Latest news with #NestBedding
CNN
7 days ago
- Health
- CNN
The best pillows for side sleepers in 2025, tried and tested
The best pillows for side sleepers we tested Best pillow for side sleepers: Eli & Elm Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillow Best cooling pillow for side sleepers: Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow Best budget pillow for side sleepers: Beckham Hotel Down-Alternative Pillow Best body pillow for side sleepers: Buffy Wiggle Pillow If your preferred sleep position is on your side, then resting your head on the best pillows for side sleepers is key to getting a good night's sleep and waking up without body aches. It's not just about sleeping on the best mattress; side sleepers have different pillow needs than people who sleep on their backs or their stomachs. The best pillows for people who sleep on their sides provide support for the head, shoulder and neck, and allow for proper spine alignment. So, with loft, firmness, fill, shape and breathability as my primary considerations, I dedicated several weeks of naps and shut-eye to testing 26 pillows designed for side sleepers to find the best worth buying. After all the blissful (and some not so blissful) slumber in this product review, I whittled down the long list of pillows for side sleepers to four top picks. Eli & Elm Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillow The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow is my top pick after testing its soft and bouncy yet still supportive shredded memory foam version. This is the pillow to get if you sleep on your side and want a more versatile option. If you aren't big on memory foam, you can also choose this pillow with a shredded latex fill, which will provide firmer support. Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow Highly adjustable and incredibly cooling, the crescent-shaped Easy Breather Side Sleeper from Nest Bedding is the most comfortable cooling side sleeper pillow I tested. It offers comfort and support while its curvature minimizes pressure on your shoulders. Beckham Hotel Collection Original Down-Alternative Pillow, 2-Pack This affordable pillow from the Beckham Hotel Collection is just right — not too soft or too firm. The dense fill kept my head and neck supported through the night. It's also one of the least expensive pillows I tested. Read our review Buffy Wiggle Pillow and Cover Side sleepers fond of cuddling will love the coziness the Buffy Wiggle Pillow delivers. Worthy of its name, this long, bolster-type body pillow offers a nice balance of support, flexibility and comfort, making it a great value. One of the advantages of our continuous testing process at CNN Underscored is that our guides evolve, and here's a great example of that. The latex fill version of the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow was our top choice as the best pillow for side sleepers for a long time. Then it was overthrown by the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper. However, after getting the opportunity to test the pillows again, Eli & Elm is back in the number-one spot with this shredded memory foam version. I still maintain that the shredded latex-filled Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow is too firm for most people, though it might be a good fit for heavier or larger-framed folks. However, its memory foam version delivers a great balance of cloudlike sink and support. That means that while it conforms to your head in plush comfort, giving you a cozy night's sleep, it also stays firm enough to ensure your neck and back are in proper alignment. It helps that it's overstuffed and adjustable so you can customize it to find the right fill for your body frame. Being on the smaller side, I took some of the fill out, but not as much as I did from its latex counterpart or the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper, since its memory foam fill takes considerably less pressure to compress. It also bounced back quicker and maintained its height (loft) better than the other two. Sporting that brilliant crescent shape that's great for side sleeping, it took a lot of pressure off my shoulders and arms. And unlike some of the side sleeper pillows I tested, its curvature isn't so deep that it reduces the real estate for your head. In fact, due to its 18-by-28-inch size, there's enough space on it to accommodate the most restless of sleepers. Don't let its memory foam fill turn you off, though. The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow doesn't run hot and is extremely breathable. That's not only thanks to the shredded memory foam but to the cotton-polyester fabric Eli & Elm uses for its top cover, which does well to regulate temperature and dissipate heat. I wouldn't call it the best cooling side sleeper pillow — that title belongs to the Easy Breather — so if you're a hot sleeper, this might not be for you. However, it did a great job of keeping heat away from my head even when my bedroom reached 80 degrees Fahrenheit, courtesy of a space heater. I only wish that the top cover were softer. The top cover for the Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow, one of my final contenders for the top spot, feels much more luxurious. The Eli & Elm gets points for being easier to clean, however, as the cover is detachable and machine-washable. You can also invest in the brand's side sleeper pillowcase, but it isn't any softer. It is a great way to protect and keep the pillow clean, though. The Eli & Elm Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillow is more expensive than the Nest Easy Breather Side Sleeper below, but it might be worth the small upgrade if you prefer a bouncier, plusher option. Plus, it has a slightly longer trial period, so you have more time to decide if it's the right pick for you. The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow has plenty going for it. First is its size and crescent shape. At 18 by 26 inches, this pillow is very spacious — specifically 2 inches more spacious than another favorite, the Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow — and comes with a curved bottom edge to give your shoulder more room and minimize pressure on it. That curvature is thoughtfully designed. It's not too deep, so there's a lot of room for your head and enough support for your neck, but it's still deep enough to work as intended. The Easy Breather pillows are shipped generously overstuffed because Nest Bedding made them highly adjustable. My review sample came standard at 7 inches thick, which was too lofty for my neck length and frame, but I took some of that fill out for my second night of testing, and it was perfect. However, I found its fill to be firmer and less squishy than the pillow in the Sleep Number ComfortFit line, so slightly under-filling it might be key. You can refill it anyway since it comes with a bag you can store extra filler in for later use. One of the most impressive things about this side sleeper pillow is its cooling capability. Though its certified virgin foam fill is very breathable, its outer cover gives it an edge. This is made of 49% Icecore, which, according to the information Nest Bedding provided, is a 'performance yarn technology that adapts to its environment and regulates temperature by managing heat and moisture.' I used this pillow on several hot summer nights and can confirm it stays unbelievably cool and dry. While the surface of the outer cover is shiny, it's soft to the touch, and my head never slipped out of place during sleep. However, a bit more care is required during cleaning. Nest Bedding recommends washing the cover in cold water on a delicate cycle and drying it on low heat; otherwise, it could warp and shrink. The Nest Bedding Side Sleeper Easy Breather Pillow will set you back $119, which sounds expensive if you're used to cheap pillows on Amazon. But based on my experience, spending a bit more for quality, ache-free sleep is truly worth it. And this price tag is about on par with its rivals. The only things that might set it back are its shorter trial period of 30 days and the off-gassing smell that persisted for a couple of weeks after unboxing. It is neither too strong nor too noticeable to render the pillow unusable; however, I could smell it whenever I put my nose against it and breathed deeply. This Beckham Hotel pillow is a CNN Underscored favorite but does come with a few nitpicks. First, the outer shell fabric is scratchy and not luxurious to the touch. But that's what pillowcases are for. I also feel the need to fluff it every morning when I'm making the bed. Since it's not full, there's