Find The Best Pillows For Stomach Sleepers (& Side Sleepers!)
Last Updated: September, 2023
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For many of us, sleeping is very particular - we have specific positions, preferred sides to sleep on, and even our preferred side of the bed. Some of us even have special, go-to pillows, too! This is especially true for those of us who sleep on our stomach because to be comfortable sleeping on your stomach, your pillow has to be just right. So, what are the best pillows for stomach sleepers? Here are a few recommendations.
According to our tests, the best pillow for stomach sleepers is the Amerisleep Dual Comfort Pillow. Its low loft is great for stomach sleepers because it helps keep your neck supported without over extending it. It's also a durable, comfortable pillow with cooling features, making it a great long term investment.
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9 Best Pillows For Stomach Sleepers
The "low loft" version of this pillow is ideal for stomach sleepers that need a thinner support. It's typically soft and has a firm size so you get a different feel depending on what you need during the night.
This aerated memory foam pillow is a great choice if you love the contouring feeling of memory foam, but don't want to become overheated while you sleep.
This innovative adjustable pillow is changing the game when it comes to sleep comfort. It uses Purples grid design to provide incredible support and comfort.
This ultra cooling pillow is made of carbon infused foam which is supportive, and excellent for keeping you cool. It's also got the perfect level of support for stomach sleepers.
Slim and low profile, this Certipur US certified pillow is ideal for stomach and back sleepers who want to have the luxury of a cooling pillow without the bulk.
As one of the best pillows for stomach and side sleepers, this Ultra Slim Sleeper is a high-quality pillow that is thin, supportive, and great for people with allergies.
Known as “the perfect pillow”, this fully adjustable memory foam pillow is luxurious, generously sized, and cozy. Get ready to see why we've included it in our list of best pillows for stomach sleepers and side sleepers.
The slim design of this pillow combined with the optional memory foam insert, breathability, and washable case makes it a good fit for anyone wanting a restful sleep.
Lerekam Orthopedic Pillow
This unique memory pillow has massaging capabilities, is breathable just like the Layla Kapok pillow, and has a remarkable elasticity that makes it appealing to the whole family.
Fill/Material:
Custom fill (Bio-Pur foam)
Firmness:
Soft, firm
Who it’s best for:
Stomach sleepers, combination sleepers, hot sleepers
Sizes:
Queen, king
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
Since stomach sleepers normally need a thinner pillow, AmeriSleep created two versions of their wildly popular Dual Comfort Pillow. This pillow is made of a proprietary foam that's been aerated to allow for maximum airflow throughout the night. The cover itself is also cooling.
What makes this pillow special is its dual purpose design. One side is soft, the other is firm. This means you can flip the pillow over depending on how you're feeling each night. What's also great is that your sleeping position isn't restricted to your stomach, and sometimes you can flip to your side or back.
Being one of the best pillows for stomach and side sleepers, this pillow comes in two profile heights, with the thinner of the two being the best option for stomach sleepers. If you're looking to invest in your sleep and need the best of the best when it comes to pillows for stomach sleepers, this one is so incredibly versatile, cooling, and comfortable that no other pillow compares.
Fill/Material:
Memory foam
Firmness:
Medium-firm
Who it’s best for:
Stomach sleepers, hot sleepers, side sleepers
Sizes:
Standard, queen
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
Stomach sleepers prefer laying their head and neck on a thin pillow, but that doesn't mean they want to sleep on a something with as much support as a piece of paper. The memory foam GhostPillow is a great choice if you like the way memory foam feels, but you don't want one of the super thick options most competitors have.
The big selling point of this pillow is how cool it stays. It's made from a phase change material, which means it adapts to your body temperature to help drastically reduce heat retention, and ultimately night sweats for belly sleepers.
It's also aerated for airflow, and has a cooling cover as well. If you're a stomach sleeper, your cheek is going to be pressed against the pillow, so having a pillow that keeps you cool is essential for preventing dust mites and keeping sweat and bacteria from accumulating on your face while you sleep. To top it all off, the GhostPillow is a Certipur US certified.
Here's what Ghostbed has to say:
What should a stomach sleeper look for in a pillow? What kind of support do they need?
According to a National Sleep Study 16% of sleepers are stomach sleepers. My wife Donna Werner and co-founder of GhostBed is one of them. I designed the faux down pillow for her over 15 years ago.
Now available as the popular GhostPillow faux down pillow.
What kind of pillows should stomach sleepers stay away from?
I tried almost every pillow on the market and not only were they uncomfortable, but he kept waking up with neck cramps. So when I was unable to find the right pillow that supported his neck, I decided to invent the GhostPillow.
We all know being a stomach sleeper isn't the best for your alignment, but can you explain why?
