firm Have Sales
Best Gel Foam Wedge Pillow
- Type: Flat-bottomed gel memory foam
- Pros: Quality materials
- Cons: Takes a while to dry after spot cleaning
Helix is a pillow brand well known for its proprietary gel-based memory foam and hypoallergenic pillow design, manufactured entirely in the United States.
This pillow comes in a standard 24- by 24- by 10-inch size thats easy to use with any mattress size. It may work well for those with acid reflux or chronic pain.
This pillow may seem to have no frills for its somewhat high price. But it features a 100-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty in case youre ultimately not satisfied.
- Pros: Good for people recovering from surgery and pregnant people with varying sleep needs
- Cons: Some users say its too small for their support needs
The Xtra-Comfort bed wedge pillow has a steep incline thats adjustable for use when sleeping as well as when sitting up in bed reading or using the computer. The steep incline is good for moderate to severe acid reflux.
The standard pillow measures 22 inches wide and 12 inches deep.
The pillow is stuffed with memory foam that retains its shape even after long periods of use. It also has a removable, washable cover and handle on top for easy carrying during travel, or even just moving from room to room.
- Pros: Reviewers say it relieved pain when used for sleep and lounging
- Cons: Not ideal for smaller people
- Pros: Can be used in a number of ways to support your entire body
- Cons: May take up a lot of bed space
What Is A Wedge Pillow
A wedge pillow is a unique pillow that is specially designed to help you sleep better. Whilst your typical pillow has a level surface, wedge pillows have one side that is thinner, and another that is thicker. This forms a unique triangular shape with an incline. The incline is where you will rest your head, and this will result in a new, recommended sleeping position.
A relatively modern invention, wedge pillows have gained in popularity in recent years. Thats because more and more people have started to realise all the medical benefits these pillow present. By elevating the upper body, youll get much better blood circulation whilst you sleep. Sleep disorders are also notably reduced. This is excellent new for individuals who suffer from conditions such as sleep apnea, asthma, as well as acid reflux and sinus pressure. If you havent already started using these pillows, give them a try. You might just find your overall sleep quality is greatly improved.
Thats the benefits these wedge pillow can provide you with.
RElaxAtion
You dont even have to be sleeping to put these pillows to good use. Even if youre lying on the bed watching TV or reading a book, you can use these pillows. It helps you adapt into a healthier and more comfortable position.
Pain-Free
If you are a chronic suffering of back or neck pains, than these wedge pillow should come as a godsend. They help to relax your back and neck muscles, whilst ensuring that you entire spinal column is properly aligned.
Don’t Miss: Where Can I Buy A Memory Foam Mattress
Pillow Wedges For Back Pain
While most chairs feature flat seats and backs, your spine is naturally curved. Many people find, therefore, that they need a special type of seat cushion in order to properly modify their posture for optimal comfort. Pillow wedges that adjust to your individual body type can help take some of the pressure off your tailbone and provide lumbar support, in addition to encouraging you to sit up straight. Some of these pillows are made from memory foam designed to conform to your body. Used consistently at home, work, and/or in the car, these types of wedges may help relieve some of your back pain. Along the same lines, wedges that raise your legs slightly while you sleep on your back may improve circulation and ease back pain by allowing your spine to relax. Often, these types of wedges can be an optimal first step to try if you have back pain but don’t want to resort to more extreme treatments.
What The Experts Say
Elevating your head during sleep can be an effective lifestyle change for GERD.
You can also insert a wedge between your mattress and box spring to elevate your body from the waist up if it isnt possible to elevate the head off your bed. But just using additional ordinary pillows isnt effective.
Other lifestyle remedies for acid reflux and GERD include:
- eating smaller meals
You May Like: How Long Does Mattress Take To Expand
Best For Reading: Koolaburra By Ugg Danby Reading Wedge
-
Spot-clean only
For those looking for a supportive back cushion for reading, we recommend the Koolaburra Danby Wedge. This ultra-soft and exceptionally plush pillow is filled with lofty down-alternative fibers and has a fuzzy sherpa-style cover. Spot-cleaning is recommended, but the zipper cover is removable.
Measuring 26 x 18 x 12 inches, the Danby is not too big but definitely not too small. You can place it behind your back while enjoying a page-turner or watching TV. Like other wedge pillows, it’s also great for propping up your legs, knees, and feet.
Cover Material: Sherpa | Fill Material: Down-alternative | Firmness Level: Plush | Adjustable: No
What Types Of Wedge Pillows Are Available
While there is not much variation when it comes to wedge pillows, there are differences in materials and design that can affect how the pillow performs. These differences are important for shoppers to understand, as certain characteristics may be better suited for their needs than others.
Memory Foam:Memory foam is a viscoelastic polyurethane foam that responds to heat and pressure to closely conform to the shape of the body. This results in standout pressure relief, as memory foam offers a customized, cushioning feel. Wedge pillows may be entirely made of memory foam, or they may just use a 1- to 2-inch layer of memory foam on top of support foam for pressure relief.
Polyfoam: Polyfoam, or polyurethane foam, is commonly used in wedge pillows. This type of foam typically springs back to shape more quickly than memory foam, and may not conform as closely. Polyfoam can vary in firmness and density, but many wedge pillows are constructed with firm, dense polyfoam for durability and support.
Flat: Wedge pillows have a tapered, triangular shape, but the surface can be flat or contoured. A flat wedge pillow is better for back sleepers and those who want to use the pillow under their legs.
Contoured: A contoured wedge pillow has a curved surface. This type is considered to be the best wedge pillow for side sleepers, as it helps keep the spine aligned by following the curves of the neck, shoulders, and spine. It can also relieve pressure on these areas.
Recommended Reading: Can I Put A Mattress In The Trash
Best For Snoring: Malouf Z Wedge Pillow With Gel Dough
-
Pricey
-
Spot-clean recommended
“Wedge pillows can help reduce snoring,” says Cushnerand to keep the log-sawing noise to a minimum and clear your airways, the Z Wedge might be your best bet. It measures 29 x 29 x 10 inches, offering a generous capacity and a perfect incline for back and side sleepers.
Featuring a firm foam base with a layer of gel-infused memory foam, this pillow promises ample support while keeping you at a comfy temperature as you doze. The velour cover is a soft blend of bamboo-derived rayon and polyester. Though the maker recommends spot cleaning, the cover is removable, so you might be able to wash it on a delicate cycle.
Cover Material: Poly-rayon blend velour | Fill Material: Gel-infused memory foam, polyurethane foam | Firmness Level: Firm | Adjustable: No
When To Talk With Your Doctor About Gerd
Acid reflux is common in adults its thought to occur in about 20 percent of the U.S. population. Treatments for GERD and acid reflux can be found over the counter in some cases, however, if your symptoms become more frequent or start to hurt you more, you should discuss other treatment options with your doctor.
The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders created a list of questions you can ask your doctor, so youre prepared for your visit. If youre going because your symptoms have worsened, note the times and dates of their frequencies so you have a good timeline to discuss.
Recommended Reading: Is Mattress One Going Out Of Business
