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You know the feeling of curling up on your side only to wake up at 3 AM with a dead arm or a throbbing shoulder. This is a common problem faced by many side sleepers as their body presses down on the hips and shoulders, creating painful pressure points. All you need to do is find the best mattress for side sleepers that solves this problem. A specialized bed with the right mattress and deep cushioning relieves pressure and remains firm to maintain proper spinal alignment. It is soft enough to give a supportive feel to your joints to relieve pressure and contouring enough to align your spine.
In this guide, you will explore a curated list of our top mattress picks. These mattresses give side sleepers the best value in terms of comfort, cooling, support, and durability.
Top 6 Mattresses for Side Sleepers
When shopping for a mattress as a side sleeper, it is important to consider your body weight and the comfort your painful joints need. Another important factor is that your bed should be of medium-firmness with zoned support to keep your spine aligned while you sleep. To help you find the mattress model that suits your personal slumber preferences and wellness goals, here is a curated list of the 6 best expert-backed picks:
Helix Midnight Luxe: Best Overall Mattress For Side Sleepers
The Helix Midnight Luxe is the best mattress for side sleepers with hip pain, thanks to its specially engineered design. It is a hybrid and zoned support mattress with a soft core under the shoulders and a firmer layer under the hips. If you have broad shoulders, the mattress has enough give to let them sink in and relieve the pressure on the rotator cuff. It also makes sure that your hips are slightly elevated and your spine is neutrally aligned throughout your good night’s rest.
If your main goal is wellness, this Luxe model is a pillow-top mattress that is plush and breathable. This creates a cloud-like surface against the supportive coils below. Its medium firm feel makes it a perfect hip pain mattress by cushioning the joint without letting the lower back collapse. Moreover, the optional GlacioTex™ cooling cover is a game-changer for hot sleepers. It draws heat away effectively from the body to ensure deep and uninterrupted REM cycles.
Pros:
- Excellent pressure relief performance for shoulders and hips.
- Zoned coils actively promote healthy spinal alignment.
- Strong edge support maximizes usable sleep surface.
- Superior motion isolation makes it great for couples.
Skip If:
- You are a strict stomach sleeper.
- You prefer the sinking feel of traditional memory foam.
Nectar Classic: Best Value Mattress For Side Sleepers
The Nectar Classic is the perfect memory foam mattress for side sleepers, which also works effectively as a mattress for joint pain. Its construction features an all-foam design to give the sleepers a deep hugging feel. This allows your hips and shoulders to sink into the surface to create a cradling effect. The design makes sure to reduce the peak pressure points. That is why it is the best mattress for side sleepers under $1000 as compared to other pricier counterparts.
In terms of motion isolation, Nectar’s design dampens the movement effectively with its dense foam layers. These absorb the kinetic energy when your partner changes sleep positions to create a calm and still surface on the far end of the bed. Most of the traditional memory foam beds sleep hot, but Nectar uses gel-infusions and a breathable cover to regulate temperature. This makes it ideal for hot sleepers who want to sleep cooler while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of a pressure-relieving foam embrace.
Pros:
- An affordable mattress for side sleepers with joint pain with a full-year trial period.
- Exceptional motion isolation for undisturbed sleep.
- Deep contouring relieves chronic joint pain effectively.
- Medium-firm feel works well for most average-weight sleepers.
Skip If:
- You weigh over 230 lbs and need a firmer surface.
- You want a bouncy and responsive bed for easy movement.
Amerisleep AS3: Best Mattress For Side Sleepers With Shoulder Pain
If you are looking for a specialized shoulder pain mattress, the Amerisleep AS3 is one of the best options available in the market. It is engineered with the HIVE® transition layer, which uses hexagonal cutouts to offer dynamic support and cushioning. This means it feels softer under the shoulders and hips to allow for deep compression, but firmer under the head, back, and legs. Therefore, with this targeted zoning, the pressure on your rotator cuff gets reduced while your spine maintains a straight alignment.
