Find The Best Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers - Memory Foam & More
Last Updated: September, 2023
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Are you a side sleeper who is sick and tired of waking up with strains and pains? Well, look no further.
We know how difficult it can be to find a mattress topper that is both supportive and soft enough to keep your hips and shoulders from aching all day. That is why we did the research for you. This guide will help you find the right mattress topper for you as well as provide you some tips to help you decide how to pick the right topper and tips.
According to our tests, the best mattress topper for side sleepers is the Plush Beds Organic Latex Mattress Topper. This premium mattress topper is great for keeping you cool and relieving pressure in your shoulders and hips, essential for side sleepers
11 Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers:
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Plush Beds Organic Latex Mattress Topper
This premium latex mattress topper provides a cooling effect that's unique to latex mattresses, without having to spend a fortune for a full latex mattress.
GhostBed Mattress Topper
This 3" zoned mattress topper change is soft enough for strict side sleepers looking for plush support. It includes a deep-pocket breathable cotton cover that is also a waterproof mattress protector.
ViscoSoft 3 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
You get a nice washable cover with your purchase. The firmness is supportive and helps with spine alignment.
Lift By Amerisleep (Comfort)
This premium cooling mattress topper comes in two varieties, "comfort" and "support". The comfort has an extra cushion which is ideal for side sleepers.
Puffy Mattress Topper
With just the perfect amount of softness for comfort and the right amount of firmness for maximum spinal alignment, the Puffy mattress topper is side sleepers' secret weapon for a comfortable and pain-free night. Whether your mattress feels too firm or you simply want a luxurious topper for added comfort, this mattress topper will relieve your pressure points and support your body weight just like a typical memory foam.
Keetsa BioFoam Mattress Topper
This ultra-premium mattress topper will change the way you sleep. It's not the cheapest, but its a triple layer mattress topper that's both durable, comfortable, and long lasting.
Layla Memory Foam Topper
This cool, plush memory foam topper uses copper gel beads to help keep you cool, and relieve pressure in your shoulder and hips.
Pure Green 100% Latex Mattress Topper
Made with all natural latex, this soft mattress keeps your hips and shoulder supported. Air channels throughout provide breathability.
Lucid Foam Mattress Topper
Are you seeking the best mattress topper? Then you'll love that this topper is supportive and soft as a cloud. Its subtle lavender scent helps you drift to sleep calmly.
SleepJoy 2-Inch ViscO2 Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Ideal for side sleepers with its perfect firmness. It comes with a nice budget friendly price too.
Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
This topper is dual layered for ultimate side sleeper comfort and backed by a 10-year warranty.
1. Plush Beds Organic Latex Mattress Topper (Editor's Choice)
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Latex is the #1 premium mattress material. However, it is quite expensive, but many people are able to justify the cost because all the benefits latex provides. If quality is what you're looking for, check out the 100% natural latex mattress topper by Plush Beds. This Talalay latex topper comes in a 2" and 3" version and gives you the luxury feeling of latex without investing in a full latex mattress. The process for making this mattress topper uses no fillers, chemical dyes, pesticides, bleach or carcinogens.
Plush beds lets you customize the feel of your luxury mattress topper in 4 firmness options to choose from We went with the medium firm topper, and found it was great for adding extra support to an aging mattress. Latex itself is generally firm, but since you're given the choice, you can experience the feeling of latex without compromising on your firmness preferences.
Recognized by most sleepers as the best luxury mattress topper for a side sleeper, PlushBeds is great because it's thick enough to make a huge difference in how your mattress feels. When combined with the best hybrid mattress for side sleepers, the latex will provide a unique floating feeling, which is great for relieving pain in your shoulders and hips you may experience from sleeping on your side.
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Ghost Bed is running a flash sale on this topper, active September 25, 2023!
Overall Thoughts:
Instead of investing in mattresses for side sleepers, change the feel of your old mattress for extra comfort with the GhostBed Mattress topper. Not all mattress toppers are created for side sleepers.
GhostBed is considered by many buyers the best softer mattress topper suitable for side sleepers as they need a softer feel than any other sleep style.
Unlike other options, this gel memory foam mattress topper for side sleepers has different zones that cradle your body differently in each area. And it is a great fit for side sleepers looking for extra cushion to add to their existing mattress. The deep circles in the center of the topper allow more airflow than a flat topper would. This is especially beneficial for side sleepers seeking exquisite pressure relief. It's generally a great pick for those who tend to put extra pressure on their hips and shoulders while they sleep.
