Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Customer Favorites

The right mattress is essential for side sleepers to ensure proper alignment and prevent pressure points. With so many choices on the market, narrowing down the best fit can feel daunting. To make your decision easier, we’ve curated a list of the top mattresses for side sleepers in 2025. These picks offer tailored support, cushioning, and durability, based on customer feedback and expert insights tailored to your sleeping style.

Sleep Doctor independently selects the products we test. We may earn a commission if you buy through the links on our site. Prices listed for queen size mattresses.

Best Selling Mattresses for Side Sleepers

  • Nolah Evolution 15

    Nolah Evolution 15

    4.4
    Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
    4.4
    $2,127 at Nolah

    35% off sitewide

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    Key Features
    • Plush Euro-top excellent for side sleepers
    • Available in 3 firmness levels
    • Multiple foam layers for pressure point relief

    Customer Review Summary

    Reviews highlight the luxurious design and cooling features. Customers appreciate the excellent pressure relief and above-average motion isolation. Some find the mattress too tall, and the premium sticker price may be too high for budget shoppers.

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  • Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

    Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe

    4.4
    Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
    4.4
    $2,265 at Brooklyn Bedding

    Save 30% sitewide with code: VETERANS30

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    Key Features
    • Luxury feel and cooling proprietary foam technology
    • Available in 3 firmness levels
    • Extra support and pressure relief

    Customer Review Summary

    Reviews highlight its luxurious feel and excellent cooling. Customers like the Aurora Luxe's customizable firmness and supportive, responsive layers. Some note its premium price and significant weight as drawbacks, but overall, it's considered a high-quality mattress.

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  • Helix Midnight Luxe

    Helix Midnight Luxe

    4.1
    Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars
    4.1
    $2,373.33 at Helix

    27% off sitewide with code: DOCTOR27

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    Key Features
    • Ideal for side and back sleepers
    • Strong perimeter for full surface usage
    • Medium firm with foam comfort layers over multi-zone pocketed coils

    Customer Review Summary

    Reviews highlight a balanced medium-firm feel, with customers noting excellent pressure relief and motion isolation. This is a luxury hybrid, so some find it pricey, and edge support is average.

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  • WinkBed

    WinkBed

    4.5
    Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
    4.5
    $1,799 at WinkBeds

    Get $300 off

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    Key Features
    • 4 available firmness options for all sleeper types
    • Superb pressure relief and multi-zone coils for support
    • Responsive surface good for couples and combination sleepers

    Customer Review Summary

    WinkBed reviews highlight the high-quality hybrid design and wide range of firmness options to appeal to different types of sleepers. Customers appreciate the zoned support and strong edges. Some find the mattress too heavy, and motion isolation varies by design.

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  • Bear Elite

    Bear Elite

    4.3
    Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
    4.3
    $2,305 at Bear

    40% off with code: SD40

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    Key Features
    • Hybrid construction, available in 3 firmness levels
    • Excellent pressure relief with zoned transitional foam
    • Cooling gel reduces heat retention

    Customer Review Summary

    Customer reviews highlight the Bear Elite Hybrid's strong support and pressure relief, with varied firmness options catering to different sleepers. Many praise its cooling features and motion isolation. However, edge support varies, and it's considered a premium-priced mattress.

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  • DLX Premier Hybrid

    DLX Premier Hybrid

    4.5
    Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
    4.5
    $1,599 at DLX

    $100 off with code: SLEEP

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    Key Features
    • 6 firmness options, including split firmness
    • Cooling Euro-top with good pressure relief
    • 120-night sleep trial

    Customer Review Summary

    DLX Premier Hybrid reviews praise its strong support and cooling, with good edge support and customizable firmness. Some note moderate motion transfer and its premium price.

  • Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid

    Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid

    4.6
    Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
    4.6
    $1,698 from Sapira

    25% off select mattresses

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    Key Features
    • Above-average motion isolation and pressure relief
    • Available in three firmness levels
    • Three-zone coils provide extra midsection support

    Customer Review Summary

    Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid reviews highlight the comfortable balance of cushioning and support for all three firmness options. Many customers say the mattress alleviates pain and pressure well, while couples say it provides excellent motion isolation.

