Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (2024)

Body pillows don’t get as much attention as conventional pillows, but they can be just as impactful. They are exceptionally long (usually at least 48 inches) so that they are closer in length to an adult body. Because of their extra length, body pillows are very versatile, with many ways to use them. You may use one to prop you up or you can wrap your legs and arms around it. Side sleepers, stomach sleepers, pregnant women, and people who suffer from back pain can frequently find relief from the right body pillow.

While selecting a body pillow may seem simple on the surface, they are just as diverse as other sleep products. They have different shapes, fills, weights, and firmnesses, all of which impact the pillow’s comfort and performance.

We’ll share our favorite body pillows on the market today and explain what makes them stand out. We’ll also explore different types of body pillows, how they are constructed, and detail the main factors to consider as you shop for one.

Product Details

Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (1)

Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (2)Best Overall

Puffy Body Pillow

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Price:$119

Fill:Shredded memory foam

Firmness:Medium Soft

Who it's best for:
  • People who enjoy snuggling with exceptionally soft pillows
  • Those who normally find memory foam too hot
  • Shoppers looking for a pillow with a long trial period
Highlights:
  • Cushioned with plush, shredded memory foam that contours closely
  • Breathable cover made of rayon derived from bamboo
  • 101-night trial and forever warranty
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Many side sleepers enjoy snuggling with plush body pillows while they sleep. If you fall into this category, then the Puffy Body Pillow is right up your alley. The fill consists of shredded memory foam that gives the pillow an incredibly comfortable feel. At 54 inches long, the pillow should accommodate most sleepers regardless of their height.

The pillow also sleeps fairly cool compared to other memory foam models. The fill is infused with cooling gel intended to draw heat away from the surface, while the cover is composed of breathable rayon derived from bamboo that wicks away moisture from your body. The cover can be removed and laundered at home to keep the pillow fresh and hygienic. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified to ensure it’s been tested for harmful chemicals.

Shipping is free of charge for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Puffy’s 101-night sleep trial for the pillow is considerably longer than the trials for competing models. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural and material defects if you decide to keep the pillow after the return period ends.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (6)Best Value

Buffy Wiggle Pillow

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Price:$69 - Body

Fill:100% recycled PET fibers

Firmness:Medium Soft

Who it's best for:
  • Those who prefer exceptionally long body pillows
  • Hot sleepers
  • Shoppers with limited budgets
Highlights:
  • Eco-friendly down alternative fill derived from recycled plastic
  • Extra-long design should accommodate any body pillow lover
  • Optional, machine-washable cover available in three colors
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Buffy has earned a reputation for high-quality sleep products with affordable price-points. One of the company’s newest additions is the Wiggle, an ultra-long body pillow with a plush, squeezable feel. The fill consists of down alternative clusters derived from recycled plastic bottles, which mimic the natural softness of real down without using animal-based materials or potentially triggering allergy symptoms. A smooth Tencel shell encases the fill.

At 82 inches, the Wiggle is one of the longest body pillows we’ve tested. This ensures most people can snuggle with the pillow while tucking the bottom between their legs, so the Wiggle is a good choice for pregnant people. Hot sleepers can also benefit from the pillow because the fill retains minimal heat, and the Tencel shell is both breathable and moisture-wicking.

You should avoid machine washing the pillow, and only spot clean the shell as needed. Buffy offers an optional Tencel cover, which is removable and machine-washable. Buffy recommends washing the cover in cold water, then line drying. The cover is available in three eye-catching colors, and adding it to your purchase does not increase the price-point whatsoever.

In addition to its low sticker price, the Wiggle qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Buffy allows customers 7 nights to test the pillow before their credit card is billed, then backs each purchase with an additional 100-night sleep trial.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (10)Best Luxury

Yana Pillow

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Price:$199 - Body

Fill:Shredded latex

Firmness:Medium

Who it's best for:
  • Those who prefer adjustable body pillows
  • Hot sleepers
  • People with sensitive skin
Highlights:
  • Shredded latex can be added or removed to change the loft
  • Extra-long, contoured shape makes the pillow very moldable
  • Smooth cover made of organic cotton and rayon from bamboo
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The Yana Pillow is a luxuriously crafted option for people who enjoy snuggling with their body pillow at night. Measuring 55 inches long, the pillow is contoured in the middle and will mold to your body without hugging too tightly. The fill consists of shredded latex, which offers pressure relief and great breathability. You can add or remove as much fill as you like to change the loft and overall density.

The cover is composed of organic cotton blended with rayon from bamboo velour. The material is silky-smooth and perfect for people with sensitive or easily irritated skin. Whenever the pillow needs to be cleaned, you can remove the cover and wash and dry it in your household machines.

