How to Choose the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
For side sleepers, a good night’s sleep often starts with the right mattress.
When you sleep on your side, your body weight is concentrated on the shoulders and hips. Without proper cushioning and support, these pressure points can become sore or numb, and you may wake up with a stiff back or aching joints.
More importantly, side sleeping naturally creates a gentle curve along the spine. If the mattress is too soft or too firm, it can disrupt this alignment and cause strain on the lower back. Over time, this imbalance can lead to chronic discomfort.
That's why the best mattress for side sleepers should offer enough pressure relief at the shoulders and hips while keeping the spine evenly supported. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about long-term spinal health too.
Is Your Mattress Right for Side Sleeping? Use This 5-Step Checklist
Replacing your mattress isn’t a small decision, so before making the leap, try this quick checklist to see if your current mattress works for side sleepers.
If you’re only having mild issues, start by switching to a better pillow or adding a memory foam topper for side sleepers. These small changes can make a big difference.
But if you checked off 3 or more boxes, chances are your mattress is putting extra pressure on your body night after night. For long-term comfort and spine health, it may be time to upgrade to a mattress designed for side sleepers.
✅ Step 1: Do you wake up with sore or numb shoulders or hips?
→ If yes, your mattress might be too firm or lacks pressure relief in the right areas.
✅ Step 2: Do you toss and turn at night looking for a more comfortable position?
→ This could mean your mattress isn't giving you enough consistent support or comfort.
✅ Step 3: When you lie on your side, do your lower back or waist feel like they’re hanging in the air?
→ That usually means your spine isn’t being properly aligned and supported.
✅ Step 4: Can your shoulder sink naturally into the bed without your whole body sinking too deep?
→ If your whole body drops down, your mattress may be too soft for side sleeping.
✅ Step 5: Has your mattress been in use for over 8 years?
→ Even if it looks fine, its inner structure may have weakened and no longer supports your body properly.
If you're not sure how to choose the best mattress for side sleepers, take just 1–2 minutes to check out our quick mattress review list.
In this buying guide, we’ll walk you through 10 top-rated mattresses that are great for side sleepers. Each mattress comes with a summary of its type, who it’s best for, pros and cons, and a price range, so you can shop smarter.
Top 10 Mattresses for Side Sleepers in 2025
1. Marktol Home The Elite
Mattress Type: Two-layer structure memory foam mattress
Best For: Side sleepers who are slim, sleep hot, or feel shoulder pressure easily
Key Benefits:
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Medium-firm feel that contours without sinking too much
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Gel-infused foam helps keep the sleep surface cool and comfortable
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High-density support layer holds up well, even tested with 200-pound users without sagging
Cons:
- No triple-layer build, so very heavy users might feel slightly less supported
Price Range: Around $700–$1,000 depending on size
Why We Recommend It:
Marktol offers better balance of comfort and support than most memory foam brands in this price range, making it a great pick for side sleepers with slimmer builds or shoulder sensitivity.
2. Nolah Evolution 15
Mattress Type: Premium hybrid (memory foam + coils)
Best For: Lightweight to average side sleepers who prefer a soft, cloud-like feel
Key Benefits:
- Extra-thick 8” comfort layer that relieves pressure on shoulders and hips
- Cooling cover plus breathable foam keep the mattress cool in summer
- Promotes proper spinal alignment for improved back support
Cons:
- May feel too soft for heavier sleepers needing stronger support
Price: Around $1,599 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
If you're looking for a plush and luxurious sleep surface that keeps you cool through the night, the Nolah Evolution 15 delivers just that. It's perfect for side sleepers who want pressure relief and a light, airy feel every night.
3. Helix Midnight Luxe
Mattress Type: Hybrid (memory foam + steel coils)
Best For: Medium to heavy sleepers, especially those with back tension or pain
Key Benefits:
- Zoned lumbar support for better spine alignment
- Even pressure distribution helps reduce tossing and turning
- Side-sleeper version tailored for optimal shoulder and hip relief
Cons:
- Edge support is moderate
- Higher price point
Price: Around $1,995 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
The Helix Midnight Luxe is one of the best mattresses for heavier side sleepers who need serious back support. Its zoned design makes it great for spinal alignment, and the dedicated side-sleeping version ensures you get comfort where you need it most.
4. Leesa Sapira Chill
Mattress Type: Cooling hybrid
Best For: Medium-weight side sleepers who sleep hot
Key Benefits:
- Five-layer design balances support and pressure relief
- Excellent temperature control for warm climates or hot sleepers
- Easy to move and turn without sinking too deep
Cons:
- May not provide enough support for heavier individuals
Price: Around $1,698 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
The Leesa Sapira Chill is perfect for side sleepers who want a breathable, cool mattress without compromising comfort. Its five-layer build gives a nice mix of bounce and softness.
