Best Body Pillows for Side Sleepers in 2025

Side sleeping accounts for roughly 60 percent of all sleep positions, making proper support a priority for most people. Finding the right body pillow can transform sleep quality by maintaining spinal alignment, reducing pressure on hips and shoulders, and preventing the tossing and turning that disrupts rest. Discover the Best Body Pillow for Side Sleepers in 2025!

Explore our Best Body Pillow Collection for options designed for easy care and lasting support, including Pregnancy Body Pillows.

Why Side Sleepers Need Body Pillow Support

Side sleeping offers numerous health benefits, including reduced acid reflux, decreased snoring, and improved breathing for those with sleep apnea. However, this position creates unique challenges that standard pillows cannot address. The gap between the head and mattress can strain the neck, while unsupported hips and shoulders experience concentrated pressure throughout the night.

Body pillows solve these problems through full-length support. When positioned correctly, they keep the spine in neutral alignment by supporting the space between the knees, which brings the pelvis into proper position. This alignment reduces strain on the lower back and prevents the body from twisting during sleep. Physical therapists recommend body pillows specifically for side sleepers because they reduce pressure on the bottom shoulder and arm when hugged, creating a more comfortable sleep surface.

The right body pillow also improves circulation by minimizing pressure points. Side sleepers who experience hip pain, shoulder discomfort, or sciatica often find relief through properly supportive body pillows that maintain spinal alignment and cushion sensitive areas.

Choosing the Right Body Pillow Material

Material selection directly impacts how well a body pillow supports side sleeping positions. Memory foam molds to the body and contours to the head and neck, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing discomfort. This material offers personalized support and pressure relief, though density matters since overly heavy foam can feel uncomfortable for limbs resting beneath the pillow.

Shredded memory foam provides a balance of structure and softness, combining the supportive properties of memory foam with increased malleability. Many side sleepers prefer this fill because it adjusts more easily to different positions while maintaining adequate support. Latex alternatives offer similar contouring with more responsiveness, preventing excessive sinking while still adapting to body shape.

Polyester and down alternative fills create softer, lighter pillows ideal for those who prefer to embrace their body pillow during sleep. These materials work well for side sleepers without chronic pain who prioritize cuddling comfort over firm support. For those seeking guidance on maximizing their body pillow's benefits, understanding how to use a body pillow properly enhances sleep quality.

Top 15 Best Body Pillows for Side Sleepers in 2025

1. Honeydew Sleep - Best Body Pillows for Side Sleepers in 2025

Description (Body by Honeydew - The Ultimate Luxury Body Pillow):

Ultimate Sleep Companion: The Body by Honeydew is a premium, handcrafted body pillow designed to transform your sleep experience. Made in California with love and precision, this luxury pillow combines innovative materials with ergonomic design for unparalleled comfort and support.

Key Features:

• Premium Fill: 100% CertiPUR-US certified virgin gel foam combined with silk-like fiber that sleeps cool all night

• Adjustable Comfort: Hidden zipper allows you to customize fill level for your perfect height

• Health Benefits: Improves spinal alignment, reduces snoring, and helps with sleep apnea

• Hypoallergenic: Down-alternative feel without allergy concerns

• Handmade in USA: Crafted with care in California by a family-owned business

• Oeko-Tex Certified: All textiles meet Standard 100 certification for safety

Pricing:

• Regular Price: $349.99 USD

• Sale Price: $299.99 USD (15% off)

• Free US shipping on orders over $50

Why Choose Body by Honeydew: This body pillow promotes deeper relaxation by releasing oxytocin and serotonin when hugged, lowering heart rate and reducing stress. Perfect for side sleepers, it dramatically improves breathing and spinal alignment, helping you wake up refreshed and pain-free.

Risk-Free Trial: 60-night trial period with free shipping both ways, backed by a 3-year warranty.

 Shop Body by Honeydew Pillow | Explore all body pillows

Learn More: 

• What is a body pillow?