Contrary to most of the traditional memory foam mattresses, the AS3 does not keep your body stuck in one sleep position. It uses Bio-Pur®, a plant-based material that is five times more breathable and more responsive. This means it conforms to your body’s shape and relieves pain, and bounces back immediately when you move on the surface. That is why AS3 is considered the best memory foam mattress for side sleepers. It is perfect for those with wellness goals, as its plant-based materials make it breathable and a healthy choice for hygienic rest.
Pros:
- Targeted HIVE® technology relieves shoulder pain.
- Bio-Pur® foam makes it a breathable mattress and more responsive.
- Eco-friendly materials appeal to health-conscious sleepers.
- Durable construction resists sagging for years.
Skip If:
- You prefer the bounce of an innerspring or hybrid mattress.
- You are a heavy sleeper who needs coils for extra lift.
Zoma Boost: Best Luxury Mattress For Side Sleepers
The Zoma Boost is a performance-driven luxury mattress. Its design suits athletes who want to target a deep restorative sleep for recovery and anyone who has an active lifestyle. The 15-inch profile of the mattress includes a dedicated layer of graphite-infused memory foam. This serves a dual purpose. It conducts heat away from the body for a cooler sleep. Additionally, it provides intense pressure relief for the hips and shoulders. This makes sure that after a long day, your joints are well-supported by a weightless and stress-free bed.
From a wellness perspective, the Boost positions itself as a healthy mattress surface with its Reactiv™ layer. Unlike standard memory foam that can keep you stuck, Reactiv™ is engineered to be highly responsive. It adjusts instantly to your movements. This minimizes the energy required to toss and turn, leading to deeper, uninterrupted and overall good sleep quality. The zoned support coil system further enhances this by providing firmer resistance under the hips. This prevents the hammock-like effect that happens with many soft mattresses, ensuring your spine stays aligned all night.
Pros:
- Advanced cooling features with graphite infusion.
- Exceptional motion isolation for undisturbed rest.
- Responsive feel prevents the stuck sensation.
- The thick and luxurious profile adds a hotel-like feel to your bedroom.
Skip If:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You prefer a very firm and unyielding sleep surface.
Naturepedic Serenade: Best Organic Mattress For Side Sleepers
Naturepedic is considered the best hybrid mattress for side sleepers with its eco-friendly and chemical-free construction. It is well-suited for sleepers with chemical sensitivities who prefer surfaces with organic materials. The brand completely eschews petrochemical foams in favor of organic latex to give you a buoyant sensation while supporting your body. Its layers conform to your body’s curves and hold your shoulders and hips in place to offer pressure relief and slightly bounce. This keeps you lifted instead of sinking your lower back too deeply. Its organic construction helps side sleepers avoid the stuck feeling of traditional memory foam while giving a responsive surface.
The Serenade model features a support core of individually encased coils that move independently to isolate motion and provide targeted spinal support. The use of GOTS-certified organic wool acts as a natural fire barrier and regulates temperature. It also wicks away moisture, creating a dry and healthy sleep microclimate. For those with allergies or other sensitivities, the absence of glues and VOCs makes this mattress a breath of fresh air.
Pros:
- Fully GOTS and GOLS certified for a truly non-toxic bed.
- Natural latex offers durable, buoyant pressure relief.
- Excellent temperature regulation thanks to wool and latex.
- Strong edge support for a stable sleep surface.
Skip If:
- You weigh under 130 lbs (the latex may feel too firm).
- You need the deep and motion-absorbing “hug” of memory foam.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: Best Cooling Mattress For Side Sleepers
For side sleepers who sleep hot, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers the best solution. Its advanced GlacioTex™ cover and phase-change materials (PCM) work together to dissipate heat at night. They pull excess heat from your body and maintain your skin temperature at an optimal 88°F. This prevents the heat spikes that disrupt deep sleep cycles. The cooler sleep surface also allows your body to focus on repair and recovery instead of wasting energy on thermoregulation.
