Like more than 50% of Americans, I sleep on my side, and as a side sleeper I reap the benefits of this healthy position. That includes less snoring, reduced pain and better digestion.
Side sleepers need a mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips, and I’ve spent thousands of hours testing mattresses to find the top of the class. In our best mattress guide you can find our favorite picks for every sleep style, but here, I’m narrowing it down to the best options for side sleepers.
My number one mattress for side sleepers is the Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress, a bed that combines good cushioning with ample support for the back. In this guide, I’ve rounded up a mattress for every type of side sleeper and budget, plus a quick guide to the mattress sales.
1. The best mattress for side sleepers overall
Quick summary
The Helix Midnight Luxe has been designed specifically to provide comfort and support for side sleepers. After several weeks of testing, our expert review team has decided that it more than delivers on this promise. At 13.5 inches tall with plush upper comfort layers, it offers enhanced relief at the major pressure points — that's the shoulders, hips, and knees — while the supportive core encourages good spinal alignment.
A sumptuous pillow top adds a luxurious finish to the Helix Midnight Luxe, and the overall quality reflects the higher price tag. Yes, it's a premium mattress (a queen typically costing around $1,899 in the evergreen Helix mattress sale) but for side sleepers the Midnight Luxe is the full package. The price is comparable to the Saatva Classic (#3), although the Helix lacks the luxury benefits of Saatva, with just a 100-night trial and 15-year warranty. If you want comfort at a lower price point, then consider the affordable Zinus Green Tea mattress (#2).
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
However, the Helix Midnight Luxe does deliver cloud-like comfort and what our lead reviewer described as "blissful cushioning", which is why it's our top choice for side sleepers.
Our review: in more detail
Popular mattress brand Helix is known for creating mattresses to suit specific sleep styles, and it does this very well (there's a reason the Helix Dusk Luxe tops our guide to the best mattresses for stomach sleepers). The Helix Midnight Luxe is aimed at side sleepers, with a luxury finish, contoured relief, sturdy support, and a premium price tag. For a more affordable option, check out the Helix Midnight in our Also Tested section.
The Helix Luxe range is a competitor of Saatva (#3) and WinkBed (#8), but what the Midnight Luxe delivers is a side sleeper specialist blend of comfort and support. That plush pillow top has an immediate hit of cushioning for relief as soon as you climb into bed, while the strong core ensures you don't sink all the way through the bed — that means no aching spine in the morning.
For side sleepers, the Midnight Luxe is the full package
Despite being designed for side sleepers, our testers also felt comfortable back sleeping on the Helix Midnight Luxe. The thick cushioning that absorbs movement (we awarded it high marks for motion isolation) makes this a good choice for couples who don't share perhaps quite the same sleep style.
We also awarded it highly for edge support and temperature regulation, although hot sleepers should consider the GlacioTex cooling cover upgrade. Having analyzed user reviews, some do complain that even with the cover the Midnight Luxe can get hot.
What we like about it...
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✅ Soothing pressure relief: Side sleepers need pressure relieving cushioning at the hips and shoulders, and that's something the Midnight Luxe delivers by the bucketful. Our lead tester found a recurring "dead hip" problem disappeared on the Midnight Luxe.
✅ Strong lumbar support: Soft cushioning can sometimes lead to the spine sinking uncomfortably, but that's not a problem with the Midnight Luxe. Enhanced coil support in the central third holds the lumbar in an easy neutral position throughout the night.
✅ Good edge support: Strong edges allow you to use more of the mattress surface (you won't slip off when you lie close to the sides) and offer a stable base to press against if you need a boost getting out of bed in the morning. The Midnight Luxe uses reinforced coils to keep the perimeter strong.
What we don't like about it...
❌ GlacioTex cover feels slippery: Although our testing panel was impressed overall with the temperature regulation, we recommend investing in the GlacioTex cover if you sleep hot. But reviews indicate it does feel slippery, so for cooling without the slide, try the Cocoon Chill (#7).
❌ No handles for moving: The Helix Midnight Luxe is big and heavy, which isn't exactly unusual for a mattress. However, the plush 13.5" height and lack of handles make it very difficult to move, even with a helping hand. The taller Saatva (#3) is comparatively easier to shift, thanks to its handles.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Medium firm feel has an initial hit of softness before yielding to a strong support | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Impressive pressure relief, particularly at the shoulders, hips, and knees. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Stays neutral, and the standard Tencel cover feels cool. Upgrade to the specialist GlacioTex cooling cover if you sleep very hot. | ★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Fantastic, with a strong performance in both our drop tests and standard review process. Cradles restless sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Full perimeter edge support, comfortable to sit and push against the edges as well as close sleep to the side. | ★★★★ |
| Build quality | A high build quality with premium materials and a luxury finish. | ★★★★½ |
When, where and how to buy
We typically see 20% off the Midnight Luxe in the Helix mattress sale, and this evergreen deal lasts throughout the year. This is a decent saving, especially as Helix tends to throw in a free pillow set with your mattress purchase. The 20% off sale reduces a twin to $1,099 (was $1,373.80), a queen to $1,899 (was $2,373.80), and a king to $2,299 (was $2,873.80).
Black Friday has traditionally been the best time to buy a Helix mattress, but not so in 2024. We saw 27% off the Helix Midnight Luxe (with our Tom's Guide code) for Black Friday, which is an impressive sale. But we did see 30% off for Memorial Day 2024. However, Black Friday shoppers got a free bedding bundle, while Memorial Day shoppers could only claim the standard free pillows.
The Helix Midnight Luxe can be purchased online direct from Helix, but it's also available from third-party retailers, including the Helix Amazon store. Prefer to try before you buy? You can find Helix mattresses in select showrooms across the US.
The Midnight Luxe comes with a 100-night trial and a 15-year warranty, plus free shipping. These benefits are average for a mattress in this price bracket, but the 15-year warranty is better than the 10 years offered on the Core collection mattresses at Helix.
The Helix Midnight Luxe has been designed for side sleepers, and it shows. The cloud-like pillow top means this mattress is immediately comfortable at the hips and shoulders, while the reinforced lumbar support keeps the back in a pain-relieving neutral position. It might be a premium buy, but I think the luxurious finish and high quality materials justify the price tag. I also highly recommend the optional ErgoAlign back support upgrade – it made a big difference to my back pain while sleeping on my side.
Read more: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress review
2. The best affordable mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam is one of the favorite budget mattresses and an affordable choice for side sleepers seeking squishy pressure relief. The medium feel and dense foam layers deliver that classic memory foam 'hug', adapting to the touch points to take the weight off and cradle you as you sleep.
As a budget all-foam bed, the Zinus isn't without its flaws. The edges are weak and sag as you push against them, and a lack of cooling features can lead to some warm nights. If you have money in the budget and are looking for a more long-term sleep solution, it's worth upgrading to the Nectar Classic Memory Foam (#4). However, a strong base adds some decent support to the Zinus, and the motion isolation is top notch.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The ZInus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress might be a budget buy, but it delivers premium pressure relief for side sleepers.