• How to use a body pillow

• How to sleep with a body pillow

• How to wash a body pillow

2. Top-rated Side Sleeper Pillows and Expert Recommendations – Pillow Specialist

Pillow Specialist offers curated selections of side sleeper pillows backed by expert analysis and comprehensive testing. Their recommendations span various pillow types, helping side sleepers navigate the overwhelming market of sleep products.

• Features expert-tested pillows with detailed performance assessments

• Provides guidance on firmness levels and loft requirements for side sleeping

• Includes memory foam and alternative fill recommendations

• Offers comparison tools to match individual sleep preferences

• Pros: Evidence-based recommendations help narrow choices

• Pros: Multiple pillow types covered for different support needs

• Cons: Not a single product but rather a collection of options

3. Side Cube Memory Foam Pillow for Neck & Shoulder Pain Relief – Pillow Cube

The Pillow Cube Side Cube features a revolutionary cuboid shape specifically engineered for side sleepers. This unique design fills the space between head and shoulders with a higher loft than traditional pillows.

• Made from breathable polyurethane memory foam that contours to neck contours

• Temperature-regulating core prevents heat buildup during sleep

• High loft maintains proper spinal alignment for side sleeping positions

• Squishy foam allows appropriate sinking for shoulder and neck contouring

• Stretchy, durable pillowcase resists tearing

• Pros: Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers with neck pain

• Pros: Maintains shape over time with consistent support

• Cons: Exceptionally high loft requires adjustment period

• Cons: Not suitable for stomach sleeping positions

• Company based in United States

4. Shoulder Relief Pillow Designed for Side Sleepers – MedCline

MedCline's Shoulder Relief System provides a three-component sleep solution specifically addressing nighttime shoulder pain for side sleepers. This patented system props the body to a 6-inch height with an innovative arm pocket design.

• Patented arm pocket removes shoulder pressure during side sleeping

• Medical-grade foam construction with four strategically layered foam types

• Memory foam topper adds comfort while maintaining support

• Therapeutic body pillow with adjustable shredded memory foam fill

• Symmetrical design accommodates both left and right side sleeping

• Gel-infused foam provides cooling comfort throughout the night

• Pros: 95% of users report improved sleep quality

• Pros: FSA and HSA approved for medical use

• Pros: Eliminates need to stack multiple pillows

• Cons: Takes up half of a queen-sized bed

• Cons: Requires 30 nights to fully break in

• Company based in United States

5. Organic Side Sleeper Pillow with Ergonomic Support – Naturepedic

Naturepedic's Organic Side Sleeper Pillow combines eco-friendly materials with specialized ergonomic design for side sleeping comfort. This GOTS-certified organic pillow features a specially curved shape ideal for side sleeping positions.

• GOLS or FSC certified shredded latex filling provides resilient support

• Organic cotton stretch-knit cover offers breathable, soft surface

• Specially designed curved shape contours to body for pressure relief

• Adjustable fill with zipper access for customized loft preferences

• Latex fill never goes flat while promoting abundant airflow

• MADE SAFE certified and GREENGUARD Gold certified for low emissions

• Pros: Completely organic materials eliminate harmful chemicals

• Pros: Naturally cooling latex prevents overheating

• Pros: Adjustable fill allows personalized firmness

• Cons: Higher price point than synthetic alternatives

• Company based in United States

6. Side Sleeper Pillows with Cooling Technology – Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-Pedic offers specialized body pillows featuring their signature TEMPUR material designed for side sleepers and expectant mothers. These pillows combine medium-firm support with innovative cooling properties.

• TEMPUR material provides consistent support and contouring

• Medium-firm sleeve filled with shapeable microcushions

• Cooling technology integrated throughout construction

• Ergonomically shaped to support head, neck, and back alignment

• Available in multiple feels including soft, medium, and firm options

• Dual-sided curved design adapts to body shape

• Pros: Proven TEMPUR material offers reliable pressure relief

• Pros: 30-night trial allows adequate testing period

• Pros: Cooling features benefit hot sleepers

• Cons: Higher price point reflects premium brand positioning

• Company based in United States

7. Adjustable U-Shape Support Pillow for Side Sleepers – Eli & Elm

Eli & Elm's Side Sleeper Pillow features a distinctive U-shaped ergonomic design specifically engineered to reduce neck pain and promote spinal alignment. This adjustable pillow allows complete customization of firmness and loft.

