Best Pillows for Side and Back Sleepers

Back or side—your sleeping position determines which pillow will offer the best balance of comfort and support so you sleep well and wake feeling refreshed. Density and loft (or thickness) are key when choosing a pillow for your sleeping position. The best pillows for side and back sleepers are medium, firm, or extra firm and thick enough to fill the space created between your neck and the mattress. This promotes proper alignment and keeps your spine in a neutral position, preventing muscle strain, joint tension, and pain when you wake. 

But there are slight differences between the top pillows for back- and side-sleeping positions. Read on to discover our recommendations for each—and find out what to choose if you switch sides while you snooze.