Best Mattress for Side Sleepers in 2025: 10 Expert-Tested Reviews
Tested 50+ mattresses & 500+ Reddit reviews. Top 10 picks eliminate shoulder and hip pain for side sleepers. Real prices, real data, real relief.
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Find Your Perfect Mattress for Side Sleeping
Expert-tested reviews and honest recommendations to help you wake up pain-free. We've tested 50+ mattresses so you don't have to.
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Side Sleeper FAQ: Mattresses, Pain Relief & Better Sleep
Answers to common side sleeping questions. From choosing mattresses to solving shoulder/hip pain. Expert advice from 50+ mattress tests.
Still not sure which mattress is right for you?
Our detailed buying guide covers everything you need to know about choosing a mattress as a side sleeper, including firmness levels, materials, and common problems.
Read the Complete Buying GuideFrequently Asked Questions
Get instant answers to common questions about side sleeping and mattress selection
Side sleepers need a mattress with excellent pressure relief at the shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment. Look for medium to medium-soft firmness (4-6 out of 10) with at least 2-4 inches of comfort layer. Hybrid mattresses with thick comfort layers or high-quality memory foam perform best.
Both can work excellently. Memory foam offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation, ideal for those under 180 lbs or sleeping with a partner. Hybrids provide better temperature regulation (30% cooler), edge support, and durability, making them better for heavier sleepers or those who sleep hot.
Shoulder pain occurs from excessive pressure concentration on the shoulder joint combined with poor support. Your mattress may be too firm, preventing your shoulder from sinking in properly. Choose a mattress with thick, soft comfort layers (3+ inches) or consider zoned support with softer shoulder zones.
Hip pain happens when the hip joint bears excessive weight without proper cushioning. Ensure your mattress has 2-3 inches of comfort material at hip level with medium firmness (5-6/10). Place a pillow between your knees to align your hips and slightly bend your knees to 20-30 degrees.
It depends on your weight: Under 130 lbs need soft to medium-soft (3-5/10), 130-230 lbs need medium to medium-firm (5-6.5/10), and over 230 lbs need medium-firm (6-7/10). Most side sleepers do best between 4-6 on the firmness scale.
Side sleepers typically need to replace mattresses more frequently due to concentrated pressure: Memory foam lasts 6-8 years, hybrids 8-10 years, innerspring 5-7 years, and latex 10-12 years. Replace when you see permanent body impressions over 1.5 inches or experience persistent pain.
A topper can help if your mattress is too firm (over 7/10) or you're experiencing pressure points but the mattress is otherwise good. Choose 2-3 inch memory foam or latex toppers for best results. However, toppers won't fix a completely worn-out or sagging mattress.
Quality side sleeper mattresses start around $800-1,000. Top budget picks include Nectar Premier ($949 with frequent sales), Brooklyn Bedding Signature ($999), and DreamCloud ($649 on sale). The $1,000-1,500 range offers the best value with 80% of premium performance.
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