How To Choose The Best Mattress For Side Sleepers

It is crucial to consider your sleeping position when choosing the right mattress for you, it is particularly important for side sleepers. Sleeping on the side places more pressure on your shoulders and hips so it is important to choose a mattress that can offer pressure relief which in turn can reduce the risk of pressure points and ensure optimal comfort. Body pressure is just one of the challenges that side sleepers may face, side sleepers may also struggle with neck pain (if the pillow is too low or too high it can cause strain on the neck), acid reflux (sleeping on the right side can aggravate acid reflux symptoms) and circulation issues (extended pressure on one side of the body can hinder circulation causing pins and needles in the arms and legs). All of these problems should be considered when choosing a mattress as the wrong one can lead to pain and discomfort. If you are a side sleeper choosing a mattress that is too firm may exacerbate pressure points and cause misalignment of the spine as the mattress may not contour to the body’s natural curves. Mattress choice is significant for side sleepers to promote spine alignment and prevent pain. This blog will determine the best mattress for side sleepers and break down the key features to look out for, you can check out our mattress size guide here.

Key Features to Look for in a Mattress for Side Sleepers

When choosing a mattress as a side sleeper, there are several key features to look for to ensure support and reduce pain & discomfort.

Pressure Relief

As a side sleeper, you should look for a mattress that provides adequate cushioning for the neck, shoulders and hips which are the main pressure points when sleeping on your side. Certain mattresses (like memory foam & latex) distribute weight evenly to alleviate pressure points and reduce discomfort. Pressure relief is crucial for side sleepers as their body weight is on a smaller area of their body and can cause severe pain down the line if not properly supported.

Firmness Level

For side sleepers, mattress firmness can affect comfort, spine alignment and pressure points. The ideal firmness for side sleepers is typically medium- soft depending on your body weight and preference. If a mattress is too firm it can exacerbate pressure points. Medium firm mattresses offer a balance of support and comfort. Soft mattresses provide excellent pressure relief for side sleepers but might lack support for heavier individuals leading to misalignment of the spine.

Material

Mattresses can have different materials including memory foam, latex and hybrids. This next part will look at these materials and their implications for side sleepers.

Memory foam can be a good choice for side sleepers as it conforms to the body’s contours which gives pressure relief and helps maintain spine alignment. Latex gives good support for sleeping while also being durable.

Latex helps relieve pressure points without sinking into the mattress like memory foam.

Hybrid mattress combines the benefits of both memory foam and latex. A hybrid mattress offers both support (from the coils) and contouring (from the foam layers). If choosing a hybrid it is important to consider the firmness of the mattress as some hybrids may be too firm for side sleepers.

Support and Comfort Layers

Support layers in mattresses are critical for side sleepers to maintain proper spine alignment. Support layers ensure that you are in a neutral position throughout the night, helping maintain the natural curve of the spine.

Located on top of the support layers are the comfort layers of a mattress.  The top layer of the mattress is designed to cushion pressure points, enhance spinal alignment, regulate temperature and isolate motion when sleeping, which is particularly important for side sleepers as they tend to change positions frequently throughout the night.

Edge Support

Having strong edge support on a mattress is important for side sleepers, in particular, those who use the entire surface of the mattress when sleeping. Effective edge support ensures the entire mattress is stable as it prevents sagging.

Best Mattresses For Side Sleepers

There isn't a single perfect mattress for side sleepers, but the three we've selected have the essential features mentioned above.

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory Foam mattresses (view our collection here) have many benefits for side sleepers, some of the key benefits include:

Pressure Relief: memory foam conforms to your body's shape, providing more support to areas of the body which have more pressure including shoulders and hips.

Contouring: memory foam contours to the natural curves of the body which helps maintain proper spinal alignment and reduces back and neck pain.

Although memory foam mattresses are ideal for side sleepers due to their supportive qualities they also have downsides including heat retention. Some memory foam mattresses can retain heat, look for one that incorporates cooling technologies if you tend to overheat when sleeping. Overall, memory foam is a great side sleeper mattress, especially if you prefer a mattress that offers contouring and pressure relief.

