Do you sleep on your side? Then you need a mattress that relieves pressure around your hips and shoulders. But are memory foam or hybrid mattresses better for side sleepers?
Generally speaking, side sleepers need ample cushioning and plenty of support, so the best mattress for you is one that reduces pressure points, offers sink-in comfort, and cradles your shoulders, hips and knees when you're lying on your side all night.
Here we explore how hybrid and memory foam beds compare for side sleepers, from comfort and support to that all-important pressure relief. We've tested all sorts of beds to find the best mattresses for side sleepers, so let's explore which is right for you...
Are memory foam mattresses good for side sleepers?
Memory foam was initially developed by NASA, before finding its way into mattresses in the 1990s. Made of polyurethane, memory foam is a versatile material but it's best known for its 'hug' — when you press into memory foam, it molds itself to your shape.
The best memory foam mattresses use this body-contouring effect to create soothing pressure relief. You'll typically find memory foam used in the upper layers of an all-foam mattress, with denser foams used beneath to add support and stability.
We often recommend memory foam mattresses for side sleepers because foam is known for its pressure relieving properties — and that's something you need when you're sleeping tucked up on your side.
When your shoulders and hips press into a foam mattress, the cushioned comfort layers should yield gently to the pressure. This allows the weight of your body to be distributed evenly, rather than building up in one place and causing your shoulder to go numb.
However, while pressure relief is necessary, it can't be the only thing a side sleeper looks for in a mattress. It's important you still have a stable and supportive base because while you want the mattress to yield, your spine should be held at a neutral angle to prevent back pain.
Here are three all-foam mattresses we recommend buying in this month's mattress sales:
Are hybrid mattresses good for side sleepers?
Hybrid mattresses use foams and springs to create a comfortable sleep surface. The springs typically sit at the base of the bed, offering full-body support and a bouncy feel. Above the springs are the comfort layers, often including foams.
The best hybrid mattresses we've tested typically use multiple layers of comfort materials to add pressure relief to the bed. Memory foam is a popular material for these comfort layers, but other types of foams, including latex foams, can also be used. And it doesn't have to be foam; materials such as wool and cotton can also be used as comfort materials.
Hybrid mattresses can be comfortable for side sleepers, but it's important to ensure you're getting enough pressure relief and cushioning. A good hybrid mattress for side sleepers will have thick comfort layers on top of the springs, to absorb the pressure at the touch points.
Height is also important when choosing a hybrid for side sleepers, as the bed needs to be tall enough to accommodate the sink at the touch points. But the height can't just come from the springs — the comfort layers need to contribute a lot to the build.
However, hybrid mattresses do typically provide side sleepers with plenty of support, which is good news if you tend to struggle with back ache. In addition, the bouncier feel can suit side sleepers who like to move from one side to the other in the night.
Here are three we recommend buying...
Memory foam mattress vs hybrid: Which should you buy for side sleeping?
Buy a memory foam mattress if...
✅ You like a full body hug: Memory foam mattresses are known for their embracing feel, so opt for this build if you like to feel cradled in a side sleeper position.
✅ You have a lightweight build: Lightweight side sleepers typically need a softer mattress, and a plush memory foam mattress will yield to even small bodies. Soft mattresses for side sleepers often suit those with small builds.
✅ You share a bed: All-foam beds are excellent at motion isolation, absorbing movement so it can't travel across the mattress. If you're a side sleeper sharing with a restless partner, consider an all-foam bed.
Buy a hybrid mattress if...
✅ You need plenty of lumbar support: The spring layer in a hybrid mattress often lends these beds better spinal support, preventing an aching back in the morning.
✅ You prefer a bouncier feel: Tall coils give hybrid mattresses a more responsive, bouncy feel, which can be particularly good for side sleepers who like to move around in the night.
✅ You sleep hot: Often find yourself overheating when curled up on your side? Breathable hybrid beds keep air circulating so you stay snug, not sweaty.
The bottom line...
Hybrid and memory foam mattresses both have their benefits for side sleepers, and regardless of type, we recommend choosing a mattress with cushioned pressure relief and ample support. Don't forget to factor in your other sleep preferences when making your decision, as this can help you find the best mattress in a box for your needs. Neither of these appeal? Check out our guide to latex mattresses for side sleepers.