  • Saatva Rx

    Saatva Rx

    4.4
    Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
    4.4
    $3,295 at Saatva

    $300 off orders of $1,000+

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    Key Features
    • Luxury mattress with medium soft feel for pressure relief
    • Unique construction adapts to body shape
    • Ideal for side sleepers of any weight

    Customer Review Summary

    Saatva Rx reviews focus on the bed's zoned back support and pressure relief. Customers say it isolates motion much better than the average hybrid. Some say the mattress is too soft for back or stomach sleeping.

How to Shop for a Mattress as a Side Sleeper

Finding the perfect mattress as a side sleeper doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Since comfort varies from person to person, it’s crucial to consider your unique needs, including your body weight and ideal firmness level. If you share your bed, account for your partner’s preferences as well. Before purchasing, evaluate the following factors to ensure the mattress meets your needs:

  • Motion Isolation

    A mattress with great motion isolation absorbs movement on one side of the bed and prevents it from transferring to the other.

  • Temperature Neutrality

    This performance category refers to how well a mattress maintains a comfortable temperature.

  • Pressure Relief

    A mattress can either reduce or worsen pressure build up in areas like the hips and shoulders due to uneven spinal alignment and lack of support.

  • Edge Support

    Stability along the edges and the rate at which the compression recovers after weight is removed allows for greater ease getting in and out of bed.

  • Ease of Movement

    A mattress with a responsive, springy surface is usually easier to move across than one that sinks beneath your weight.

  • Odor Emissions

    Most new mattresses emit chemical odors after unboxing, but some smell stronger or take longer to dissipate than others.

  • Motion Isolation

    A mattress with great motion isolation absorbs movement on one side of the bed and prevents it from transferring to the other.

  • Temperature Neutrality

    This performance category refers to how well a mattress maintains a comfortable temperature.

  • Pressure Relief

    A mattress can either reduce or worsen pressure build up in areas like the hips and shoulders due to uneven spinal alignment and lack of support.

  • Edge Support

    Stability along the edges and the rate at which the compression recovers after weight is removed allows for greater ease getting in and out of bed.

  • Ease of Movement

    A mattress with a responsive, springy surface is usually easier to move across than one that sinks beneath your weight.

  • Odor Emissions

    Most new mattresses emit chemical odors after unboxing, but some smell stronger or take longer to dissipate than others.

More Customer Favorites

Dr. Breus on How to Buy a Mattress for Side Sleepers

FAQ's

What is the best mattress for a side sleeper?

The best mattress for a side sleeper will vary by individual preferences, but most side sleepers prefer a softer mattress than back sleepers as their shoulders and hips need more cushioning. Many side sleepers like all-foam options for extra cushioning. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite choices here.

What type of mattress does a side sleeper need?

Side sleepers generally need a mattress that:

  • Conforms to the body: To cushion pressure points on the hips and shoulders.
  • Provides medium to medium-soft firmness: This allows enough give to align the spine while maintaining support.
  • Offers zoned support: Some mattresses provide targeted support for different body areas, which can be beneficial.

What is the best mattress topper for a side sleeper?

A mattress topper for side sleepers should add plushness and alleviate pressure points. In most cases, you’ll want to look for a topper that adds softness. Look for a topper that is marked as “medium-soft” or “soft”. The best options include:

  • Memory Foam Toppers: Provide excellent contouring and cushioning.
  • Down or Down Alternative Toppers: Add softness but may lack support.
  • Gel-Infused Toppers: Help regulate temperature for hot sleepers.

How firm should a mattress be for a side sleeper?

A mattress for side sleepers should be softer than a mattress for other types of sleepers, as side sleepers sink in more in the shoulders and hips. Look for a mattress that is medium-firm to medium-soft. This firmness level provides enough cushion to the hips and shoulders while maintaining proper spinal alignment. Of course, firmness preference is subjective, so if you know you prefer a firmer bed, go for a medium-firm choice.

Which side is better to sleep on?

Sleeping on your left side is generally considered better for overall health. It promotes better digestion, reduces acid reflux, and improves blood circulation. However, sleeping on the right side may be preferable for some people, such as those with certain heart conditions. Ultimately, the best side depends on individual comfort and health needs.

Does side sleeping hurt the hip joint?

Side sleeping can sometimes cause hip discomfort, especially if the mattress is too firm or lacks proper support. Pressure on the hip joint from an inadequate mattress or sleeping position can lead to pain. Using a mattress designed for side sleepers or placing a pillow between your knees can help align your hips and reduce strain.