If you’re a side sleeper and have ever spent the night on a firm mattress, you know how it feels to toss and turn all night as hip and shoulder pain wakes you over and over. Side sleeping comfortably requires a different kind of support than back or stomach sleeping. So if you’re in the market for a new mattress, you’ll want to take your sleep style into consideration. “For side sleepers, look for a mattress that keeps your body in proper alignment with your pillows,” says Robert Koser, a chiropractic doctor at Laser Spine Institute. “One tip for determining this is to bring a partner with you while you shop and sample mattresses and have them take a picture of you at mattress level to see for yourself how your posture is laying on your side. If you find your head or hips are tilted too much, try out some of the other brands and with varying degrees of firmness until you find the right one for you.” An extra pillow can also help. “If you’re sleeping on your side, I would also recommend placing a pillow between your knees in order to promote proper posture and keep your hips adequately spaced,” says Dr. Koser. Your mattress needs to be soft enough to accommodate the curves of your shoulders and hips, but supportive enough to prevent sagging. You’ll often find a good combination with plush upper layers and more supportive layers below, which will allow you to sink in, but not too deep. Whether you’re looking for a foam mattress, coil, hybrid, or polymer, there is a best mattress for your body type and sleep style.
Best Budget Pick
Spa Sensations 12" Theratouch Memory Foam Mattress
Available from Walmart starting at $188 (Queen)
Best for Couples
Helix Dual Comfort Mattress
Available from Helix starting at $995 (Queen)
Best for Hip and Shoulder Relief
Casper Sleep Mattress MTNE1E00QU02
Best for Heavier Sleepers
The WinkBed Plus
Available from WinkBeds starting at $1300 (Queen)
Best Green Mattress for Side Sleepers
Avocado Green Mattress
Available from Avocado starting at $1400 (Queen)
Best for Tall Side Sleepers
Duxiana Dux 1001
Available from Duxiana starting at $5100 (Queen)
Best Mattress for Pregnant Women
Simmons Beautyrest Black Hybrid Gladney 14" Luxury Firm Mattress
Available from Mattress Firm starting at $2700 (Queen)