This mattress topper for side sleepers is thick, but cooling. It's 3", which is more than enough to make a dramatic difference in how your mattress feels. Since it's infused with gel, it doesn't get hot like traditional memory foam does.
You also get a mattress protector included with the purchase of this topper. The protector, an organic cotton cover, also helps keep you cool by wicking away moisture. Moreover, the protector keeps the topper in place, and also doubles as a waterproof layer to help protect your topper, as well as your mattress.
GhostBed is a family owned company known for their pain relieving sleep products. GhostBed was created when the owner, Marc Werner, struggled to find relief for his back pain after having multiple spinal surgeries. The GhostBed mattress topper is a cost effective way to get a similar pressure relieving technology that made GhostBed famous.
3. ViscoSoft 3 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper (Best Budget)
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ViscoSoft memory foam mattress topper can help side sleepers get a comfortable night’s sleep. This option comes in all bed sizes and is 3-inches thick for that ideal level of softness and firmness. Body alignment is important for side sleepers and this mattress will keep you straight and cozy. Notably, its soft memory foam feel offers side sleepers tremendous pressure relief, ideal for restful sleep.
You will get a reusable cover with your purchase that is machine washable. It has mesh straps to help keep the topper secured to the mattress so you won’t have to annoy yourself with adjusting it every night before bed.
The design of the mattress and material help to eliminate motion transfer, so you can get in and out of bed without waking your partner. Since the topper is 3 inch gel infused and has breathable foam, airflow and body temperature regulation are lovely with this mattress topper.
4. Lift by Amerisleep (Best Cooling)
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This cooling mattress topper is designed specifically for side sleepers who need extra cushion on key areas like your shoulders and hips. Amerisleep makes two versions of this mattress topper, one designed to add extra support (for back and stomach sleepers), and the cushion one that's designed to add a plush top to an existing mattress which is ideal for side sleepers.
The topper has a moisture wicking, active cooling topper which helps keep you cool during the night. This will make a huge difference if you're adding this topper to an oldschool memory foam bed that gets hot during the night.
This is a premium mattress topper, and has premium features you expect at its price point. The bottom of the topper has a strip of rubber that helps grip your mattress to keep the topper in place. If you're looking for a cooling mattress topper that's a great value for what you get, check out the Amerisleep Lift Comfort topper.
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Besides exacerbating chronic back pain, a sleep surface that feels too stiff can result in new aches and pressure points. If your old mattress is excessively firm and rigid, the Puffy mattress topper can act as a solid temporary fix before you buy a new bed. As a memory foam topper, it is designed with pure memory foam that cushions your spine and minimizes discomfort in your hips, shoulders, and lumbar region.
Available in two firmness options, the soft feel option contours very closely for back and side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. The firm feel, on the other hand, will likely be comfortable for sleepers with back pain weighing more than 230 pounds. Another notable feature of the Puffy mattress topper is its cover. It's made of thick and breathable bamboo fabric which offers exceptional breathability to help your mattress topper retain less heat and sleep cool.
The stretchy cover of this memory foam topper is made of durable elastic pockets to help keep the topper in place without shifting too much during the night.This mattress topper comes in six different sizes that correspond to regular mattress dimensions. It's priced reasonably and ships free in the contiguous U.S. Each topper includes a 101-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.
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6. Keetsa BioFoam Mattress Topper (Best Hybrid)
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When it comes to high quality mattress toppers for side sleepers, this one absolutely crushes the competition. As someone who sleeps on their side, you need a combination of qualities in a mattress topper, and most toppers are either JUST foam or JUST down alternative.
This premium mattress topper combines the two. The combo gives you the cradling support you expect from memory foam, but the cooling and anti-moisture properties you expect from a down alternative. The memory foam in this topper is made of a proprietary "bio foam", which is a blend of natural and synthetic materials that helps cradle your body, and regulate temperature.
These mattress toppers aren't cheap, but you're paying for quality. If you sleep on your side and your mattress needs some serious help, opting for a premium-level mattress topper can save you money on needing to buy a new mattress right away. A quality mattress topper like this one will relieve pressure points more than just memory foam alone, giving you more restful, comfortable sleep.
Keetsa also makes a memory-foam only alternative to this topper, which is their proprietary BioFoam, without the fiberfill down-alternative on top, but the premium topper is a side sleepers best bet.
As someone who runs a mattress review site, are you curious what mattress I personally sleep on?