Our review: in more detail
The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam is one of the best cheap mattresses around. It's comparable to budget brands Siena, Allswell, and Linenspa in terms of quality and price, but the pressure relief and cushioning of the Zinus Memory Foam give it the edge for side sleepers.
As a budget-friendly bed, the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam can't compete with the superb quality of the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1) or the Saatva Classic (#3). However, we found the foam layers contour to the hips and shoulders to relieve pressure at the touch points. And while there's a lot of sink, the Zinus dense base foams provide enough support that you don't feel yourself falling through the mattress.
The Zinus Green Tea offers side sleepers soothing comfort at an irresistibly low price
Perhaps the biggest issue with the Zinus is a lack of edge support. This is common with memory foam mattresses, but particularly pronounced here. Our lead tester found sleeping on the side of the bed a precarious prospect. The temperature regulation could also be improved — hot sleepers on a budget should consider the Cocoon Chill (#7) instead.
However, the Zinus Green Tea offers side sleepers soothing comfort at an irresistibly low price. And while it might not offer the long-term durability of a premium mattress, it's an ideal pick for a guest room.
What we like about it...
✅ Superb cushioning at the pressure points: You immediately sink into the Zinus mattress, and the upper layers of comfort foam contour to the curves of the body to relieve pressure at the major touch points. It's that classic memory foam 'hug'.
✅ High quality motion isolation: Dense foams absorb motion before it can travel, making the Zinus an excellent choice for anyone who shares with a wriggling partner. One person can move about in the night without waking up the other.
✅ Very affordable: The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress sits comfortably in the budget price bracket, and a simple build helps keep costs down without sacrificing comfort. It might lack the durability of a premium bed, but the overall performance is better than the price tag suggests.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Weak edge support: Our lead tester has a tendency to sleep against the side of the bed, but the Zinus Memory Foam mattress put a stop to that. The weak edges feel like you could slip straight off, and if you have mobility issues, the Zinus doesn't offer a stable base to push up from.
❌ Can sleep hot: The dense foams of the Zinus Green Tea hug the body, trapping warm air and leading to some uncomfortable overnight temperatures. Hot sleepers should consider the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress (#7), instead.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Dense foams add a comfortable cushioning with a supportive base. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Excellent, with full-body contouring to relieve pressure at the touch points. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Average. Thick foams hold onto heat, and very hot sleepers should avoid the Zinus. | ★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Very strong, as we'd expect from a softer memory foam. A good choice if you share with a wriggler. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Weak. There's definite sinkage around the perimeter of the bed, making sleeping close to the side precarious. | ★★½ |
| Build quality | The simple build helps keep the Zinus a budget buy without sacrificing quality. Expect a slightly shortened lifespan (around four years), so although | ★★★½ |
When, where and how to buy
Zinus is an online mattress brand, and Zinus beds have gained a lot of popularity through online channels. You can shop directly from Zinus, or buy the Green Tea Memory Foam from a third-party retailer — it's one of the most popular mattresses on Amazon.
Prices are generally cheaper at Amazon, where you can often pick up a queen size for less than $300. But you'll never pay too much more at Zinus thanks to an evergreen sale, and a queen will usually set you back $399 (was $599). Shopping direct from Zinus might be more expensive, but you get better benefits, including a 100-night trial.
As the price is already low at Zinus, we don't expect to see bigger savings around the major sales days. It's always a good time to save on the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress.
However, if you shop from a third-party retailer, such as Amazon, limited time sales can sometimes score you a real bargain. Be aware that the lowest prices are often on past-season models, although they still deliver a comparable quality.
If you enjoy the cradling feel of classic memory foam and you're shopping on a tight budget, I recommend the Zinus. But watch out for the weak edges — there's a sudden sinking feeling when you stray too far to the sides. For those with a slightly bigger budget, the Nectar Memory Foam (#4) has better durability, but the Zinus is my top recommendation for a guest room or child's bedroom.
Read more: Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress review
3. The best mattress for side sleepers with back pain
Quick summary
The Saatva Classic is one of our all time favorite mattresses, a luxury innerspring hybrid that feels like it belongs in a five star hotel room. Three firmness options and two heights ensure the Saatva Classic suits pretty much every sleep style, while chiropractor-approved lumbar support technology helps eliminate back pain. Add on strong edges and good temperature control and you have almost the perfect mattress, although a slight motion transfer issue might bother particularly light sleepers.
The Saatva Classic is a premium mattress, and a queen often costs around $1,900. This is comparable to the Helix (#1) and the WinkBed (#8), but the handcrafted detailing contributes to the superb build quality of the Saatva Classic. You'll also get free white glove delivery, and a helping hand with installation is good news for anyone with back pain. Still, the price can be a sticking point. The DreamCloud (#5) might be less luxurious, but it's also significantly cheaper.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
But if budget isn't a problem, the Saatva Classic is hard to fault, especially as numerous personalization options means it suits nearly all side sleepers.
Our review: in more detail
The Saatva Classic has consistently rated among our favorite mattresses, and that's thanks to its all-round appeal. A choice of three feels (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm) plus two heights (11.5" and 14.5") means it's suitable for pretty much any sleep style. For side sleepers, we recommend either the Plush Soft or Luxury Firm in 14.5", to provide the ample cushioning your pressure points need.
But it isn't all about the personalizations with the Saatva Classic. A supportive core includes a targeted high density lumbar support foam and a LumbarZone Active Spinal Wire. This helps hold the spine in a neutral position, avoiding the sagging that can cause issues with softer mattresses. If you're a side sleeper with back pain, the Saatva Classic is the mattress for you.
We did have a small criticism related to the motion isolation. As an innerspring hybrid, there's a bit of bounce that might be disruptive if you share with a restless sleeper. The Helix (#1) or Leesa Sapira (see our Also Tested section) are better hybrids for bed sharers, while the Tempur-Pedic (#10) suits those who prefer a foam hug over a responsive hybrid.
If you're a side sleeper with back pain, the Saatva Classic is the mattress for you
Beyond that, our biggest complaint was the $99 returns or exchange fee. This isn't a deal breaker, but as the Saatva delivers a luxury experience everywhere else, it's a slight annoyance.
Our tester awarded the Luxury Firm high marks in temperature regulation, pressure relief and edge support. We did find it slightly firmer than expected (although it softened up in time) so lightweight side sleepers should consider the Plush Soft feel instead.
What we like about it...
✅ Superb back support: The Saatva Classic comes chiropractor approved, with a reinforced central zone holding the lumbar region aligned throughout the night. Our tester with mild scoliosis found sleeping on the Saatva Classic helped reduce their back pain.
✅ Multiple firmness options: While we wouldn't recommend the Firm feel for side sleepers, the choice of Plush Soft or Luxury Firm ensures you can pick a finish to meet your needs. Plush (3/10 on the firmness scale) is likely to suit lightweight side sleepers, while Luxury Firm (5-7/10) is for those who prefer less sink.
✅ Strong edge support: The strong support of the Saatva Classic stretches all the way to the perimeter of the mattress. If back pain is limiting your mobility, you can press against the edges of the Saatva Classic to lift yourself out of bed without the side collapsing beneath you.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Return or exchange fee: There's a $99 returns fee from Saatva, which is frustrating when so many online brands offer free returns. But it isn't unique — Tempur-Pedic (#10), Brooklyn Bedding (#11), and Naturepedic (#12) all charge for returns.
❌ Standard weight capacity: While a 300lb weight capacity per person isn't unusual for a standard mattress, the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1) and the WinkBed Plus (#8) both offer higher weight limits for side sleepers with a bigger build.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Fantastic for most sleep styles, with lumbar support reducing back pain. However, heavier people will need increased support. | ★★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | One of the best mattresses we've tested for full-body pressure relief. | ★★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Strong, the innerspring-heavy build kept all our testers cool throughout the night | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Good, but could be better. our tester noticed minor movement across the mattress, but not enough to disturb sleep. | ★★★★ |
| Edge support | Among the best we've tested, the edges stay stable even when pressed against. | ★★★★★ |
| Build quality | Handcrafted in the US with luxury materials result in a premium build quality. | ★★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
Saatva mattresses are sold via the Saatva online store, where you can find the full range of beds and sleep accessories. If you want to try before you buy, there are Saatva viewing rooms across the US, where you can consult Saatva specialists with all your mattress questions before placing an online order.
Last season and refurbished Saatva mattresses sometimes pop up elsewhere online, and you can purchase accessories from the Saatva Amazon store. But for the most part, the best place to buy is direct from Saatva. Especially as you can enjoy the Saatva mattress sales...
Saatva sales occur frequently throughout the year, with the best deals usually appearing around the major holidays. Deals generally range from 10-15% off a mattress, but watch out for fluctuating MSRPs. Saatva has a tendency to raise prices over the summer, before lowering them again in winter.
The Black Friday mattress deals make for a historically good time to buy a Saatva mattress, although in 2024 the Black Friday sale matched the Memorial Day sale (and other deals we've seen throughout the year).
I've raved a lot about the Saatva Classic mattress over recent years, and I think it still lives up to the hype. This luxury innerspring hybrid suits most sleep styles but especially side sleepers, thanks to a choice of firmness options, a euro pillow top, and a strong supportive core. The price might be high, but I think the handcrafted finish means that the Saatva Classic delivers a hotel-like quality that results in deep and restorative sleep.
Read more: Saatva Classic Mattress review
4. The best memory foam mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Nectar Classic has consistently proven itself as one of the best mattresses in a box. An affordable memory foam bed, it avoids most of the pitfalls of a cheap foam mattress while providing the pressure relief and cushioning you'd expect from a more expensive model. It's supportive for a variety of sleeping positions, but the slight sink-in feel of the upper layers makes it best suited to side and back sleepers.
Our testers were impressed with how the Nectar Classic lightly contours to the touch points, easing pressure while maintaining support. It has a slight memory foam 'hug', but lacks the quicksand feel that can afflict softer all foam beds. It does have some of the common issues of cheaper all-foam beds — including weaker edges — but while the temperature regulation is above average, hot sleepers will prefer the Cocoon Chill (#7),
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
A good all-rounder with some features that stand out for side sleepers, the Nectar Classic is one of the best mattresses in its price range.
Our review: in more detail
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam sets itself apart as a mid-range mattress that delivers an all-round performance without the issues that can affect cheap all-foam beds. It is several hundred dollars more than the Zinus Memory Foam (#2), but you do get a cooler, more supportive sleep experience for your money, with better durability.
Budget all-foam beds can have a tendency to sleep hot, but our testing panel stayed a pleasant neutral temperature throughout the night. Although the Nectar doesn't have the cooling capabilities of the Cocoon Chill, it should feel comfortable for most sleepers. Plus, while the edge support can't compare to a hybrid like the Helix (#1), we still felt stable sleeping close to the sides.
The Nectar provides full-body support while maintaining the cozy memory foam 'hug'
The Nectar Classic doesn't provide that deep, sink-in hug you might get from other memory foams, but the cushioned surface lightly contours to the knees, hips, and shoulders to ease pressure. And because of the medium firm support, this contouring comes without a quicksand sink that can result in back pain.
Overall, our testers feel the Nectar provides full-body support while maintaining the cozy memory foam 'hug'. All that, and it's one of the best priced beds in this guide.
What we like about it...
✅ Excellent cushioning at the joints: A medium firm feel leaves you sinking slightly into the memory foam upper layers of the Nectar, which ease around the joints to cradle the body. Lie on your side and you'll feel the Nectar Classic holding the touch points to reduce pressure build up.
✅ Stops movement from traveling: Those slow-moving foams absorb motion, trapping it to one side of the mattress. If your partner gets in or out of bed in the middle of the night, you shouldn't feel them go.
✅ Strong all-rounder: The balance of support and cushioning means while the Nectar Classic best suits side sleepers, it's also comfortable for most back sleepers and front sleepers. Add on an affordable price tag, and you have a fantastic guest room choice.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Weak edges: Sit on the edge of the Nectar Classic and you might feel the bed sinking beneath you. This can be a problem if you have mobility issues, especially if you struggle to push out of bed in the morning. For stronger edges, consider upgrading to the Nectar Hybrid.
❌ No bounce: A lack of bounce isn't necessarily a bad thing, but if you like to move around in the night, the dense foams of the Nectar make it hard to shift positions. The DreamCloud Hybrid (#5) is better if you're after a responsive feel.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | A light contour is balanced with a dense supportive core, so you don't feel yourself sinking through the mattress. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Excellent, with thick cushioned upper layers adapting to the body to provide head-to-toe pressure relief that's particualrly welcome at the shoulders and hips. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Pretty good for a cheaper all-foam mattress, but lacks the cooling feel of specialist and hybrid beds. | ★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Very strong. The nectar absorbs motion before it can travel across the bed, a good choice for couples on different schedules. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Our tester never felt in danger of slipping off the mattress, but customers agree the perimeter could be stronger. | ★★★½ |
| Build quality | The Nectar Classic might not look or feel luxe, but the build quality is high, especially for the price tag, and we expect good durability. | ★★★★ |
When, where and how to buy
Nectar mattress sales are never ending (even if the countdown on the Nectar site says otherwise). The up to 40% off sale has been live throughout this year, and before that, we regularly saw up to 33% off plus a bedding bundle. You never pay full price for a Nectar mattress, and while a queen size Classic Memory Foam has an MSRP of $1,099, $649 is a typical sale price. A twin costs $499 (was $649), and a king is typically on sale for $849 (was $1,399).
Occasional flash sales take the price down further, although these discounts are infrequent. We've seen Nectar drop flash savings in the run up to a major sale event, but these are blink and you miss it type sales.
Nectar is also known for its impressive benefits. The Classic Memory Foam comes with a 365-night trial and a lifetime warranty. Not unusual for a luxury mattress, but well above average for a mid-range bed.
The Nectar Classic is available on various third-party sites, including the Nectar Amazon store. The prices are similar to shopping direct from Nectar, and you might miss out on those excellent benefits. However, you can sometimes get lucky save big on last season's stock.
