Finding the ideal pillow extends beyond comfort—it's also an essential component of your health, particularly in managing neck pain. For those who sleep on their side, the pursuit of the perfect pillow—adequate in support and alleviating discomfort—might appear unending. If you commonly greet the day with a stiff neck, or you're simply looking to upgrade your sleep quality, our comprehensive review of the "best pillow for neck pain for side sleepers" is the resource you've been waiting for.
In this guide, we'll carefully explore the unique features, advantages, and potential downsides of the top 7 best pillows. We understand that such a range of options might seem overwhelming, but don't worry—we are here to simplify the process. Through our in-depth analysis, we aim to help you understand which of these pillows aligns best with your needs. From memory foam to orthopedic styles, each tailored to suit different needs, we are confident that you'll find your perfect match. So, sit back, and let's journey together to discover your dream pillow for a rejuvenating, pain-free night's sleep.
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Best pillows for neck pain for side sleepers
1) ZAMAT Butterfly Shaped Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
The ZAMAT Butterfly-Shaped Cervical Pillow Pro is a game-changer for those in search of neck pain relief. Its butterfly design does more than just catch the eye—it effectively enhances blood flow while ensuring your neck remains in a natural, comfortable position. Constructed with memory foam, which is both odorless and CertiPUR-US certified, this pillow promises durability and safety. One of its standout features is the adjustable height, making it versatile enough to cater to all sleeping positions. To top it off, the pillowcase is highly breathable, keeping sleepers cool throughout the night.
Key Features:
Ergonomic Butterfly Design: Promotes improved blood circulation and supports natural neck alignment.
Premium Memory Foam: Uses odorless, CertiPUR-US-certified memory foam for long-lasting comfort.
Adjustable Height: Accommodates all sleep positions, ensuring personalized comfort.
Breathable Pillowcase: Enhances air circulation, helping to maintain a cool sleep environment.
Options:
Option | Amount of units | Size | ​Colours | Price |
1 | 1 | ​Standard (25"x14.5"x5") | ​White/Gray | $65.99 (-18%) |
2 | 2 | ​Standard (25"x14.5"x5") | ​White/Gray | $121.98 (-23%) |
3 | 4 | ​Standard (25"x14.5"x5") | ​White/Gray | ​$243 (-23%) |
Note: if you want to buy more than one pillow, look at options 2 and 3, as it is cheaper in that case.
Pros:
Effective neck pain relief
Adjustable to individual needs
Promotes good circulation
High-quality, safe materials
Breathable for cooler sleep
Cons:
Limited color options
Could be too firm for some users (but for neck pain sufferers, we really recommend this product)
Key Insights From Experience:
While doing the research for the pillow, we discovered that this pillow has a firmness stronger than most options. This means that it can support your body better, but it can harm you if you are used to softer pillows. Those who need stronger support for their neck, in order to reduce the pain, will love the pillow; those who are into softer pillows, will find better alternatives.
Ideal consumers:
Those looking to reduce neck pain, who will certainly achieve this with the firmness this pillow provides.
2) ZAMAT Butterfly Button-Shaped Cervical Pillow
The ZAMAT Butterfly Button-Shaped Cervical Pillow is designed for those seeking to alleviate neck and back pain, and enjoy a deeper, more restful sleep. This 100% premium memory foam pillow is tailored to align your spine, improving your sleep quality and comfort. Its features include a two-height design to cater to individual comfort needs and a hollow design paired with a breathable pillowcase, ensuring a cool sleep experience.
Key Features:
Pain Reduction: Specially designed to reduce neck and back pain, providing comfort in sleep.
Premium Memory Foam: Made of high-quality memory foam for comfort and longevity.
Spinal Alignment: Designed to align your spine throughout sleep.
Adjustable Height: Features two height options for personalized comfort.
Hollow Design & Breathable Pillowcase: Promotes cool sleep with improved air circulation.
Options:
​Option | Amount of units | Size | Colours | Price |
1 | 1 | Standard (25"x 14.5"x 5") | White/Gray | $69.99 (-19%) |
2 | 2 | Standard (25"x 14.5"x 5") | White/Gray | $129.95 (-24%) |
3 | 4 | Standard (25"x 14.5"x 5") | White/Gray | $249.95 (-27%) |
Note: if you want to buy more than one pillow, look at options 2 and 3, as it is cheaper in that case.
