According to Casper, roughly 74 percent of the population sleeps on their sides. We’re guessing, though, that there’s also a high chance that many of those people have had at least a few “bad mattress” experiences. That’s because side sleepers are a bit particular — a too-soft mattress won’t provide enough support, while a too-firm mattress won’t provide enough pressure relief. Either way, you end up uncomfortable.
“It is important for all sleepers to have a supportive mattress. However, it’s especially important for side sleepers to have a mattress that has softer comfort layers above coils or base foam to help contour to the body’s curves,” explains Holly Saarie, Bedding Buyer at Raymour & Flanigan.
To help you make an informed decision when choosing a mattress, we researched the top mattress brands, investigated what a side sleeper should shop for, and consulted an expert. Saarie shared her thoughts on the best mattress materials and firmness levels for side sleepers, helping you make the right decision for your sleeping needs.
What should you look for in a mattress as a side sleeper?
“Side sleepers will want a plush or soft mattress, or medium if they prefer a slightly firmer feel,” says Saarie. That’s because a soft-medium mattress will offer better contouring and pressure relief for shoulders and hips without sacrificing support. A firm mattress, on the other hand, could lead to pain and discomfort (but we have a list of mattresses for those who experience hip, back, or joint pain).
What type of mattress is best for side sleepers?
“Any mattress that contours to the body is best for side sleepers,” says Saarie. “A side sleeper needs more give in the hips and shoulders and support near the center of the body. Hybrid, innerspring, latex, or memory foam are all great options depending on what the sleeper prefers.”
What mattress material is best for side sleepers?
As Saarie says above, pretty much any type of mattress material is good for side sleepers — it all depends on personal preference and needs. Memory foam offers excellent pressure relief and contouring, but it can trap heat, making it uncomfortable for hot sleepers. Latex has a similar feel to foam but is a bit more responsive and breathable. An innerspring mattress offers excellent support but isn’t always plush enough for side sleepers unless it has a pillow top layer. A hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds, with excellent support, comfort, and breathability.
Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers 2025
Best for Couples: Big Fig Luxe Mattress
Big Fig
Sleeping with a partner (or dog, or kids) is no easy feat, especially if you have a mattress that bows in the middle the minute a second body gets into bed. This one from Big Fig is not only specifically made for side sleepers, combining the body-hugging softness of foam with the support of steel coils. It’s also built to handle up to 1,000 pounds of body weight, meaning it won’t sag if someone sleeps next to you.
Best Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Helix
For side sleepers, you can’t do much better than the Midnight Luxe from Helix. This mattress has a medium feel, with layers of both high-density and pressure-relieving foam to keep joints supported and cradled. The Tencel pillow top is naturally breathable, but you can also add a different cover made from ultra-cooling technology if you’re a particularly hot sleeper.
Best Budget: Dreamfoam Hybrid Mattress
Dreamfoam
For something under $1,000, check out this mattress from Brooklyn Bedding’s Dreamfoam brand. The hybrid design features gel-infused foam that’s sweat-wicking and supportive, as well as a medium-strength feel that’s made even more comfortable with a plush, quilted top.
Best Splurge: Stearns & Foster Reserve Mattress
Stearns & Foster
The Reserve collection offers Stearns & Foster’s most luxurious models. Design elements include pressure-relieving memory foam from Tempur-Pedic as well as a range of cooling features. The medium feel is great for all sleep positions, but if you want an extra plush feel, you can add a pillow top for an extra fee.
Best Organic: PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Latex Mattress
Wayfair
Latex mattresses are responsive and cooling, and the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss mattress is best suited to side sleepers. It’s made of high-quality materials, including eco-friendly and certified organic latex, cotton, and wool, and it even comes with a lifetime warranty. Choose from three heights and two firmness options, but we recommend medium firmness for side sleepers.
Best Foam: Nectar Luxe Memory Foam Mattress
Amazon
Nectar’s Luxe Mattress contains 14 inches of foam, including a responsive support layer and a pressure relief layer that side sleepers will love. Although foam isn’t the most breathable material, this model has a special cover that regulates heat for a comfortable night’s sleep. You can upgrade to a hybrid model for an additional fee, too.
Best for Hot Sleepers: Leesa Legend Chill Hybrid Mattress
West Elm
This Leesa mattress is breathable not only because of its hybrid design but also because it has a quilted pillow top that pulls heat away from the body. In addition, it has a plush, supportive feel that is designed to deliver pressure relief to the hips—a must for side sleepers.
Best for Combination Sleepers: Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress
Saatva
Do you switch from your side to your back to your side again? Maybe alternate to your stomach? Then you need Saatva’s Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress. It combines contouring memory foam and responsive coils for a mattress that offers excellent support for side and combination sleepers. Saatva ranks its firmness level as a 5-7, putting it right at the sweet spot for comfort and support.
Most Supportive: Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Wayfair
For those who struggle with back, shoulder, or hip pain, the Bear Elite is for you. This mattress has zoned support for effective contouring and pressure relief, which will help keep your spine aligned and joints supported while you sleep. It’s also made with copper-infused memory foam for extra cooling power.