The Yana Pillow weighs 16 pounds at full volume, so you won’t need to worry about it shifting or sliding around on your bed while you sleep. The foldable design also allows you to tuck the pillow between your knees or use it as a comfy bolster.

The pillow is fairly priced given its luxurious materials and thoughtful, unique design. Yana does not accept returns on pillows that have been opened.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (14) Most Comfortable

Sweet Zzz Body Pillow

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Price:$149 - Body

Fill:100% down alternative fibers

Firmness:Medium Soft

Who it's best for:
  • Hot sleepers
  • People who enjoy the feel of down pillows but are allergic to it
  • Pregnant women
Highlights:
  • Down alternative fill provides plush feel
  • Shell and pillowcase are made with 100% certified-organic cotton
  • Rectangular shape measures 20 inches by 54 inches
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If you like your body pillows plush and squeezable, the Sweet Zzz Body Pillow is a rectangular model with a medium soft feel that’s perfect for snuggling. The price-point is also reasonable compared to other body pillows with similar quality and construction.

The pillow is filled with down alternative fibers that give it a plushness similar to down, but without the animal sourcing or potential allergies. You’ll find moderate support from this model, but its strength is the luxuriously fluffy feel that conforms to your body. The fill is encased in a shell made of 100% cotton, which is certified organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The cover that comes with the pillow is also made of GOTS-certified organic cotton. All materials are breathable, so hot sleepers should sleep comfortably with this pillow.

The measurements for the Sweet Zzz Body Pillow are 20 inches wide by 54 inches long, which is standard for a rectangular body pillow. The shell and cover are washable by hand or dry cleaning, but the fill must not be washed. Sweet Zzz does not recommend tumble drying.

The pillow comes with a 50-night sleep trial as well as a 4-year warranty. Shipping is free to addresses within the contiguous U.S.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (18)Best for Side Sleepers

Casper Hug Body Pillow

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Price:$139 - Body

Fill:100% polyester down alternative fill

Firmness:Medium Soft

Who it's best for:
  • Pregnant women
  • People with down allergies
  • Hot sleepers
Highlights:
  • Highly moldable design thanks to plush down alternative fill
  • Breathable stretch-poly cover shouldn’t retain too much heat
  • Twisted ergonomic shape provides proper support and alleviates pressure for side sleepers
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The Casper Hug Body Pillow stands out from other body pillows thanks to a unique shape intended to provide ergonomic support for side sleepers. The top is thicker to cradle the head and neck, while a twist halfway down the pillow allows you to tuck it between your legs more comfortably. The pillow’s ultra-plush feel is particularly well suited to pregnant women and people who use a body pillow due to back pain or pressure points. Altogether, the pillow measures 38 inches long.

The fill consists of polyester down alternative clusters that mimic the natural softness and loftiness of real down without using animal-derived materials or triggering symptoms for those with down allergies. A polyester liner encases the fill, while the cover is made from a breathable, stretchy blend of polyester and spandex. The cover can be removed and machine washed for easy care.

The Hug Body Pillow is reasonably priced and Casper provides free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and Canadian provinces. Each purchase includes a 30-night trial period, and those who decide to keep the pillow are also entitled to a 1-year warranty against structural defects.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (22)Best for Back Pain

Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Charcoal Body Pillow

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Price:$139 - Small$155 - Large

Fill:65% charcoal graphite memory foam, 35% polyester gel fiber

Firmness:Medium

Who it's best for:
  • Sleepers with painful pressure points
  • Shoppers whose loft preferences might change over time
  • People who sleep hot
Highlights:
  • Memory foam and fiberfill conform to the body
  • Two size options
  • Adjustable loft
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The Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Charcoal Body Pillow is a memory foam model that excels at cradling sensitive pressure points while still providing robust support.

The pillow is filled with a blend of memory foam and gel fiberfill, which allows it to contour the body and relieve pressure buildup on joints. This may appeal to pregnant sleepers, side sleepers, or anyone who typically experiences painful pressure points at night. Sleepers can add or remove fill in order to achieve the ideal loft. The adjustability allows you to elevate your arms and legs to maintain a comfortable sleep posture. If you typically overheat with foam pillows, the charcoal infusion in the foam is meant to reduce heat retention.

Shoppers can pick from two different sizes. The outer cover, which is 99% polyester and 1% spandex, may be machine washed in cold water on a delicate cycle and then air dried. The inner liner and fill are not machine-washable.

