10 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers That Won’t Hurt Your Back, According to Experts

We updated this article in January 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

Finding the right mattress is one way to ensure you sleep well all night long, and that’s doubly true when you’re looking for the best mattress for side sleepers. According to Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., M.S., R.N., medical director at Aeroflow Sleep, the “right mattress” for side sleepers is one that will provide spinal support for cervical and lumbar areas while maintaining a comfortable body temperature. But, what does that mean in terms of finding the right mattress for you?

“In general, a medium-firm mattress is ideal for side sleepers, as it allows for spinal support, but it is flexible to adjust to the body curvature,” she says, adding that those who weigh more will see greater benefits by opting for a firmer mattress. “Considering the material, one (or multiple) layers of memory foam on top of a medium-firm mattress will provide comfort and flexibility for the body curvature while preserving a steady spinal support,” she says.

Side sleepers who find themselves in the market for a new mattress should focus on finding one that will relieve the pressure from their shoulders and hips, advises Chelsie Rohrscheib, Ph.D., lead sleep specialist at Wesper. “With this in mind, softer mattresses or memory foam mattresses are probably going to be your best option for optimum side sleeping support and comfort.”

Meet the Experts: Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., M.S., R.N., is the medical director at Aeroflow Sleep. Chelsie Rohrscheib, Ph.D., is the lead sleep specialist at Wesper. Allison Brager, M.D., is a neuroscientist and sleep specialist for Molecule.

Our top picks

Fortunately, the experts we tapped had plenty of suggestions about which mattresses will get you (and anyone you share a bed with) the best night’s rest—particularly if you prefer snoozing on your side.