6 Best Pillows for Side Sleepers of 2026, Tested and Reviewed

When you sleep on your side, the distance between your head and mattress depends on the broadness of your shoulders. You want your neck to be in a neutral position, so each person needs a pillow firmness specified for his or her body type. Coop Home Goods' adjustable pillow allows you to easily unzip and add or remove filling as needed. (Yes, it comes with extra filling.) It's somehow super soft but provides the firm support your neck needs. Plus, it makes a great pillow to prop up while reading or watching TV.

HGTV managing editor Kayla Kitts says, "While I typically start out the night on my back, I always end up on my side," she explains. "I've used pillows for back and stomach sleepers, since I’ve always considered myself one, but knew I needed to try a true side-sleeper pillow and test the difference. Enter the Original Coop Home Goods Pillow. A word of warning: Be prepared to spend a few nights breaking in the pillow and getting the foam 'just right'. After removing almost half of the foam insert, I understood the rave reviews. While I topped it with my silk pillowcase for the ultimate night’s sleep, the ultra-breathable and super-soft Lulltra case would be incredible on its own."

HGTV editor Laura James says, "The first night I slept on this pillow, I woke up with a headache and realized the amount of filling it comes with was way too thick for my comfort. I removed about a fifth of the filling, re-fluffed it and then started sleeping like a baby and didn’t wake up with any more headaches. I like that this pillow doesn’t lose its shape as easily as a traditional pillow — it’s the perfect combination of firm and soft, perfect for supporting my head and neck as a side sleeper. I also appreciate that it’s hypoallergenic, breathable and machine washable."

Laura also tested the Purple Harmony Pillow. She says, "The most unique thing about Purple’s pillow is that it uses a patented purple Grid Hex material instead of traditional filling. It’s constructed in a honeycomb pattern that you can see and feel through the outer fabric; it feels and wiggles almost like there’s a block of unbreakable Jell-O inside the pillow. For me, the best part about this design is that when I lie down, the pillow compresses just where I need it to and always bounces back to its original shape. It maintains its shape over time, too, and it does not require constant fluffing due to the filling shifting around as traditional pillows do. It’s also hypoallergenic, machine washable and breathable, thanks to its moisture-wicking cover. I don’t find this to be a huge deal, but the pillow will sometimes leave a hexagon pattern imprint on my cheek in the morning. The price of the pillow is steep compared to others we’ve tried, but Purple does offer a 100-night trial and a one-year limited warranty as well as free shipping and returns."

The Luxury Cooling Pillow from Brooklyn Bedding has memory foam that allows it to comfortably conform to the head and neck, making itequally comfortable for both back- and side-sleepers (as well as hot sleepers). This pillow is equipped with copper-infused foam that helps fight allergens, mold, and dust mites. Plus, its natural minerals promote breathability and comfort. And don't worry about getting too hot at night - it is infused with a cooling gel to combat heat buildup, keeping you cool and cozy all night long. Managing Editor Felicia Feaster suggests wrapping the pillow in a thin, preferably silk or breathable, pillowcase (and avoid flannel) to maximize its cooling power.

If you're searching for a solution to enhance your sleep posture and alleviate any discomfort you may be experiencing in your neck and shoulders, the TEMPUR-Neck Pillow from Tempur-Pedic may be just what you need. This pillow is designed with therapeutic properties specifically crafted to alleviate tension and pressure in those areas while ensuring that your body is correctly positioned. You can choose from three sizes (small, medium, and large) to find the perfect fit for your body type and sleeping preferences. The pillow comes with a hypoallergenic cover that is easy to remove and wash whenever you need it.

Indulge in a comfortable and rejuvenating hotel-quality sleep with this luxurious latex pillow. It is available in two loft heights designed to keep you in perfect alignment, regardless of your sleeping position. Its natural latex core molds to the shape of your head and neck, providing unbeatable support. If you're a stomach or back sleeper who prefers a lower pillow, the standard loft option (around 4-5 inches) is the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you're a side sleeper who enjoys a more elevated and fluffy pillow, the high loft option (approximately 6-7 inches) is just what you need. This pillow even comes with a soft cotton cover and is machine-washable for easy care.

Are you tired of tossing and turning all night? This pillow features a 3.5-inch gusset providing ample support while maintaining a soft and comfortable feel. The pillow's 100% cotton sateen shell is not only luxurious to the touch but is designed with a reinforced double-stitched piping seam, allowing it to withstand frequent use. Plus, it contains a hypoallergenic down alternative that can help you relax and alleviate pressure from your neck and shoulders, ensuring you wake up refreshed and rejuvenated.