Quick answer: Side sleepers need medium-soft to medium mattresses (4-6/10 firmness) with excellent pressure relief. Memory foam mattresses like the Amerisleep AS3 (medium 5/10) excel at contouring to shoulders and hips while maintaining spinal alignment. Heavier sleepers may need medium-firm; lighter sleepers often prefer medium-soft. Pair with a 6+ inch thick pillow for proper neck support.
Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary
| Mattress | Firmness | Best For | Key Features |
| AS5 | Soft (3/10) | Pure side sleepers | Maximum pressure relief |
| AS3 | Medium (5/10) | Combination sleepers | Balanced comfort/support |
| AS3 Hybrid | Medium (5/10) | Hot sleepers | Cooling + pressure relief |
| Organica Plush | Medium-soft (4/10) | Eco-conscious | Organic materials |
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Key Takeaways
- Firmness range: Medium-soft to medium (4-6/10) balances pressure relief with spinal support; too firm causes shoulder/hip pain, too soft creates spinal misalignment
- Best materials: Memory foam excels at pressure relief and motion isolation; latex offers cooler, more responsive feel; hybrids combine both advantages
- Body weight matters: Under 130 lbs → soft to medium-soft (3-5/10); 130-230 lbs → medium (5-6/10); over 230 lbs → medium-firm (6-7/10)
- Pressure point priority: Side sleepers need 1-2 inches of sink at shoulders and hips to prevent pain and maintain blood flow during sleep
- Pillow placement: Use 6+ inch thick pillow under head to fill shoulder-to-ear gap; place pillow between knees to maintain hip alignment
- Warning signs: Morning shoulder/hip pain lasting into day, frequent position changes, arm numbness, or lower back strain indicate poor mattress fit
- Trial importance: Test mattresses for 10-15 minutes in-store or use full 100-night home trial periods to ensure proper pressure relief
- Zoned support: Look for mattresses with softer zones under shoulders (pressure relief) and firmer zones under hips/waist (spinal support)
- Quick links: See best pillows for side sleepers. Read about spinal alignment and sleep positions. Understand mattress firmness scale. Learn more about side sleeping benefits.
Side sleeping is the preferred position for most adults, with about two-thirds of people choosing this comfortable way to rest.
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However, if you don’t have the bed for this position, you might wake up sore in the morning. That’s why finding the right mattress can make a significant difference in the quality of sleep for side sleepers.
The ideal mattress should provide a delicate balance of support and pressure relief, particularly for the shoulders and hips, which bear the brunt of body weight in this position.
Many side sleepers struggle with mattresses that are either too firm, causing discomfort at pressure points, or too soft, leading to improper spinal alignment.
We will explore the key factors side sleepers should consider when choosing a mattress, including firmness levels, materials, and specific features that cater to their unique needs.
By understanding these elements, side sleepers can make an informed decision to enhance their sleep quality and overall well-being.
What mattress types work best for side sleepers?
When it comes to choosing a mattress, understanding the different types available is crucial. Each mattress type offers unique benefits that can address the specific needs of those who prefer to sleep on their side.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are highly recommended for side sleepers due to their exceptional ability to conform to the body’s contours. This material responds to heat and pressure, allowing it to mold precisely to the sleeper’s shape, providing targeted support where it’s needed most.
For side sleepers, this means excellent pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, which typically bear the brunt of body weight in this position. The foam’s slow response to movement helps reduce motion transfer, making it an ideal choice for couples.
Memory foam’s ability to distribute weight evenly across the surface helps maintain proper spinal alignment, crucial for side sleepers to avoid back pain.
However, some users may find traditional memory foam retains heat, so looking for variants with cooling properties can be beneficial for those who sleep hot.
Pro Tip: If you choose memory foam but worry about heat retention, look for gel-infused or open-cell foam variants. The AS3 uses Bio-Pur foam which sleeps much cooler than traditional memory foam.
While memory foam excels at pressure relief, some side sleepers prefer the bouncier, cooler feel of latex. Let’s explore how latex compares.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses offer a unique combination of responsiveness and contouring that can greatly benefit side sleepers. Unlike memory foam, latex has a more buoyant feel, providing an instant response to movement while still conforming to the body’s curves.
This quality helps prevent the feeling of being “stuck” in the mattress, which some side sleepers may experience with memory foam.
Latex offers excellent pressure relief for the shoulders and hips, crucial for side sleepers, while its natural resilience provides consistent support to maintain spinal alignment. These mattresses are also known for their durability and resistance to body impressions, ensuring long-lasting comfort.
