Have you ever woken up feeling like you've been run over by a truck?
You know what we're talking about: that moment when you sit up in bed and your head feels like it's been submerged in water. If this sounds familiar, then you're probably a side sleeper.
Finding the best pillow for side sleepers can be a challenge as it is important to get the right combination of support and comfort for a good night's sleep. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best pillows for side sleepers, such as the type of pillow, the firmness, the loft, the fill material, and the shape.
We at Number One Beds know that sleep is an important part of your life, so it’s important to get the right pillow. But how do you find the best pillow for side sleepers? And why is finding a pillow so important anyway? Let's break it down.
When it comes to the type of pillow, the best pillows for side sleepers are typically those that are specifically designed for side sleeping, it sounds rather obvious, right?
If you, like many others, tend to sleep on your side, then you will want to purchase a pillow that will provide adequate support for your neck and head while you sleep. The better the pillow, the better you will sleep through the night and ultimately feel.
Before you dive right in and make a purchase, let’s take a look at some of the main factors you need to take into consideration when choosing the perfect pillow.
Firmness: When shopping around for your pillows, firmness should also be considered, especially if you are a side sleeper. Side sleepers typically need a firmer pillow to provide enough support for the neck and shoulders. However, it’s up to you whether or not you prefer a hard or soft pillow.
Loft: The loft of the pillow is also important, as it is the measure of how high the pillow sits when placed on a bed. The ideal loft for side sleepers is usually between 4 and 6 inches, as this provides the right amount of support while still allowing the body to sink into the pillow.
Fill Material: The fill material of the pillow also plays a role in its comfort level. When looking for pillows as side sleepers, typically most choose one filled with memory foam, microfiber, down or a combination of these materials.
Shape: Finally, the shape of the pillow is an important but often overlooked factor you need to take into consideration. Side sleepers should look for a pillow that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, as this shape provides better support for the neck and shoulders.
Other things to consider:
There are several different types of pillows available on the market today, each of which offers certain benefits that could make them well-suited for side sleeping. Below we have listed a few of our favourite styles of pillows for side sleepers.
Memory Foam: Memory foam is great for providing support and contouring to the body. Memory foam pillows are often considered some of the best pillows for side sleepers because they mould around your head and neck area in order to keep them aligned properly throughout the night. These types of pillows can also help prevent snoring as well as headaches due to poor posture alignment during sleep time.
Contour Pillows: Another type is known as contour pillows which have been designed specifically for use by people who suffer from neck pain or other conditions. These pillows are great at alleviating pain but they can run rather pricey compared to some of the other options on our list.
Down Pillow: For those who prefer a soft pillow that will mould around their neck and shoulders while they sleep, try a down or down alternative pillow. These are great options because they offer full support without being too firm. They also come in many different sizes so, there’s bound to be one that fits your bed perfectly!
Latex Pillows: If you prefer something more firm and supportive, try memory foam pillows made from latex foam or polyurethane foam (PU). These pillows are great for keeping pressure off of sensitive parts and are known to be the perfect solution for side sleepers.
After all that reading, we bet you are in need of a good rest! So, let’s take a look at our top recommendations for pillows for side sleepers.
Taking the top spot on our list is the aptly named Super Comfort Pillow from Relyon. This pillow offers a rich and luxurious sleep for side sleepers as it is made from latex. Latex pillows are ideal for side sleepers as they always preserve their shape and help give your neck and back support throughout the night.
This pillow also provides immediate pressure relief and is hypo-allergenic, which can reduce allergies and keeps the interior of the pillow fresh. If you are still not sold, the Super Comfort Pillow also comes with a five-year manufacturing warranty.
Price Point: £89.99
Coming in at a close second on our list is another masterpiece by Reylon, the Serenity Deluxe Pillow. Offering a thinner shape, ideal for those who like a shallower, softer cushioned pillow. If you have problems falling asleep on your side initially, softer pillows may be more beneficial than harder ones. With this ultra-soft pillow, we guarantee that you’ll feel as though you’re resting on clouds.
Again as this is a latex pillow, it preserves its shape and provides quick pressure relief. These pillows are also hypoallergenic, which lowers allergies, ensuring that the pillow keeps dry and fresh.
Price Point: £89.99
Coming in third on our list, and by far, the most expensive is the Simba Hybrid Pillow. The Simba Hybrid Pillow’s temperature management, which was inspired by space research, keeps you comfortable throughout the night. But why is this a fantastic side sleeper pillow? You can anticipate sleeping like a baby with the adjustable height and firmness that it offers.
Price Point: £109
Sometimes, if you can’t clean a mattress, then it’s beyond repair. If there’s a particularly bad stain or smell emanating from the bed that won’t go away, sleeping in it is a bit of a no go. And if this is the case, you’re going to need to buy a new one.
We stock a massive selection of mattresses online, so take a look around and find one that suits you. Or you can give us a call on 01325 485000 to find out more, or visit our physical showroom and shop in Darlington to test drive a new mattress and buy in-store.