• Unique U-shape design keeps spine aligned throughout the night

• Removable latex and polyester filling enables height adjustment

• 75% cooling Dunlop latex noodle with 25% polyester fiber

• 37% cotton, 2% spandex, and 61% polyester cover manages temperature

• Interior liner with zipper allows easy loft modification

• OEKO-TEX certified free of harmful chemicals

• Pros: Highly adjustable for personalized comfort

• Pros: Cooling properties prevent overheating

• Pros: 45-night trial with free returns

• Cons: U-shape may take adjustment for some sleepers

• Company based in United States

8. Wedge Pillow with Snuggle Side Sleeper Pillow – Sleepnitez

Sleepnitez combines wedge elevation with side sleeper support through their innovative dual-pillow system. This combination addresses acid reflux, snoring, and side sleeping comfort simultaneously.

• 3.25-inch layer of luxurious memory foam provides comfort

• Snuggle Side Sleeper Pillow offers adjustable 3-layered memory foam

• Wedge elevates upper body for easier breathing

• Organic Tencel cover derived from bamboo feels soft on skin

• CertiPUR-US certified memory foam free of harmful chemicals

• Patented stay-cool memory foam with 360-degree mesh airflow

• OEKO-TEX certified materials ensure safety

• Pros: Dual system addresses multiple sleep issues

• Pros: Customizable height and support options

• Pros: 3-year warranty extendable to lifetime with registration

• Cons: Wedge design requires adjustment period

• Cons: Takes more bed space than standard body pillows

9. Collection of Side Sleeper Pillows – Coop Sleep Goods

Coop Sleep Goods specializes in adjustable pillows designed for side sleepers with various support needs. Their collection includes multiple pillow types all featuring customizable fill options.

• Original Adjustable Pillow with memory foam and microfiber blend

• CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified materials

• Machine washable from cover to core

• Cross-cut memory foam provides medium-firm support

• Gel-infused cooling technology integrated into designs

• 100-night better sleep guarantee on all products

• Hypoallergenic materials suitable for sensitive sleepers

• Pros: Extensive adjustability accommodates changing preferences

• Pros: Long trial period allows thorough testing

• Pros: Breathable construction prevents heat retention

• Cons: May require experimentation to find optimal fill level

• Company based in United States

10. Best Pillows for Side and Back Sleepers – The Company Store

The Company Store offers a curated selection of pillows designed to serve both side and back sleeping positions. Their range includes gusseted pillows, firm down alternatives, and memory foam options.

• Gusseted construction provides extra loft for side sleepers

• Firm and extra-firm options cradle head, neck, and shoulders

• PrimaLoft fill offers customizable down alternative comfort

• Multiple firmness levels accommodate different preferences

• Premium materials ensure durability and consistent support

• Suitable for combination sleepers who change positions

• Pros: Versatile options work for multiple sleep styles

• Pros: Quality materials from established bedding company

• Pros: Gusseted designs maintain loft over time

• Cons: Not body pillows but rather head pillows for side sleepers

• Company based in United States

11. Cuboid Side Sleeper Pillow – Turmerry

Turmerry's Cuboid Side Sleeper Pillow features a three-dimensional rectangular shape designed to cover the entire space between head and shoulders. This organic latex pillow maintains the 90-degree angle needed for proper side sleeping alignment.

• GOLS certified organic Dunlop latex provides firm support

• Cuboid shape prevents head from slumping to mattress

• Available in two sizes: 12x12 inches or 24x12 inches

• Adjustable loft options of 4, 5, or 6 inches

• Firmness levels include soft, medium, and firm choices

• GOTS certified organic cotton cover with zipper access

• Cooling latex properties prevent night sweating

• Pros: Highly customizable dimensions and firmness

• Pros: Organic materials appeal to eco-conscious consumers

• Pros: Unique shape specifically engineered for side sleeping

• Cons: Cuboid shape differs significantly from traditional pillows

• Company based in United States

12. Side Sleeper Easy Breather Pillow – Nest Bedding

Nest Bedding's Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow features an ergonomic crescent-shaped curve specifically designed for side and combination sleepers. This shredded foam pillow offers an adjustable loft with temperature regulation.