a tendency for the fill to get pushed to one side or corner during the night. You can't remove any fill since it's not an adjustable pillow, but I will say that I found its loft and fill to be just right. Its loft is perfect for lighter and smaller-framed individuals like me, and the down-alternative fill is plusher than what I've experienced with other down-alternative pillows. It offers a lot of give, especially for the head and shoulder area, but also delivers good support to your neck, which makes it ideal for side sleepers. That has a lot to do with Beckham Hotel somehow figuring out the right amount of fill to put in for this type of pillow and the size of the pillow cover. It's just full enough to be supportive and cushiony at the same time. While it doesn't take a lot of effort to squish it down to half its size, it bounces back to its original size quickly, so you can rest assured that the support will last all night. That's not too shabby for an option that's only $80 … for a set of two, I might add. I say this as someone who has a hard time sleeping when my pillow isn't right: I sleep well with the Beckham Hotel Down-Alternative Pillow under my head. CNN Underscored associate editor Jillian Tracy gave it her seal of approval as well after sleeping on it for a year. There is a caveat here, however. I received an email from a reader who claimed that this pillow 'didn't come close to providing the support or comfort that the article claimed.' I see that as valid considering he claims to be 6 feet tall and around 215 pounds, and as I mentioned earlier, this pillow isn't overstuffed like the others. So, my recommendation is this: if you're a bigger and heavier user, spend more (if you can afford it) and opt for the shredded latex version of the top pick or the Saatva Latex Pillow instead. Otherwise, this is among the best pillow for side sleepers, especially those on a budget. It's hard to beat the Buffy Wiggle Pillow in comfort and versatility. Body pillows come in different shapes and sizes, but this cozy bolster-type contender is the one that ticked most of the boxes for me during testing. Buffy designed this pillow so it's soft, squishy and very flexible. It's lighter and a tad longer (82 inches long) than the Bearaby Cuddler I tested, and it has enough fill to be supportive but not so much to be unwieldy. I love wrapping it around my back and over my waist for a comforting cuddle and twisting it like a pretzel for a self-soothing hug. More importantly, the Buffy Wiggle Pillow catered perfectly to my nighttime side sleeping habit. It's 8 inches in diameter, but since it's not overfilled and sits at soft to medium on the firmness scale, there's plenty of room for the fill to 'wiggle' around and spread out. As a result, I could adjust it to contour to my head, keep my neck in a neutral position and alleviate the pressure on my shoulder and arm, all while offering plenty of support for my leg during the night. Buffy guarantees the fill is 100% recycled PET plastic and BPA-free, so it does not contain bisphenol A (BPA), a harmful industrial chemical, and there was no off-gassing smell after unboxing. However, some hot sleepers might find it a little warm during use since its fill is 100% polyester. Polyester is extremely breathable, but it is a synthetic material that tends to trap heat and moisture. I don't consider myself a hot sleeper, but I still noticed this pillow running slightly warmer than the Bearaby Cuddler, which has fill made of 100% hevea rubber, a more breathable material. That said, the Buffy Wiggle Pillow is still very comfortable to sleep on (or in, if you prefer the full cuddle or partial swaddle experience). It comes in an outer shell made of lyocell, a material that naturally adapts to temperature changes. It's not the most luxurious-feeling fabric, but it is soft and comfortable enough to rest your cheek on when sleeping on your side. I slept on the pillow without the additional cover, and it didn't cause any irritation to my face. If you prefer a more appealing pillow cover, Buffy sells ones made of smooth linen or fluffy fleece in different attractive colors. I recommend the linen option for summertime use and the fleece one for the colder months if you have the budget to buy more than one. As of this writing, this pillow is almost twice as expensive as the previous body pillow pick, the Coop Sleep Goods Original Body Pillow, and a lot cheaper than the Bearaby Cuddler. You do have to shell out extra money for every pillow cover you buy and factor in the dry-cleaning cost for keeping that insert clean and allergen-free. Buffy recommends dry-cleaning only for the insert for best results; the outer cover can be machine washed in cold water and tumble dried on low. However, I can confidently say that the Buffy Wiggle Pillow sits right at the sweet spot when it comes to value, considering its great performance, versatility and decent price tag. If you're curious about it but not ready to commit, the brand offers a 50-day trial. After narrowing our testing pool to the most popular pillows and brands, I slept on each for a minimum of three nights, noting factors like construction quality and comfort. I evaluated each using the following primary criteria. Performance Loft: I ascertained if each pillow had enough height to support the head and neck, and maintain a neutral spine alignment. Firmness: I considered how firm each pillow was, how effective it was at providing support while promoting comfort and how well it maintained its shape throughout each use. I did this by sleeping on it for at least three nights and also pushed down on it with my hand to judge how much pressure I needed to apply to compress the pillow halfway. Breathability: I judged every pillow's ability to dissipate heat and moisture, how well it regulated temperature and if it offered cooling capabilities. Design Fill: I checked the quality of fill material, fill density and adjustability. I also made a note of any off-gassing smell after unboxing. Size and shape: I noted each pillow's advantages and disadvantages based on its shape, and how it compared with other shapes. For body pillows, I assessed how effective their size and shape were specifically based on a sleeper's body type and size. Outside cover: I checked the quality of every pillow's outside cover in terms of material and stitching, as well as the effectiveness of its special features, like cooling properties and moisture-wicking. Care instructions: I scored each pillow on whether it could be cleaned and the ease of cleaning, taking into account if it's machine-washable, dry-clean preferred, spot clean preferred or not washable at all. Value Price: Based on each pillow's performance in the primary categories above, as well as where its price tag sat compared to the competition, I decided if the pillow was a good value for most consumers. Trial and return policies: Most pillow companies offer a trial period, so you have some time to test the pillow you bought to see if it's right for you. I noted each pillow's trial period and return policy, and compared it to its competitors to determine if the manufacturer offers a grace period for customers. While pillow comfort comes down to personal preference, sleep experts also have recommendations to ensure optimal support and proper spine alignment during sleep. It's a good starting point when looking for the best option since pillow companies also use those same guidelines when designing their products. Side sleepers typically benefit from pillows that are firmer and have a higher loft, as those offer the ideal height and support to maintain neck alignment and minimize pressure on the shoulder. However, these are just general guidelines. The side sleeper pillow that's right for you largely depends on your body frame, preferences and more. Choose the right loft A higher loft of 5 to 7 inches is the industry recommendation for side sleepers, so that's a great baseline of where to start when shopping for a new pillow. 'The biggest mistake I see in people is sleeping with either a pillow that's too high or several pillows that are stacked, cranking the neck too high,' said Dr. Siamak Yasmeh, an orthopedic surgeon at the Los Angeles Orthopedic Surgery Specialists and Advanced Orthopedics. 