Latex is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Many side sleepers appreciate the cooler sleep experience latex provides compared to some other foam options.
If you can’t decide between foam’s pressure relief and latex’s responsiveness, hybrid mattresses might offer the perfect compromise.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine the best features of innerspring and foam mattresses, making them an excellent choice for side sleepers who want a balance of support and pressure relief. The coil base provides a sturdy foundation and promotes airflow, while the foam layers on top offer the contouring and pressure relief that side sleepers need.
This combination allows for better weight distribution and spinal alignment compared to traditional innerspring mattresses. The responsiveness of the coils, coupled with the body-hugging properties of the foam, can help reduce pressure on the shoulders and hips while preventing excessive sinking.
Many hybrid mattresses also incorporate zoned support systems, providing firmer support in areas like the lower back and softer cushioning for the shoulders, which is particularly beneficial for side sleepers.
The variety of materials used in hybrid mattresses also allows for better temperature regulation, addressing the heat retention issues some experience with all-foam mattresses.
“The type of mattress Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source chosen is crucial Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source to maintain proper spinal alignment and prevent pain,” says Dr. Burns. “ Memory foam Verified Source Oxford Academic Research journal published by Oxford University. View source and hybrid mattresses are often the most beneficial because they contour to the body’s curves while providing the necessary support.”
“These materials help distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on the hips and shoulders, which are common pain points for side sleepers.”
But mattress type is only half the equation. The firmness level you choose is equally critical, and this is where many side sleepers make costly mistakes.
What firmness level should side sleepers choose?
Side sleepers typically benefit from medium to soft mattresses. These provide enough give to allow the hips and shoulders to sink in slightly, maintaining spine alignment.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief is paramount for side sleepers due to the concentration of body weight on the shoulders and hips.
Materials that effectively cushion these pressure points help prevent discomfort, numbness, and potential pain. Look for pressure-relieving mattresses with layers specifically designed to distribute weight evenly and contour to the body’s shape.
Memory foam and latex are particularly effective at this, as they respond to body heat and pressure to create a custom-fit feel.
Some mattresses also feature zoned support systems that provide softer support under the shoulders and firmer support under the hips, further enhancing pressure relief for side sleepers.
Pressure relief prevents pain at your shoulders and hips, but equally important is the support that maintains spinal alignment throughout the night.
Support
Proper support is essential for maintaining spinal alignment, which is crucial for side sleepers to avoid back pain and ensure restorative sleep. A supportive mattress should keep the spine in a neutral position from head to toe, preventing any unnatural curvature.
This means the mattress should allow the shoulders and hips to sink in slightly while supporting the waist and lower back. Look for mattresses with a robust support core, such as high-density foam or pocketed coils, that can provide consistent support across the entire sleep surface.
Some mattresses also feature reinforced edges, good for those sharing a bed and sleeping near the edge of the bed.
Durability
A durable mattress not only provides better long-term value but also ensures that you continue to receive the specific support they need night after night.
It maintains consistent comfort and support over time, especially for side sleepers who put concentrated pressure on specific areas of the mattress.
High-quality materials are more likely to resist sagging and impressions, maintaining their shape. Look for mattresses with high-density foams, natural latex, or tempered steel coils, as these tend to be more durable.
Consider also mattresses with good edge support, as this can help prevent premature sagging around the perimeter where side sleepers often position themselves.
“The perfect firmness level for a side sleeper tends to be medium to medium-firm,” says Dr. Jordan Burns. “This range provides sufficient support to keep the spine aligned while being soft enough to cushion the shoulders and hips, minimizing pressure points.”
“Findings from ‘The Lancet Neurology‘ suggest that a mattress too firm can exacerbate pressure points. At the same time, one that’s too soft may allow the body to sink too deeply, leading to misalignment and discomfort.”
How does body weight affect firmness choice for side sleepers?