Brentwood Home offers a 30-day return policy as well as a 1-year warranty. Shipping is free to all 50 states.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (26)Best for Pregnancy

Back Support Systems Body Pillow

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Price:$80 - Good (Straight)$90 - Good (Contoured)$100 - Better (Straight)$110 - Better (Contoured)$130 - Best (Straight)$140 - Best (Contoured)

Fill:Shredded memory foam (Good), shredded foam and fiber blend (Better), shredded latex (Best)

Firmness:Medium, Medium Firm

Who it's best for:
  • People who prefer extra-long body pillows
  • Hot sleepers
  • Value seekers
Highlights:
  • Multiple shape and fill options to suit different sleeper preferences
  • Breathable, moisture-wicking cover made of bamboo-derived rayon
  • Lengthy dimensions can accommodate pregnant people and taller individuals
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The Back Support Systems Body Pillow is both versatile and affordable. You can choose between straight or contoured shapes. The latter is ideal for those who enjoy sleeping with a pillow tucked between their knees, as well as pregnant people, while the straight shape may be more comfortable for side sleepers who extend their arms and legs. Three fills are also available. The “Good” consists of shredded memory foam, the “Better” contains a blend of shredded memory foam and fiber clusters, and the “Best” features shredded latex.

The best fill for you depends on several factors. In addition to being the most affordable, the Good foam fill has an adaptive feel that makes the pillow moldable and snuggly. The fiber clusters in the Better fill mimic the softness of real down, making the pillow feel luxuriously plush. Those who want a pillow that feels more responsive should opt for the latex fill of the Best design. While this option costs the most – especially when paired with the contoured shape – the price-point is still quite reasonable compared to the average body pillow.

At 50 inches in length, the pillow can accommodate tall people who have found other body pillows too short. A cover made of rayon derived from bamboo encases the fill for all designs. This fabric is both breathable and moisture-wicking to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable on hot or humid nights.

Back Support Systems offers free shipping to customers in all 50 states. New, unopened Body Pillows can be returned within 30 days of the delivery date – though you’ll need to pay a 20% restocking fee and cover the return shipping charges.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (30)Best Cooling

Sleep Number Cool Comfortfit Body Pillow

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Price:$100

Fill:75% shredded memory foam, 25% down alternative fibers

Firmness:Medium

Who it's best for:
  • Hot sleepers
  • Sleepers who want a body pillow that conforms closely to the body
  • Those who aren’t sure which body pillow is best for them
Highlights:
  • Luxuriously plush fill consists of shredded memory foam and down alternative clusters
  • Cover made from a breathable fabric blend that resists heat buildup
  • 30-night trial includes exchange options
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A common complaint about memory foam body pillows is that the fill absorbs heat and causes the surface to feel uncomfortably warm. The Sleep Number Cool Comfortfit Body Pillow lives up to its name by slightly tweaking the traditional style. The fill consists of shredded memory foam blended with down alternative clusters that won’t retain as much heat. The cover is also a cooling component thanks to its fabrication, which consists of polyester and breathable polyethylene. If you’ve felt excessively hot using other memory foam body pillows, the Cool Comfortfit should be a more comfortable option.

A medium feel ensures the pillow will contour closely without sinking or losing shape too frequently. The cover may be removed for home cleaning. You may machine-wash the cover in cold water with mild detergent, then tumble-dry on a low setting. The foam should only be spot-cleaned as needed because exposure to too much moisture can cause permanent damage.

Compared to other memory foam body pillows, this one is affordably priced. Sleep Number also provides free ground shipping to all 50 states, as well as reasonable flat-rate delivery for Canada and U.S. territories. Your order comes with a 30-night sleep trial, during which you may test out the body pillow and – if you aren’t satisfied – exchange it for another Sleep Number model.

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Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (34)Best for Pressure Relief

Coop Home Goods Body Pillow

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Price:$80 - Body

Fill:Proprietary blend of cross-cut memory foam and microfiber clusters

Firmness:Medium

Who it's best for:
  • Side sleepers
  • Pregnant women
  • People who overheat easily at night
Highlights:
  • Cross-cut memory foam and microfiber fill offers strong contouring
  • Fill may be added or removed for adjustable loft
  • Entire pillow is machine-washable
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The Body Pillow from Coop Home Goods caters to side sleepers and pregnant women who are looking for just the right balance of support and pressure relief to stay comfortable through the night. If you’re on a budget or only planning to use the pillow temporarily, the price-point is very reasonable compared to other high-quality body pillows on the market.