• Crescent-shaped curve provides ergonomic neck support

• Shredded memory foam fill allows customization

• 49% Blended Adaptive Cooling Fabric with Tencel properties

• Inner lining made from 100% breathable knit cotton

• Adjustable firmness by removing or adding foam fill

• Moldable and supportive with cooling properties

• Pros: Ergonomic design maintains spinal alignment

• Pros: Adjustable fill accommodates personal preferences

• Pros: Cooling fabric prevents overheating

• Cons: 30-night trial shorter than some competitors

• Cons: May require time to find optimal fill level

• Company based in United States

13. Latex Pillow for Side Sleepers – Saatva

Saatva's Latex Pillow employs a pillow-within-a-pillow design combining shredded natural Talalay latex core with plush down alternative outer layer. This construction provides both soft comfort and supportive alignment.

• Shredded natural latex core offers responsive support

• Down alternative microfiber outer layer creates cloud-like softness

• Organic cotton cover promotes breathability and cooling

• Naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites

• Removable inner core allows height adjustment for side sleepers

• Two loft height options accommodate different body types

• Pros: Hotel-quality luxury feel with natural materials

• Pros: Excellent cooling properties from latex and cotton

• Pros: 45-day return policy with free shipping

• Cons: May be too tall for some side sleepers with core inserted

• Cons: Premium pricing reflects high-quality materials

• Company based in United States

14. Deep Sleep Cervical Memory Foam Pillow – Elviros

Elviros Deep Sleep Cervical Memory Foam Pillow combines cervical support with traditional bed pillow functionality in a 2-in-1 design. This ergonomic pillow features adjustable height through removable inserts.

• Four adjustable height options with removable memory foam inserts

• Ergonomic contour design aligns head, neck, shoulders, and back

• Medium soft feel with 0.8-inch thick adjustable inserts

• 360-degree rotation provides different height levels

• Cervical support area keeps airways open during sleep

• Helps reduce neck and shoulder pain through proper alignment

• Pros: Multiple height configurations suit various preferences

• Pros: 2-in-1 design offers cervical and standard pillow options

• Pros: Affordable price point compared to premium alternatives

• Cons: Requires 1-2 week adjustment period

• Cons: Contour shape may not suit all side sleepers

15. Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillows – Vesta Sleep

Vesta Sleep specializes in memory foam pillows engineered for side sleeping positions with focus on pressure relief and spinal alignment. Their pillows feature high-density memory foam construction designed to maintain shape and support.

• High-density memory foam provides consistent support

• Contoured design specifically shaped for side sleeping

• Breathable cover materials promote temperature regulation

• Medium-firm feel balances comfort with adequate support

• CertiPUR-US certified foam meets safety standards

• Hypoallergenic materials suitable for sensitive sleepers

• Pros: Dedicated focus on side sleeper support needs

• Pros: Memory foam maintains shape over extended use

• Cons: Limited information available on customization options

• Cons: May retain more heat than shredded foam alternatives

Best Body Pillow Positions for Side Sleeping

Proper positioning maximizes the benefits body pillows provide to side sleepers. The most common technique involves placing the body pillow lengthwise along the front of the body, allowing the top leg to rest on top while the arms hug the pillow. This position keeps the hips stacked and prevents the top leg from pulling the spine out of alignment.

Another effective method positions the body pillow between the knees while the sleeper hugs a separate head pillow. This approach focuses specifically on maintaining pelvic alignment and reducing lower back strain. Some side sleepers prefer tucking a body pillow along their back to prevent rolling onto their back during sleep, which can be particularly helpful for those with sleep apnea or snoring issues.