'If you sleep on your side without a pillow at all, your neck is cranked downward; the exact opposite is having too many pillows, which you want to avoid.' However, everyone's frame, height and even neck length are different. There are also many types of fills, which offer varying levels of density, support and contouring. So you need to choose the right pillow based on all of these. For example, I'm a petite person, so a loft of 4 or 5 inches is best for me. Anything higher will put my neck into misalignment during the night — unless, of course, the pillow has a squishier, plushier fill. As Yasmeh said, the ideal loft for you is the one that allows 'your neck to be in line with the rest of your body — so it should be in a neutral position.' Choose the right firmness and fill Generally speaking, side sleepers benefit from a soft to medium firmness that allows enough head, neck and shoulder support to keep the spine neutral. The level of firmness is influenced by the pillow's density and fill material. Memory foam, shredded memory foam, down, down alternative and latex are the most common fill materials. Choosing one comes down to personal preference, but each has advantages and disadvantages. For example, solid memory foam is the best at maintaining its shape but not great at temperature regulation. On the other hand, down pillows are the most breathable but compress down more, affecting the support they offer. Fill material factors into the fill density as well. If you prefer a material that compresses considerably, you'll want to choose a higher-density pillow. In addition, some pillows are adjustable, meaning you can customize the amount of fill. Consider different shapes Pillows for side sleepers come in different shapes and types, so that's another factor to consider when choosing the best pillow for your side sleeping habits. No one shape is better than the rest, though; it's mostly a matter of preference. Cutout or crescent: These pillows feature a semicircular curvature at the bottom that's designed to give your shoulder some space and help release the pressure you put on it when you're lying on your side. Gusset: Gusset pillows have rectangular side panels to create structure, helping the pillow maintain its shape while offering users an extra bump in height to maintain neck alignment and minimize shoulder pressure. Contour: Contour pillows, on the other hand, have a contoured surface that's designed to match the shape of your head, neck and sometimes shoulder for better support and cradling. Body: Coming in either a long rectangular shape or a long bolster design, body pillows are exactly what their name implies. They're designed to provide full-body support and are helpful for sleepers who need that lift for their legs, among other things. Choosing the right mattress and pillow combination The best mattress for side sleepers is a soft mattress that contours snugly to the natural shape of your body. This helps with support while reducing pressure on your shoulders and hips when you're on your side. However, if the pillow that you're using is firm and has a high loft, the combination might not promote a neutral spine alignment during sleep. If you have back issues, your options are limited. Yasmeh recommends a firm mattress instead. 'People really like soft mattresses because they feel comfortable. The problem is that it's very short-term … The long-term effect, if you're sinking in for six to eight hours a night, [is] people will wake up with neck and back pain,' he says. 'So firm is always better.' Saatva Latex Pillow One of the best side sleeper pillows on the market, this plush yet supportive pillow from Saatva is worth the investment. If only it had a pillow cover that was more worthy of its price tag. The Saatva Latex Pillow feels to me like the lovechild of the Beckham Hotel Down-Alternative Pillow and Eli & Elm Latex Side Sleeper Pillow. It has that firmer support you get from a shredded latex fill, but it's similar to the Beckham Hotel pillow in plushness since it's not overly full and, therefore, offers a bit more give. That give allows space for your shoulder when you're sleeping on your side, reducing the pressure you're putting on it. Unfortunately, like the Beckham Hotel Down-Alternative Pillow, its pillow cover is also on the scratchy side, so you'll definitely need a pillowcase. But if you're on the heavier or bigger side, this might be a better option for you. It is more than twice the price of the Beckham Hotel option (quadruple when you consider the fact that it comes in a two-pack), but it's a worthy investment if you need a bit more support. Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow The Talalay Latex Pillow from Brooklyn Bedding is another quality pillow for side sleepers. It convinced me that latex inserts are the way to go if you want a bit more support than memory foam. The Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow changed my opinion about latex foam inserts. It has a higher loft than Brooklyn Bedding's Luxury Cooling Gel Memory Foam Pillow, which made me nervous in the beginning, but its extremely squishy yet bouncy nature worked well with my petite frame (even though it doesn't have the contouring nature of its memory foam counterpart). In other words, it's equally supportive and plush. Meanwhile, its pillow cover also feels soft to the touch. At $172 apiece, it is a little on the expensive side, but other than that, the only downside here is that while latex is generally more breathable than memory foam, it's still a bit warm. I wouldn't get it if you're a hot sleeper. Otherwise, this is one of the best side sleeper pillows I've ever slept on. It's a fantastic alternative to the Eli & Elm if you're not sold on the crescent design. Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Gel Memory Foam Pillow Cool down during sleep with this contouring and supportive pillow from Brooklyn Bedding. It's pricey, but it guarantees a good night's rest during hot summer nights. This cooling pillow from Brooklyn Bedding is another great option for side sleepers who slumber hot. It has a luxurious pillow cover, a loft that's just right for petite to medium frames and effective cooling, which is proof that memory foam has come a long way from its hot beginnings. Because of its memory foam insert, it offers a more cushiony experience than the Nest Bedding Easy Breather pillow. It's also very supportive, contouring to the shape of my head and neck while reducing pressure on my shoulder when I was on my side. So, while it isn't a crescent pillow, it still allows some space for your shoulder. It also comes in two lofts: low and high. I recommend the latter if you're heavier or have a larger frame. I love the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Gel Memory Foam Pillow, even though I now prefer crescent-shaped pillows, and I think it's among the best memory foam pillows for side sleepers. The only thing that really holds it back is its lofty price. Sunday Citizen Cooling Adjustafirm Pillow There are so many reasons to get this Sunday Citizen pillow, not the least of which is its affordable luxury quality. However, it might not be the best for most side sleepers. This Sunday Citizen pillow is a great contender as one of the best cooling pillows, thanks to its excellent cooling performance, made possible by its gel-infused fill. It's made even better by its impossibly soft cover. Seriously, there are no words to describe just how silky and luxuriously soft its cover is. Like many adjustable pillows, it comes out of the box slightly overstuffed, but unlike its counterparts, you can't remove the fill. You can only spread those bits of foam inside by unzipping the two zippers on each side, which also results in additional surface area. Though I would have preferred being able to remove the fill myself, this system is more effective than it sounds. As good as all those points are, I'm not convinced this is the best pillow for most side sleepers. It's firm, but it still lacks the support side sleepers need to keep their necks in alignment and take some of the pressure off their shoulders. I ended up with a stiff neck after sleeping on this for a few days. I want to like it, and all the elements are there, including its affordable $85 price tag. I just don't know if this is a pillow for most people. Some, yes, but not most. Layla Sleep Kapok Pillow Its natural kapok fill allows the Layla Kapok Pillow to be incredibly breathable and soft while its signature honeycomb-patterned cover offers a plush feeling for that cloudlike comfort. This adjustable pillow from Layla delivers. Though it isn't a cooling pillow, the breathability of its kapok fill, derived from kapok tree seed pods, shines so that even during balmy nights, my head and neck aren't overheating. I'm not a particularly hot sleeper, to be fair, but I still have a hard time sleeping when it's overly warm, and I haven't had that issue since sleeping on this. The Laylya Kapok Pillow combines breathability with its honeycomb quilted pillow cover, which adds a thin layer of plushness to an already squishy pillow. It's similar to the Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow in its overall effect but somehow better. The brand is shooting for that cloudlike sleep vibe, and in that, it delivers. I'm just not sure if it's amazing enough to be one of my top picks. In my experience, Eli & Elm still provides the best support and comfort. However, if my top pick isn't for you, the Layla Kapok Pillow is a good alternative to consider. Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow If you don't mind a smaller pillow, you'll love this plush and luxurious crescent-shaped side sleeper pillow from Honeydew. It's one of the best I've tested and may have taken the top spot if it were on the bigger side. If there were an additional spot in our best picks for another option, the luxurious Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow would take it. A bit of an underdog hailing from Los Angeles, this crescent-shaped pillow has so many things going for it that it was a struggle to put it in this section. This pillow for side sleepers has the softest and coziest quilted top cover that gives it an even plusher feel. Not that it needs it. With a 100% CertiPur-US certification, its virgin gel foam fill offers a nice cloudlike sink while keeping it supportive. It's not that high either, with its 5-inch loft, and if you prefer it lower, you can always take some fill out. While there isn't any cooling tech incorporated here, it stayed cool through the night during testing, even on that one night when my space heater overheated the bedroom to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. So, why didn't the Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow get the top spot? For one, it didn't have a fill sleeve — only the fill inside its cover — which makes cleaning a bit of a pain. Its biggest drawback, however, is that it's on the smaller side at 15 by 27 inches, which means less resting surface for your head. I would still buy this pillow for all the reasons mentioned, but at only 4 feet, 11 inches tall, I have a smaller frame. Naturepedic Organic Side Sleeper Pillow I love sleeping on this organic latex pillow from Naturepedic. It's plush and bouncy, with a cover that is soft to the touch. It's also adjustable, so you can customize the fill to get its comfort level just right. The Naturepedic Organic Side Sleeper Pillow looks long, and that's not just because it's 2 inches longer than the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow at 18 by 30 inches. It also has a curvature so deep that if you chop off the two ends, it could pass for a bolster pillow. That deep curvature means the middle is narrower, so it provides less room for your head. Of course, that didn't make it any less comfortable for me. With a soft to medium firmness, this pillow offered a lot of sink, taking less pressure to compress to half its height in my palm test. It was surprising, considering that even with a lot of fill removed, the latex model of the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow still had considerably less sink and bounce. The secret may be in the stretch-knit fabric of Naturepedic's top cover, which proved very breathable and flexible. And just because it has a lot of sink, doesn't mean it's not supportive. That shredded latex fill still gave it enough structure to keep my neck in proper alignment. But then again, I have a smaller-than-average frame. Its narrower middle means less support for bigger-framed folks with bigger heads or longer necks. That's why I can only recommend this for people who don't need a lot of pillow real estate. Two other shortcomings might put off some side sleepers: It still smelled funky after three weeks of use, and it's spot-clean only. If you're curious and want to try it out, the Naturepedic Organic Side Sleeper Pillow does come with a 100-day trial period. FluffCo Firm Fluff Down Feather Pillow If you want something plusher and bouncier, a down feather pillow might be the best option. This one has a Firm Fluff version that's ideal for side sleepers. Because a higher loft is recommended for side sleepers, down feather pillows aren't usually ideal because they have more sink and tend to lose their loft over time. However, the FluffCo Firm Fluff Down Feather Pillow compensates for that with a firmer option that has more fill. And it's a great option for folks who love the soft, fluffy and breathable feel that down pillows offer. But does that firm version offer support comparable to the other pillows I've tested? Not so much. While it has a high loft and the extra fill offers more support than regular down pillows, it still compresses considerably, meaning it likely won't do as much in alleviating pressure at the shoulder or keeping your neck in proper alignment. At least, that was my experience. If you're a combination sleeper, however, this may be the perfect compromise. There are also a few things I love about this pillow. It didn't have any off-gassing smell during, and it rebounded quickly after compression following the initial expansion. Its features are responsibly and ethically sourced, and it's even a little bigger than my top picks. Honeydew Sleep Classic Scrumptious Pillow Like the brand's Essence but with a bit more structure, this side sleeper pillow is great if you want luxury and a bit more support. It's plush, soft to the touch and very supportive. It's a fantastic option if you need a firmer, higher-loft pillow. Since I've been sleeping on the Honeydew Sleep Essence Side Sleeper Pillow, I'm officially a fan of the brand. And its flagship pillow, the Honeydew Sleep Classic Scrumptious Pillow, doesn't fall far from the tree. This crescent-shaped pillow is soft and conforms to your head and neck while offering plenty of support, especially with that 6-inch loft. And it comes with the same quilted soft-to-the-touch cover that I loved so much about the Essence. Being the flagship pillow, though, it has something that sets it apart from the Essence: It comes with copper-infused foam fill. What makes that fill special? Copper is great at absorbing and dissipating heat, so a pillow with copper-infused fill is fantastic at temperature regulation. That allows the Scrumptious to be great at cooling, and while it's not on the same level as the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow, it's still great. Unlike the Essence, the Classic Scrumptious also has a bit more structure, thanks to the ribbon that runs along the edges. That structure allows for a bit more support, especially when it comes to keeping your neck in alignment and your head on the pillow. Normally, that 6-inch loft would have bothered me due to my small frame, but because this pillow has a lot of sink, it worked out well. That's great news, as it is on the smaller side at 15 by 27 inches and better for smaller users. If it's still too high for you, it's adjustable, so you can remove some of the fill. Sadly, like the Essence, the Honeydew Sleep Classic Scrumptious Pillow doesn't have an insert that houses the fill. To wash that top cover, you have to take all the innards out, which is already inconvenient enough without factoring in that you also have to stuff them all back in. Considering this pillow is priced between $200 and $300, depending on the size and retailer, it would have been nice if the cleaning process were easier. Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt ProAdjust Pillow The very breathable Tempur-Adapt pillow collection from Tempur-Pedic comes in three models, but for side sleepers, I recommend the ProAdjust version, as you can adjust the amount of fill based on your preference. If you plan on getting a Tempur-Adapt Pillow, I recommend getting the ProAdjust model, which is the adjustable one. With an over 6-inch adjustable loft, a highly contouring Tempur-Pedic proprietary fill and a top cover with one side that boasts a cool-to-the-touch surface, this pillow has many of the makings of a great side sleeper pillow for folks who prefer the traditional rectangular shape. Unfortunately, the fill's squishy and sinkable nature proved a double-edged sword, as this pillow lost a bit of its height within a couple of days of me sleeping on it. I did remove some of the fill, but it not only compressed a lot but didn't bounce back to its original height, as many of the other pillows did. I ended up putting all that fill back in to get the height and support back. It did get much better after I refilled, and fluffing helps, but that still doesn't change the fact that this pillow doesn't bounce back as well as the other pillows. After comparing many rectangular pillows with crescent-shaped ones, I'm now a firm believer that the latter serves side sleepers' shoulders better, to the point where it truly improves sleep quality. If you decide to stick with the former, though, I recommend the Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow instead. Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow With three pillow inserts, you can quickly customize the Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow based on your loft preference. This is among the most supportive pillows I tested for side sleepers. Its breathable lyocell cover is also a nice, soft-to-the-touch addition. The Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow got extremely close to securing that coveted top spot on this list, had it not been for its traditional rectangular shape. What makes this pillow so special is that not only is it adjustable but it has a three-insert system that lets you adjust the loft faster and easier. No longer will you have to deal with fistfuls of loose fill and the time, effort and flying lint involved. Simply unzip, remove one or two inserts, and zip it back up. I appreciate the convenience of it. Another thing to love here is its soft to medium firmness. Its fill, which doesn't come with any off-gassing smell, offers plenty of sink to be squishy, cradling my head and neck like a cloud yet providing a lot of support to ensure a neutral spine. Meanwhile, its lyocell cover is breathable and soft enough to lie on without a pillowcase. Although, at only 18 by 24 inches, it is slightly smaller than the other side sleeper pillows I tested, there's more than enough space for most people. Sadly, apart from its higher $140 price tag, which I assume is due to its multiple-insert system, the Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow is held back by the fact that it has a traditional shape. I found that once you've enjoyed the benefits of a crescent-shaped pillow, it's hard to go back to using a rectangular shape. This pillow is very comfortable and supportive, and I sleep well on it; however, the lack of extra space for my shoulder is noticeable. This would have gotten a top spot had it not been for the lack of curvature. Bearaby Cuddler When it comes to body pillows, the Bearaby Cuddler prioritizes a snuggly slumber while keeping you cool with its highly breathable hevea rubber fill. Its high loft and medium-to-high firmness level make it best for tall sleepers and those with bigger body frames. I applaud the Bearaby Cuddler Pillow for its ability to keep things cool. It has a hevea rubber insert that is natural and breathable, and it comes with an outside cover that is 100% organic cotton. This bolster-type pillow is not just cool to the touch but regulates temperature throughout the night, making it a fantastic body pillow option for those who sleep hot. Factor in its size and shape, and it's terrific for side sleepers who need full-body support when sleeping or for those who need back and arm support when lounging on the couch. As great as this pillow is, it's hard to recommend to most people. Because of its type of fill and 7.5-inch loft and firmness, it's only good for certain users, specifically those with taller, larger body frames, and, therefore, longer necks and broader shoulders. I just could not get my head and neck in a neutral position with my spine, which makes it difficult to be comfortable and get a good night's rest. Another downside is its price tag, which is $90 more than our current body pillow pick. Yes, the Bearaby Cuddler is a top-notch product, but when it comes to the best value for the money for most consumers, the Buffy Wiggle Pillow is the superior choice. Buffy Cloud Side Sleeper Pillow The Buffy Cloud Side Sleeper Pillow is among the most comfortable pillows I tested and one of the most affordable. Being adjustable and supportive, it guarantees a good night's sleep for those who don't need as much surface area for their head and neck. I had high hopes for the Buffy Cloud Side Sleeper Pillow. It's adjustable, relatively lightweight and comes in a soft-to-the-touch outer shell that makes a pillowcase unnecessary. I appreciate that it offers plenty of sink, allowing your head to be cradled yet supported when you hit the hay, as well as its crescent shape, which alleviates the pressure on your shoulders. While the middle section didn't retain its shape well after three nights of testing, there was still plenty of bounce. To fix, I had to unzip the insert and redistribute the fill to put the pillow back in its original shape. And at $59 MSRP, this pillow is more affordable than many of the others we tested. It's half the price of the Nest Bedding Easy Breather pillow and a fantastic budget pick. Sadly, two big drawbacks made it fall down in the rankings. The top side of the cover, while soft and luxurious, tends to draw heat. I immediately noticed how much warmer it is than the Nest option, though to its credit, the rest of the pillow is pretty good at dissipating that heat. Also, the crescent side's curvature is deep, which leaves less room for your head and takes off an inch that would have helped with neck support. If you have a shorter neck, you might find yourself slipping down and needing to readjust during the night. Sleep Number Curved ComfortFit Pillow The Curved ComfortFit Pillow's high loft is perfect for taller or bigger-framed side sleepers. This is especially true when combined with its soft, breathable, lyocell outer shell; its crescent shape; and its squishy insert. It's also more affordable than the Ultimate version. The Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillow Curved is my second favorite curved pillow from our testing pool. Much like the Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow, it boasts a squishy insert that hugs your head like a cloud and keeps your neck in a neutral position, as well as an outer lyocell shell that is soft and breathable. Sleep Number also offers a 100-night trial period, meaning you have plenty of time to make up your mind about it. Like my top pick, the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow, its curvature is only deep enough to offer plenty of space for the shoulder without taking that prime real estate for your head and neck. It also costs the same and is almost as generously filled. Where the Sleep Number Curved ComfortFit Pillow falls short is that it's neither adjustable nor easy to clean. Its outer shell is not removable, and there's no easy way to remove some of that fill. That means you're stuck with that high, 7-inch loft, which is only ideal for someone with a bigger frame. Plus, you can only spot clean it. Nest Bedding Standard Easy Breather Pillow As the rectangular version of the Easy Breather Side Sleeper, the Standard Easy Breather pillow inherits many qualities we love about its crescent counterpart. If you want to keep things traditional, this comes with the same adjustability, cooling capability and spaciousness. The traditional version of my current cooling pillow pick, the Nest Bedding Standard Easy Breather Pillow, is another appealing option, especially for side sleepers who prefer a rectangular shape over a crescent one. This comes with many of the benefits of its curved counterpart, including adjustability, spaciousness, cooling and moisture-wicking properties, and a relatively affordable price. Like the curved version, it's quite firm and has a higher loft. However, because you can easily remove fill to customize it for your needs, this is a nonissue, even for smaller users. That impressive and soft-to-the-touch Icecore outer cover, which is excellent at temperature regulation, is present as well, making this ideal for side sleepers who slumber hot or sweat a lot. It is also conveniently removable, so while you cannot throw the whole pillow in the washing machine or the dryer, you can do so with the cover as long as you stick with cold water, a delicate cycle and low heat. Unfortunately, it is at the same disadvantage as the Sleep Number Ultimate ComfortFit Pillow. Once you've tried side sleeping on a curved pillow, it's harder to get comfortable on a rectangular one. The following FAQs have been answered by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Siamak Yasmeh and includes reporting by testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy. Does the type of mattress make a difference in pillow choice as a side sleeper? Does the type of mattress make a difference in pillow choice as a side sleeper? Absolutely! It's important to find the ideal mattress and pillow combination for your body frame, size and weight. Of course, if you're happy with your current mattress, we recommend looking through this guide and putting effort into finding the right pillow to use since it's cheaper to replace a pillow than a matteress. However, if your mattress is seven to 10 years old, this might be the perfect opportunity to replace it. How should I position my pillow when sleeping on my side? How should I position my pillow when sleeping on my side? Position your pillow so it promotes the natural alignment of your head, neck and back. 