Your body weight significantly impacts which firmness level will work best:
Lightweight Side Sleepers (Under 130 lbs)
– Ideal firmness: Soft to medium-soft (3-5/10)
– Why: Lighter bodies need softer surfaces to create adequate pressure relief and contouring
– Best picks: AS5 (3/10), Organica Plush (4/10)
– Watch out for: Mattresses labeled “universal comfort” may feel too firm
Average Weight Side Sleepers (130-230 lbs)
– Ideal firmness: Medium to medium-soft (4-6/10)
– Why: This range provides balanced pressure relief without excessive sinking
– Best picks: AS3 (5/10), AS3 Hybrid (5/10)
– Watch out for: Firm mattresses will create pressure points; too-soft will cause spinal misalignment
Heavier Side Sleepers (Over 230 lbs)
– Ideal firmness: Medium to medium-firm (6-7/10)
– Why: Need firmer support to prevent excessive sinking while still cushioning shoulders/hips
– Best picks: AS2 (7/10), AS2 Hybrid (7/10) with plush topper option
– Watch out for: Standard medium-soft mattresses may lack adequate support
Pro tip: If between weight ranges or sleep with a partner of different weight, choose the firmer option and add a mattress topper for customizable softness. Or if you and your partner need different firmness levels, consider a split king mattress (two Twin XLs side by side). Each person gets their ideal firmness, and with proper sheets, it feels like one seamless bed.
And important to remember that firmness ratings aren’t standardized across brands. One company’s “medium” might be another’s “medium-firm.” Always check if specific firmness numbers (1-10 scale) are provided and read customer reviews about firmness accuracy.
How important is pressure relief for side sleepers?
Pressure relief is the most important feature for side sleepers. When you sleep on your side, your body weight pushes down on just a few spots – mainly your shoulder and hip. This creates pressure points that can cause pain and poor sleep.
What Happens Without Good Pressure Relief
When you sleep on your side, more pressure builds up on your shoulders and hips compared to back sleepers. Without proper cushioning, this pressure can cut off blood flow and cause you to toss and turn all night.
When a mattress is too firm, these pressure points get compressed. Your body tries to fix this by making you move around during sleep. This movement breaks your deep sleep cycles and leaves you tired in the morning.
How Pressure Relief Works
A good mattress for side sleepers works like a mold around your body. It lets your shoulder and hip sink in slightly while still supporting your waist and lower back. This keeps your spine straight from your head to your tailbone.
Memory foam and latex are the best materials for this job. They respond to your body heat and weight by softening where you need it most. This spreads your weight across a larger area instead of concentrating it on just two points.
You might need better pressure relief if you:
- Wake up with sore shoulders or hips that lasts into the day
- Feel like you slept on a rock
- Find yourself changing positions often at night
- Have arm or hand numbness when you wake up
- Feel lower back pain from poor spine alignment
- Feel more tired after 8 hours than you should
The best pressure relief feels like a gentle hug around your body. You should sink in about 1-2 inches at your heaviest points, but not feel stuck or like you’re sleeping in quicksand.
Your spine should stay in a straight line when viewed from behind. If someone could draw a ruler down your back while you sleep on your side, that’s the right amount of pressure relief.
How can you tell if your mattress is wrong for side sleeping?
Now that you understand what features to look for, here’s how to ensure you’re making the right choice before committing.
Your mattress is too firm if you experience:
– Wake up with shoulder or hip pain that fades during the day
– Feel pressure points when lying on your side for more than a few minutes
– Experience arm or hand numbness while sleeping or upon waking
– Constantly shift positions trying to find comfort
– See red marks or indentations on your shoulder or hip after sleeping
– Your partner complains you toss and turn all night
Your mattress is too soft if you notice:
– Your hips sink noticeably lower than your shoulders
– Lower back pain that wasn’t present before this mattress
– Difficulty rolling over or changing positions (feeling “stuck”)
– Your spine curves in a U-shape when lying on your side
– The mattress shows visible sagging or body impressions
– You prefer sleeping near the firmer edge rather than the center
Your mattress is just right when:
– You wake up pain-free and refreshed
– Your spine forms a straight line from head to tailbone when viewed from behind
– Shoulders and hips sink 1-2 inches into the surface (noticeable cushioning without excessive sinking)
– You sleep through the night without frequent position changes
– No red marks, numbness, or pressure points
– You fall asleep within 20 minutes of lying down
The 21-30 night rule: Don’t judge your new mattress in the first week. Your body needs time to adjust to proper spinal alignment if you’ve been sleeping on the wrong mattress. Give it a full month before deciding.
What should side sleepers look for when mattress shopping?
Buying a mattress as a side sleeper doesn’t have to be complicated. These pointers will guide you through the shopping process and help you choose a bed that gives you a good night’s sleep.
Test Mattresses
When shopping for a mattress as a side sleeper, it’s crucial to test the mattress thoroughly at the store or in your home.
If you’re on a store model, lie on your side for at least 10-15 minutes to allow your body to settle into its natural position. This extended period gives you a more accurate sense of how the mattress supports your body, particularly at pressure points like your shoulders and hips.