The pillow is composed of cross-cut memory foam and microfiber clusters, encased in a cover made of polyester and bamboo-derived rayon. The fill has a medium feel and excels at contouring the body while still delivering ample support to keep body parts comfortably elevated. The fill can be added or removed from the zippered cover, allowing you to adjust the loft as needed. Since the memory foam is cross-cut, rather than a solid piece, air flows more freely through the pillow. This benefits hot sleepers and pregnant women, who tend to run hotter while pregnant.

Both the cover and fill may be machined washed in cold water on a delicate cycle and tumble dried on a low setting. The foam and cover must be completely dried. Coop Home Goods recommends drying the fill in a laundry delicates bag to speed up the process.

The pillow ships free within the contiguous U.S. Customers may try out the pillow for 100 nights risk-free, with free refunds offered to customers who return the pillow within this timeframe. Coop Home Goods also offers a 5-year warranty.

What is a Body Pillow?

Body pillows are long, narrow pillows. Most sleepers choose to use them to prop up a leg while sleeping on their sides, which can help relieve pressure and align the hips and spine. While the name would suggest they are for the body, many sleepers also use them under their heads or arms for added comfort and support.

How you use a body pillow may depend largely on its style. There are several different shapes and styles of body pillows, each of which carries distinct potential benefits. Some wrap around the body, while others rest on just one side of the sleeper. U-shaped and C-shaped pillows may appeal to those looking for full-body support, while rectangular pillows may be better suited to those simply looking to prop up their leg or lean against a pillow.

Just as body pillows come in different shapes, they also contain different fills. A pillow’s fill can directly affect its support, cushioning, and breathability.

Many sleepers may benefit from a body pillow, including back pain sufferers, pregnant women, side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and anyone who enjoys snuggling with a pillow. If you’re not sure if a body pillow is right for you, keep reading to learn more.

How to Choose a Body Pillow

With so many options, choosing the best body pillow for you requires weighing your priorities and assessing your options. The section below will explain some of the top factors that may influence your decision.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Body Pillow

The following criteria vary between body pillows, leading to differences in their performance and comfort levels. Focusing on these aspects of a body pillow may make it easier to find an option that fits your needs and preferences as closely as possible.

As you shop, keep in mind that not all body pillows are ideal for all sleepers. Even if a company claims that its body pillow is universally comfortable, it may not be the best option for you. That’s why we recommend paying attention to the criteria that affect a pillow’s performance and keeping in mind which aspects are personally important to find the right pillow for your needs.

Size
Most body pillows measure between 48 and 54 inches in length. Shorter pillows may be ideal for sleepers who aren’t as tall or who don’t feel they need cushioning between their ankles. Longer body pillows may be better for taller individuals and those who want cushioning for more of their bodies.

Body pillows also vary in width. Narrower pillows may allow a sleeper to wrap their arms and legs around them comfortably, while wider pillows may keep the sleeper’s limbs more uniformly elevated.

Shape
Body pillows come in three main shapes: U-shaped, C-shaped, and rectangular. The U-shaped and C-shaped designs provide more full-body cradling, while rectangular pillows give one-sided support and cushioning. We’ll explain these shapes in more detail below.

Fill
The fill of the pillow affects its feel, support, and breathability. Pillows may be made up of several different types of fill, including foam, latex, polyester, and down. The fill material can have important implications for a pillow’s performance, though some models use different construction techniques that set them apart from other pillows that use similar materials.

Weight
On average, body pillows tend to weigh between 5 and 7 pounds, but you can find both lighter and heavier options. If you plan to rest the pillow on top of one of your arms or legs, a lightweight body pillow may be more comfortable. Lightweight options may also be easier to move and reposition. However, heavier pillows may feel more securely situated on your bed.

Firmness Level
The firmness of the body pillow affects its plushness and support. Some sleepers prefer a softer pillow for its extra cushioning, while others favor a firmer option for its added support.

Which firmness option is best may also depend on your intended use. If you’re looking for a cushy body pillow to hug during the night, a soft pillow may be what you’re looking for. If you want a body pillow to drape your leg over while sleeping on your side, a firmer option may better support your alignment.

Pressure Relief
Many side sleepers experience pressure between their knees as a result of one knee resting on top of the other. A body pillow wedged between the legs can help relieve this pressure by cushioning the knees and keeping them from pressing together. At the same time, body pillows can also help promote better spinal alignment, thereby limiting the strain and associated discomfort that side sleepers often experience in their hips, shoulders, and spines.

Price
Most body pillows run between $20 and $100, but you can find budget models for under $10 and luxury models for over $200. The price is usually reflective of the pillow’s materials and construction. Depending on your needs and intended use, any price point may be a good value for you. However, the lowest-priced body pillows may not last as long as some of the other options on the market.