'For a side sleeper, specifically, you don't want it cranked up high, and you also don't want it too low to the point where it's tilting in the other direction,' Yasmeh said. 'So, imagine drawing a line along the axis of your body starting from your feet up toward your neck.' How many pillows should a side sleeper use? How many pillows should a side sleeper use? Many sleep-focused outlets and pillow companies recommend using two to three pillows if you're a side sleeper, with one pillow under your head and another under your leg. However, it's a matter of preference, according to Yasmeh. 'At a minimum, it should be the one pillow under your neck,' he said. 'Typically, some people will want to sleep with another one, and it should go between their legs. But I wouldn't say that one's mandatory.' Should side sleepers use a body pillow? Should side sleepers use a body pillow? While a body pillow isn't necessary to sleep comfortably on your side, using one comes with benefits. Body pillows can improve the quality of your sleep if you're a side sleeper by providing extra support for your legs and joints as well as your belly if you're pregnant. They also offer a bit more comfort. More importantly, they can help you maintain good spine alignment and minimize pressure on your hips and shoulders. How often should you replace your pillow? How often should you replace your pillow? To ensure a healthier sleeping environment, replacing your pillow every two years is highly recommended, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). However, this depends on several factors, including breathability and maintenance. If your pillow isn't as breathable or easy to clean and rid of allergens and dust mites, you may have to replace it sooner. We recommend checking with the pillow manufacturer. For this article, we consulted the following expert to gain their professional insights. Dr. Siamak Yasmeh, orthopedic surgeon at the Los Angeles Orthopedic Surgery Specialists and Advanced Orthopedics, specializing in complete orthopedic care and interventional pain management CNN Underscored thoroughly tests the products in our testing guides and provides full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy is an experienced sleep product tester. She has been testing and writing about sleep products like mattresses and pillows for a few years and wrote our best pillows for back sleepers and best travel pillows guides.
Tom's Guide
24-07-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
Nest Bedding Easy Breather vs Beckham Hotel Collection Down Alternative: Which budget pillow for side sleepers should you buy?
Type: Shredded foam and fiberPrice: from $119 at Nest BeddingBest for: Side sleepersSizes: StandardTrial: 30 nightsWarranty: 2 yearsShipping: Free Type: Down alternative fill Price: from $79.99 at AmazonBest for: All sleepersSizes: Queen and kingTrial: N/AWarranty: N/AShipping: Charges apply A side sleeping pillow needs to bridge the gap between your ears and shoulders to provide the right level of comfort and support. However, can you achieve the same with any regular bed pillow? While testing the best pillow for side sleepers 2025, we understood that the fill, firmness and overall structure of a headrest makes a huge difference to how supported and comfortable you feel during the night. Specialized pillows are often considered expensive but here we are comparing two affordable side sleeping options, popular for their plush feel and comfort: the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper and the Beckham Hotel Collection Down Alternative. Scroll down to find out the ideal one for your sleep and budget… The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow comes in a standard size and is priced at $119. This also includes a 30-night sleep trial, 2-year warranty and free shipping. We have previously spotted it up to 30% off during major sale events like Black Friday which reduces the price to $83.30. The Beckham Hotel Collection Down-Alternative pillows, on the other hand, are only available to buy as a set of two. This translates to great value since you're essentially getting two plush pillows for the price of one. A set of queen pillows normally retails for $59.99 on Amazon while a pack of king is now $79.97. You can often find the Beckham pillows part of bundle savings and discounts on Amazon. Currently, a queen set of pillows is 25% off which drops the price to $59.99. However, the Beckham Hotel Collection does not offer a sleep trial or warranty like the other brands. Shipping charges too depend on your location and Amazon account benefits. In terms of the price, the Beckham definitely has an upper hand but the lack of benefits is a serious disadvantage. The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper is designed for this specific sleeping position with a unique curved design. It consists of a blend of 80% CertiPUR-US certified virgin memory foam and 20% polyester microfiber fill. It's fill is fully customizable, enabling you to adjust the loft and firmness by simply adding or removing the fill to your preference. The outer cover is made from specialized cooling and moisture-wicking fabric which includes 49% Icecore, 49% spandex and 2% polyester. It is both removable and machine washable. The Beckham Hotel Collection Down-Alternative pillow, on the other hand, is crafted from down alternative 100% polyester fiber. The OEKO-TEX certified pillows come encased in a 250 thread count cotton cover which is both soft-to-touch, naturally moisture-wicking and breathable. If you're a side sleeper who prioritizes a cool and comfortable sleep, the Nest Bedding Easy Breather could well be the better pick in terms of the design and components. It is a close battle between the Nest Bedding Easy Breather and Beckham Hotel Collection pillows, as both earned a solid 5 out of 5 for comfort and support as well as temperature regulation in our in-house tests. During our Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow review period, our tester actually found it suitable for all sleeping position even though the curved design was targeted at side sleepers. This is mainly due to the fact that you can customize the firmness and loft of the pillow by adding or removing the pressure relieving and supportive foam and fiber blend fill. Our Beckham Hotel Collection Down Alternative pillow review describes it as "delivering hotel-like sleep within a budget". The medium firmness suits most sleeping styles while the polyester fibers aims to deliver the same plushness, comfort and responsive support of natural down, giving you a 5-star quality sleep without the premium price tag. While it does not include any dedicated cooling elements, our reviewer found it to be temperature regulating and breathable, recommending it for those prone to overheating and night sweats. Choosing between the two comes down to your preferences. The Nest Bedding Easy Breather will be the right pick if you're side sleeper prone to overheating, or if you need targeted support for your neck and shoulders. ✅ You're side sleeper: If you tend to sleep on your side every night, the curved design of the Easy Breather is the ideal choice for you. ✅ You'd like time to try your pillow out: Unlike the Beckham, the Easy Breather Side Sleeper pillow comes with a 30-night sleep trial, 2-year warranty and free shipping. ✅ You prefer customizable comfort: You add simply add or remove the fill to adjust according to your sleeping preferences. ✅ You're a combination sleeper: Unsure about your sleeping style? The Beckham Hotel Collection Down-alternative pillow has a medium-firm feel suitable for all sleeping positions. ✅ You need a low-maintenance pillow: Beckham Pillow comes compressed and rolled up and will expand immediately after unpacking. It does not require any adjustments or customizations. ✅ You want luxury pillow without spending a fortune: The Beckham Down-Alternative mimics natural down-like comfort while the overall simple chic design resembles a hotel pillow, all within an affordable price range.