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress outclasses its mid-range price and delivers a great memory foam 'hug' for side sleepers on a budget. Based on my testing experience I don't think the Nectar matches the build quality of the Helix Midnight Luxe or the Saatva Classic, but the strong foam base keeps you supported throughout the night, plus the incredible motion isolation, make it one of my top picks for couples who like to sleep on their sides.
Read more: Nectar Mattress review
5. The best mattress for side and stomach sleepers
Quick summary
If the Saatva Classic (#3) caught your eye but it's out of your price range, then check out the DreamCloud. It delivers a touch of that hotel-like luxury through the cashmere-blend quilted cover, with a build quality that impressed our review panel. It lacks the contouring thick foams of other models in this list, but the back support and pressure relief will appeal to side sleepers who prefer a bouncier sleep surface.
The DreamCloud Hybrid has a firmer feel, and this is very much a mattress you lie on top of. Lightweight side sleepers might prefer the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1) or the Brooklyn Bedding (#11), but for those with a slightly heavier build, the DreamCloud's plush top should provide ample pressure relief. A layer of tall innersprings adds a touch of bounce, so if you're a combination sleeper who favors your side, the DreamCloud makes it easy to move around in the night.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
Perhaps not the five-star luxury of the Saatva Classic, the DreamCloud is still one of the best value mattresses out there.
Our review: in more detail
After several weeks sleeping on the DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress, our testing panel found it to be one of the best value for money mattresses on the market. Measuring 14" high, it combines individually wrapped coils with multiple foam layers to provide bouncy pressure relief and full-body support.
It can take a moment to settle into the comfort of the DreamCloud, as our testing panel discovered, but within a few weeks even our lightest testers were impressed with how the quilted surface eased pressure build-up. Sitting at the firmer end of medium-firm, side sleepers who like to shift around in the night will appreciate the responsive feel of the DreamCloud.
The DreamCloud allows for easy movement while cushioning the joints
While it isn't a specialist cooling mattress like the Cocoon by Sealy Chill (#7), the DreamCloud does deliver the neutral temperature we expect from a hybrid. We also rate the motion isolation highly, although the edge support of our tester model was hit-and-miss.
The DreamCloud Hybrid won't suit every side sleeper — if you like to sink into your mattress, go for the Nectar (#4). But if you want a bed that allows for easy movement while cushioning the joints, the DreamCloud is superb value for money.
What we like about it...
✅ A firmer support: We tend to gravitate towards medium mattresses for side sleepers, but the DreamCloud sits at the firmer end of medium-firm and is cozy for side sleepers who don't like to sink into their bed, plus those who change position in the night.
✅ Luxury on a budget: The DreamCloud Hybrid lacks the multiple options and handcrafted finish of the Saatva Classic, but the build quality and appearance are fantastic for the price.
✅ Increased weight capacity: Capable of supporting up to 1000lbs, heavier side sleepers should find the DreamCloud offers cushioning at the shoulders and hips without sacrificing support.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too firm for lightweight side sleepers: Ample cushioning is vital to avoid a numb shoulder, and the DreamCloud doesn't have the sink a lightweight side sleeper will need. For a plush mattress with a similar feel, consider upgrading to the DreamCloud Premier.
❌ Variable edge support: DreamCloud has used stronger coils at the perimeter of the mattress to enhance edge support, but our testing panel weren't hugely impressed. This is one area where the more expensive Saatva Classic clearly wins out.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Despite feeling firm at first, the DreamCloud Hybrid softens up to suit a variety of sleep styles. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Buckets of pressure relief thanks to multiple comfort foam layers, our tester found it good at easing back pain. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Regulates temperature all night long, with tall coils enhancing breathability and a moisture-wicking cover that stays cool to the touch. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Should suit most couples, and in our drop test was capable of preventing most motion transfer. | ★★★★ |
| Edge support | Not bad, but sleepers with a bigger build might not feel fully supported sleeping or sitting on the sides. | ★★★½ |
| Build quality | Overall excellent with a luxe looking finish. Customer reviews indicate good durability. | ★★★★½ |
When, where and how to buy
You can only find the DreamCloud for sale online, and we rate it the best mattress in a box we've tested for all sleepers. Part of that is thanks to its mid-range price tag, as DreamCloud mattress sales are evergreen and usually offer major discounts. We're used to seeing up to 50% off the DreamCloud Hybrid, reducing a queen to $665 from an MSRP of $1,483.
The deal tends to fluctuate between 40% and 50% off, although the 50% discount has become more and more frequent. But to be honest, it doesn't matter what DreamCloud is claiming the sale is – the price remains pretty much the same.
That means it's pretty much always a good time to buy the DreamCloud mattress, especially as you'll get a 365-night trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping. DreamCloud mattresses are sold by other online mattress stores, but the prices are often similar to shopping DreamCloud direct and you might miss out on the benefits.
The DreamCloud Hybrid isn't your typical mattress for side sleepers, but its affordable hotel luxury and cozy feel makes it a mattress I can't ignore. From testing I think its particularly well-suited to combination sleepers and heavier people. While it might take a few nights to get used to the DreamCloud, the 365-night trial means you have plenty of time to test it home yourself to make sure it's the best option for you. Returns are free too, so there's nothing to lose.
Read more: DreamCloud Hybrid Mattress review
6. The best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder and hip pain
Quick summary
Lying on your side can put a lot of pressure on the hip and shoulder, leading to some aching joints in the morning. The unique design of the Purple Original offers a responsive, cradling support to prevent the dreaded 'dead hip', contouring to your every curve to provide full-body relief.
Purple mattresses use a GelFlex Grid, a layer of hyper-elastic polymer with a geometric form that can bend to tiny movements. The Purple mattress doesn't feel like any bed in the market. It's not quite the sink-in feel of an all-foam bed like the Nectar (#4), but it's also not the bouncy response of a hybrid like the DreamCloud (#5). That's not necessarily a bad thing, as the GelFlex Grid does offer enhanced breathability as well as adaptive comfort.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Purple Mattress isn't for everyone, but if you can put up with a bit of an adjustment period, prepare to be rewarded with unbeatable pressure relief.
Our review: in more detail
It's impossible to talk about the Purple Mattress without discussing the GelFlex Grid. It's essentially what you expect to be: a flexible grid layer that sits beneath the surface of the mattress. This flexibility allows the Purple to immediately adapt to your shape, with a quick response so even if you toss and turn, you never lose support.
After several weeks sleeping on the Purple Mattress, our tester found that while it might not appeal to everyone, they were "sold". Customer reviews indicate, and our testing panel agreed, that the Purple Mattress is excellent at relieving joint pain. The GelFlex Grid responds to pressure, meaning it's firm where you need more support, and soft where you want cozy cushioning.
Our tester found that while it might not appeal to everyone, they were "sold"
We also found the GelFlex Grid aided the breathability of the Purple Mattress, with out tester noting little trapped heat overnight and superior temperature regulation. It's also good at absorbing motion: when one part of the grid is disturbed, the rest of the bed stays still.
