Choosing the right pillow might seem like just another bedtime chore, like flossing your teeth or setting your alarm clock. But here’s a fun fact: Picking the perfect pillow can be the secret ingredient to waking up on the right side of the bed every morning. Whether you sprawl like a starfish or curl up like a cat, the right pillow can be a game-changer, leading to better sleep and even better mornings. Dive into our picks for the best pillows tailored to every type of sleeper and transform your nightly retreat into something truly spectacular. Sweet dreams!
Prices are accurate as of September 16, 2024. Subject to change. All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.
Side Sleepers
Sleep on your side? You’re not alone. Right or left, this position is the most common sleeping position, meaning side sleepers can easily find the right pillow. But let’s take your sleep to the next level with thick, firm pillows that fill the gap between your ear and shoulder for optimum comfort.
BETTER PICK: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
Specifically designed for side sleepers, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow features an ergonomic design that helps align your neck and spine while you sleep. The firm material conforms to your body’s contours, offering unparalleled support and comfort through the night.
BEST PICK: Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Saatva
The Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Pillow is another excellent choice for side sleepers seeking extra cervical support. It boasts a high-density memory foam core surrounded by a plush layer of softer foam, ensuring comfort and proper spine alignment.
Back Sleepers
Doctors often say back-sleeping is best for posture, but many people find it uncomfortable. This might have something to do with not having a pillow that supports your 8-pound noggin. (We all learned that fact from Jerry Maguire, right?) The pillows below have been designed for long-term sleep and will leave you rested without a crick in your neck.
BETTER PICK: LoftAIRE Down Alternative Soft Density Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of The Company Store
Not only is this pillow affordable, but it’s also eco-friendly, made with recycled polyester fiber fill. It’s also available in four densities. We suggest medium for back sleepers as it has just enough give to be comfortable while remaining supportive of the neck and spine.
BUY FOR $48 AT THE COMPANY STORE
BEST PICK: Purple Harmony Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Purple
This pillow combines Purple’s unique grid technology with hypoallergenic Talalay latex to deliver the right balance of softness and support. It’s perfect for back sleepers who need to keep their head and neck properly aligned without sinking too deeply.
Stomach Sleepers
Sleeping on your stomach is the rarest sleep position. But those who do prefer to flop on their belly need a soft yet supportive pillow so their neck doesn’t kink up. Opt for these plush picks.
BETTER PICK: Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Brooklinen
For those who prefer a down-free option, Brooklinen’s Down Alternative Pillow is the way to go. It’s soft enough to compress under your head while providing gentle support, ideal for stomach sleepers who need a thinner pillow to avoid neck strain.
BEST PICK: Parachute Down Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Parachute
The Parachute Down Pillow is incredibly soft, flat, and designed for stomach sleepers. Filled with premium European down, it offers enough cushioning to be comfortable without elevating the head too much, making it easy to keep the spine neutral.
Combination Sleepers
Don’t fit into one of the categories above? There’s still a pillow for you! Even if you toss and turn, you’ll still get the best of all positions. Your pillow needs to be as versatile and adaptable as you are, effortlessly accommodating your every move.
BETTER PICK: Casper Original Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Casper
The Casper Original Pillow features a unique pillow-in-pillow design that caters to every sleeper. The inner pillow provides support, while the outer pillow adds a soft touch of comfort, making it ideal for those who frequently change positions.
BEST PICK: Coop Original Adjustable Pillow
Credit: Courtesy of Coop
This pillow is a favorite among combination sleepers due to its adjustable nature. Add or remove the shredded memory foam filling to achieve the perfect height and firmness, accommodating all your sleeping positions throughout the night.
Featured Image Credit: golubovy/ iStock
Brett Braley Writer
Brett F. Braley-Palko is a writer and novelist living in Pennsylvania. His work has been featured in publications such as Robb Report and GQ, as well as many online publications, covering topics such as menswear, style, and writing. When not writing, Brett maintains a full-time job in the luxury pen industry. His first novel is out in spring 2024.
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