CNET
15-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
This Helix Topper Cured My Mattress Shopping Confusion. The Price Just Dropped to a New Low of $175 Off
CNET's key takeaways The ErgoAlign Mattress Topper from Helix normally costs $499 for a queen but it's currently at $324 during Amazon's Prime Day sale I've been tracking this price for a few months. The original retail price was $499 at Helix. It's a comfortable, Band-Aid solution until my next big mattress purchase. But it's pricier than other mattress toppers. The Nest Bedding Cooling Topper I'm reaching the eight-year mark with my current mattress -- it's time to shop for a new one. But when I look around at the available mattress options, I get overwhelmed by the number of choices. I felt rushed into my last mattress purchase because I was moving and needed to make a quick decision on a budget. This time, I want to do it right and make the best mattress choice for my body and my money. As a sleep-deprived working mom of two young children, I appreciate the relief a comfortable bed can bring to my aches and pains. Yes, I'm one of the 46% of adult Americans (CNET survey) willing to invest in better mattresses. And I'm ready to pay a pretty penny for my next mattress upgrade. But I need more time. I tested this ErgoAlign Mattress Topper by Helix for 60 days. It's not a long-term solution to my problems, but it gives me the comfort and time I need to make a bigger and more expensive decision. It's on the pricier side, though: Up to $500 at regular price. CNET's best mattress topper, the Nest Bedding Cooling Topper, costs $100 to $150 less. These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place -- no sliding. Katie Collins My experience with the Helix ErgoAlign mattress topper. My first impression was one of surprise. The last time I slept on a mattress topper, it was one of those cheaper $50 foam toppers. I didn't expect the topper to be as comfortable as it was. It arrived in a vacuum wrapping. Once opened, it expanded immediately -- no waiting. I was struck by how the material did not have a chemical smell to it that we sometimes get from mattress toppers or beds in a box. I ordered the king size, so it was a bit heavy to lift onto the bed with effort but doable for one person. I laid it right on top of my current mattress and used the attached straps to secure it in place so it didn't slide around. I slept on this for 60 days, and I find that I relax and fall asleep faster, I wake up less frequently for no reason (it's a mom thing), and my hips and shoulders aren't achy at wake up as they were before. The specs GlacioTex cooling cover Three Support zones for the spine, midsection and shoulders for the spine, midsection and shoulders Sturdy corner straps to keep topper in place Free shipping in the US Thickness: 3 inches 3 inches Retail price: $498.66 $498.66 Sale Price: $324 at Amazon Available sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king 100-night sleep trial One-year limited warranty Materials: Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Copper gel memory foam and high-density foam. Made in the US These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place even for deep and tall mattress types. The material is waterproof. Katie Collins CNET's buying advice Overall, my experience with this mattress topper is ultra positive. It's one of the more expensive mattress toppers available, but at $374, it buys me another year or two of time before I make my next big mattress decision. For $400, you could skip the topper and buy a brand new mattress. The Ashley Home Signature Design and the Rolanstar are both less than $350 right now. But for a long-term, king-size mattress with the level of support I'm looking for, I'm probably going to spend between $1,000 and $2,000 from a premium brand. For now, I find this mattress topper so comfortable, I may just take my sweet time deciding. If you're like me and seeking a band-aid solution to your current mattress situation and you want hip and shoulder support, you will be happy with the Helix ErgoAlign. If price is your sticking point, CNET's sleep experts tested dozens of other mattress toppers that we love and are much cheaper. The most comparable mattress topper we tested is the Layla Memory Foam Topper, our best foam mattress topper for side sleepers. The Layla uses a similar copper gel-infused foam, adding buoyancy and contouring support as the Helix ErgoAlign but for $250 -- $100 to $150 less. A good budget pick for a new mattress topper is the Linenspa Memory Foam Topper for $60. And if you are ready for your next mattress decision, see CNET's picks for all types of mattresses by sleep type.