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Side sleepers depend on conforming comfort that keeps the body aligned while letting the shoulder sink into plush softness. This Layla Sleep, copper infused mattress topper does just that with a unique construction that's designed to you cool and supported throughout the night. Speaking of support, this mattress pad has a plush layer with foam that condenses on deep compressions like your shoulders and hips. The mattress pad also helps keep your entire body perfectly aligned, promoting proper spinal alignment.
All bed sizes are available in this plush topper including King, Queen, Twin XL, and California King.
This Layla mattress topper is backed by a 120 night money back guarantee and a generous 5 year warranty. Free shipping is also available for the mattress pad but in the lower 48 US states, Alaska, Hawaii, and some parts of Canada.
Layla is a newer sleep product company, but they've grown quickly and established a reputation for putting out quality products, and their memory foam mattress topper is one of the best sellers. Also, unlike some mattress pads, Layla's memory foam categorizes the topper in the low-density range. Meaning its softer feel offers a cloud-like feel when sleeping on it.
All in all Layla mattress topper is a great pick for side sleepers because its soft yet supportive, and thick enough to make a difference on an aging mattress. Like typical mattress pads, this topper will help extend your mattress' lifespan and shield it against stains while offering you world-class comfort.
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Unlike some latex toppers, pure Green’s classic mattress topper is conveniently designed to keep you exceptionally comfortable. The mattress itself comes in several mattress sizes as well as thicknesses to fit your needs as a side sleeper. If you do not like your current mattress at all, we suggest going with the 3-inch topper.
For those who prefer natural materials, this topper is for you. Like most high-quality latex toppers, this model is made with 100% natural latex. No fillers or synthetic materials were used to make this product. This means top performance and durability over synthetic products.
Sleepers looking for a cooling mattress topper should consider this model a viable option. The topper maintains maximum breathability within its tiny air channels placed throughout the foam. These holes create air chambers that allow the air flow more freely throughout the topper, keeping you cooler than your hot memory foam mattress. The mattress is a softer option that still gives plenty of support. Side Sleepers will feel the benefit in their hips and shoulders.
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Fall into the deepest dreams with a Lucid mattress topper. Experience a luxurious night’s sleep with a delicate lavender scent that is infused into the mattress topper that calms and relaxes you as you drift off into dreamland. The soft lavender color of the topper is also delightful.
All bed sizes are included and various thicknesses, including up to 4-inch. Your hips and shoulders will sink down into the softness of the mattress topper while the rest of your body will be supported and kept aligned. For a much deeper sink, try the 4-inch topper. It will be like sleeping on a cloud.
The ventilated design provides airflow and breathability to prevent you from overheating throughout the night.
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SleepJoy mattress topper is created with your comfort in mind, created and made right in the USA. This mattress topper is available in a few different sizes and thicknesses, so be sure to make sure yours is available before getting your hopes up.
The memory foam material is soft and allows you to sleep on your side peacefully. Excessively firm mattress toppers will bunch your shoulder up and mess with your body alignment in the long run, and this topper is just the right amount of firmness. The material is environmentally friendly and made with castor beans, which have a low carbon footprint compared to other memory foam materials. This foam meets criteria put forth by CertiPUR-US for content, emissions, and durability.
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Dual layer mattress toppers work to create a sleep experience meant to make you twice as comfortable as a normal mattress topper. Sleep Innovations brings us a quality mattress topper that is backed with a 10-year warranty.
This plush 4-inch topper has two layers to ensure that your night is filled with luxurious comfort and dreamy bliss. The top 2-inches are pillow-y light and allow your shoulders and hips to sink in while the bottom 2-inches support your spine and overall alignment. Note that this topper's gel memory foam also offers soothing support while helping adapt to your body's unique contours for a rejuvenating slumber.
Undisturbed sleep is the best way to keep bright and healthy through the day, and keeping cool through the night helps that. Its 2-inch gel memory foam layer helps draw heat away from your body and outside of the mattress topper to keep your body cool through the night.
Importance of Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers
Think about the position of your body as you lay on your side to sleep at night. If you were to lay on the hard floor, your hip and shoulder would end up experiencing a lot of pain by the end of the night. Without a pillow and the right mattress support, your neck and spine won’t be aligned properly. This can lead to tension from poor alignment, pain from pressure points, and other pains and aches.
Your body does not tend to do well when bent or crumpled awkwardly. This is why back sleepers tend to have it easy – lucky people.