5. WinkBed Softer
Mattress Type: Custom-firmness hybrid (Soft version)
Best For: Side sleepers with shoulder pressure issues, anyone who prefers a soft and plush feel
Key Benefits:
- Euro pillow top plus pocketed coils deliver softness with support
- Breathable materials keep the bed cool
- Durable and long-lasting build quality
Cons:
- May be too soft for users who need firm support
Price: Around $1,699 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
The WinkBed Softer offers rare softness that doesn’t sag. Its plush surface is great for easing pressure at the shoulders and hips, making it ideal for side sleepers who want maximum comfort without losing proper support.
6. Saatva Classic Plush Soft
Mattress Type: Dual-coil innerspring with soft Euro-top
Best For: Side sleepers who prefer traditional support with a soft surface feel
Key Benefits:
- Strong edge support and excellent overall stability
- Organic cotton cover that is eco-friendly and breathable
- Comes in soft, medium, and firm versions for personalized comfort
Cons:
- May feel slightly too firm for very lightweight sleepers due to spring core
Price: Around $1,595 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
Saatva Classic Plush Soft combines old-school coil support with modern comfort. The plush Euro-top relieves pressure on shoulders and hips while the dual-coil base keeps your spine aligned. It's perfect for side sleepers who want reliable support without giving up a cozy surface.
7. Bear Elite Hybrid
Mattress Type: Cooling-focused hybrid
Best For: Heavier sleepers, athletes, and hot side sleepers
Key Benefits:
- Celliant® cover enhances muscle recovery and blood flow
- Zoned support system cushions shoulders and hips perfectly
- Excellent temperature regulation for hot sleepers
Cons:
- Slightly firmer feel may not suit those who prefer a plush mattress
Price: Around $1,799 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
The Bear Elite Hybrid blends advanced recovery fabric with zoned support for pressure relief where side sleepers need it most. Whether you're recovering from workouts or just want a cooler night's sleep, this mattress delivers on both comfort and performance.
8. Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Soft
Mattress Type: High-density memory foam (soft version)
Best For: Lightweight users, sensitive sleepers, and those who stay in bed longer hours
Key Benefits:
- Signature Tempur foam hugs the body for unmatched contouring
- Exceptional pressure relief for shoulders and hips
- Excellent motion isolation and noise reduction
Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit all budgets
- Moderate breathability may feel warm to some sleepers
Price: Around $2,899 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
If you want a plush, pressure-relieving mattress that gently hugs your body and isolates motion completely, the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Soft delivers a top-tier experience, especially for lightweight side sleepers who want maximum comfort and don’t mind investing more.
9. Avocado Green Pillow-Top
Mattress Type: Natural latex + pocketed coils + removable pillow-top
Best For: Eco-conscious side sleepers who enjoy bouncy yet supportive feel
Key Benefits:
- Made with organic latex and certified non-toxic materials
- Strong bounce and reliable support under hips and shoulders
- Detachable pillow-top adds extra softness for better pressure relief
Cons:
- Feels firm out of the box and may require a break-in period
Price: Around $1,999 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
Avocado Green Pillow-Top is the perfect balance of natural materials and responsive support. It’s ideal for side sleepers who want to go green without giving up comfort or spine alignment.
10. Layla Hybrid
Mattress Type: Flippable memory foam + coil hybrid (soft side and firm side)
Best For: Side sleepers unsure of their firmness preference or shared beds with mixed needs
Key Benefits:
- Two firmness options in one mattress – just flip it to switch
- Copper-infused memory foam provides cooling and antibacterial protection
- Ideal for households with changing sleep needs or seasons
Cons:
- Firmness difference between sides is moderate, not extreme
- Middle layers feel less distinct
Price: Around $1,699 (Queen size)
Why We Recommend It:
Layla Hybrid gives you two sleep surfaces in one mattress, making it a flexible solution for side sleepers and families who want options without buying two separate beds.
Tips on Choosing the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
If you sleep on your side, you need a mattress that protects your shoulders and hips while keeping your spine aligned. The best mattress for side sleepers has a soft top layer and firm bottom support.
1. Pick a medium-soft mattress
When you sleep on your side, your shoulders and hips bear more pressure. A mattress that's too firm can cause shoulder pain, while one that's too soft may lead to neck discomfort. That’s why a medium-soft mattress is usually the best mattress for side sleepers, as it balances comfort and support.
However, don’t fall into the trap of thinking that softer is always better. For side sleepers, the key is not just softness, but a balance of support and contouring that keeps your spine properly aligned.
2. Memory foam or hybrid mattress
A memory foam mattress is highly recommended because it contours to your body, cushions pressure points, and helps support your shoulders and hips. It also promotes proper spinal alignment for a more restful sleep.
3.Add a mattress topper if needed
If you're not ready to buy a new mattress, a memory foam mattress topper for side sleepers is a smart and budget-friendly way to boost comfort. It adds extra cushioning where your shoulders and hips need it most.
4. Use a comfortable pillow
Also, don’t overlook your pillow. The best pillow for side sleepers should support your neck and help keep your spine in a neutral position, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders overnight.
By focusing on these key factors, side sleepers can greatly improve their sleep quality and reduce body pain caused by the wrong mattress.