It comes with different firmness options, and side sleepers may opt for soft or medium firm models. They feature a plush top layer of CopperFlex™ foam that contours deeply to the shoulders and hips. This relieves pressure points that may cause morning aches. The copper infusion adds an antimicrobial element, keeping your sleep surface hygienic. Underneath, a zoned coil system ensures that while your joints are cushioned, your spine receives the firm upward support it needs to stay neutral.
Pros:
- Industry-leading cooling materials for hot sleepers.
- Copper-infused foam provides hygienic pressure relief.
- Multiple firmness levels allow for a customized fit.
- Great responsiveness for easy movement and intimacy.
Skip If:
- You get cold easily at night.
- You prefer a traditional slow-moving memory foam feel.
| Mattress Model | Firmness (1-10) | Material Type | Pressure Relief | Cooling Rating | Motion Isolation | Trial/ Warranty |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Medium (5-6) | Hybrid (Foam + Coils) | Excellent (Zoned) | Very Good (GlacioTex™) | Excellent | 100 Nights/15 Years |
| Nectar Classic | Medium-Firm (6.5) | Gel Memory Foam | Very Good (Deep Hug) | Good | Outstanding | 365 Nights/ Forever Warranty |
| Amerisleep AS3 | Medium (5-6) | Plant-Based Foam | Excellent (HIVE®) | Very Good | Very Good | 100 Nights/ 20 Years |
| Zoma Boost | Medium-Soft (4-5) | Hybrid (Graphite Foam) | Outstanding | Excellent | Very Good | 100 Nights/ 10 Years |
| Naturepedic Serenade | Medium-Firm (6.5) | Organic Latex Hybrid | Good (Buoyant) | Excellent (Natural) | Fair | 100 Nights/ 25 Years |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | Soft/ Medium (3-5) | Hybrid (PCM Foam) | Excellent | Best in Class | Good | 120 Nights/ 10 Years |
Why Side Sleepers Need a Specialized Mattress
Side sleeping is one of the most common positions and is often recommended for those suffering from joint pain or other health conditions. However, it also puts biomechanical demands on your body that demand a specialized sleeping surface. Most of the standard mattresses do not provide the engineered construction needed for pressure point relief. Hence, to wake up pain-free, let us discuss the factors that you must consider while shopping for a mattress:
Concentrated Pressure On Shoulders and Hips
In the back sleeping position, the body weight is spread evenly. However, the side sleeping position puts your body’s entire weight on the narrow points of your shoulders and hips:
- The Consequence: This intense load creates “peak pressure” zones that crush soft tissue against the mattress.
- The Symptom: This cuts off capillary blood flow and compresses nerves. This lack of proper blood circulation causes the numbness, tingling (“dead arm”), and shoulder pain that interrupts your sleep all night.
Risk of Spinal Misalignment
To recover from painful joints, your spine must stay neutral and in a straight line all night. With the wrong firmness, you may not get the perfect alignment. If your mattress is:
- Too Firm: Your hips and shoulders ride high on the surface. This makes your upper spine curve upward in an unnatural position.
- Too Soft: The pelvic region is heavier, and it may sink too deeply. This will drag your lower back into a painful and downward twist.
The Result: These wrong firmness choices will make your muscles tense at night. This will leave you tossing and turning to correct your position, which can lead to chronic lower-back strain and morning stiffness.
Unique Insight: Weight Changes Everything
The correct firmness and feel of the mattress completely depend on the weight of your body. Consider these tips:
- Lighter Sleepers (<130 lbs): You may find the medium-firm beds too hard to sleep on, as you do not weigh enough to sink into the foam layers. That is why you need softer surfaces for contouring.
- Heavier Sleepers (>230 lbs): This body weight will compress the comfort layers deeply, hitting the hard support core. You need a thicker and denser foam to prevent this while still getting the contouring effect for pressure relief.
