Side sleepers need a mattress that relieves pressure on shoulders and hips. Here's how to choose the best mattress for side sleeping in 2026.
Side sleeping is the most common sleep position — and it requires a specific type of mattress. Side sleepers need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, where body weight concentrates. Here's how to choose the best mattress for side sleepers in 2026.
Why Side Sleepers Need a Specific Mattress
When you sleep on your side, your shoulders and hips press into the mattress. If the mattress is too firm, these pressure points take all your weight, causing:
- Shoulder pain
- Hip pain
- Numbness in the arms
- Spinal misalignment
A mattress that's soft enough to contour at the shoulders and hips — but firm enough to support your spine — is ideal.
Best Mattress Types for Side Sleepers
Memory Foam (Top Choice)
Memory foam is the best mattress type for side sleepers because it contours closely to your body, filling in the gap at your waist and relieving pressure at your shoulders and hips.
Why it works: Foam responds to body heat and weight, softening exactly where you need it.
Hybrid (Great Choice)
Hybrid mattresses with softer foam top layers also work well. The foam provides contouring while the coils support your spine.
Why it works: You get pressure relief from the foam and sturdy support from the coils.
Pillow-Top (Good Choice)
A pillow-top adds an extra layer of cushioning to any mattress type, making it more comfortable for side sleepers.
Why it works: The plush top layer cushions pressure points.
Innerspring (Less Ideal)
Traditional innerspring mattresses tend to be too firm for side sleepers. If you prefer innerspring, look for a pillow-top innerspring.
Ideal Firmness for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need a softer mattress than back or stomach sleepers:
- Lightweight side sleepers (under 130 lbs) — soft (3-4 on a 10 scale)
- Average side sleepers (130-230 lbs) — medium-soft to medium (4-6)
- Heavier side sleepers (230+ lbs) — medium (5-7)
A mattress that's too firm will leave pressure points; one that's too soft will let your spine sag.
What to Look For
Pressure Relief
Look for mattresses with memory foam or latex comfort layers at least 2-3 inches thick. These materials contour to your body.
Spinal Alignment
Your spine should be straight when you lie on your side. If your hips sink too far, the mattress is too soft. If your waist isn't supported, it's too firm.
Motion Isolation
If you sleep with a partner, look for memory foam or pocketed coils — they reduce motion transfer so you won't feel each other move.
Cooling
Memory foam can sleep warm. Look for gel-infused foam or hybrid construction if you sleep hot.
Best Mattress Brands for Side Sleepers
At Mattress 4 Less, we recommend these brands for side sleepers:
- Sealy Conform — memory foam with contouring comfort
- Serta iComfort — advanced foam with cooling features
- Sierra Sleep by Ashley — affordable memory foam and hybrids
Tips for Side Sleepers
- Use a thick pillow that fills the gap between your shoulder and ear
- Place a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned
- Avoid sleeping on a too-firm mattress — it causes shoulder and hip pain
- Replace your mattress every 8-10 years — foam breaks down and loses contouring
Shop Side-Sleeper Mattresses in Illinois
At Mattress 4 Less, we carry memory foam, hybrid, and pillow-top mattresses ideal for side sleepers — starting at $199 for a queen. Visit one of our three Chicagoland locations or call (708) 516-5749.