Quality Materials
Quality materials can improve a body pillow’s performance and lifespan. While body pillows made of quality materials usually carry a higher ticket price, they may have better performance or a longer lifespan that justifies the added expense.

Temperature Regulation
Since body pillows typically press against the body, they could also impact a sleeper’s temperature. Memory foam is often prone to trapping heat, so body pillows that use the material and do not have sufficient temperature-regulating features may get too warm for people who tend to sleep hot. Fiber, latex, and down fill are typically more breathable.

Who Should Use a Body Pillow?

Anyone looking to adjust their sleep surface and enjoy support for more potential sleep positions may benefit from a body pillow. However, body pillows might appeal most to pregnant women, side sleepers, back pain sufferers, stomach sleepers, people recovering from surgery, and those with chronic pain.

Pregnant Women: A pregnant woman’s belly adds weight around her midsection, which can create back discomfort. Doctors usually advise pregnant women to sleep on their sides, and a body pillow can make this more comfortable by providing extra support. C-shaped and U-shaped body pillows are especially popular for their distinct cradling sensation.

Side Sleepers: Side sleepers often experience discomfort in their hips, shoulders, and knees as a result of their sleep position. Sleeping with a body pillow can help prevent the upper shoulder from slouching, separate the knees to limit pressure, and help keep the pelvis better aligned with the spine.

Those with Back Pain: Body pillows can help support the neck and spine, which may relieve back discomfort. This extra support may also enable the muscles to relax more fully, thereby preventing some of the aches and pains that typically occur when a sleeper unknowingly tenses their muscles to keep their spine aligned.

Stomach Sleepers: Experts typically advise against sleeping on the stomach since it can lead to discomfort and strain. A body pillow can give avid stomach sleepers a similar sensation to stomach sleeping while propping them up on their side. Not only can this reduce some of the aches and pains associated with stomach sleeping, but it can also help train the sleeper to lie on their side instead.

Those Recovering from Surgery: Discomfort from surgery may make it difficult for individuals to lie in their preferred sleep position. Those recovering from surgery can use a body pillow to try different positions while enjoying support and cushioning.

Those with Chronic Pain: Like those who are recovering from surgery, sleepers suffering from chronic pain may need to move around and sleep in more positions than the average sleeper. A body pillow can give the sleeper the support they need to explore different options, better equipping them to find the sleep position that’s best for their current symptoms.

Who is Not Suited:

Back Sleepers: Because they would provide back sleepers with uneven support, most individuals who sleep exclusively on their backs steer clear of body pillows. That being said, back sleepers could use a rectangular body pillow as a head pillow, though the extra length may be unnecessary since a smaller pillow can typically accomplish the same task at a more affordable price.

What Types of Body Pillows Are Available?

Body pillows come in a variety of styles and may use a wide array of fill materials. Each style and material has potential benefits that may make it better suited to some sleepers than others.

Styles:

U-Shaped: U-Shaped pillows are especially appropriate for sleepers looking for the cradling sensation of having a pillow on either side of their body. Thanks to their support and versatility, U-shaped pillows are usually one of the most popular styles for pregnant women.

C-Shaped: Like U-shaped pillows, C-shaped body pillows provide support around more of the sleeper’s body. Typically, the pillow lies underneath the sleeper’s head, along the front of their body, and between their knees. This support for the head, neck, and knees may be especially appropriate for pregnant women and those who suffer from aches and pains in their knees, hips, necks, and backs.

Rectangular: Rectangular body pillows look kind of like a conventional bed pillow that’s been stretched out. These long, narrow pillows can be used behind a side sleeper’s back for support or along their front to give them somewhere to rest the arm and leg that aren’t under their body. This is one of the most common body pillow shapes on the market. It’s also generally one of the most affordable, making it a solid option for shoppers who are looking for pressure relief and support on a budget.

Fill Materials:

Memory Foam: Body pillows may use either solid or shredded memory foam or polyfoam. Whether solid or shredded, both memory foam and polyfoam shape to the sleeper’s body for contouring and support. Polyfoam is typically more breathable than memory foam, so it may be a better option for those who tend to sleep hot.

Latex: Though not as common, some body pillows use natural or synthetic latex. Latex is popular for its buoyant feel and its strong temperature regulation, which may make it especially well suited for people who change positions a lot during the night and those who are prone to overheating. Natural latex is also considered eco-friendly, so environmentally-conscious shoppers often prefer it.

Polyester: Many body pillows use fiber fill, and polyester is one of the most common types of fibers used today. Body pillows with fiber fill are usually breathable, making them well suited to people who usually sleep hot. Many are also hypoallergenic and washable, so allergy sufferers and others concerned with maintaining a clean sleep surface may prefer them.