During this test, try changing positions to see how easily you can move and whether the mattress provides consistent support. Pay attention to how well the mattress conforms to your curves and whether it maintains proper spinal alignment.
Remember, a brief test won’t reveal long-term comfort, so take your time and don’t feel rushed. You can apply the same logic to trying a mattress after buying it, too.
“Side sleepers should look for mattresses that adapt to changes in body position throughout the night,” says Dr. Burns. “As side sleepers often switch from one side to the other, a mattress that can quickly adjust to these movements helps maintain continuous support and comfort.”
Store Testing Checklist:
- Lie on your side for 15+ minutes, not just 30 seconds
- Bring your own pillow if possible
- Wear similar clothes to what you sleep in (not bulky jacket)
- Note whether shoulders/hips feel cushioned or pressured
- Try rolling from side to side to test ease of movement
- Don’t let sales pressure rush your decision
Consider Your Body Weight
Your body weight plays a significant role in determining the ideal mattress firmness for side sleeping. Heavier individuals typically require a firmer mattress to prevent excessive sinking, which can misalign the spine.
A mattress that’s too soft may cause the hips and shoulders to sink too deeply, leading to discomfort and potential pain.
Lighter individuals may find more comfort on a softer mattress that allows for some give at the pressure points. The goal is to find a balance where the mattress supports your body weight while still contouring to your shape.
Remember that firmness is subjective, so focus on how the mattress feels to your body type rather than relying solely on firmness ratings.
Use a Pillow Between Your Knees
Placing a pillow between your knees while side sleeping can significantly improve your sleep posture and comfort. This simple technique helps align your hips and reduces stress on your lower back and pelvis.
When you sleep on your side without a knee pillow, your upper leg tends to pull your spine out of alignment, potentially leading to lower back pain.
The pillow keeps your hips, knees, and ankles in better alignment, which can alleviate pressure on your lower back and hips. Experiment with different pillow thicknesses to find the most comfortable position for your body.
This small adjustment can lead to a noticeable improvement in sleep quality and reduce morning stiffness.
Keeps Your Neck Aligned With Your Spine
The right pillow is crucial for maintaining proper spinal alignment while side sleeping. Your pillow should fill the gap between your ear and the mattress, keeping your neck in a neutral position aligned with your spine.
If your pillow is too high or too low, it can cause your neck to bend at an awkward angle, leading to strain and potential pain. Look for a pillow that’s thick enough to support the weight of your head and neck, but not so thick that it pushes your head upward.
Memory foam or latex pillows often work well for side sleepers as they conform to the shape of your head and neck. Consider pillows specifically designed for side sleepers, which often have a contoured shape to provide better support.
Quick Fix: If you already have a medium-height pillow, fold a small towel and place it under the pillow’s bottom edge (shoulder side). This creates a slope that better fills the shoulder-to-ear gap without buying a new pillow.
What mistakes do side sleepers make when choosing a mattress?
Mistake #1: Choosing firmness based on back sleeping advice
Side sleeping requires softer mattresses than back or stomach sleeping. Don’t let “firm is better for your back” advice steer you wrong—this applies mainly to back sleepers, not side sleepers who need more cushioning.
Mistake #2: Ignoring the pillow
Even the perfect mattress won’t help if your pillow is wrong. Side sleepers need thick (6+ inch loft) pillows to fill the shoulder-to-ear gap. A pillow that’s too thin forces your neck to bend downward, causing strain regardless of mattress quality.
Mistake #3: Testing mattress on your back in the store
Always test mattresses in your actual sleep position for 10-15 minutes minimum. Side sleeping creates different pressure points than back sleeping. What feels comfortable on your back may create painful pressure when you’re on your side.
Mistake #4: Buying the same firmness as your partner by default
If you’re different weights or sleep positions, consider a split firmness option or choose the softer mattress with a firm topper for the partner who needs more support. Partners don’t have to suffer together.
Mistake #5: Not using the sleep trial period
Your body needs 21-30 nights to adjust to a new mattress. Use the full 100-night trial and don’t give up after one week. Initial discomfort is normal as your muscles adapt to proper spinal alignment.
Mistake #6: Forgetting about bedding
Thick, cushioned mattress toppers or pillow-top pads can soften a too-firm mattress. Similarly, firm foundations can help prevent sagging on a too-soft mattress. Consider the entire sleep system, not just the mattress.
Mistake #7: Choosing based on price alone
A mattress is a 7-10 year investment in your health. Chronic shoulder or hip pain from a cheap, too-firm mattress will cost you more in medical bills and lost sleep quality than investing in the right mattress upfront.