Pocket Spring Mattress

Pocket Spring Mattresses (view our collection here) have many features which make it ideal for side sleepers. Pocket spring mattresses offer targeted support as each spring is covered in its own fabric. Each spring moves independently responding individually to different pressure points on the body. As the springs work individually, they contour to the body’s shape helping spinal alignment. Pocket spring mattresses also offer reduced motion transfer as the springs move individually, making it ideal for couples as one person’s movements are less likely to disturb the other person. The numbers associated with the mattress indicate the amount of individual springs in the mattress. The higher the spring count the firmer the mattress. Not only that,  higher spring mattresses tend to last longer and maintain their shape. Pocket Springs combined with comfort layers create a sleep environment that balances support and pressure relief, making it a comfortable mattress for side sleepers.

Latex Mattress

Latex (Grand Oplulence Latex Mattress) is an ideal mattress for side sleepers due to it providing exceptional pressure relief for the hips and shoulders. Latex offers good support while also helping to maintain proper spinal alignment by conforming to the body’s curve. Aside from its supportive qualities, latex has natural cooling properties, which may make it a better option for the summer months and if you tend to heat throughout the night. Latex is an open-cell foam, which means it has a structure that allows air to circulate more freely, enhancing breathability. These cooling features make it a great alternative to memory foam. Due to its breathability, latex doesn’t retain moisture making it a great choice for those who suffer from allergies.

When choosing a latex mattress for side sleepers, it is important to note the different types of latex used in the mattress.

• Natural latex is beneficial for side sleepers as it offers pressure relief for shoulders and hips, supports spinal alignment, and is durable. Natural latex is also resistant to dust and mold making it hypoallergenic.
• Synthetic latex provides consistent firmness but may not provide the same level of pressure relief as natural latex so may not be as beneficial for side sleepers.
• Blended latex offers a balance of cost, comfort and durability and offers adequate relief for side sleepers.
• Organic latex is ideal for side sleepers looking for an eco-friendly mattress or those with chemical sensitivities.

Additional Tips For Side Sleepers

Aside from mattress selection here are some useful tips for side sleepers:

• Choosing a supportive pillow as this will help maintain alignment. Ensure your pillow has a medium to high lift as a pillow too high can cause neck pain. Using a contoured pillow will help support the natural curve of your head and neck promoting spinal alignment. Look out for pillows marked for side sleepers as they often have extra features such as adjustable fills.
• As side sleepers are more prone to experiencing pressure on their hips and shoulders, trying an alternative sleeping position may help alleviate some of this pressure and reduce pain. Sleeping in the foetal position can reduce pressure on your hips while sleeping with a pillow between your knees can help keep your spine in a neutral position. Alternatively, switching sides throughout the night can help distribute the pressure more evenly over time.
• A mattress topper can significantly help side sleepers by providing extra comfort. The extra layer is beneficial for side sleepers as it provides a softer surface to reduce pressure on the joints.
• We have additional tips on how to choose a bed here and additional tips for a better night’s sleep here. (internal link two blogs)

Des Kelly Interiors: Your Sleep Experts

If you are a side sleeper, there are many key features you should look out for when choosing a mattress including firmness level, material, comfort layers and edge support. Those who sleep on their side are more prone to experiencing pressure on their shoulder, back and neck so it is important to choose a mattress which will help alleviate this. We recommend memory foam, pocket spring or latex mattresses for side sleepers as they offer additional comfort and support. Here at Des Kelly Interiors, we have 50+ years of experience in flooring, beds, carpets and more. We have a wide range of mattresses available online (view our collection) and in-store (find your nearest store) to suit every sleeper. We know side sleepers face extra challenges when choosing a mattress which is why our staff are here to help make that task easier. Contact us to find your perfect mattress ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.

FAQ’s

What type of mattress should a side sleeper use?

We recommend memory foam, latex or pocket spring mattresses for side sleepers.

Is a softer or firmer mattress better for side sleepers?

For side sleepers a medium to medium -firm mattress is recommended to provide a balance of support and cushioning.

What is the best mattress thickness for side sleepers?

We recommend a mattress thickness between 10 to 14 inches for side sleepers, the thickness provides extra cushion to alleviate pressure on joints.

What is the best firm level for side sleepers?

Medium to medium-firm.