Down: Down body pillows typically have a plush feel and strong temperature regulation. Since down is often associated with luxury and durability, shoppers looking for an exceptionally luxurious body pillow might consider it. However, pillows made of down may be more prone to lumpiness, spikiness, smells, and noisiness than some alternative options. They also tend to be less supportive, so sleepers may have to fluff their down body pillow frequently to keep it from going flat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Body Pillows

What style of body pillow is best for specific needs?

The best style of body pillow will depend on your specific needs and preferences. U-shaped and C-shaped body pillows may be a better choice for sleepers looking for full-body cradling, while rectangular body pillows are a strong option for those looking for one-sided support.

How much do body pillows cost?

Body pillows can cost under $10 or over $200, but most fall in the $20 to $100 price range. While low-cost options may look like a good deal on the surface, they sometimes use lower-quality materials that make them less durable. A higher-end body pillow may come at a higher initial price-point, but it could be a better value in the long run if you hope to use the pillow for years to come.

How do I clean a body pillow?

Care instructions vary between body pillow models. Customers should follow these instructions carefully to preserve the longevity of their body pillow. Many body pillows have removable, machine washable covers for easy cleaning. Some pillows can also be laundered, but you should not attempt this unless the care instructions provide specific instructions because some fill materials will sustain damage if washed.

Where can I buy a body pillow?

You can purchase a body pillow in most stores that sell sleep accessories, including Amazon, home goods stores, department stores, and manufacturer websites.

How long do body pillows last?

A body pillow’s life expectancy will vary based on its materials and construction. Like other pillows, body pillows can absorb oil and dead skin cells, which could attract dust mites. If the pillow is washable, regular laundering can help, but your body pillow may still go flat over time. In general, most pillows will last up to two years. However, body pillows made of durable materials like latex and down may last for much longer.

Are body pillows adjustable?

There are a few adjustable body pillows on the market. Some pillows allow you to add and/or remove fill to adjust the feel or add and/or detach pieces to modify the shape. Most body pillows are not adjustable, but they can often be repositioned and manipulated to achieve the intended effect.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [emailprotected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Best Body Pillows of 2022 – For Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Sleep Foundation (2024)

FAQs

Does a body pillow help with back pain? ›

Those with Back Pain: Body pillows can help support the neck and spine, which may relieve back discomfort. This extra support may also enable the muscles to relax more fully, thereby preventing some of the aches and pains that typically occur when a sleeper unknowingly tenses their muscles to keep their spine aligned.

What profile pillow is best for side sleepers? ›

Most side sleepers feel comfortable using high-loft pillows because added thickness ensures adequate head and neck support. However, some who favor this position prefer low- to medium-loft instead.

What level of pillow firmness is best for side sleepers? ›

Firmness: All of our experts agreed that medium-firm pillows tend to be the best option for people sleeping on their side. While there is room for personal preference here, a medium-firm pillow helps your head stay in the right position without sinking while you sleep.

What firmness is best for side and back sleepers? ›

A medium-firm mattress is an excellent choice for combo sleepers because they typically strike a pleasant balance between pressure relief and support. They're soft enough to provide pressure relief to the shoulders while sleeping on the side and firm enough to support the hips whilst dozing on the back.

What pillows do chiropractors recommend? ›

Dr. Hascalovici typically recommends two types of pillow materials: memory foam and down pillows. For starters, memory foam pillows—typically used for both sitting and sleeping—are soft and provide support by filling the gaps created by your body to align the spine, Dr. Hascalovici explains.

Where should you put your pillow when you sleep for back pain? ›

The best position to avoid back pain is lying flat on your back. Even so, many people find it the hardest way to enjoy deep sleep. For optimal spine alignment, place one pillow underneath your head or neck and another underneath your knees.

Which is the best pillow for back pain? ›

The Best Pillows for Back Pain
  • Best Overall - Saatva Latex Pillow.
  • Best Value - Silk & Snow Pillow.
  • Most Comfortable - Layla Kapok Pillow.
  • Best for Side Sleepers - Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow.
  • Best for Spinal Alignment - GhostBed GhostPillow - Memory Foam.
  • Best Luxury - Cozy Earth Silk Pillow.
19 Sept 2022

How do you sleep on your back with a body pillow? ›

They include: Tucking it under your back – Back sleepers, listen up because this one's for you. It's also a valid sleeping method to rest the body pillow diagonally behind your back so that your hips, legs, and arms are lying on top of it. This method works to alleviate shoulder and hip pressure.

