Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2024
As a side sleeper, you may often wake up with aches and pains, particularly in your shoulders, hips, and lower back. Finding the right mattress is crucial to ensure you get a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed.
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Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2024
As a side sleeper, you may often wake up with aches and pains, particularly in your shoulders, hips, and lower back. Finding the right mattress is crucial to ensure you get a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed. The best mattress for side sleepers should provide adequate cushioning and support for pressure points while promoting proper spinal alignment. In this article, we'll explore the top mattresses for side sleepers in 2024, complete with detailed reviews, pros and cons, and expert-backed insights to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Side Sleepers' Needs
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
- Top Mattresses for Side Sleepers in 2024
- Comparison Table
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Understanding Side Sleepers' Needs
Research indicates that approximately 74% of adults sleep on their sides, making it the most popular sleeping position (National Sleep Foundation). However, side sleeping can lead to specific issues, such as shoulder and hip pain, if the mattress does not provide the right support. The ideal mattress for side sleepers should offer:
- Pressure Relief: Softness to cushion the shoulders and hips without sacrificing support.
- Spinal Alignment: Firmness that keeps the spine aligned in a neutral position.
- Temperature Regulation: Breathability to prevent overheating during sleep.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
When searching for the best mattress for side sleepers, consider the following factors:
1. Material
Different materials provide varying levels of support and comfort:
- Memory Foam: Excellent for pressure relief but may retain heat.
- Latex: Offers bounce and breathability, good for temperature regulation.
- Hybrid: Combines foam and innerspring for balanced support and comfort.
2. Firmness Level
Most side sleepers benefit from a medium to medium-soft mattress. This level provides the necessary cushioning for pressure points while supporting spinal alignment.
3. Durability
Look for high-quality materials that ensure longevity. A durable mattress will maintain its supportive properties over time, which is crucial for side sleepers.
4. Sleep Trials and Warranties
Choose a mattress that offers a sleep trial and a solid warranty. This allows you to test the mattress and ensure it meets your needs without risk.
Top Mattresses for Side Sleepers in 2024
Purple Original The Mattress
- Price: $999
- Rating: 4.4/5
The Purple Hybrid Premier 4 mattress is designed specifically for those who need pressure relief without sacrificing support. Its unique Purple Grid technology allows for excellent airflow and keeps you cool while sleeping.
Pros:
- Exceptional pressure relief for shoulders and hips.
- Great temperature regulation due to breathable materials.
- Durable and long-lasting construction.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other options.
- The unique feel may not appeal to everyone.
Ideal For: Side sleepers who prioritize pressure relief and cooling features.
Helix Midnight Luxe
- Price: $1,799
- Rating: 3.9/5
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress that combines foam and pocketed coils, offering the best of both worlds. It provides superior contouring while ensuring excellent support and durability.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of comfort and support.
- Customizable firmness options available.
- Great for couples with varying sleeping preferences.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier, making it more challenging to move.
- May have a chemical smell upon unpacking.
Ideal For: Side sleepers who share a bed and want a customizable experience.
Nectar Premier
- Price: $649
- Rating: 4.4/5
The Nectar Premier mattress is known for its exceptional value. With multiple foam layers for comfort and support, it effectively alleviates pressure points and promotes spinal alignment.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for high-quality materials.
- Excellent motion isolation for couples.
- Generous sleep trial and warranty period.
Cons:
- May retain heat for some sleepers.
- Slightly firmer than expected for a "soft" mattress.
Ideal For: Budget-conscious side sleepers who still want quality and comfort.
Casper Wave Hybrid
- Price: $2,395
- Rating: 4.3/5
The Casper Wave Hybrid mattress features a combination of foam layers and springs, providing targeted support for side sleepers. Its unique design promotes spinal alignment while allowing for comfortable contouring.
Pros:
- Excellent support for the lower back and hips.
- Breathable materials for temperature regulation.
- Designed with multiple zones for pressure relief.
Cons:
- Pricey compared to other options.
- Some users may find it too firm at first.
Ideal For: Side sleepers who experience back pain and require targeted support.
Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Rating | Pressure Relief | Durability | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Original The Mattress | $999 | 4.4/5 | Excellent | High | Purple Grid technology |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | $1,799 | 3.9/5 | Excellent | High | Customizable firmness |
| Nectar Premier | $649 | 4.4/5 | Good | Medium | Great value |
| Casper Wave Hybrid | $2,395 | 4.3/5 | Good | Medium | Zoned support |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What firmness level is best for side sleepers?
Most side sleepers benefit from a medium to medium-soft firmness level. This allows for adequate cushioning of pressure points while maintaining spinal alignment.
2. Is memory foam good for side sleepers?
Yes, memory foam is excellent for side sleepers due to its ability to contour to the body's shape and provide pressure relief.