The GelFlex Grid does have its downsides. Sitting close to the surface, we found it could be felt through the bed, which took some getting used to (think the princess and the pea). Edge support is also lacking, and as the Purple is on the thinner side, it lacks the plush depth of other beds in this list — but for a mattress like no other, you might put up with these issues.
What we like about it...
✅ Superb pressure relief: The GelFlex Grid can contour to every part of the body, relieving pressure wherever your body touches the mattress. Both our testing panel and customer reviews agree that this is great for easing pain.
✅ Good for combination sleepers: The GelFlex Grid of the Purple Original is designed to suit a range of sleep styles, so if you tend to shift out of a side sleeping position in the night, you shouldn't lose support or pressure relief.
✅ Neutral temperature: Air can travel easily around the GelFlex Grid, allowing warm air to cool and bringing down the overall temperature of the mattress. A good choice for hot sleepers.
What we don't like about it...
❌ On the thin side: The Purple Mattress is just 9.25" tall, which is on the thin side of our recommended mattress thickness. Side sleepers, particularly those with a bigger build, will benefit from the cushioning of a plusher depth. The Purple Plus Mattress has a similar feel with a deeper build.
❌ Unusual feel: The GelFlex Grid isn't hidden beneath layers of cushioning, it sits close to the surface where our testing panel found it hard to ignore (at first). For a traditional feel with similar pressure relief, consider the Helix Midnight Luxe instead (#1).
❌ Weak edge support: All-foam mattresses tend to have weaker edges, and the GelFlex Grid doesn't do much to improve this. If you need to push against the edge of the mattress to get out of bed in the morning, the Saatva Classic (#3) is a much more stable base.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | impressive support, even though the comfort can take a while to get used to. The lack of depth might cause an issue for some. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | This is where the Purple Mattress excels, with a full-body pressure relief that feels like nothing else on the market. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Stays cool overnight with enhanced breathability, a good choice for hot sleepers. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Fantastic, the grid combined with the foams absorbs movement making it a good choice for couples. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Could be improved, the Purple feels less stable at the sides than it does at the center. | ★★★ |
| Build quality | Overall a high build quality, even if it doesn't have the sumptuous finish of other mattresses in this price bracket. | ★★★★ |
When, where and how to buy
Purple mattresses are available online and if you want to try before you buy, they can also be found in stores across the US. For online shoppers, you can shop direct from Purple, where a twin has an MSRP of $999, a queen $1,499, and a king $1,999. You can find Purple mattresses on third-party sites as well, but the prices tend to be similar.
There's typically a Purple mattress deal live, although Purple isn't as consistent with its discounts as other sleep brands. The best deal is typically up to $400 off all sizes of the mattress, and this appears a few times a year. If you see a $400 saving, that's the time to buy.
The rest of the year, Purple tends to offer smaller deals, sometimes switching a saving for a free gift with purchase. It's hard to predict when a Purple sale will start, but it's rarely over the major holiday dates. Instead, we recommend looking for a saving just before or after a major sale day — that's when Purple has historically introduced the best discounts.
The Purple Mattress does things its own way, and as a result you can enjoy pressure relief like no other. The elastic GelFlex Grid cradles every part of the body, and I recommend this mattress for side sleepers who tend to wake up with shoulder or hip pain. It's not for everyone, but give it some time and you might fall in love with the Purple Mattress — our testers did.
Read more: Purple Mattress review
7. The best cooling mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam Mattress delivers a subtle contouring to cradle side sleepers — but what really makes this mattress stand out is its budget-friendly cooling. Fitted with a cool-to-the-touch cover woven with proprietary Phase Change Material, our testing panel found even hot sleepers didn't wake up uncomfortably sweaty.
Even more impressive, the Cocoon Chill delivers this cooling from an all-foam bed at a mid-range price. It isn't perhaps the uber-cooling we might expect from something like the Ghostbed Luxe (check out our Also Tested section), but for most hot sleepers the Cocoon will keep you pleasantly cool without a price tag to make you hot under the collar.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
Gentle contouring enhances these cooling properties (no close 'hug' to trap heat), while also making the Cocoon by Sealy Chill pleasantly pressure relieving for side sleepers.
Our review: in more detail
The Cocoon by Sealy Chill is an affordable all-foam mattress for side sleepers who have found themselves tossing and turning on warm nights. It's similarly priced to the Nectar (#4) and DreamCloud (#5), but the cool-to-the-touch cover gives it the edge when it comes to cooling.
Our testing panel scored it highly when it comes to cooling, but that probably doesn't come as a surprise as the mattress makes it into this year's best cooling mattress guide. We also praised the motion isolation, noting it to be a good choice for bed sharers. The edge support, however, is less impressive. If you value sturdy sides, it's worth upgrading to the Cocoon Chill Hybrid.
For those who find hot nights ruin their sleep, the Cocoon Chill is a budget-friendly, pressure-relieving solution
The medium-firm feel should suit most side sleepers, and while you won't sink into the Cocoon Chill, it does provide relief at the touch points. If you prefer a more classic memory foam 'hug' — and don't mind sacrificing some cooling properties — the Nectar (#4) is a similarly priced alternative with greater contouring.
Customers largely praised the cooling of the Cocoon Chill, although some found they still woke up hot. If you're a very hot sleeper, the Cocoon will feel underpowered compared to something like the GhostBed Luxe. However, for those who find hot nights ruin their sleep, the Cocoon Chill is a budget-friendly, pressure-relieving solution.
What we like about it...
✅ Budget-friendly cooling: The Phase Change Material cover draws heat away from the body, keeping the sleep surface cool so you stay comfortable throughout the night. And the Cocoon Chill does it for significantly less than other cooling beds.
✅ Comfortable pressure relief: A medium firm feel means you won't sink into the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam, but the surface yields to the touch points to cradle the areas where pressure can build up.
✅ Absorbs motion well: You can toss and turn all night long on the Cocoon by Sealy Chill and your bed partner should stay sleeping soundly. The dense foams absorb motion, and as our testers found, if you share a bed you'll hardly notice anyone else is there.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too firm for some side sleepers: The medium firm feel of the Cocoon by Sealy Chill will be too firm for some lightweight side sleepers. The Nectar (#4) is softer, but expect less impressive cooling.
❌ Minimal contouring: Despite an all-foam build, the Cocoon lacks a traditional memory foam feel. Some heavier side sleepers will prefer it, but if you want enhanced contouring consider a classic memory foam like the Zinus (#2).
❌ Not good for very hot sleepers: While the cooling of the Cocoon Chill is high quality, very hot sleepers might still find themselves waking up sweaty. Consider upgrading to the more breathable Cocoon Chill Hybrid, or check out the GhostBed and Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe in our Also Tested section.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | A strong supportive feel gives way to increased comfort with some breaking in, and a true medium firm feel. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Despite lacking the contouring of other foam mattresses, the pressure relief is good, particularly at the backs and hips. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Superb, with a cooling cover that stays cool overnight while wicking away sweat. | ★★★★½ |
| Motion isolation | Another strong performer, if you and your partner spend warm nights tossing and turning, this is the solution. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | Could be improved, expect some sagging when lying on the sides. Upgrade to the Cocoon Hybrid for better edges. | ★★★ |
| Build quality | A good build and finish, we expect an average longevity with an expected lifespan of around six years. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
There's a permanent 35% off plus free bedding bundle sale on the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam Mattress, so you'll never pay full price. A twin typically costs around $399 (down from $619), while a queen will cost $699 (from $1,079), and a king $899 (from $1,389).