How do you pick a side sleeper pillow? ›

Side sleepers should choose a thick, firm pillow compared to stomach sleepers who need a thinner one. The best pillow will keep your head and neck aligned when lying down. Any fill from down to foam can work for side sleepers as long as the pillow is thick enough to support your neck.

Do side sleepers need firm or soft? ›

Back and stomach sleepers tend to prefer firmer mattresses, while side sleepers prefer a softer feel. These preferences are not universal, of course, but it's a good starting point to consider.

How thick should a pillow be for side sleepers? ›

Generally, side sleepers should aim for a pillow that's 3 to 6 inches thick; the goal is to keep your head and neck in a straight line with your spine.

Should side sleepers use memory foam? ›

Memory foam mattresses are widely regarded as the first choice for side sleepers because they create a cradling, body-hug feel that also relieves all pressure on your body during side sleeping. You can normally find these in soft-medium and medium-firm, both of which would suit side sleepers.

How many pillows should I sleep with side sleepers? ›

For side sleepers, it is recommended that people sleep with one pillow under their head and one pillow in between their knees.

Do side sleepers need higher pillows? ›

A pillow that properly supports your head and neck will help you achieve a neutral spinal alignment, which can help prevent neck and back pain. Generally, a high loft and firm feel will provide appropriate support for side sleepers.

What material is best for side sleepers? ›

Foam: Usually made with memory foam and/or latex, foam mattresses are known for their responsive, body-contouring properties. This can be an excellent choice for side sleepers because the foam molds to every unique body and position. Foam also eliminates motion transfer so you won't feel your partner moving at night.

What problems do side sleepers have? ›

One notable drawback to sleeping on your side is that it can increase your risk of shoulder pain. Whether you're on your left or right side, the corresponding shoulder can collapse into the mattress as well as up toward your neck, creating misalignment and pain the next morning.

What firmness is best for back pain? ›

When in Doubt, Go 'Medium-Firm' Research is limited, but in one study, researchers assigned new mattresses to more than 300 people with low back pain. They used either "medium-firm" or "firm" mattresses for 90 days. Those in the medium group reported the least amount of discomfort.

What is Oprah's favorite pillow? ›

Chosen for Oprah's Favorite Things List, the Jetsetter Mini is always ready for takeoff! The compact, neck-hugging design provides luxury and comfort without taking up your whole carry on bag.

What type of pillow is best for neck and back pain? ›

Contoured memory foam is the pillow type of choice for people seeking relief from neck pain, and Tempur is the king of memory foam pillows.

Should shoulders be on pillow when sleeping? ›

It should only be thick enough to create a straight line from your head and neck down through your spine. Your shoulders should not be on the pillow.

Why do I wake up with a sore back? ›

Morning back pain is often attributed to the morning being the most vulnerable time for your spine. This vulnerability can be due to what you do before bed or how you sleep, but your back pain might also be a sign of an underlying issue with your nervous system.

What is the healthiest sleeping position? ›

Specifically, sleeping on the side or back is considered more beneficial than sleeping on the stomach. In either of these sleep positions, it's easier to keep your spine supported and balanced, which relieves pressure on the spinal tissues and enables your muscles to relax and recover.

Is higher pillow better for back pain? ›

Your preferred sleeping position plays a role in determining the best heat for you. Those who sleep on their backs may prefer a lower pillow while side-sleepers may consider taller pillows. Keeping a symmetrical position while sleeping can help prevent imbalances that lead to lower back pain.

How many pillows should you sleep with back pain? ›

For most people, sleeping without a pillow may make neck pain, back pain, headaches, migraines, and even snoring or other breathing disturbances worse. According to sleep experts, using one to two pillows at most is the best combination for sleeping on your back or your side.

How do I choose a body pillow? ›

How to choose
  1. Price: People should take into account their budget when purchasing a body pillow. ...
  2. Support: Some body pillows may only suit specific sleeping positions. ...
  3. Weight: Body pillows can vary in weight. ...
  4. Size: Body pillows are available in different sizes.

What is the healthiest way to sleep on your back or on your side? ›

Flat on your back

Sleeping on your back offers the most health benefits. It protects your spine, and it can also help relieve hip and knee pain. Sleeping on your back uses gravity to keep your body in an even alignment over your spine. This can help reduce any unnecessary pressure on your back or joints.

Where does a body pillow go on a bed? ›

How do you use a body pillow?
  • Lay the body pillow along the length of your body.
  • If you're sleeping on your left, place the pillow between your legs and wrap your right leg around so that you're cradling the pillow.
  • You can either hug the body pillow or gently rest your hands on it.
3 Oct 2017

Should side sleepers use a pillow between legs? ›

Better sleep posture can help. As the University of Rochester explains, for side sleepers, placing a pillow between your legs can help you keep your body naturally aligned and stay kind to your spine each night.