To find the best mattress for side sleepers, you must compare the bed’s engineering to your specific weight and pressure needs.
How to Choose a Mattress For Side Sleepers: 7 Expert-Backed Factors
With so many mattress models and promising brands available in the market, choosing the right sleeping surface may become a difficult task. To make it easy for you, here are seven important features and metrics to look for in a mattress:
Firmness Level: Why Medium To Medium-Soft is Ideal
Most of the side sleepers who weigh under 230 lbs require a medium-firm mattress. On a 10-point mattress scale, the mattress must score a rating of about 5 to 6.5 to get the optimum support. If your chosen mattress falls within this firmness scale, it shows that the mattress is responsive enough to relieve your pressure points. This also means that its structure is adequately firm to give you a lasting spinal alignment.
The table below compares different body weights and their ideal firmness range:
| Body Weight | Recommended Firmness (1-10) | Why it works |
| Lightweight (<130 lbs) | 4.5-5.5 (Soft to Medium-Soft) | Allows lighter bodies to sink in for adequate contouring. |
| Average (130 – 230 lbs) | 5.5 – 6.5 (Medium) | The perfect balance of shoulder relief and hip support. |
| Heavyweight (>230 lbs) | 6.5 – 7.5 (Medium-Firm) | Prevents excessive sinking while cushioning joints. |
Mattress Type Comparison: Memory Foam vs Hybrid vs Latex
Another important factor is evaluating and comparing the different materials inside the mattress. This helps you determine how it will perform in terms of temperature, bounce, and durability. Let us discuss different types of mattresses for side sleepers in detail:
- Memory Foam: A memory foam mattress for side sleepers offers deep contouring to their hip and shoulders. It works as a good mattress for joint pain as it softens under your pressure points. This eliminates pain triggers effectively by embracing your heavier zones. However, traditional foam can retain heat.
- Hybrid: A hybrid mattress for side sleepers features a pocket coil support core with thick foam layers on the top. This design increases airflow and edge support while providing a responsive bounce that makes moving around easier.
- Latex: For those seeking a breathable mattress with natural materials, latex is your best option. It provides a buoyant and “on top” feel instead of sinking your body too deeply. The material is also naturally durable.
The table below compares the different mattress materials for side sleepers and their features:
| Feature | Memory Foam | Hybrid | Latex |
| Contouring | Excellent (Deep Hug) | Good (Balanced) | Moderate (Buoyant) |
| Motion Isolation | Best | Good | Moderate |
| Cooling | Fair (can trap heat) | Excellent (Airflow) | Very Good (Natural) |
| Responsiveness | Low (Slow response) | High (Bouncy) | High (Instant response) |
| Durability | 7-10 Years | 8-10 Years | 12-20 Years |
Pressure Relief For Shoulders and Hips
Since side sleepers place their entire body weight on two narrow points, pressure relief is the single most important factor to avoid pain. You need a mattress with a substantial comfort layer, at least 3 inches of memory foam, latex, or plush quilting. This will act as a protective buffer.
The deep cushioning lets your broad shoulders and hips sink in gently instead of colliding with the hard support core below. Without this dedicated give, peak pressure builds up very fast. This may crush soft tissue and lead to numbness due to a lack of blood flow, which wakes you up with a dead arm or hip soreness.
Zoned Support and Spinal Alignment
When a mattress lacks zoned support, it has a flat surface that cannot accommodate the body’s curves to support the pressure points. With targeted zoning at the hip and shoulder area, the mattress is divided into two ergonomic sections:
- Softer zones under the shoulders allow them to compress deeply
- Firmer zones under the hips provide the necessary lift to prevent the pelvis from dipping.
This targeted engineering creates a neutral spine, keeping your vertebrae in a straight line from neck to tailbone. It also prevents a hammock-like shape of the bed that may twist your lower back. Moreover, zoned support technology helps you manage chronic lumbar strain and reduces morning stiffness.
