For side sleepers, finding the right mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep and proper spinal alignment. Side sleeping is the most common sleeping position and provides natural alignment for the spine, but it can create pressure points on the shoulders and hips. A mattress that is too firm can cause discomfort, while one that is too soft may fail to support proper spinal alignment.
Pillow top mattresses, with their additional cushioning layer sewn onto the top of the mattress, offer an ideal solution for side sleepers. They provide a balance of plush comfort and firm support, alleviating pressure points while ensuring proper alignment. In 2025, pillow top mattresses come in a variety of designs, including hybrid, innerspring, memory foam, and organic options.
This guide explores the best pillow top mattresses for side sleepers, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and tips for selecting the perfect mattress.
Understanding Side Sleepers’ Needs
Side sleepers place the majority of their body weight on their shoulders and hips, which can lead to discomfort or pain if the mattress is not supportive. A mattress suitable for side sleepers should have the following characteristics:
- Pressure Relief: Cushioning for shoulders and hips to reduce pain.
- Spinal Alignment: Supportive core to keep the spine in a neutral position.
- Durability: Layers that retain shape over time and prevent sagging.
- Motion Isolation: Reduce disturbance from a partner moving at night.
- Temperature Regulation: Breathable materials to prevent overheating.
Pillow top mattresses offer an added comfort layer that helps to relieve pressure points while maintaining support. The combination of softness and support makes them particularly suitable for side sleepers.
Types of Pillow Top Mattresses
- Innerspring Pillow Top
- Traditional coil support system.
- Soft pillow top layer provides cushioning.
- Excellent edge support.
- Tends to be cooler than all-foam mattresses.
- Memory Foam Pillow Top
- Contours to the body, providing deep pressure relief.
- Absorbs motion, reducing partner disturbance.
- Retains heat unless designed with cooling materials.
- Hybrid Pillow Top
- Combination of innerspring coils and foam layers.
- Provides both support and plush comfort.
- Zoned support options are available for side sleepers.
- Latex Pillow Top
- Natural latex offers both bounce and support.
- Resistant to sagging and provides cooling comfort.
- Often combined with pillow top layers for extra softness.
- Organic/Green Pillow Top
- Made with eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, wool, and natural latex.
- Safe for sensitive skin.
- Durable and breathable for better temperature control.
Top Pillow Top Mattresses for Side Sleepers in 2025
1. Nolah Evolution 15″ Mattress
- Type: Hybrid (Memory Foam & Pocketed Coils)
- Firmness: Luxury Firm (7.5/10)
- Highlights: Euro pillow top with zoned pocketed coils provides targeted support. Cooling technology prevents overheating. Durable memory foam layers contour to the body for shoulder and hip relief.
Pros:
- Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers.
- Large capacity and supportive coil system.
- Smart cooling features for night-long comfort.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to budget models.
- May be too firm for sleepers who prefer ultra-soft mattresses.
Ideal For: Families or couples seeking durable, hybrid pillow top mattresses.
2. Helix Midnight Luxe
- Type: Hybrid
- Firmness: Medium-Firm
- Highlights: Plush pillow top layer with zoned lumbar support for side sleepers. Breathable materials and advanced cooling systems maintain comfort throughout the night.
Pros:
- Medium-firm balance ideal for side sleepers.
- Zoned support enhances spinal alignment.
- Breathable design prevents heat retention.
Cons:
- Premium pricing.
- Larger size may not suit compact bedrooms.
Ideal For: Side sleepers looking for a plush yet supportive hybrid mattress.
3. Naturepedic Concerto Pillow Top Mattress
- Type: Organic Hybrid (Latex & Microcoils)
- Firmness: Medium
- Highlights: Uses organic materials for safety and environmental consciousness. Seven-layer construction offers pressure relief while supporting proper spinal alignment.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly construction.
- Excellent for sensitive skin or allergies.
- Zoned support for shoulders and hips.
Cons:
- Slightly firmer than traditional pillow tops.
- Higher price point due to organic materials.
Ideal For: Environmentally conscious side sleepers seeking high-quality organic materials.
4. Saatva Classic Mattress
- Type: Innerspring with Pillow Top
- Firmness: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm
- Highlights: Dual coil system combines with a plush pillow top for maximum comfort. Organic cotton cover adds breathability. Suitable for side sleepers who need both softness and support.
Pros:
- Available in multiple firmness levels.
- Strong edge support.
- Luxury feel without sacrificing durability.
Cons:
- Heavier to move or adjust.
- Firmness may be too soft for heavier sleepers on side position.
Ideal For: Those seeking an innerspring pillow top with luxurious feel and support variety.
5. Stearns & Foster Estate Rockwell
- Type: Innerspring with Pillow Top
- Firmness: Medium
- Highlights: High-quality materials combined with plush pillow top for comfort and durability. Excellent motion isolation and edge support. Ideal for side sleepers wanting a premium sleep experience.
Pros:
- Luxurious design and craftsmanship.
- Balanced pressure relief and support.
- Long-lasting durability.
Cons:
- Very high price point.
- Requires sturdy bed frame due to weight.
Ideal For: Premium buyers seeking a top-quality pillow top mattress with long-term comfort.
Key Features to Consider for Side Sleepers
- Pressure Relief – Memory foam or soft pillow top layers help reduce pressure on hips and shoulders.
- Spinal Alignment – Mattress must provide firm enough support to maintain neutral spinal position.
- Edge Support – Prevents sagging and allows use of full mattress surface.
- Motion Isolation – Reduces partner disturbance for uninterrupted sleep.
- Cooling Technology – Pillow tops can trap heat; breathable or gel-infused foams help regulate temperature.
- Durability – Quality materials prevent sagging and maintain support for years.
Maintenance Tips for Pillow Top Mattresses
- Rotate mattress every 3-6 months to prevent uneven wear.
- Use a mattress protector to guard against spills, dust, and allergens.
- Avoid standing or jumping on the mattress to maintain integrity.
- Spot clean pillow top layers with mild soap and water if needed.
- Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning to avoid damage.
Advantages of Pillow Top Mattresses for Side Sleepers
- Provides cushioning for shoulders and hips.
- Improves spinal alignment for side sleepers.
- Absorbs motion, reducing disturbances from partners.
- Adds luxurious comfort without compromising support.
- Available in hybrid, innerspring, foam, and organic options to suit preferences.
Disadvantages
- Can retain heat if not designed with cooling materials.
- Pillow top layers may compress over time.
- Higher price point for premium models.
- Heavier to move and requires sturdy bed frames.
Conclusion
Side sleepers need a mattress that balances comfort and support, and pillow top mattresses provide that perfect combination. The Nolah Evolution 15″, Helix Midnight Luxe, Naturepedic Concerto, Saatva Classic, and Stearns & Foster Estate Rockwell are among the best options in 2025. Each offers unique features such as zoned support, cooling technologies, and plush cushioning that cater to side sleepers’ needs.
When selecting a pillow-top mattress, consider pressure relief, spinal alignment, cooling technology, edge support, and durability. Investing in the right mattress ensures a restorative sleep experience, reduces body pain, and improves overall sleep quality.