Where do I put my arms when sleeping on my side? ›

Try to keep the arm lower than at a right angle to your body (the lower the better normally but don't put your arm flat under your body as you will squash the shoulder). With the bad arm uppermost, use a pillow to rest the arm on. Don't just let it hang onto the bed as that can cause pain.

What is the personality of a side sleeper? ›

Side Sleeper: Extrovert

This means that they crave external stimuli such as work and social gatherings. Unsurprisingly, this sleep position correlates with being a night owl. Side sleepers will be happy to know that they sleep longer on average than people who sleep in other positions.

Is foam or spring better for side sleepers? ›

Side sleepers generally prefer something softer in order to indent for and cushion the shoulders and hips, so memory foam may work better. Back sleepers tend to like a firm-and-soft hybrid, so a traditional spring mattress could be a good option for them.

Is it better to sleep flat or with a thick pillow? ›

Side sleepers do best with a relatively firm, thick pillow that can fill the gap between the neck and shoulders. A pillow that is too thin may not keep the neck and head level with the spine, and a very thick pillow can be just as problematic if it tilts the head up at a very high angle.

What firmness does a side sleeper need? ›

Side sleepers need a mattress with soft or medium firmness.

If it's too firm, you'll be putting pressure on areas like your hips and shoulders, which may cause you to wake up with pain.

Do side sleepers need firm or soft? ›

Back and stomach sleepers tend to prefer firmer mattresses, while side sleepers prefer a softer feel. These preferences are not universal, of course, but it's a good starting point to consider.

What kind of pillow should a back sleeper use? ›

Back sleepers tend to prefer medium-loft pillows, which are those that measure between 3 and 5 inches thick. With a medium-loft pillow, most back sleepers will maintain spinal alignment. A supportive pillow will hold your head and neck in place, rather than allow them to sink all the way down to the mattress.

Do side sleepers need higher pillows? ›

A pillow that properly supports your head and neck will help you achieve a neutral spinal alignment, which can help prevent neck and back pain. Generally, a high loft and firm feel will provide appropriate support for side sleepers.

What is the healthiest way to sleep on your back or on your side? ›

Flat on your back

Sleeping on your back offers the most health benefits. It protects your spine, and it can also help relieve hip and knee pain. Sleeping on your back uses gravity to keep your body in an even alignment over your spine. This can help reduce any unnecessary pressure on your back or joints.

What problems do side sleepers have? ›

One notable drawback to sleeping on your side is that it can increase your risk of shoulder pain. Whether you're on your left or right side, the corresponding shoulder can collapse into the mattress as well as up toward your neck, creating misalignment and pain the next morning.

What material is best for side sleepers? ›

Foam: Usually made with memory foam and/or latex, foam mattresses are known for their responsive, body-contouring properties. This can be an excellent choice for side sleepers because the foam molds to every unique body and position. Foam also eliminates motion transfer so you won't feel your partner moving at night.

Should side sleepers use memory foam? ›

Memory foam mattresses are widely regarded as the first choice for side sleepers because they create a cradling, body-hug feel that also relieves all pressure on your body during side sleeping. You can normally find these in soft-medium and medium-firm, both of which would suit side sleepers.

Where should I put my pillow if I have lower back pain? ›

If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to help maintain the normal curve of your lower back. You might try a small, rolled towel under the small of your back for additional support.

How do you pick a pillow for back pain? ›

Back sleepers will want a medium-thick pillow to keep the head, neck, and spine well-aligned. Side sleepers (most people) need a slightly thicker, firmer pillow for optimal alignment. Keeping your spine properly aligned while lying on your side is the challenge.

Is firm or soft pillow better for back sleepers? ›

Back sleepers should avoid extra-soft or extra-firm pillows. For proper support, back sleepers will want a medium to medium-firm pillow. This should keep the spine aligned properly.

How do you pick a side sleeper pillow? ›

Side sleepers should choose a thick, firm pillow compared to stomach sleepers who need a thinner one. The best pillow will keep your head and neck aligned when lying down. Any fill from down to foam can work for side sleepers as long as the pillow is thick enough to support your neck.

How thick should a pillow be for side sleepers? ›

Generally, side sleepers should aim for a pillow that's 3 to 6 inches thick; the goal is to keep your head and neck in a straight line with your spine.

How many pillows should I sleep with side sleepers? ›

For side sleepers, it is recommended that people sleep with one pillow under their head and one pillow in between their knees.

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