Hence the importance of getting the proper mattress topper for your preferred sleeping position. For us side sleepers, we really need to focus on having adequate support along all of our curves. So, from our neck, shoulders, waist, hips, and legs. Most people will need specific mattress toppers for side sleepers with the support level that helps relieve pressure.
The law of gravity says heavier parts of our body will sink while others will stay flatter. Our hips and shoulders have the most weight so they will sink more, so our mattress toppers for side sleepers need to be softer to accommodate these areas. Not too soft, however, because it needs just the right amount of firmness to catch our torso and hold our legs in a cozy position.
This is why mattress toppers are so important. Us side sleepers are a finicky bunch that require precision in our sleep.
Factors to Consider When Shopping For The Best Mattress Toppers
Getting down to the nitty gritty, when you are purchasing a mattress topper, there are plenty of factors that you should consider before dropping your money.
What Thickness Should I Get?
Many mattress toppers come in an assortment of different thicknesses from 2-4 inches. The thicker the mattress topper, the deeper you will sink into it and feel supported. As mentioned above, if you like your current mattress and it is decent for support, you could get a thinner topper for softness and be fine. Otherwise, thicker is usually the preferred option for side sleepers.
What Materials are Best?
Mattress toppers are crafted using a wide range of materials these days compared to the days of egg crate toppers. We have memory foam, gel-infused, latex, and combination toppers. Gel memory foam toppers are generally good for those who sleep hot and will benefit from its heat dissipating properties.
Latex, especially natural latex, is beneficial for those who want all natural products. Memory foam contours to your body and is known for being supportive and great for not reducing movements across the mattress.
What Warranty Should I Look For?
Many toppers come with a 3-year warranty, but the best ones often come with a 10-year warranty. This often reflects how good the product is if a company is willing to back their product for that many years. If you are torn between two products, make sure to read up between the two and if one has a warranty, pick that one.
Tips for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers can have a difficult time since we have so much we have to account for when we sleep. That is why we are including some tips to try and help you have a peaceful and happy night’s sleep.
Leg Support
This one is pretty simple. To keep your body aligned, just put a pillow or blanket between your legs.
Head and Neck Support
While we have pushed hip and shoulder support throughout, we need to stress the importance of getting a firmer pillow that conforms to the curvature of your neck and supports the weight of your head. The right pillow will maintain the alignment of your spine that the right mattress topper provides for the rest of your body. This will help prevent neck and shoulder strain and pain.
Conclusion
With a selection of mattress toppers in front of you and a list of features, you are armed and ready to make the best choice for you for your best night’s sleep. Spine alignment and body support are vital to your comfort and sleep is a key component in your health. Side sleepers, go forth and get yourself the best night’s sleep with a new mattress topper.
What Mattress Do I Use?
Even running a mattress review website, you can really only have one mattress you call your own. If you want me to put my money where my mouth is, here's some info on the mattress I use and why.
I'm currently sleeping on The Idle Hybrid Mattress and I LOVE it. I always recommend this mattress to friends and family, and anyone looking for a mattress in general. It has 400% more support than most other memory foam mattresses, and is great for pressure relief.
Aside from how comfortable the mattress is, here's some other great reasons to consider Idle:
- 18 month (540) day trial period
- Free shipping and returns
- 0% APR financing options available
- Lifetime warranty
- Frequently on sale
- Includes 2 free memory foam pillows
If you're in the market to buy a new mattress, the Idle Hybrid mattress is one of the best that money can buy, and if you can find it on sale, its a no-brainer. (Click to Check For Sales)
Gabe is the newest member of The Sleep Shop team. If you like the design of The Sleep Shop, give Gabe a thumbs up. He’s a digital marketing and design guru and the brains behind the design and SEO of The Sleep Shop. He also won’t say no to testing a ton of mattresses either, and helps on almost every mattress review.
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Great to see your reviews on mattress toppers. purchasing something without a review is such a risky thing. You have done a great job of mentioning the pros and cons of each product. the best mattress I like is Pure Green Latex Mattress Topper
I’ve read the smell is long standing and that it not all that durable. I weigh about 230-5 so am worried how it will wear.
Heavyset side sleeper with hip pain looking for a mattress topper to extend life of bed as well.
I purchased a queen size mattress topper and need another one. The tag on it says Hyleory mattress topper 60x80x18. Reg # PA 41322(sn). I cannot seem to find another one online. Can you help me? Thank you. Linda Christiano.