CNET
10-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
This Helix Topper Cured My Mattress Shopping Confusion. The Price Just Dropped to a New Low of $175 Off for Prime Day
CNET's key takeaways The ErgoAlign Mattress Topper from Helix normally costs $499 for a queen but it's currently at a new low price of $324 during Amazon's Prime Day sale It's a comfortable, band-aid solution until my next big mattress purchase. But it's pricier than other mattress toppers. The Nest Bedding Cooling Topper is $100 less, for example. I'm reaching the eight-year mark with my current mattress -- it's time to shop for a new one. But when I look around at the available mattress options, I get overwhelmed by the number of choices. I felt rushed into my last mattress purchase because I was moving and needed to make a quick decision on a budget. This time, I want to do it right and make the best mattress choice for my body and for my money. As a sleep-deprived working mom of two young children, I appreciate the relief a comfortable bed can bring to my aches and pains. Yes, I am one of the 46% of adult Americans (CNET survey) willing to invest in better mattresses. And I'm ready to pay a pretty penny for my next mattress upgrade. But I need more time. I tested this ErgoAlign Mattress Topper by Helix for 60 days. It's not a long-term solution to my problems, but it gives me the comfort and time that I need until I make a bigger and more expensive decision. It's on the pricier side, though: Up to $500 at regular price. CNET's best mattress topper, the Nest Bedding Cooling Topper for example, costs $100 to $150 less. These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place -- no sliding. Katie Collins My experience with the Helix ErgoAlign mattress topper. My first impression was one of surprise. The last time I slept on a mattress topper, it was one of those cheaper $50 foam toppers. I didn't expect the topper to be as comfortable as it was. It arrived in a vacuum wrapping. Once opened, it expanded immediately -- no waiting. I was struck by how the material did not have a chemical smell to it that we sometimes get from mattress toppers or beds in a box. I ordered the king size, so it was a bit heavy to lift onto the bed with effort but doable for one person. I laid it right on top of my current mattress and used the attached straps to secure it in place so it didn't slide around. I slept on this for 60 days, and I find that I relax and fall asleep faster, I wake up less frequently for no reason (it's a mom thing), and my hips and shoulders aren't achy at wake up as they were before. The specs GlacioTex cooling cover Three Support zones for the spine, midsection and shoulders for the spine, midsection and shoulders Sturdy corner straps to keep topper in place Free shipping in the US Thickness: 3 inches 3 inches Retail price: $498.66 $498.66 Sale Price: $324 at Amazon Available sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king 100-night sleep trial One-year limited warranty Materials: Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Copper gel memory foam and high-density foam. Made in the US These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place even for deep and tall mattress types. The material is waterproof. Katie Collins CNET's buying advice Overall, my experience with this mattress topper is ultra positive. It's one of the more expensive mattress toppers available, but at $324, it buys me another year or two of time before I make my next big mattress decision. For $400, you could skip the topper and buy a brand new mattress. The Ashley Home Signature Design and the Rolanstar are both less than $350 right now. But for a long-term, king-size mattress with the level of support I'm looking for, I'm probably going to spend between $1,000 and $2,000 from a premium brand. For now, I find this mattress topper so comfortable, I may just take my sweet time deciding. If you're like me and seeking a band-aid solution to your current mattress situation and you want hip and shoulder support, you will be happy with the Helix ErgoAlign. If price is your sticking point, CNET's sleep experts tested dozens of other mattress toppers that we love and are much cheaper. The most comparable mattress topper we tested is the Layla Memory Foam Topper, our best foam mattress topper for side sleepers. The Layla uses a similar copper gel-infused foam, adding buoyancy and contouring support as the Helix ErgoAlign but for $250 -- $100 to $150 less. A good budget pick for a new mattress topper is the Linenspa Memory Foam Topper for $60. And if you are ready for your next mattress decision, see CNET's picks for all types of mattresses by sleep type.
CNET
21-06-2025
- Business
- CNET
I Was Overwhelmed by Mattress Shopping. This $374 Mattress Topper Bought Me a Few More Comfortable Years
CNET's key takeaways The ErgoAlign Mattress Topper from Helix normally costs $499 but it's on sale right now for $374 for the queen and $328 for the full size. It's a comfortable, band-aid solution until my next big mattress purchase. But it's pricier than other mattress toppers. The Nest Bedding Cooling Topper is $100 less, for example. I'm reaching the eight-year mark with my current mattress -- it's time to shop for a new one. But when I look around at the available mattress options, I get overwhelmed by the number of choices. I felt rushed into my last mattress purchase because I was moving and needed to make a quick decision on a budget. This time, I want to do it right and make the best mattress choice for my body and for my money. As a sleep-deprived working mom of two young children, I appreciate the relief a comfortable bed can bring to my aches and pains. Yes, I am one of the 46% of adult Americans (CNET survey) willing to invest in better mattresses. And I'm ready to pay a pretty penny for my next mattress upgrade. But I need more time. I tested this ErgoAlign Mattress Topper by Helix for 60 days. It's not a long-term solution to my problems, but it gives me the comfort and time that I need until I make a bigger and more expensive decision. It's on the pricier side, though: Up to $500 at regular price. CNET's best mattress topper, the Nest Bedding Cooling Topper for example, costs $100 to $150 less. These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place -- no sliding. Katie Collins My experience with the Helix ErgoAlign mattress topper. My first impression was one of surprise. The last time I slept on a mattress topper, it was one of those cheaper $50 foam toppers. I didn't expect the topper to be as comfortable as it was. It arrived in a vacuum wrapping. Once opened, it expanded immediately -- no waiting. I was struck by how the material did not have a chemical smell to it that we sometimes get from mattress toppers or beds in a box. I ordered the king size, so it was a bit heavy to lift onto the bed with effort but doable for one person. I laid it right on top of my current mattress and used the attached straps to secure it in place so it didn't slide around. I slept on this for 60 days, and I find that I relax and fall asleep faster, I wake up less frequently for no reason (it's a mom thing), and my hips and shoulders aren't achy at wake up as they were before. The specs GlacioTex cooling cover Three Support zones for the spine, midsection and shoulders for the spine, midsection and shoulders Sturdy corner straps to keep topper in place Free shipping in the US Thickness: 3 inches 3 inches Retail price: $498.66 $498.66 Sale Price: $374 $374 Available sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king 100-night sleep trial One-year limited warranty Materials: Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Top cover, 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene. Interior, Copper gel memory foam and high-density foam. Made in the US These large stretchy straps help secure this topper in place even for deep and tall mattress types. The material is waterproof. Katie Collins CNET's buying advice Overall, my experience with this mattress topper is ultrapositive. It's one of the more expensive mattress toppers available, but at $380 to $400, it buys me another year or two of time before I make my next big mattress decision. For $400, you could skip the topper and buy a brand new mattress. The Ashley Home Signature Design and the Rolanstar are both less than $350 right now. But for a long-term, king-size mattress with the level of support I'm looking for, I'm probably going to spend between $1,000 and $2,000 from a premium brand. For now, I find this mattress topper so comfortable, I may just take my sweet time deciding. If you're like me and seeking a band-aid solution to your current mattress situation and you want hip and shoulder support, you will be happy with the Helix ErgoAlign. If price is your sticking point, CNET's sleep experts tested dozens of other mattress toppers that we love and are much cheaper. The most comparable mattress topper we tested is the Layla Memory Foam Topper, our best foam mattress topper for side sleepers. The Layla uses a similar copper gel-infused foam, adding buoyancy and contouring support as the Helix ErgoAlign but for $250 -- $100 to $150 less. A good budget pick for a new mattress topper is the Linenspa Memory Foam Topper for $60. And if you are ready for your next mattress decision, see CNET's picks for all types of mattresses by sleep type.
