5 Highest Rated Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers – Updated for 2024

What to Look for When Buying a Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers

If you’re new to mattress toppers, it’s vital to know what to look for as this will give you a better likelihood of finding the right model for your unique needs and preferences. For more options, see our roundup for the best mattress toppers.

Mattress Topper Thickness

How Thick Should a Mattress Topper Be? When it comes to side sleepers, sometimes the thicker, the better. A thin surface can wear out faster and provide less support. However, a dense surface is likely to last longer while giving you the support you need.
Memory foam with a thickness of two to three inches works well for many people. Two or two-and-a-half-inch pads are also a viable option, as long as the material is high-quality. You can find great quality, thinner options, but if you want more cushion for this position, a thicker option may work best.

Pressure Relief

We’ve talked a lot about pressure relief, and we cannot emphasize enough how important this feature is for side sleepers. No matter what position you sleep in, pressure relief is critical. However, if you’re a side sleeper, then adequate pressure relief is a must.
If you’re sinking too deeply into your bed, or your shoulders and hips are at an awkward angle, it’s a recipe for discomfort and damage.

Mattress Topper Materials

There are several types of materials to choose from, including memory foam, latex, wool, and alternative down.
Memory foam is the most common option due to its density, motion isolation, and comfort. The best memory foam toppers are an excellent choice for side sleepers because they adapt to your body’s curves, providing pressure relief in the shoulders, knees, and hips. However, this foam can be hot unless it’s infused with gel or another cooling feature. 
The best latex mattress toppers are eco-friendly alternatives to memory foam toppers that are recyclable and biodegradable. This natural material lasts long and is easy to maintain. On the other hand, latex toppers are heavy and may be tricky to move around without someone’s help. 
Wool mattress toppers are soft and comfortable, making them a great choice for side sleepers. These are good for those who sleep hot since wool stays cool in the summer and warm in winter. The material is durable and naturally hypoallergenic, but it can be expensive. Plus, wool toppers also have a weird odor when new. 
Down alternative is a synthetic polyester material designed to mimic down’s softness. This option is popular for side sleepers because it remains soft with occasional fluffing. However, down alternative warms up easily, so it may not be the best for hot sleepers. 

Mattress Topper Density

Something to keep in mind is the topper’s density. A material that is too low-density won’t last long, and it could become uncomfortable to sleep on in a matter of months. A density that’s too high might seem too firm at first, but it might be the best choice if you’re looking for longevity.

Mattress Topper Firmness

This measurement is highly subjective. In general, you should seek out a pad that has an ideal blend of firmness and support.
Again, we’ll stress the idea of pressure points. You should feel well-supported when you lie down. However, some of the best firm toppers could be too hard for your body frame. The same goes for the other end of the spectrum.
Even the best soft toppers may cause you to bottom out, but it depends on the materials and your size. Typically, heavier sleepers enjoy firmer materials while lightweight sleepers opt for softer products.

Odor

When items come from the factory, they may have an initial smell. This odor is often referred to as off-gassing, and it occurs when the bedding’s volatile organic compounds begin to break down.
Fortunately, this odor has been deemed harmless, and it usually dissipated within a couple of days. If you have a concern about the scent and its safety, look for certifications like CertiPUR-US® to ensure that the company is using materials that won’t harm you.

Mattress Topper Durability

Mattress toppers and pads can last from one to five or more years. It’s all about finding a quality product at a reasonable price point.
One thing that will harm the product’s durability is staining and misuse. To get the most life out of your new purchase, follow the cleaning instructions. Many say to spot clean only since you typically can’t put the pad in the washing machine.
Make sure the brand of topper you buy has a washable cover. If it doesn’t, then you may want to invest in one. 
To find out more about how to properly care for your topper, see our article on How to Store Your Mattress Topper.

Mattress Topper Pricing

Often, you get what you pay for, but there’s so much variation and disruption in the bedding space, that we’ve found that price isn’t always the best indicator of quality. The most important thing to consider is comfort and spinal health. Getting a full night of rest is priceless, and something to consider when buying. If you’re especially concerned about getting the greatest deal, check out our best cheap mattress toppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do mattress toppers help those with back, hip, and shoulder pain?

Yes, many people report that the pain went away after purchasing a mattress topper. By putting your spine in proper alignment, especially when you sleep on your side, you’re relieving pressure and allowing healing to happen. For more information, read our roundup on the Best Memory Foam Bed Toppers.

Are mattress toppers suitable for heavy people?

Many are, but not all. Look for high-density materials or memory foam that’s thicker than two inches. A high-density topper should provide the necessary support, so heavier sleepers don’t compress through all of the foam. Heavy people should also consider their topper’s durability and resilience as it’s supposed to withstand more weight and strain. Memory foam toppers are better for heavy people than down or down alternative because they provide more support.

Are bamboo bed toppers the best for side sleepers?

Bamboo can be one of the top choices, especially for side sleepers. Bamboo has the advantage that it resists both sagging and mildew. The material is also known for offering an incredibly soft and silky-smooth surface, which can make you feel pampered and at ease.

What is the best mattress topper for side sleepers with lower back pain?

Memory foam and latex mattress toppers are the best for side sleepers struggling with lower back pain. These help cradle your body, adapting to its curves as you move from one side to the other. However, side sleepers should consider firmness, choosing toppers that prevent pressure build-up in the shoulders, hips, and lower back while maintaining good alignment. For those concerned about proper spinal alignment, see our page on the best mattress toppers for back pain.

What’s the best mattress topper for side sleepers who sleep hot?

Side sleepers who sleep hot should focus on cooling properties when buying a mattress topper. Memory foam toppers usually have gel, copper, or graphite infusions to provide additional cooling for hot sleepers. Latex is also a good option as it’s naturally breathable and doesn’t retain much heat. Hot sleepers should also consider the cover, focusing primarily on organic materials like cotton to provide breathability and cooling. Cooling toppers are a great way to help regulate your bed’s temperature.

What is the best bed for side sleepers?

In general, a top-rated bed for side sleepers will be a mattress that has an ideal blend of firm support and plush comfort. It’s not always easy to find that balance. Another thing that complicates the issue is that everyone has different preferences as well as interpretations of what constitutes soft and firm.