Pros:
Effective reduction of neck and back pain
High-quality memory foam
Promotes proper spinal alignment
Adjustable height for personalized comfort
Breathable design for a cool sleep
Cons:
Limited color options
Firmness may not be suitable for all users
Bulk discounts only available on multiple pack purchases
Key Insights From Experience:
While the two-height feature accommodates varying comfort needs, some users may find the firm memory foam a bit too rigid, especially if they are accustomed to softer pillows. However, for those dealing with neck or back pain, this firmness could be a huge plus, providing much-needed support.
Ideal consumers:
Those aiming to reduce neck and back pain, who are likely to find the firmness of this pillow beneficial in achieving their goal.
3) ORGANIC TEXTILES All Natural Latex Pillow
For those in search of an eco-friendly and health-conscious option, the ORGANIC TEXTILES All Natural Latex Pillow is an exceptional choice. Unlike traditional memory foam pillows, this one boasts 100% natural latex, offering a more sustainable and healthier alternative. The inclusion of a handcrafted organic cotton cover, GOTS certified, offers even more comfort and reassures its organic provenance.
One of its key strengths is its enduring support - unlike many pillows that tend to sag and flatten over time, this natural latex pillow resists such issues, maintaining its shape for years. A unique pinhole design promotes air circulation for optimal breathability and temperature regulation, ensuring you stay cool all night. Additionally, the pillow comes with a removable cover for easy washing, adding to its practicality.
Key Features:
Natural Latex Material: Features 100% natural latex, offering a healthier, eco-friendlier alternative to traditional memory foam.
Enduring Support: Designed to resist sagging and flattening, maintaining supportive comfort for several years.
Cool All Night: Pinhole design enhances breathability and temperature regulation for a cool sleep experience.
Eco-Friendly: Made from renewable rubber tree sap, supporting a healthier planet.
Removable Organic Cotton Cover: Handcrafted GOTS-certified organic cotton cover, removable for easy washing.
Options:
These can come in three different sizes: standard ($104.95), queen ($109.95), and king ($114.95). These are also available in three different styles: soft, extra soft, and firm.
Pros:
Uses 100% natural latex
Maintains its shape and support for several years
Provides a cool sleep environment
Made from eco-friendly, renewable materials
Includes a removable, washable organic cotton cover
Cons:
Price may be high for some budgets
Key Insights From Experience:
These pillows offer a robust neck and head support meaning that this firmness level is ideal and highly beneficial to prevent and reduce these types of pains. It also offers a cooling technology which is especially good for hot sleepers.
Ideal consumers:
Those who value eco-friendly, natural materials and require enduring support, and who will appreciate the unique cooling features of this pillow.
4) EPABO Contour Memory Foam Orthopedic Sleeping Pillows
The EPABO Orthopedic Sleeping Pillow promises not just comfort but therapeutic benefits as well. Designed with sleepers' diverse needs in mind, the pillow's key feature is its ergonomic contour design, supporting and aligning your head, neck, shoulders, and back. It's worth noting that initial discomfort during the first two weeks might occur as your body adjusts to the optimal sleeping position.
With its breathable memory foam, the pillow also ensures efficient air circulation to maintain a cool and dry sleeping environment. It is complemented by a silky-soft hypoallergenic rayon/polyester blend pillowcase. Free of harmful chemicals, the pillow is said to be safe as well.
Key Features:
Therapeutic Design: Provides relief for all sleepers and neck pain sufferers.
Ergonomic Contour: Supports and aligns your head, neck, shoulder, and back for faster, deeper sleep.
Quality Material: Uses breathable memory foam and a hypoallergenic rayon/polyester blend pillowcase.
Safety: Free from harmful chemicals.
30-day Satisfaction Guarantee: Promises full refund for unsatisfied customers.
Options:
​Option | Number of items | Size | Price |
1 | 1 | Standard (21*13*3.9 inches) | $39.99 |
2 | 1 | Standard (22*14*4.2 inches) | $39.99 |
3 | 1 | Queen (24*15*4.6 inches) | $41.99 |
4 | 1 | Queen (24*15*4.8 inches) | $49.00 |
5 | 1 | ​Near king (26*16*5 Inch) | $58.88 |
Pros:
Promotes therapeutic sleep.