Which Amerisleep Mattresses Work Best for Side Sleeping?
| Mattress Model | Firmness | Features | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AS5 | Soft (3/10) | Maximum pressure relief with 4" comfort layer, best for lightweight sleepers who need extra cushioning, plush feel that cradles shoulders and hips | $1599+ | Pure side sleepers under 130 lbs, those with chronic shoulder pain |
| AS3 | Medium (5/10) | Balanced 3" comfort layer for pressure relief plus responsive support, ideal for those who side sleep but occasionally shift to back, best-seller for good reason | $999+ | Combination sleepers 130-230 lbs, most popular choice |
| AS3 Hybrid | Medium (5/10) | Combines memory foam comfort with pocketed coil cooling, even cooler than all-foam AS3, excellent motion isolation from wrapped coils, more bounce for position changes | $1199+ | Hot sleepers, active sleepers, couples 130-230 lbs |
| Organica Plush | Medium-soft (4/10) | Natural Dunlop latex with organic cotton cover and wool fire barrier, no synthetic materials, breathable and responsive, GOLS and GOTS certified organic | $1999+ | Eco-conscious side sleepers under 180 lbs, organic material preference |
Not sure which mattress is right for you? Use this quick decision tree based on your body weight:
Under 130 lbs
Do you sleep hot?
├─ YES → Organica Plush (natural cooling)
└─ NO → AS5 (maximum softness)
130-230 lbs
Do you sleep hot?
├─ YES → AS3 Hybrid (coil cooling)
└─ NO → AS3 (best-seller, balanced)
Over 230 lbs
Do you have chronic shoulder/hip pain?
├─ YES → AS2 + 2″ plush topper (support + cushioning)
└─ NO → AS2 (firmer support to prevent sinking)
SPECIAL CASE: You and partner need different firmness? Consider split king setup or choose firmer mattress + topper for lighter partner.
Still unsure? Take our 60-second mattress quiz for personalized recommendations based on 12 sleep factors.
FAQs
Do side sleepers need soft mattresses?
Medium-soft to medium (4-6/10 firmness) works best for most side sleepers. Too soft causes spinal misalignment; too firm creates shoulder and hip pressure points.
Why do side sleepers need a special mattress?
Side sleepers concentrate 60-70% of their body weight on just two pressure points (shoulder and hip), unlike back sleepers who distribute weight more evenly. This requires specialized cushioning to prevent pain and circulation problems.
What’s better, memory foam or latex?
Both work well—memory foam offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation ideal for couples, while latex provides cooler sleep and more bounce. Choose based on temperature preference and whether you like a “hugging” feel (foam) or responsive surface (latex).
Are hybrid mattresses good for side sleeping?
Yes, hybrids excel for side sleepers because they combine pressure-relieving foam comfort layers with supportive coil bases. The coils also improve airflow, making hybrids ideal if you sleep hot while still needing the cushioning side sleepers require.
How can I test a mattress for side sleeping?
Lie on your side for 10-15 minutes in the store. Pay attention to how your shoulders, hips, and back feel. If possible, use a home trial to test the mattress for several nights.
Why is pillow choice important for side sleepers?
The right pillow keeps your neck aligned with your spine. It should fill the space between your ear and shoulder.
A pillow between your knees can also help align your hips.
Does weight matter when choosing a mattress for side sleeping?
Yes, weight affects mattress choice. Heavier people usually need firmer mattresses to prevent sinking too deep. Lighter people often prefer softer mattresses for more cushioning.
What firmness number should side sleepers choose on a 1-10 scale?
Most side sleepers need 4-6/10 firmness. Lightweight sleepers (under 130 lbs) prefer 3-5/10; average weight (130-230 lbs) need 4-6/10; heavier sleepers (over 230 lbs) benefit from 6-7/10 to prevent excessive sinking.
How do I know if my mattress is too firm for side sleeping?
Wake up with shoulder or hip pain that fades during the day, feel pressure points while lying down, or experience arm numbness. These indicate insufficient pressure relief. The pain timing is key—mattress-related pain is worst in the morning.
How do I know if my mattress is too soft for side sleeping?
Your hips sink noticeably lower than your shoulders, you feel lower back pain that wasn’t there before, or you struggle to change positions easily. Too-soft mattresses cause spinal misalignment where your spine curves like a hammock.
Should side sleepers use a mattress topper?