The disadvantage of this sale is that you won't get a better discount around the major sale days. The advantage is that it's always a good time to buy, and the evergreen saving makes the Cocoon Chill our favorite affordable cooling bed.
Although the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam is sometimes available on third-party sites, we recommend shopping with Sealy for the best benefits including a 100-night trial and a 10-year warranty. However, we do sometimes spot incredible discounts on old stock from retailers such as Walmart, and when the saving is good enough, you might not mind missing out on some extras.
As a mid-range all-foam bed, the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam Mattress doesn't seem like it's going to deliver a good cooling performance. However, that Phase Change Material cover packs an icy punch (in a good way), and the medium firm contouring provides pressure relief and support for side sleepers. I highly rate this side sleeper mattress to people who overheat in bed yet have a modest budget to spend.
Read more: Cocoon by Sealy Chill Memory Foam Mattress review
8. The best mattress for heavy side sleepers
Quick summary
The WinkBed Plus Mattress is a our favorite mattress for side sleepers with a bigger build. The increased weight capacity (for people 250lbs+) and three-step back support system ensures the body is completely supported, while a plush Euro pillow top provides the cushioning your shoulders and hips needs.
A premium mattress, the WinkBed does lack the luxurious finish of the Helix (#1) but it rivals the Saatva (#3) when it comes to back support. Although on the firmer side of medium firm, the WinkBed Plus doesn't feel like you're lying on a rock. However, lighter side sleepers may find it lacks the necessary contouring to prevent pressure from building up.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
It can be hard to find a mattress that's both supportive for bigger bodies while still offering cushioning, but the WinkBed Plus hits a cozy middle ground.
Our review: in more detail
The WinkBed Mattress is an innerspring hybrid available in four firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. Here we're concentrating primarily on the Plus version, which has an increased weight capacity to accommodate larger bodies.
That higher weight capacity also comes with a bigger price tag, making the WinkBed Plus a rival of the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1) and the Saatva (#3). The WinkBed outperforms them in terms of support for heavier people, even if it lacks some of the premium finish we'd expect from this price bracket.
For heavy people, the WinkBed Plus has a dreamy combination of support and cushioning
One of the highlights of the WinkBed is its lumbar support technology, and our testing panel described it as "one of the best mattresses for back pain". WinkBed uses a proprietary Lumbarlayer, with foam enhancement to keep the hips and spine in neutral alignment. And this support stretches all across the mattress, with an anti-sag edge support our testers described as "top notch".
We did criticize the temperature regulation of the WinkBed, and customer reviews vary when it comes to the firmness — as a mattress for bigger bodies, it's likely to feel too firm for lighter side sleepers. But for heavy people, the WinkBed Plus has a dreamy combination of support and cushioning.
What we like about it...
✅ Enhanced weight capacity: The WinkBed Plus is designed for bigger bodies, as standard mattresses often lack the durable support needed. And with the thick pillow top providing cushioning, you don't have to compromise comfort or support.
✅ Extra lumbar support: Our testers woke up feeling fresh after every night on the WinkBed, and that's in large part thanks to the spinal support. A layer of dense foam has been combined with zoned coils to ensure the middle third of the bed is super sturdy.
✅ Strong edge support: You can sit or press against the side of the WinkBed mattress and it never feels like you're going to slide off. This is good news for those with limited mobility who need a stable base to push against, as well as anyone who likes to stretch out across the bed.
What we don't like about it...
❌ Too firm for some side sleepers: Firmness is highly subjective, and while the WinkBed Plus should feel medium firm for heavy bodies, lighter people are likely to find it too hard for side sleeping. Either opt for the WinkBed mattress in a softer feel, or try the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1).
❌ Doesn't look particularly luxurious: Even with an evergreen $300 off sale, the WInkBed Plus is a premium bed. However, despite the handmade build, it doesn't have the luxury finish of the Saatva (#3) or even the DreamCloud (#5).
❌ Can sleep warm: WinkBed might have packed this mattress with "Triple Layer Heat Disperse Technology", but our testing panel wasn't quite so impressed with the cooling prowess. A latex mattress like the Avocado Green Mattress can offer cooler nights with a similar support.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | The Plus has ample support for bigger bodies, but with four feels to choose from, the WinkBed can suit all sleep styles. | ★★★★½ |
| Pressure relief | Heavy people will find it good enough to rival the Helix Midnight Luxe, but lighter bodies will need a softer relief. | ★★★★½ |
| Temperature control | Remains neutral for most sleepers, but doesn't deliver the cooling prowess WinkBed promises. | ★★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Superb, and the dense Euro pillow top is capable of absorbing the movement of a wriggling partner. | ★★★★½ |
| Edge support | The strong support can be found edge-to-edge on the WinkBed, and our tests showed minimal sinkage. | ★★★★½ |
| Build quality | A good build quality, if not a luxurious finish. Expect good durability that should last for years of use. | ★★★★ |
When, where, and how to buy
The WinkBed Plus mattress is available exclusively online from WinkBed, but if you want to test the support yourself, there are WinkBed showrooms across the US. This is a good opportunity to try out the firmness levels if you're not sure the Plus is quite right for you.
There's a $300 off evergreen mattress sale at WinkBed, reducing a queen Plus from an MSRP of $1,999 to $1,699. A twin will cost you $1,049 (was $1,349), and a king $1,899 (was $2,199). The standard sizes are roughly $200 cheaper in the evergreen sale.
This WinkBed mattress sale never changes, so if you want to buy, there's no need to wait around for a better deal. $300 off has held strong throughout numerous seasons and sale days, and we don't expect it to go anywhere anytime soon.
The WinkBed Plus Mattress is my number one pick if you're a side sleeper with a heavier build. You won't feel like you've drifted off on a hard wood flood, but you'll also avoid a sinking quicksand feeling that can plague soft beds. It has just enough yield in the cushioned pillow top to ease pressure at the hips and shoulders, but the extra lumbar support keeps the entire body stable throughout the night.
Read more: WinkBed mattress review
9. The best pillow-top mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a mattress with a lot of variety. There are three firmness levels to choose from, numerous sizing options including RV sizes, plus an optional (and affordable) pillow top upgrade. It's this upgrade that makes the Signature Hybrid one of our favorite mattresses for side sleepers, particularly for those who want soft cushioning but need strong support.
We typically associate pillow tops with luxury beds such as the Helix Midnight Luxe (#1) and the Saatva Classic (#3). The Signature Hybrid provides the immediate comfort of the best pillow top mattresses, without breaking the bank. And with three firmness levels to choose from, it can suit almost any type of side sleeper. Unless you run hot — our testers found overheating a problem.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress is one of the most affordable pillow top beds, and that extra layer of cushioning offers welcoming coziness to side sleepers.