This type of sleep position is not recommended for people with back pain because it puts a lot of pressure on the spine and is simply bad for your back.
Is there any way to train a life-long stomach sleeper to sleep on their back or side instead?
There are some tricks that can help train your body to sleep on its side or back.
But if you can only sleep on your stomach, a firmer stable feeling pillows don’t’ work- and that’s why the faux down works perfectly and my wife Donna is the best testament as she has used it every day along with the 100% mulberry silk pillowcase for the past 15 years without issue and she loves it.
Should stomach sleepers use wedge pillows? What about a body pillow?
The pillow needs to be soft and flat as to prevent the sleepers head from become elevated as that will hurt the neck and your back.
Why are stomach sleepers only comfortable on their stomach?
It is not a coincidence that stomach sleepers are only comfortable on their stomach. It’s what comforts your spine and body. The original GhostBed classic mattress I designed was built to support stomach sleepers that most likely like a firmer mattress.
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Fill/Material:
Hyper-elastic polymer Purple grid and removable polyurethane foam booster
Firmness:
Medium-firm
Who it’s best for:
Those who want control of pillow loft, stomach sleepers, combination sleepers
Sizes:
Standard
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
This is another alternative pillow worth considering, primarily due to its ventilation and moisture-wicking design. As one of arguably the best pillows for stomach sleepers, it is a truly innovative brand that changed the mattress game with the introduction of their unique grid design for a mattress. They've had whopping success and have integrated that same design into this pillow. The unique grid design allows for next-level airflow, and the overall thin design of the pillow is great for stomach sleepers.
If you're a combination sleeper, you'll also love that you can add extra boosters to this pillow so it's thicker if you want. The pillow itself will last for years, since you won't have the same degrading issues you see with memory foam or plush pillows.
This pillow also comes with a 100 night trial, so if you don't like it, just return it!
Fill/Material:
Carbon-infused memory foam
Firmness:
4
Who it’s best for:
Hot sleepers, those who like a soft, moldable pillow, side sleepers
Sizes:
Queen, king
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
A good pillow for stomach sleepers doesn't come solely down to how thick the pillow is. When you sleep on your stomach, you also need to be concerned with sweating. This is why this ultra-cooling pillow by Eight Sleep is a good option for someone who prefers a high-performance soft pillow. It has a great neutral height which is good for stomach, side and back sleepers. This pillow offers plush support that helps prevent neck strain while actively working to keep you from night sweats.
The carbon infused foam is aerated, which drastically cuts down on how much heat it retains. The pillow is also encased in a tencel cover, which is a phase change material that helps absorb and dissipate heat. If you sleep on your stomach and think you could benefit from a cooling pillow, this one from Eight Sleep is hands down the best.
Fill/Material:
Gel-infused memory foam
Firmness:
Medium-firm
Who it’s best for:
Stomach sleepers, side sleepers, allergy sufferers
Sizes:
Standard
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
The thin, flat Bluewave Ultra Slim is a gel infused memory foam pillow that whisks away excess heat during the night, giving you a better night's sleep. This is one of its major perks, making it one of the best pillows for stomach sleepers. Also, its vented design ensures adequate airflow. Plus the memory foam used inside is soft enough but firm enough to support the sleeper’s head and neck. So if you're looking to escape the clutches of hot summers, the Bluewave Ultra slim Pillow is also another great alternative worth looking at.
The cooling gel also makes the pillow a comfortable option for everyday hot sleepers. This memory foam is free of additives and is hypoallergenic (safe for allergy sufferers). The pillow comes with a multi-material blended cover that can be taken off and washed to keep the pillow in its best condition. If you like your pillows soft, then you'll be amazed by what this soft pillow has to offer for your sleep health, especially if you're a stomach sleeper or a side sleeper.
Fill/Material:
Memory foam
Firmness:
Medium firm
Who it’s best for:
Back sleepers, combination sleepers, side sleepers
Sizes:
Standard
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
Coming in at 3-inches high, the Ultra Slim Sleeper pillow is the perfect combination of supportive and comfortable. It can aid in resolving a number of sleep issues as well as relieve back and shoulder pain as it is firm but soft enough to curve around the face and head. The pillow’s included cover is machine washable and made of a poly-viscose blend that is hypoallergenic.
Aside from relieving shoulder and back pain, it can also help eliminate morning fatigue and headaches. Other perks the pillow cones with are; handling sleeping and orthopedic problems, increasing your lung capacity and boosting your energy levels. Generally, after a night of using this pillow, you'll wake up rejuvenated and energized, thanks to its excellent adequate support.
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Fill/Material:
Memory foam
Firmness:
Medium-firm
Who it’s best for:
Those who want control of pillow loft, allergy sufferers, hot sleepers
Sizes:
Queen, king
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
Available in King and Queen size, it'll be a great alternative pillow worth adding to your bedding inventory. It is also an adjustable pillow, plus it's crafted with a delicate mix of microfiber and memory foam. The adjustable properties of the pillow give users the ability to add or remove the foam fill as they see fit for their personal comfort. The case that is included with each pillow is made of a soft Lulltra fabric that is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant— an added perk that makes this soft pillow cool to the touch.
You can rest assured about its quality as each pillow goes through external lab tests and are GREENGUARD Gold certified and CertiPUR-US rated. If you have allergies, this hypoallergenic pillow will help alleviate your allergy symptoms. Enjoy how this adjustable pillow relieves tense muscles in your shoulders too.
Fill/Material:
Memory foam
Firmness:
Medium-soft
Who it’s best for:
Hot sleepers, side sleepers, back sleepers
Sizes:
Standard, queen, near king
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
The EPABO Contour pillow is different from its competitors in that it boasts an ergonomic, contoured design that has been made to support the head and neck. Includes is a removable piece of extra memory foam that can be removed or added to adjust the height of the pillow. Being one of the best pillows for stomach sleepers, the EPABAO pillow is made of quality, breathable fabrics that are ventilated and whisk away excess heat to keep the sleeper cool and comfortable. The fabrics used are chemical-free and safe to have near your face. Generally, it's worth mentioning that this memory foam pillow is one of a kind and versatile, given that you can adjust its memory foam to your own preference.
Fill/Material:
Memory foam
Firmness:
Soft
Who it’s best for:
Stomach sleepers, side sleepers, back sleepers
Sizes:
N/A
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Overall Thoughts:
By Lerekam, this orthopedic pillow is a popular choice for people who suffer from neck pain. The inside of this extra soft pillow is home to a handful of gentle massaging units and soft memory foam. The foam is vented and bounces back to its original shape within 3-5 seconds after use. The pillow’s case is polyester and odor free.
There’s no need to fuss about the annoying zippers either. This is because the memory foam pillow features an invisible zipper that’s tucked away nicely and easy to unzip. You’ll love that it’s soft yet provides ample support, and most people experience instant neck relief.
What Stomach Sleepers Need To Know About Pillows
Stomach sleeping isn’t quite as common as side and back sleeping. For this reason, it just isn’t as easy to find a great stomach sleeper pillow. Without a proper pillow, sleeping on your stomach can lead to aches, pains and waking up frequently in the night to readjust to get comfortable.
The main benefit of sleeping on your stomach is that it can significantly help reduce snoring by enhancing pressure relief on your airway. Keeping your throat and air passage clear is going to allow you to breath easily and prevent loud snoring.
Different Kinds of Pillows for Stomach Sleepers
While some stomach sleepers choose to sleep without using a pillow, others find that the right kind of pillow can help provide them with extra support and alignment. Choosing the right type of pillow can allow you to comfortably sleep on on your stomach by relieving pressure and your spine and joints so that you can get a good night’s sleep.
Here are a few common issues that stomach sleepers experience and best kinds of pillows to address them.
Best Pillow for Back Pain
Usually when back pain is an issue for you, it’s typically caused by your pelvis not having enough support and causing your spine to be misaligned. In this case, a down alternative pillow can be placed under your hips to provide you with extra support. These types of foam pillows are ideal for pelvic support because they need to be a bit more flat in the middle to enhance spinal alignment.
Best Pillow for Shoulder Pain
Back sleepers will often find themselves bending their arms up under the head which can lead to sore, stiff shoulders and the numb, pins and needles feeling. If this is something you experience, a memory foam pillow is a great option to help promote healthy blood flow and prevent you from putting too much pressure on your arm.
Best Pillow for Neck Pain
When you wake up and can’t even move your head side to side, you know something isn’t right with your pillow. If soreness and stiffness are something that you battle, consider getting a memory foam pillow or a down alternative pillow at about medium firm.
You want something that will contour the shape of your neck and stay supportive without it being too firm. Regardless of your sleeping position (side or stomach), look for something medium height, as your neck should sit at a level position that’s not too high or too low. Alternatively, a body pillow can also prove helpful but not only in contouring your body but also in improving your overall sleep health.
Best Eco-Friendly Pillow
While this is not exactly an issue, it's a deal-breaking preference. Some stomach sleepers tend to prefer eco-friendly pillows that are made from organic materials instead of animal products. If this is you, worry not, there are several options you can go for, make sure you enquire about the material used to make the pillow before buying it. Aside from being environment friendly, most of these pillows are hypoallergenic; meaning they are free of allergens. So if you're a stomach sleeper prone to allergic reactions, then eco-friendly pillows will be your best option. Additionally, they also have cooling features that don't interfere with your room's air quality.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are a few important things to pay close attention to when shopping for the best stomach sleeper pillow. Being familiar with the options and knowing what exactly you’re looking for will ensure that you make the right choice the first time.