If your mattress is slightly too firm, a 2-3 inch memory foam or latex topper can add needed pressure relief without replacing the entire mattress. However, a topper can’t fix a fundamentally wrong mattress—if you’re off by more than 1-2 firmness levels, replacement is better.
Can side sleepers use firm mattresses?
Not recommended. Firm mattresses (7/10+) create excessive pressure on shoulders and hips for side sleepers, leading to pain, numbness, and poor sleep quality. If you already own a firm mattress, add a thick (3-4 inch) plush topper as a temporary solution.
How long does it take to adjust to a new mattress as a side sleeper?
Most people fully adjust within 21-30 nights. Initial discomfort is normal as your body adapts to proper spinal alignment after years of compensation. Use the full 100-night trial period before making final judgment.
Do couples who both side sleep need special considerations?
Yes—if partners differ significantly in weight (50+ lbs), consider split firmness options or choose based on the heavier partner’s needs and add a topper to the lighter partner’s side. Also prioritize motion isolation if one partner moves frequently.
Is memory foam or hybrid better for side sleepers?
Both work excellently. Memory foam offers maximum pressure relief and motion isolation, perfect for light sleepers or those with shoulder pain. Hybrids add cooling and easier movement, ideal for hot sleepers or those who change positions frequently. Choose based on temperature preference.
What’s the difference between medium and medium-soft for side sleepers?
Medium (5/10) provides balanced support for combination sleepers who side sleep but also spend time on their back. Medium-soft (4/10) offers more cushioning for pure side sleepers or lighter individuals. If you sleep 80%+ on your side, lean toward medium-soft.
Should side sleepers sleep on a hard surface for back health?
No—this is outdated advice meant for back sleepers with specific conditions. Side sleepers need cushioning to prevent pressure points. Sleeping on hard surfaces as a side sleeper will cause shoulder and hip pain, not cure back problems.
Can side sleepers use adjustable bases?
Yes, adjustable bases work great with side sleeping. Slight elevation (10-15 degrees) can help with snoring or acid reflux. Just ensure your mattress is flexible enough (memory foam or hybrid) to bend with the base without creating uncomfortable pressure points.
How does sleeping with a partner affect mattress choice for side sleepers?
Choose a mattress with good motion isolation (memory foam or individually wrapped coils in hybrids) so partner movement doesn’t disturb you. Also consider edge support if either partner sleeps near the edge, and ensure the firmness accommodates both partners’ weights.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mattress as a side sleeper comes down to three essential factors: medium-soft to medium firmness (4-6/10), excellent pressure relief at shoulders and hips, and proper spinal alignment from head to tailbone.
Your next steps to better sleep include:
Step 1: Determine your ideal firmness based on body weight
Use our body weight guide above to identify whether you need soft (under 130 lbs), medium (130-230 lbs), or medium-firm (over 230 lbs). This is the most important factor—getting firmness wrong causes pain regardless of other features.
Step 2: Choose your material type
Memory foam for maximum pressure relief and motion isolation, especially if shoulder pain is your main concern. Hybrid if you sleep hot or want more responsive bounce while still getting pressure relief. Latex if you prefer eco-friendly materials and a cooler, springier feel.
Step 3: Don’t forget the complete sleep system
Your mattress is only part of the equation. Side sleepers need a 6+ inch thick pillow to fill the gap between shoulder and ear. Place another pillow between your knees to maintain hip alignment and reduce lower back strain.
Step 4: Use the trial period properly
Give your new mattress 21-30 nights before final judgment. Initial discomfort is normal as your body adjusts to proper alignment. Track your pain levels in a journal—they should decrease week by week.
Step 5: Assess your results
After 30 nights, you should wake up without shoulder or hip pain, sleep through the night without excessive position changes, and feel refreshed rather than stiff. If not, that’s what the 100-night trial is for—exchange for a different firmness level.
Still unsure which mattress is right for you?
Our sleep experts can analyze your specific situation—body weight, pain areas, sleep temperature, and budget—to recommend the perfect mattress. We’ve helped thousands of side sleepers finally get pain-free sleep.
And take our 60-second mattress quiz to get personalized recommendations.
About the author
Mitchell Tollsen is a graduate student and a freelance writer who’s contributed to the Early Bird blog for three years. Mitchell’s always been fascinated by the science of sleep and the restorative processes our bodies undergo when at rest. The self-titled “Sleep Expert” is always looking for ways to improve his shut-eye, and throughout the years has implemented numerous lifestyle changes and tried dozens of sleep-promoting gadgets to determine the best ways to truly get better rest.
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