Our review: in more detail
Brooklyn Bedding makes a mattress for every budget, but the Signature Hybrid sits near the top of the mid-range bracket. It's a competitor of the Purple (#6) and the Helix Midnight (Also Tested), although without the specialist features of those two beds.
During testing, our review team slept on the Firm Signature Hybrid, and mostly found it too hard for side sleeping. But that's the good thing about this mattress, as three different feels allow you to choose one that works for you. For side sleepers, we recommend Soft or Medium.
We also recommend upgrading to the pillow top. This additional feature helps the Signature Hybrid stand out, bringing enhanced pressure relief to a mattress with minimal contouring. The Soft version does offer more of a sink-in feel, but for a mattress that really embraces you, opt for the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud (#10) instead.
The pillow top helps the Signature Hybrid stand out, bringing enhanced pressure relief to a mattress with minimal contouring
As well as cushioning, the pillow top is meant to enhance the cooling of the mattress. However, we were less impressed with this aspect, and our lead tester found themselves waking up in the night from the warmth. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe (Also Tested) is a better cooling choice from the brand. Edge support is also an issue, particularly at the corners.
Overall, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a versatile mattress that will suit most types of side sleepers, especially those with an unusual bed frame — it's available in a lot of sizes, including short queen, Olympic queen, and RV king.
What we liked about it...
✅ An affordable pillow top: Pillow tops are often the remit of luxury beds and hotel mattresses, so the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is a rare chance to save on a premium feature. The pillow top is an additional cost, but we recommend it for side sleepers thanks to the cushioning it adds.
✅ Multiple firmness options: The best mattress for a side sleeper will vary depending on body type, but with three firmness levels plus the optional pillow top, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid can suit more types of sleepers.
✅ Unusual size choices: If you have an Olympic queen or short king bed frame, you don't need us to tell you how hard it can be to find a mattress that fits both your needs and your base. The Signature Hybrid is available in numerous sizing options, including some that are otherwise rare to come across.
What we didn't like about it...
❌ Weaker at the corners: Both our testing panel and customer reviews indicate that the edges are a weak point for the Signature Hybrid, with the corners a particular issue. While the edge support didn't blow us away when testing the Helix Midnight (Also Tested), this mattress offers stronger sides in a similar price range.
❌ Could sleep hot: Even with the cooling pillow top upgrade, we found the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid could get warm during the night. Our lead tester woke up multiple times with the heat. Hot sleepers should consider the Cocoon by Sealy Chill (#7) or the Aurora Luxe (Also Tested) instead.
| Features | In brief | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Support and comfort | Good support with the spine held in neutral alignment, the Firm feel has minimal cushioning but the Soft or Medium come with greater cushioned comfort. | ★★★★ |
| Pressure relief | Adding on the pillow top will enhance the pressure relief of the Signature Hybrid, as will opting for Medium or Soft feel. | ★★★★ |
| Temperature control | Disappointing, as even with the cooling cover upgrade our tester felt warm in the night. | ★★★ |
| Motion isolation | Above average, particualrly if you add the pillow top which helps absorb motion. | ★★★★ |
| Edge support | Variable, as the long sides of the mattress have good edge support, while the short sides and corners feel significantly less stable. | ★★★½ |
| Build quality | An overall good build quality that we expect to have decent longevity, although our review model did have some loose threads. | ★★★★ |
When, where and how to buy
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress is available online, or you can test it in showrooms across the US — good news if you want to get your hands on those sleep feels for yourself. Otherwise, a 120-night sleep trial gives you ample time to try the bed, but watch out for the $99 returns fee.
As well as direct from Brooklyn Bedding, you can purchase the Signature Hybrid on third-party sites, including the Brooklyn Bedding Amazon store. You'll typically find a similar price no matter where you shop, so we recommend buying direct from Brooklyn Bedding, where you'll enjoy better benefits like a 120-night trial. A queen has an MSRP of $1,732 (with pillow top) and is often reduced to $1,299. Without the pillow top, a queen is likely to set you back $999, reduced from $1,332.
The best time to buy the Signature Hybrid is around the major holidays, when the evergreen 25% off discount jumps to 30% off. We've observed this increased deal in the run up to sale days such as Memorial Day and Black Friday. We expect Brooklyn Bedding to follow the same pattern next year.
You normally have to pay premium prices for a pillow top mattress, but the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid makes this luxury addition more affordable. The pillow top adds cushioning, so I recommend side sleepers make the upgrade, even if it doesn't quite deliver the cooling Brooklyn Bedding promises. And if you're a side sleeper with an unusual bed frame size, the numerous size options of the Signature Hybrid ensures you don't have to sacrifice comfort for a mattress that fits your bedroom.
Read more: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review
10. The best organic mattress for side sleepers
Quick summary
The Naturepedic Concerto Pillow Top Mattress is one of the best organic mattresses around, offering five star luxury via organic and natural materials. It's also the best choice for an eco-conscious side sleeper, using a quilted organic cotton and wool pillow top to add plush cushioning that cradles the joints.
The pillow top provides the Naturepedic Concerto with an initial hit of softness. However, this soft sink is met by a strong supportive core, featuring both responsive latex foams and multiple spring layers. You'll feel supported head-to-toe — and edge-to-edge — while remaining cushioned. The natural materials enhance breathability, as well as providing a bed that's better for the environment.
Read what we liked, didn't like, test scores, and how to buy it ▼
The Naturepedic Concerto is expensive, but the overall performance and organic materials live up to the high price tag.
Our review: in more detail
The Naturepedic Concerto Mattress is a premium bed — but that's not unusual for a pillow top or an organic mattress. What's more important is whether the expensive upgrades are reflected in the sleep quality. And in our opinion, they are.
The Concerto Mattress sits in a similar price bracket to the Saatva Classic (#3), although depending on the sales, the Saatva is typically cheaper. The Concerto also lacks the customization of the Saatva. It's best suited for side sleepers, while the Saatva can accommodate more sleep preferences.
The plush pillow top provides immense pressure relief for the entire body
However, we're here to look at the best mattresses for side sleepers, and in this aspect, the Naturepedic Concerto is impressive. We found the plush pillow top provides immense pressure relief for the entire body (including strong edge support), while a responsive core containing micro coils keeps your entire body supported. There's a slight amount of motion transfer, but for most, it shouldn't cause an issue.
Organic materials and a hybrid build enhance the natural breathability of the Concerto Mattress, leading to a neutral feel that appealed to all our testing panel. In fact, the whole build appealed to the side sleepers in our testing panel.
What we like about it...
✅ Made with certified organic materials: It can be hard to find an organic mattress with enough cushioning for side sleepers, but a quilted cover made with orgnaic cotton and wool, plus a pla comfort layer, ensures comfort that's better for the environment.
