Choosing Side Sleeper Pillows

Are you a side sleeper struggling to find the perfect pillow? Pillows are an integral component for a comfortable sleep environment and is doubly more important for side sleepers. Material, height and ergonomics are essential considerations when selecting the ideal pillow to improve spinal alignment, relieve pressure points, and enhance sleep quality. With a pillow that provides proper support, side sleepers won't wake up with aches, and instead feel well rested for the day.

Why the Right Pillow Matters for Side Sleepers

Sleeping on your side is one of the most common sleep positions, with adults spending over 50% of their time in bed in the side position. In fact, a study documented the progressive preference for side sleeping increased with age. While this position has benefits — such as reducing acid reflux, snoring and less gravitational force on the chest compared to back sleeping — it can put pressure on the neck, shoulders, and spine if the wrong pillow is used.

Using an ergonomic pillow helps by:

• Keeping the spine in a neutral position

• Reducing shoulder pressure and preventing morning stiffness

• Minimizing tension headaches caused by poor posture

For hot sleepers, the right pillow can also prevent overheating, which disrupts deep sleep cycles.

Types of Pillows for Side Sleepers

Memory Foam Pillows

• Best for: Contouring support and pressure relief

• Why it works: Conforms to the head and neck, promoting spinal alignment

Widely available in many shapes, sizes and designs, memory foam pillows are an affordable, popular choice. However, most memory foam requires off-gassing and is known to trap heat due to its dense construction and lack of breathability, making it uncomfortable for hot sleepers.

Latex Pillows

• Best for: Resilient support with bounce

• Why it works: Naturally responsive, keeping the neck elevated and aligned

Latex is a naturally derived material that is hypoallergenic and more breathable than memory foam thanks to its open-cell structure, making it a great option for hot sleepers. However, individuals with a latex allergy should steer clear of the material.

Silicone Pillows

• Best for: Quick rebound and responsive support

• Why it works: Mold-resistant and retains shape longer than traditional fillings

Silicone pillows are an innovative material that's been gaining popularity due to its durability and temperature regulating properties. Silicone pillows are machine washable for a more hygienic sleep and unlike memory foam or down, silicone pillows do not absorb moisture, making them resistant to dust mites and mold. Silicone pillows are a worthwhile investment for superior benefits to latex, including hypoallergenic and alternative for those with latex allergies.

Down and Down-Alternative Pillows

• Best for: Soft, plush comfort

• Why it works: Easily moldable for customizable support

Pure down pillows tend to lack firmness, which is not ideal for side sleepers. Instead, a down-alternative pillow with reinforced loft may provide better support without sacrificing softness.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pillow

Loft (Height of the Pillow)

Depending on shoulder width and build, a medium-to-high loft (4 to 6 inches) is recommended for most side sleepers to fill the gap between the head and shoulders, preventing neck strain.

Firmness Level

• Medium-firm to firm is best to keep the head supported without sinking too much.

• Soft pillows may feel cozy but often fail to maintain spinal alignment.

Cooling Properties for Hot Sleepers

For those who sleep hot, traditional pillow materials like memory foam or down can trap heat, leading to restlessness and discomfort. Studies show that a cooler sleep environment leads to better sleep quality, which extends to pillows as well.

The Evercool® Cooling Pillow is engineered with maximum coolness in mind and designed to remain the cool side of the pillow all night long. With its silicone sponge core, the pillow has over 5 million micro-pores that create countless channels for airflow, absorbing and dispersing heat faster than memory foam pillows and latex pillows. Included with every Evercool® Cooling Pillow purchase are moisture-wicking, custom pillowcase covers that allow the breathable, temperature-regulating sponge core to keep side sleepers cool and dry all night.

For side sleepers, choose from three heights (side sleepers are recommended medium or high loft) for a silicone pillow that can provide consistent support without compressing over time. Additionally, Evercool® Cooling Pillow features a unique ergonomic pillow design, including a cervical curve where the head rests, offering optimal support for side and back sleepers. Contoured to minimize any gaps between the pillow with head and neck, it relieves any pressure points and promotes blood circulation for the arms.

Can you Wash a Pillow in the Washing Machine?

Most pillows are not machine washable and cannot be thoroughly cleaned from the inside out. Instead, always use a pillowcase to prevent bacteria buildup and look to replace the pillow every 3-5 years for hygienic concerns.

In contrast, Evercool® Cooling Pillow, with its silicone pillow core, can be thrown into the washing machine and dryer. Due to its high heat tolerance and durability, it can be properly sanitized to maintain a more hygienic sleep and last for many more years, ensuring long-term comfort and support.

The Perfect Pillow for Side Sleepers

Finding the best pillow for side sleeping is highly personalized. Memory foam and latex pillows are tried-and-true popular choices in providing necessary support. However, when compared with new innovations like Evercool® and an emerging pillow material, the Evercool® Cooling Pillow stands out as a top choice. Providing optimal support, temperature regulation, and breathability, hot (side) sleepers can say goodbye to restless nights and wake up refreshed every morning.