Cooling and Temperature Regulation
Side sleepers naturally have more surface contact with their mattress. This may end up creating a heat trap that disrupts deep sleep cycles. To counter this, a dedicated cooling mattress is very important for hot sleepers.
- Look for advanced materials that manage your microclimate. This can be Phase Change Material (PCM) covers that feel cool to the touch or copper-infused foams that pull heat away from your skin.
- Hybrid models are also good choices, as their coil layers give you continuous airflow through the core of the bed. When you sleep cool, you avoid night sweats that may disrupt your deep sleep cycles and keep you comfortable through the night.
Motion Isolation and Edge Support
For couples, the right mattress must have motion isolation and edge support features. While motion isolation ensures less partner disturbances, edge support gives a more usable surface.
- For motion isolation, memory foam or pocketed coil beds work best. These absorb kinetic energy, so you do not feel your partner tossing or turning.
- With reinforced perimeters, you can use the area right up to the edges of the bed. This prevents you from rolling off the bed and lets you use the bed for sitting and other purposes.
Together, these features create a stable and peaceful sleep environment where you can move freely without waking your partner or feeling insecure near the sides.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
Check the density of the foams used in your chosen mattress to measure its durability:
- High-density memory foam (4-5 lbs/cu ft) resists sagging much longer than cheaper alternatives.
- For hybrids, a high coil count indicates better structural longevity.
If you are considering buying a luxury mattress, make sure the brand provides a user-friendly sleep trial (such as a 100-night or 360-night trial). For long-term performance, check for high-density foams (at least 3.5 lbs/pcf) to ensure the model does not sag too quickly.
The table below compares different mattress types and their performance in terms of important metrics:
| Material Type | Pressure Relief (Shoulders/Hips) | Durability (Est. Lifespan) | Cooling Ability | Motion Isolation | Best For |
| Memory Foam | Excellent (Deep Hug) | 7 – 10 Years | Low to Moderate | Excellent | Sleepers with chronic joint pain or those who get cold easily. |
| Hybrid (Foam + Coils) | Great (Balanced Support) | 8 – 12 Years | Very Good | Good | Hot sleepers who need support and ease of movement. |
| Natural Latex | Moderate (Buoyant Feel) | 15+ Years | Excellent | Moderate | Eco-conscious shoppers and those wanting an organic mattress. |
| Innerspring | Poor (Too Firm) | 5 – 7 Years | Excellent | Poor | Not recommended for side sleepers |
Side-Sleeper Mattress Buying Checklist
- Is it a medium firm (5-6.5 on the scale)?
- Does it offer at least 2 inches of dedicated pressure-relief mattress foam?
- Does the manufacturer offer a risk-free sleep trial of 100+ nights?
- If you have a partner, does it have high marks for motion isolation?
- For hot sleepers, does it include cooling technology?
Sleep Accessories that Improve Comfort for Side Sleepers
When choosing a mattress for your side sleeping needs, it is also important to focus on the right accessories that complement your supportive bed surface. These tools and accessories help your body get into better alignment for conditions like arthritis or hypermobility. Let us discuss some of the important accessories you can add to your sleep sanctuary for better spinal alignment and pain relief:
Body Pillows
These are biomechanical necessities for many side sleepers who need to support their arms and lower body. Placing a firm body pillow between your knees keeps your hips square, preventing the top leg from dragging your lower spine into an unnatural twist. You can hug the top of the pillow, which also supports your upper shoulder, preventing it from collapsing forward and compressing your chest.
Mattress Toppers
If your current bed is structurally sound but a bit too firm, you can add a 2-3-inch memory foam or latex topper. This is a cost-effective solution. It adds immediate pressure relief cushioning for your shoulders without the expense of a brand-new bed.
Adjustable Bases
If your budget allows, you can opt for an adjustable bed to get better joint pain relief. It elevates your head and foot slightly (a modified “zero-gravity” position). This opens up your airways to reduce snoring and take pressure off your lower lumbar region.
The table below lists various accessories to build a perfect sleep sanctuary for side sleepers:
| Accessory | Best Use Case | Key Benefit |
| Knee Pillow/ Body Pillow | Hip and Lower Back Pain | Aligns the pelvis to prevent spinal twisting |
| Plush Topper (2-3″) | Shoulder Pain | Adds deep cushioning to reduce rotator cuff pressure |
| Cube/Contour Pillow | Neck Pain | Fills the specific “neck gap” to keep the cervical spine straight |
| Adjustable Base | Snoring/Acid Reflux | Elevates the torso to improve breathing and digestion |
Frequently Asked Questions
What firmness is best for side sleepers?
For side sleepers, a medium-firm mattress is the best option. This is because side sleeping needs cushioning at the shoulders/hips without letting the midsection sink too far. Many expert guides recommend around medium to medium-soft on the mattress firmness scale. You can then adjust the firmness slightly based on body weight and comfort preference by adding a mattress topper.
Is a memory foam or a hybrid mattress better for side sleeping?
A memory foam mattress offers a deeper contouring for hip and shoulders, and stronger motion isolation. This can feel soothing for pressure points and aligns the spine effectively. A hybrid mattress for side sleepers often feels easier to move on and tends to sleep cooler due to better airflow through coils. At the same time, it still offers excellent pressure relief when the comfort layer is well-designed.
Can the wrong mattress cause shoulder and hip pain?
Yes, the wrong side sleeper mattress can worsen shoulder pain and hip pain issues by creating sharp pressure at the joints. It may also pull your lower body into a painful twist and throw off spinal alignment. When the surface is too firm, the shoulders and hips can not sink enough. When it is too soft, the pelvis can dip and strain the lower back.
Are cooling mattresses worth it for side sleepers?
Yes, a cooling mattress is worth it for side sleepers who tend to overheat at night. As the side sleeping position increases the body contact with the bed, it can trap warmth in the comfort layers. Many cooling designs use breathable covers, cooling technology, and heat-dissipating foams to reduce night sweats and keep sleep more consistent.
How thick should a mattress be for side sleepers?
A side sleeper-friendly mattress should be thick enough to include a comfort system. It must give adequate pressure relief, mattress performance, and a stable support core underneath. Heavier side sleepers feel better on thicker, more layered designs because they compress materials more deeply and need extra structure. A good example is the 15-inch Zoma Boost, which uses multiple foam layers over coils to provide plushness and support.
Do side sleepers need zoned support?
Yes, a zoned support mattress can help side sleepers maintain calmer spinal alignment by giving the shoulders more give. At the same time, it keeps the hips from sinking too far. This design is especially helpful if you regularly wake with uneven soreness (like one shoulder, one hip, or lower-back tightness). This is because zoning aims to level out your posture and give you targeted comfort.
How long should a side sleeper test a new mattress?
A side sleeper should use the full sleep trial, because your body often needs time to adjust. You want enough nights to notice patterns in shoulder or hip comfort. Many brands offer around 100 nights, and some models offer longer trials (for example, Nectar advertises a 365-night trial). If pain steadily worsens after the first couple of weeks, that is a strong sign that the firmness or support profile is not matching your body.
Conclusion
When searching for the best mattress for side sleepers, make sure your chosen model provides deep pressure relief without compromising spinal alignment. You may opt for the targeted zoned support of the Helix Midnight Luxe, the budget-friendly contouring of the Nectar Classic, or the cooling technology of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. The right bed caters to your health-specific needs, giving your body the restorative sleep it requires for recovery.
Models like the Zoma Boost offer luxury for active recovery. On the other hand, the Amerisleep AS3 and Naturepedic Serenade provide specialized solutions for pain relief and organic living. We encourage you to take full advantage of each brand’s sleep trial. This is because your body needs time to confirm the perfect fit. Ensure your long-term wellness today, because better sleep is the foundation of a healthier life.