For those dealing with shoulder pain, positioning the body pillow under the top arm reduces pressure on the bottom shoulder. This elevation prevents the shoulder from bearing the body's full weight throughout the night. Pregnant individuals often benefit from U-shaped or C-shaped body pillows that provide support on both sides of the body simultaneously, though these larger shapes can trap more heat.

Learning how to sleep with a body pillow takes practice, but most side sleepers adapt within a few nights once they discover their preferred positioning. Explore body pillow options designed for optimal side sleeping support.

How Body Pillows Prevent Shoulder and Hip Pain

Body pillows address the primary pain points side sleepers experience through strategic support and pressure distribution. When sleeping on the side, the bottom shoulder bears significant weight, compressing soft tissues and restricting blood flow. A properly positioned body pillow redistributes this weight, allowing the shoulder to rest in a more neutral position that reduces strain.

Hip pain often results from the top leg pulling on the pelvis and lower back when unsupported. Body pillows placed between the knees prevent this pulling motion by keeping the legs separated and the hips stacked vertically. This alignment maintains the spine's natural curves and reduces stress on the sciatic nerve, providing relief for those with sciatica or chronic lower back pain.

The therapeutic benefits extend beyond immediate comfort. Consistent use of supportive body pillows can reduce morning stiffness by preventing the spine from twisting during sleep. Physical therapists frequently recommend body pillows for patients recovering from injuries or managing chronic pain conditions because they promote proper spinal alignment without requiring conscious effort during sleep.

Body pillows also improve circulation by minimizing pressure points that can restrict blood flow. This enhanced circulation reduces the numbness and tingling sensations some side sleepers experience in their arms and hands. For comprehensive pillow care instructions, review guidance on how to wash a body pillow to maintain hygiene and extend pillow lifespan.

 

FAQs

Where should a side sleeper place a body pillow?

Side sleepers should position the body pillow lengthwise along the front of the body, allowing the top arm to drape over it while the top leg rests on the pillow's surface. This placement keeps the hips and shoulders properly stacked, maintaining spinal alignment throughout the night. The pillow should extend from under the head down to between the knees, filling all the spaces that would otherwise create pressure points. Some side sleepers alternate between hugging the pillow and placing it between the knees only, depending on which areas need the most support on any given night.

Can body pillows help with hip pain for side sleepers?

Body pillows effectively reduce hip pain by preventing the top leg from pulling on the pelvis and lower back. When the top leg rests on a body pillow positioned between the knees, the hips remain stacked vertically rather than rotating forward. This alignment maintains the spine's natural curves and eliminates the twisting motion that creates hip strain during side sleeping. Physical therapists frequently recommend body pillows for patients with hip bursitis, arthritis, or recovering from hip surgery because they provide consistent support without requiring conscious positioning adjustments during sleep.

What firmness is best for side sleeper body pillows?

Medium-firm body pillows work best for most side sleepers because they provide adequate support without feeling rigid. The pillow should compress slightly under the weight of the leg and arm but maintain enough structure to keep the body properly aligned throughout the night. Side sleepers with chronic pain or heavier body types often prefer firmer options that resist compression more effectively. Those who primarily use their body pillow for cuddling comfort rather than therapeutic support may prefer softer fills like down alternative or loosely packed shredded foam. Many adjustable body pillows allow customization by adding or removing fill, which helps side sleepers find their ideal firmness level.

Should side sleepers use a body pillow every night?

Side sleepers benefit from consistent nightly use of body pillows, as regular support helps maintain proper spinal alignment and prevents the development of chronic pain. The body adapts to sleeping in better alignment when supported consistently, potentially reducing the frequency of waking up with stiffness or discomfort. However, the adjustment period to sleeping with a body pillow typically takes one to two weeks, during which some people may find the pillow feels unfamiliar or restrictive. Once adapted, most side sleepers report difficulty sleeping without their body pillow because they notice the difference in support and comfort. For those concerned about taking up bed space, smaller or more compact body pillow designs provide support without overwhelming the sleep surface.

Ready to experience better sleep? Explore Honeydew's complete body pillow collection and find your perfect match today.