5 Best Wedge Pillow for Side Sleepers (2023)

Wedge pillows for side sleeping are commonly sought by a range of customers with different needs:

1. People with Sleep Apnea or Snoring: Wedge pillows help in elevating the upper body, reducing the likelihood of airway obstruction, which can lead to snoring and conditions like sleep apnea.
2. People with Acid Reflux or GERD: A wedge pillow can help prevent acid reflux by keeping the upper body elevated during sleep, preventing stomach acid from coming back up the esophagus.
3. Pregnant Women: Pregnant women often find sleeping on their side more comfortable, especially as their pregnancy progresses. A wedge pillow can offer support and improve comfort.
4. People with Back or Neck Pain: The elevation and support provided by a wedge pillow can help align the spine and reduce strain on muscles and joints, potentially reducing pain and discomfort.
5. Post Surgery Patients: For those recovering from certain types of surgery (like shoulder, back, or abdominal surgeries), sleeping in an elevated position can help manage swelling and discomfort.
6. People with Respiratory Issues: Those suffering from conditions like asthma, COPD, or congestion due to a common cold or allergies might find relief by sleeping in a more upright position using a wedge pillow.
7. People Looking for Comfort: Some people simply find it more comfortable to sleep on their side with the added support of a wedge pillow, as it can help maintain a comfortable position throughout the night.

5 Best Wedge Pillows for Side Sleeping (at a glance look)

1. MedSlant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow: This pillow has a gentle incline and is large enough to accommodate side sleepers. It was designed for people with acid reflux but it also helps with snoring, allergies, or other conditions that might be improved by sleeping elevated.
2. FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow: The FitPlus wedge has a layer of memory foam for added comfort. It’s designed to help with acid reflux and snoring, but it can also be used to support side sleepers.
3. InteVision Foam Wedge Pillow: This pillow has a two-layer design with a memory foam top layer for comfort and a base foam for support. It’s a good choice for side sleepers looking for extra neck and back support.
4. Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Bed Wedge Pillow: This wedge pillow is available in three different heights, allowing you to choose the level of elevation that works best for you. The design can help side sleepers with conditions like acid reflux, as well as providing back and neck support.
5. Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow: This pillow is smaller than some others, making it a good choice if you have a smaller bed or if you travel frequently. The memory foam can provide a comfortable sleep surface for side sleepers.

5 Best Wedge Pillows for Side Sleeping (in-depth review)

1. MedSlant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow

Materials and Specifications: The MedSlant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow is a large pillow designed to elevate your upper body. It’s about 28 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 7 inches high at its tallest point. The incline is gentle, but it’s sufficient to help mitigate symptoms of conditions like acid reflux.

The interior of the pillow is made of firm polyurethane foam. This foam is hypoallergenic and provides the necessary support while being comfortable for most users.

Feel: The pillow is designed to be firm for adequate support, yet comfortable. The gentle slope should allow for comfortable side sleeping, although individual preferences can vary. As with any new pillow, there may be a period of adjustment as you get used to the new sleeping position.

Buying Options: As of my last update, the MedSlant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow could be found on major online retail platforms like Amazon and also on the manufacturer’s website. However, availability and prices can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check multiple sources for the best deal.

Cleaning: The MedSlant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow comes with a removable, washable cover. The manufacturer recommends machine washing the cover in cold water and then line drying it. The interior foam is not machine washable, so if it needs to be cleaned, spot cleaning is recommended.

2. FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow

Materials and Specifications: The FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow is designed with an ergonomic shape and a 1.5-inch memory foam layer on top of a premium-grade polyurethane foam base. The memory foam contours to the body, providing a more personalized comfort, while the polyurethane foam provides the firmness and support needed to maintain the wedge shape.

The dimensions of the pillow are approximately 24 inches wide, 28 inches long, and 7.5 inches high. This elevation is designed to provide the right angle for relieving acid reflux and snoring symptoms.

Feel: With its memory foam top layer, the FitPlus pillow should offer a comfortable and supportive feel. The memory foam conforms to the body’s contours, while the underlying polyurethane foam provides firm support.

Buying Options: As of my last update, the FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow could be purchased from various online retail platforms such as Amazon, as well as from the manufacturer’s website. Please note that availability and pricing can vary, and it’s always a good idea to compare options before purchasing.

Cleaning: The FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow comes with a soft, removable cover that is machine washable for easy cleaning. The foam itself is not machine washable, so if it needs to be cleaned, spot cleaning is recommended. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care and cleaning to ensure the longevity of the product.

3. InteVision Foam Wedge Pillow

Materials and Specifications: The InteVision Foam Wedge Pillow is designed with a two-layer construction: it has a firm base made from high-quality polyurethane foam and a top layer of memory foam for comfort. The memory foam layer is about 1.5 inches thick.

The dimensions of this wedge pillow are approximately 25 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 12 inches high, providing a steep incline that may be more comfortable for some users and beneficial for those with more severe acid reflux or sleep apnea.

Feel: The memory foam layer is designed to conform to the shape of your body for comfort, while the polyurethane foam provides the necessary firmness for support. Because of its steeper incline, it may take some time to get used to sleeping on this pillow.

Buying Options: As of my last update, the InteVision Foam Wedge Pillow could be found on various online marketplaces, including Amazon, and also on the manufacturer’s website. The price may vary based on where you purchase it from, so it’s always a good idea to do a bit of comparison shopping.

Cleaning: The InteVision Foam Wedge Pillow comes with a machine-washable, removable cover. The foam interior is not designed to be washed, so if it needs to be cleaned, spot cleaning is recommended.

4. Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Bed Wedge Pillow

Materials and Specifications: The Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Bed Wedge Pillow is made of high-quality, therapeutic foam. This pillow is available in three different heights – 7″, 10″, and 12″ – allowing users to choose the right level of elevation for their needs. The dimensions are approximately 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep, with the height varying based on your selection.

Feel: The Brentwood Home Zuma is designed to be firm to provide adequate support, yet comfortable enough to sleep on. Depending on the height you choose, you might experience a moderate to steep incline.

Buying Options: As of my last update, the Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Bed Wedge Pillow could be found on major online retail platforms like Amazon and also on the manufacturer’s website. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check multiple sources.

Cleaning: The Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Foam Bed Wedge Pillow comes with a removable, knit fabric cover that can be machine washed. The foam interior should not be machine washed. If it requires cleaning, spot cleaning is recommended.

For more info, check out our full review of the Brentwood Home Zuma Wedge Pillow.

5. Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow

Materials and Specifications: The Xtreme Comforts Wedge Pillow is made with a two-layer design, featuring a top layer of memory foam for comfort and a base of denser polyurethane foam for support. This pillow measures approximately 17 inches wide, 7 inches high, and 14 inches deep. The 30-degree angle is intended to provide a suitable incline for relieving various conditions like acid reflux and snoring, as well as promoting better sleep posture.

Feel: With a 1.5-inch memory foam top layer, this wedge pillow is designed to conform to the contours of the body, providing a personalized comfort. The polyurethane foam base provides the firmness and support necessary to maintain the wedge shape.

Buying Options: As of my last update, the Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow could be found on various online retail platforms such as Amazon, as well as from the manufacturer’s website. Prices and availability may vary, so it’s always a good idea to compare options before purchasing.

Cleaning: The Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow comes with a removable, machine-washable bamboo cover. The foam itself is not machine washable, so if it needs to be cleaned, spot cleaning is recommended.

Bonus Info: Wedge Pillow for Side Sleepers (Buying Guide)

Choosing Your Wedge Pillow Height

Choosing the right height for a wedge pillow depends on a number of factors, including your specific needs, comfort level, and the purpose of the pillow. Here are some considerations:

1. Your Condition: The severity of your condition may dictate the height of the pillow you need. For example, if you have severe acid reflux or sleep apnea, you may need a steeper incline which can be achieved with a taller wedge pillow.
2. Sleeping Position: Your preferred sleeping position is important too. Side sleepers may be more comfortable with a wedge pillow of moderate height, while back sleepers may be able to accommodate a higher pillow.
3. Comfort and Adjustment: If you’re not used to sleeping on an incline, it might be best to start with a lower height and gradually move up if needed. Too high a wedge might cause discomfort and disrupt your sleep.
4. Bed Size: Consider the size of your bed as well. A large wedge pillow might not fit comfortably on a smaller bed.
5. Physical Attributes: Your height and weight may also influence the best pillow height. Taller individuals or those with a larger body frame might find a higher wedge pillow more comfortable and effective.
6. Medical Advice: If you’re using a wedge pillow to manage a specific health condition, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider or a physical therapist to get a recommendation for the best height.

Remember, comfort is subjective, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find the height that works best for you. When in doubt, start with a moderate height and adjust as necessary.

Materials

Wedge pillows are typically made from different types of foam because of their ability to provide firmness and support while still offering some degree of comfort and conformability. The most common materials include:

1. Memory Foam: Memory foam is popular for the top layer of wedge pillows because of its ability to mold to the body and provide personalized comfort.
2. Polyurethane Foam: Polyurethane foam is often used as the base layer in a wedge pillow. It’s denser and firmer than memory foam, which helps to provide structural support and maintain the wedge shape.
3. Latex Foam: Some wedge pillows might use latex foam, which is resilient and durable. It also has hypoallergenic properties, making it a good choice for people with allergies.

As for materials to avoid, it generally depends on personal factors like allergies or sensitivities. For example:

• Some people might be allergic or sensitive to latex and should avoid latex foam.
• Memory foam can sometimes have a distinct chemical smell when new (known as off-gassing), which might bother some people. Most reputable companies ensure their foams are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning they’re made without harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, ozone depleters, and heavy metals.
• Some cheaper foams might break down more quickly, leading to a less supportive pillow over time.

In terms of the pillow cover, look for breathable, hypoallergenic materials. Some people might prefer natural fibers like cotton or bamboo rayon, while others might prefer synthetic fibers like polyester for its durability and ease of care.

Always check product labels or consult with the manufacturer if you have any questions or concerns about the materials used in a specific wedge pillow.

How Long Do Wedge Pillows Last? (Signs it’s Time for a New One)

Just like regular pillows, wedge pillows do not last forever and will need to be replaced eventually. Here are some signs that it might be time to replace your wedge pillow:

1. Sagging or Flattening: If your pillow is not holding its shape anymore, or has significant flattening, it’s probably time to replace it. A sagging pillow won’t provide the support or the elevation you need.
2. Loss of Firmness: If your pillow feels noticeably softer and doesn’t provide the same level of support it used to, it might be time for a new one.
3. Discomfort: If you start experiencing discomfort, like neck or back pain, that wasn’t present before and you haven’t changed anything else in your sleep setup, it might be due to an old pillow.
4. Damage: Any signs of damage, like tears in the foam or cover, could be a sign that it’s time to replace your pillow.
5. Allergies: Over time, pillows can accumulate allergens like dust mites. If you’re noticing an increase in allergic symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) during the night or when you wake up, it might be time to consider a new pillow.

In terms of lifespan, how long a wedge pillow lasts can depend on several factors including the quality of the materials used, how often it’s used, and how well it’s cared for. On average, you can expect a high-quality foam wedge pillow to last for around 3-5 years.

Remember to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure your pillow lasts as long as possible. And when it’s time for a new one, consider recycling or responsibly disposing of your old pillow if possible.