Aligns and supports the head, neck, shoulder, and back.
Breathable material keeps you cool and dry.
Hypoallergenic and chemical-free.
Cons:
Initial discomfort may occur during the adjustment period.
Key Insights From Experience:
The EPABO Orthopedic Sleeping Pillow is designed to offer therapeutic relief, but it's important to note that the initial adjustment period could result in some discomfort as your body gets used to the optimal sleeping position. However, once this adjustment phase is over, most users report a significant improvement in sleep quality and a reduction in neck pain. The breathable material also makes a notable difference, helping to keep you cool and dry throughout the night.
Ideal consumers:
Those seeking a pillow that provides therapeutic relief and supports their head, neck, shoulder, and back.
5) Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow
The TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow by Tempur-Pedic is a fusion of personalized comfort and advanced temperature regulation technology. Its unique dual-sided gel layers maintain a consistently cool sleeping surface all night long. The pillow’s core features Tempur-Pedic's exclusive pressure-relieving material that adapts perfectly to the shape of your head, neck, and shoulders, providing a customized sleeping experience. Its medium firmness caters to all types of sleepers - whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side. Housed in a soft, breathable, and removable quilted cover, the pillow assures both comfort and cleanliness. Its signature TEMPUR material assures durability and maintains form, promising years of reliable alignment and support.
Key Features:
Dual Cooling Technology: Gel layers on both sides provide optimal cooling throughout the night.
Adaptive Material: The signature Tempur-Pedic material provides personalized comfort and support.
Versatile: Medium firmness caters to all sleep positions.
Easy Maintenance: Comes with a washable and removable quilted cover.
Dependable: The TEMPUR material retains shape, ensuring consistent support and alignment over the years.
These are available for $189 and come in queen size.
Pros:
Dual cooling gel layers effectively reduce overheating.
The pressure-relieving material offers personalized comfort.
Easy to clean thanks to the removable, washable cover.
High durability with lasting shape retention.
Cons:
The specific feel of the memory foam may take some time to get used to.
The pillow's weight might be heavier than some users prefer.
Key Insights from Experience:
The TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow delivers what it promises. The dual-sided cooling gel layers offer a pleasantly cool sleeping surface that helps avoid overheating. Its adaptability to individual contours significantly improves the quality of sleep, easing morning discomforts associated with poor neck and shoulder support. While it serves most sleepers well, extremely hot sleepers may still need to take extra measures for cooling. The durability of this pillow is outstanding, as it retains its shape and firmness even after prolonged use.
Ideal consumers:
The TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow is ideal for individuals who value a cool and refreshing sleep environment. Its unique dual-sided cooling gel layer makes it a game-changer for those living in warmer climates or individuals who tend to sleep hot. As it's made from adaptive TEMPUR material, it's also perfect for sleepers seeking a pillow that offers reliable support without compromising comfort, no matter their sleep position.
We also offer an even more detailed review of the product, so feel free to check it out if you are interested in this pillows as a whole.
6) Mediflow Original Collection Fiber Water Pillow
The Mediflow Original Collection Fiber Water Pillow offers a unique and innovative approach to comfort and pain relief. This USA-made pillow has been clinically proven by an independent Johns Hopkins study to significantly reduce neck pain and improve sleep quality. Its defining feature is the fully adjustable Waterbase that allows you to customize the pillow's firmness and height, making it ideal for all sleep positions. The pillow's dual-layer design consists of a plush Fiber Fill top layer for cushioned comfort, and a responsive Waterbase bottom layer for tailored support. As a testament to its efficacy, Mediflow's adjustable pillow is trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide and is an FDA registered medical device.
Key Features:
Clinically Proven: Independently endorsed by Johns Hopkins for reducing neck pain and enhancing sleep.
Adjustable Comfort: Allows for firmness and height adjustments, making it suitable for all sleeping positions.
Dual-Layer Design: Features a plush Fiber Fill top layer and a responsive Waterbase bottom layer for support.
Trusted by Professionals: Widely recommended by Sleep Doctors, Chiropractors, and Physical Therapists.
FDA Registered: Recognized as a medical device by the FDA.