3. How often should I replace my mattress?
It is generally recommended to replace your mattress every 7-10 years, depending on wear and tear and the quality of materials used.
4. Can a mattress be too soft for side sleepers?
Yes, while side sleepers need cushioning, a mattress that is too soft can lead to poor spinal alignment and increased pain.
5. What is the best material for a side sleeper mattress?
Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are often ideal for side sleepers due to their balance of support and comfort.
6. Do I need a special pillow for side sleeping?
Yes, a supportive pillow that maintains neck alignment with the spine is recommended for side sleepers to prevent neck pain.
7. Are hybrid mattresses good for side sleepers?
Yes, hybrid mattresses can be an excellent choice for side sleepers, combining the support of coils with the comfort of foam.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mattress for side sleepers is essential for a restful night's sleep. The Purple Hybrid Premier 4, Helix Midnight Luxe, Nectar Premier, and Casper Wave Hybrid all stand out for their unique features that cater to the specific needs of side sleepers. By considering factors such as pressure relief, support, and durability, you can find the perfect mattress to enhance your sleep quality.
Investing in the right mattress can alleviate pain and discomfort, leading to better health and well-being. If you're ready to make that investment, explore the options mentioned in this article and select the one that best suits your needs.
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Our Top Recommendations
Purple Original The Mattress - Queen
Patented GelFlex Grid technology with 1,400+ gel columns for instant adaptation and temperature balancing.
Pros
- ✓Patented GelFlex Grid technology provides excellent cooling
- ✓Instant adaptation to body movements and positions
- ✓Temperature neutral - sleeps cool all night
- ✓Superior pressure relief without sinking
- ✓Made in USA with high-quality materials
Cons
- ✗Firm feel may not suit all sleepers
- ✗Grid texture takes adjustment period
- ✗Higher price than traditional foam mattresses
Casper Original Foam Queen Mattress
Medium firm memory foam with Zoned Support™ technology for proper spinal alignment and targeted support.
Pros
- ✓Zoned Support™ technology for targeted pressure relief
- ✓Three support areas for proper spinal alignment
- ✓CertiPUR-US certified safe materials
- ✓100-night risk-free trial
- ✓Excellent motion isolation for couples
Cons
- ✗Memory foam may retain some heat
- ✗Medium firm may be too soft for stomach sleepers
- ✗Takes time to fully expand after unboxing
Nectar Classic 12" Queen Mattress
Medium firm gel memory foam mattress with cooling top layer and fiberglass-free construction.
Pros
- ✓Exceptional value with premium features
- ✓Gel memory foam with cooling technology
- ✓Forever warranty - longest in the industry
- ✓CertiPUR-US certified safe materials
- ✓Fiberglass-free construction for safety
Cons
- ✗Memory foam may retain some heat for hot sleepers
- ✗Medium firm may be too soft for stomach sleepers
- ✗Takes 24-72 hours to fully expand
Purple Original The Mattress
Patented GelFlex Grid technology with 1,400+ gel columns for instant adaptation and temperature balancing.
Pros
- ✓Exceptional pressure relief for shoulders and hips
- ✓Great temperature regulation due to breathable materials
- ✓Durable and long-lasting construction
- ✓GelFlex Grid technology
- ✓Motion isolation for couples
Cons
- ✗Firm feel may not suit all sleepers
- ✗Grid texture takes adjustment period
- ✗Higher price than traditional foam mattresses
Helix Midnight Luxe
Premium hybrid mattress with zoned lumbar support, memory foam comfort, and reinforced edge support.
Pros
- ✓Excellent balance of comfort and support
- ✓Customizable firmness options available
- ✓Great for couples with varying sleeping preferences
- ✓Zoned lumbar support for targeted relief
- ✓Reinforced edge support
Cons
- ✗Slightly heavier, making it more challenging to move
- ✗May have a chemical smell upon unpacking
- ✗Higher price than basic foam mattresses
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt
Premium memory foam mattress with proprietary TEMPUR material that adapts to your body's unique shape.
Pros
- ✓Exceptional pressure relief for all sleep positions
- ✓Excellent motion isolation for undisturbed sleep
- ✓High-quality materials for superior durability
- ✓TEMPUR material adapts to body temperature
- ✓10-year limited warranty
Cons
- ✗Higher price point than competitors
- ✗May retain heat despite cooling technologies
- ✗Firm feel may require adjustment period
Saatva Classic
Luxurious hybrid mattress with coil-on-coil construction, Euro pillow top, and eco-friendly materials.
Pros
- ✓Eco-friendly materials and sustainable construction
- ✓Great edge support and responsive bounce
- ✓Excellent temperature regulation and airflow
- ✓Coil-on-coil construction for enhanced support
- ✓Euro pillow top for added comfort
Cons
- ✗Heavier than traditional mattresses
- ✗Some users may find it too firm initially
- ✗Requires professional delivery and setup
Last updated: June 24, 2025