Pillow Filling
Memory foam is a great option if you want a pillow with support and contouring, it also tends to stay much cooler throughout the night. You also have the option of shredded memory foam fill if you want something a little more flexible.
Did you know that most bean bag chairs are filled with shredded memory foam because of their added comfort? It's because of this comfort and support that shredded memory foam has become desirable for pillows in the bedding industry.
If you want a softer pillow with more cushion, consider a down alternative or microfiber polyester, but do keep in mind that this type of pillow doesn’t have as much bounce back or contouring.
Other alternative pillows for stomach sleepers stuffed with materials like feathers and shredded latex. If you're looking for a shredded foam alternative pillow for both neck and back pain, a pillow with shredded latex fillings is also an excellent choice. This is mainly due to its buoyancy and responsiveness.
Another alternative worth considering is feather. What makes feather pillows excellent for stomach sleepers is their moldability. Meaning, you can adjust the pillow's shape to cushion your head and neck perfectly, improving your sleep posture and giving you a better night’s sleep.
If not feather pillows, you can opt for down fillings, which simply refer to the undercoating of a bird's feather. Compared to synthetic loft, down filling has up to thrice a longer loft. So, if you want a light cuddly soft pillow, consider the down alternative pillow. Moreover, most down alternative pillows are easy to clean and are machine washable. The demerit would be that these pillows absorb and retain a lot of heat making them a poor choice for hot sleepers, mostly during summertime.
Latex is another common material and quite so, shredded latex pillows are gaining significant popularity. And if you're a fan of the soft feel of feather pillows, then you'll like what shredded latex has to offer. Like the gel infused memory foam fillings, this one is breathable and ensures you stay cool the whole night. However, it has a rubbery smell, plus it's much more expensive than ordinary pillows.
Like latex pillows, gel infused memory foam fillings play a significant role in keeping you cool and comfortable as you sleep. Not only is using a shredded memory foam fill pillow beneficial to hot sleepers - breathability-wise, but they’re also hypoallergenic. Meaning it’s favorable for those prone to allergic reactions. But beware of off gassing during first-time unpackaging as it may be dangerous.
The filling options are endless, and if you prefer a high firmness level in your pillows, consider something like wool which is also hypoallergenic and resists bacteria, preventing skin itchiness.
Thickness
The key to sleeping comfortably with your face down is to avoid using high pillows. It’s very unnatural for your head and neck to be tilted up for a long period of time. Choosing a thin or medium height pillow will keep your neck and spine in neutral alignment to ensure that you aren’t putting extra pressure anywhere and your head stays at a neutral level too.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I sleep on my stomach, do I need a pillow?
No, not everyone who sleeps on their stomach needs a pillow. Generally speaking, most people prefer to have something under their head when sleeping, but stomach sleepers are the only sleepers that don't need a pillow to keep their spine aligned while sleeping.
What is the best material for a stomach pillow?
This ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people like the solid feel of a memory foam pillow, while others like the fluffy sensation of a down or down alternative pillow. The most important factor is that you get a quality pillow that isn't too thick.
Why are stomach sleeper pillows thin?
When you sleep on your stomach, you neck is already positioned to be over extended. A thick pillow would bend your neck backwards, creating a misaligned spine, and issues getting comfortable and potentially an injury.
Why can't I just get a random pillow from Walmart or another big box store?
Stomach sleepers are very unique. It's the least common way to sleep, and the one with the most potential to create back and neck problems. Unlike a back or side sleeper, a stomach sleeper needs a pillow designed for how they sleep to keep their spine aligned throughout the night.
Conclusion
Stomach sleeping isn’t the most common sleeping style, but some people just prefer it and find it to be the easiest way for them to get to sleep. Choosing the right pillow for stomach sleepers is going to be different than it is for those you sleep on their backs or sides, including combination sleepers. This is because stomach sleepers will have a unique set of problems they need to address. Which is why it's important to buy the best pillows that suit your needs perfectly. It’s also not as easy to find a suitable pillow for stomach sleepers as compared to a pillow for back sleepers or side sleepers, for example. That said, reading pillow reviews is as essential as mattress reviews so that you can pick what others vouch for.
If you’re a stomach sleeper ready to improve your comfort and sleep quality with a new pillow, use our guide on the best pillow for stomach sleepers as a tool to help you navigate your options and be sure that you’re making the best choice. You can bet you'll find something that meets your preference from this review.
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