✅ Full-body pressure relief: We found the Naturepedic Concerto capable or cradling the entire body, offering relief in every place your body touches the mattress. For side sleepers, this is fantastic at soothing the shoulder, hip, and knees.
✅ Neutral temperature: The coil-heavy build of the Naturepedic Concerto (it has two spring layers) keeps air circulating, while the breathable latex layer helps heat dissipate. We found the Concerto to stay a pleasant neutral feel, no matter what the weather was like outside.
What we don't like about it...
❌ No customization options: Luckily the Naturepedic Concerto is comfortable enough for side sleepers that we don't think you'll need to personalize it. However, it's unusual for a bed in this price bracket to only come with one feel. The Saatva (#3) and WinkBed (#8) come with multiple, and even the Helix (#1) has a choice of cover.
❌ Slight motion transfer: While overall the Nautrepedic Concerto offers good motion isolation, the two coil layers plus latex foam means movement isn't completely deadened. If you share with a very restless sleeper, try the Nectar (#4) or Tempur-Cloud (#10) instead.
When, where and how to buy
The Naturepedic Concerto can be purchased online or from Naturepedic stores around the US. You can also find Naturepedic products on third-party sites, although the bedding accessories and children's mattresses are more likely to be sold here. Shop direct from Naturepedic and you'll get a 25-year warranty and a 100-night trial, which are decent but not spectacular benefits for a mattress of this price.
Naturepedic sales aren't as common as the deals we see from other mattress brands, but they're worth keeping an eye out for. We've seen up to 20% off the Naturepedic Concerto, which is a hefty saving on this super-premium mattress. A twin has an MSRP of $1,699, often reduced to $1,359 in the sales, while a queen might be reduced to $2,239 (from $2,799) and a king $2,879 (from $3,599).
We expect Black Friday to be the best time to buy, but it's worth keeping an eye out around other major sale days. Also, we have spotted organic mattress brands offering generous savings around events such as Earth Day.
As a heads up, you do generally need to apply a promo code to save. The promo code is typically displayed on the Naturepedic site, so you don't have to hunt for a deal. Just make sure to add it at checkout, or you'll miss out on the saving.
The sink-in cushioning side sleepers need often comes from layers of memory foam, so it's rare to find an organic mattress that provides ample pressure relief for those who lie on their side. The Naturepedic Concerto Mattress, however, excels in this area, while the double coil layer means you never feel in danger of sinking through the bed. And if you need some soothing bedtime reading, check out the list of Naturepedic green certifications and verifications — there's a lot of them.Read more: Naturepedic Concerto Pillow Top Mattress review
Also tested
We've tested a wide variety of mattresses here at Tom's Guide. These mattresses might not have beaten our picks above, but they're still worth considering if you're a side sleeper.
How we test mattresses
At Tom's Guide we have an editorially independent mattress review team to test all the latest mattresses to see what they can do for your sleep. This testing process involves spending at least three weeks on a mattress to give ourselves time to adjust to the feel. We then cross reference the sleep experience with a series of performance tests, including drop tests for motion isolation and weight tests for pressure relief.
As well as a lead tester, a wider review panel of various body types and sleep styles are invited to sleep on the mattress. This allows us to build a clearer picture of who the mattress might suit. The testing panel features people with a variety of sleep styles and body types, including many side sleepers.
We also analyze user reviews to see how customers react to the mattress. This allows us to find any reoccurring issues that may have been overlooked in our initial testing phase, to guide further testing.
Finally, we rate each mattress on a series of performance attributes, as well as delivering a final verdict, again rated out of five. You can learn more about our review process with our mattress methodology.
Best side sleeper mattress FAQs
Got some questions about what side sleepers should look for in a mattress? In this section our experienced team will answer the most frequently asked questions from side sleepers looking to buy a mattress, to help you make the perfect choice.
How to choose the right mattress for side sleepers
First and foremost, when choosing the right mattress for side sleepers, you have to consider how the bed feels when lying on your side. That means ample cushioning at the touch points — the shoulders, hips, and knees — to relieve pressure and prevent waking up with sore spots.
But it isn't all about softness. A decent mattress for side sleepers also requires a strong central support, holding your spine in a neutral position throughout the night. Without this support, the lumbar region can sink, and you'll wake up with lower back pain.
While you might prioritize side sleeping comfort, it's also important to consider your other sleep preferences. Do you need a cooling mattress as you tend to sleep hot? Does a restless partner mean you prioritize motion isolation? Or do you need to press against the bed to move around in the morning and require strong edge support?
The best way to ensure you get the right bed for your side sleeping needs is to opt for a mattress that comes with a sleep trial. This gives you a set period of time within which to try the bed and return it (either for free or with a small fee) if it doesn't meet your needs. Every bed in this guide comes with a sleep trial and suits different budgets. However, monthly mattress sales mean you can save on many of the best beds for side sleepers right now.
What kind of mattress should a side sleeper have?
When lying in a side sleeping position, your body pushes against the mattress in a few key places: the shoulder, the hips, and the knees. A good mattress for side sleepers provides cushioning where these touch points apply force. This is known as pressure relief.
If you've ever spent a night on your side and woken up with a numb shoulder and a dead hip, you'll understand how important pressure relief is. For good pressure relief you don't necessarily need lots of soft cushioning, but the surface should yield where the body applies force to the mattress. If it feels like you're lying on a rock, you're probably not getting enough pressure relief.
In addition to good pressure relief, a mattress for side sleepers needs to have ample support. In a side sleeping position, compared to a back sleeping position, the spine doesn't have a stable base to press against. Good support prevents the lumbar region from sinking, holding your spine in a neutral position to reduce aches and pains.
If your bed lacks the cushioning needed to provide pressure relief, but you don't have the budget for a new mattress, the best mattress toppers can add cushioning at a lower price.
Is a soft or firm mattress better for side sleeping?
Medium feel mattresses are typically best for side sleepers, as these have the cushioning needed to relieve pressure at the shoulders and hips. A medium mattress will contour to the body while supporting the lumbar region.
However, it's important to note that mattress firmness is subjective and is strongly linked to weight and body type. As a heavier body places more force on the mattress, bigger side sleepers should look for a firmer bed. Those with a lighter build should look for a softer feel, which can hug the pressure points.
Personal preference should also be taken into consideration. Some people like a mattress that hugs the body and cradles them in place. If this is you, opt for a medium soft or soft feel. Others like a mattress that's easy to move around on, allowing you to easily shift positions in the night. Medium to medium firm mattress will be better for this type of side sleeper.
What mattress thickness is best for side sleepers?
The average adult should look for a mattress measuring around 10 inches or higher, but if you're a side sleeper, we typically suggest a height of 12 inches or above. These thicker mattresses should have ample room to combine cushioned layers needed for pressure relief with a strong and supportive base for side sleeper comfort.
Thinner mattresses can be suitable for side sleepers, but it's important they still contain the comfort layers needed for pressure relief. For example, a thinner hybrid mattress might not have enough foam layers to cradle the touch points, but even thought the Purple Original Mattress is relatively thin (only 9.25 inches), the contouring GelFlex layer helps enhance pressure relief.