Options:
​Options | Items | Size | Price |
Single pack | One pillow | ​28 x 20 x 4.5 inches | $63 |
Twin pack | Two pillows | 28 x 20 x 4.5 inches | $112 |
Value pack | Two pillows and two protectors | 28 x 20 x 4.5 inches | $142 |
Pros:
Effective in reducing neck pain and improving sleep quality.
Adjustable to accommodate different sleep positions and personal preferences.
Dual-layer design provides both comfort and support.
Trustworthy, as recommended by healthcare professionals and registered with the FDA.
Cons:
The water filling process might be a bit complex for some users.
Requires regular adjustment to maintain optimal comfort and support.
Key Insights from Experience:
Because of its distinctive water-based system, the adjustability of the pillow allows it to cater to an individual's unique needs, offering personalized comfort that can significantly improve sleep quality. The combination of the soft Fiber Fill layer and the adjustable Waterbase results in a balance of comfort and support that many conventional pillows struggle to achieve. It may take some time to adjust to the water level but the resulting comfort and pain relief makes it a worthy endeavor (in our opinion).
Ideal Consumers:
The Mediflow Original Collection Fiber Water Pillow is ideally suited for sleepers who frequently experience neck pain or discomfort. Its clinically proven design is perfect for those in search of a pillow that can be adjusted to meet their specific comfort needs, regardless of their preferred sleep position. Additionally, given its recognition as a medical device by the FDA, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a sleep solution that is trusted by the healthcare community.
7) Cozyplayer Ultra Pain Relief Cooling Pillow for Neck Support
Combining the advantages of traditional bed pillows and contour pillows, the Cozyplayer Adjustable Cervical Sleeping Pillow uses an innovative hollow concave design tilted at a 15-degree angle to effectively cradle your head while keeping your neck's natural curve and aligning your spine. The pillow is made of 98% breathable memory foam certified by OEKO-TEX, CertiPUR-US, and ISPA, and it comes with a Q-Max 0.4 Arc-Chill cooling pillowcase that keeps you cool throughout the night.
Key Features:
Innovative Hollow Concave Design: The hollow concave surface and 15-degree tilt effectively supports your head, neck, and shoulders, promoting a better sleeping posture.
Versatility: Six unique contour zones address targeted pressure points, relieving your neck pain and muscle stiffness.
Premium Memory Foam: The pillow core is 98% breathable memory foam, offering a combination of softness and support.
Cooling Pillowcase: The Q-Max 0.4 Arc-Chill cooling pillowcase reduces skin temperature by 5°C, ensuring a cool, comfortable sleep.
Customizable Sleep Height: Rotate the pillow 180 degrees or remove the bottom insert for optimal sleep height.
​Option | Items | Colour | Size | Price |
1 | 1 | Dark Grey | 15.12 x 6.89 x 6.81 inches | $39.98 |
2 | 1 | White | 15.12 x 6.89 x 6.81 inches | $39.98 |
3 | 1 | Grey | 15.12 x 6.89 x 6.81 inches | ​$39.98 |
Pros:
Combines the benefits of traditional and contour pillows.
Provides effective neck and shoulder support.
Made from premium, breathable memory foam.
Cooling pillowcase for a comfortable sleep.
Customizable to individual sleep preferences.
Cons:
May take some time to get used to due to its unique design.
The cooling feature might not be sufficient for extreme hot sleepers.
Adjusting the height might require some trial and error.
Key Insights from Experience:
The unique design of this pillow took a bit of getting used to, but after a few nights, the benefits were clear. The ability to adjust the pillow's height allowed for tailored comfort, and the cooling feature of the pillowcase was a game-changer for those warmer nights. The firm support it offered was noticeable, and waking up without the usual neck stiffness was a refreshing change.
Ideal Consumer:
This pillow is ideal for individuals who suffer from neck pain, muscle stiffness, or those who tend to sleep hot. Its customizable height and unique design make it a perfect choice for people who value personalized comfort and a restful night's sleep.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right pillow is more than just a matter of comfort—it's about promoting a healthier sleep cycle and ensuring our neck and spine are well-supported throughout the night. In this blog, we delved into the unique features and benefits of seven different pillows to help you decide which one is best for you. If, by any chance, you have an additional doubt that wasn't answered, be sure to ask us anything you like: pillowlordofficial@gmail.com Remember, investing in quality sleep today paves the way for brighter, more energetic tomorrows.