What’s the Best Type of Mattress if You’re a Side Sleeper?

We all aspire to achieve a good night’s sleep on a regular basis, and achieving that aim is essential for your overall health. With that in mind, it’s important to remember that the type of mattress you choose plays a significant role in the quality of sleep you manage to get.

How you sleep makes a huge difference to the type of mattress that is best suited to the position you adopt each night. If you’re a side sleeper, selecting the best mattress for side sleepers is a smart strategy. Having the right mattress is also essential if you want to ensure proper spinal alignment and pressure relief.

If you are not aware, side sleepers put more pressure on their shoulders and hips. That means your ideal mattress is one that provides cushioning while also offering enough support to maintain a healthy posture.

Here’s a guide to the best types of mattresses for side sleepers and what to look for when making your choice.

Memory Foam Ticks a Lot of the Right Boxes

Memory foam mattresses are widely considered to be the best option for side sleepers due to their ability to conform to your body’s natural curves.

This is a material that provides excellent pressure relief by distributing your weight evenly. This reduces strain on your shoulders and hips. Memory foam mattresses also minimize motion transfer, making them a great choice when you are sharing your bed with a partner.

However, a notable downside to think about is that traditional memory foam can retain heat, so if you tend to sleep hot, look for gel-infused or open-cell foam options that improve airflow and cooling.

Consider a Hybrid Option

Hybrid mattresses are another excellent option for side sleepers. They combine the benefits of memory foam with the support of innerspring coils. These mattresses offer a balance of contouring comfort and sturdy support, helping prevent the issue of excessive sinking, which could lead to misalignment.

The coil system is good for improving airflow, making hybrids a good choice if you prefer a cooler sleep environment. If you’re looking for the pressure-relieving benefits of foam but also want a little bounce, a hybrid mattress may be the best fit.

Latex is a Viable Option if you Want Buoyancy

Latex mattresses provide a more responsive feel, but still offer good pressure relief for side sleepers. Natural latex is well known for its durability and breathability, making it an eco-friendly and long-lasting option.

Also, unlike memory foam, latex does not trap heat as easily and has a more buoyant feel, which prevents excessive sinking. Unfortunately, latex mattresses tend to be more expensive, so they may not be the best choice if you are on a tight budget.

Think About Firmness Levels

Lastly, when trying to choose a suitable mattress, bear in mind that firmness is very relevant when you are a side sleeper. A mattress that is too firm can create pressure points, while one that is too soft may not offer enough spinal support.

The ideal firmness level for side sleepers is typically medium to medium-soft, which provides a good balance of support and comfort.

Ultimately, the best mattress to buy if you are a side sleeper depends on individual preferences, your sleeping habits, and how much you can spend.

The good news is that investing in the right mattress can improve your sleep quality. If you are a side sleeper, choosing the right mattress will help you to reduce aches and pains, and wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested.