Why trust NCOA

Key Takeaways

• Our pick for the best mattress topper for side sleepers is the Saatva Graphite because of its combination of cushioning lower back support and cooling CertiPUR-US certified memory foam. 
• According to experts, mattress toppers made from contouring materials like memory foam are ideal for side sleeping. 
• The mattress toppers on our list range between $270-$499 for a queen size before discounts.

Side sleepers tend to have the best sleep quality of all sleeping positions, according to research. But side sleeping can present some unique challenges. 

“The spine can twist out of alignment, straining back muscles,” according to Bryan Wright, PT, founder of Wright Physical Therapy in Idaho. “Side sleepers need ample cushioning for shoulders and hips, which bear the most weight.” 

If you’re sleeping on an older mattress that doesn’t keep your spine aligned or relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips, it may be time to upgrade to a new side-sleeping mattress. 

“As a spine and pain management doctor, I see many patients whose sleep suffers because of their mattress,” said Taher Saifullah, MD, founder of Spine & Pain Institute, Los Angeles. “If you can’t spring for a new mattress, a good quality topper [that’s at least 2–4 inches thick] can transform your existing mattress into a much more comfortable sleeping surface.”

Discover our picks for the best mattress toppers for side sleepers below. Plus, get insight from our Reviews Team on how to make the most out of your new topper. 

Best mattress topper for side sleepers in 2024

• Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper: Best Overall Mattress Topper
• Nolah Mattress Topper: Best Firm Mattress Topper
• Helix GlacioTex™ Premium Mattress Topper: Best Luxury Mattress Topper
• Layla Mattress Topper: Best Cooling Mattress Topper
• ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper: Best Washable Mattress Topper

Top factors to consider when looking for a mattress topper for side sleepers

We spoke with Taher Saifullah, a spine and pain management doctor in Los Angeles, to understand the top factors to look for in a mattress topper for side sleepers.

Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper: Best Mattress Topper Overall

Our expert take on the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Our best overall pick, the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper impressed us by promoting spinal alignment and offering lower back support while still being cushioned enough for side sleepers. 

The mattress topper uses 3 inches of memory foam, which our testers found helps relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips. Average-weight (130–250 pounds) and higher-weight (more than 250 pounds) sleepers should find it great for side sleeping, although lighter-weight (less than 130 pounds) sleepers might find it a bit too firm. 

We appreciate the memory foam is CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it’s made without materials like formaldehyde and heavy metals. The cover is also made with organic cotton. Also, the graphite-infused foam kept the topper feeling cool, and the elastic straps held the topper firmly in place. During testing, our testers noted no slipping of the cover, which tends to happen with toppers without secure straps. 

Our tester on the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper:

“My lower back is lifted while the pressure points that are weighing down into the bed feel plenty cushioned… this would be an excellent fit for those trying to escape from sleeping on an unsupportive bed.”

Our mattress expert’s take

Who may love it

• Average and higher-weight side sleepers
• Those who want a mattress topper that stays cool
• People looking for a mattress topper made from natural materials 

Who may want to avoid it

• Lighter-weight side sleepers who may find it too firm
• People who want a washable mattress topper

Nolah Mattress Topper: Best Firm Mattress Topper

Our expert take on the Nolah Mattress Topper

Higher-weight people, or any other side sleeper who prefers a firmer bed, should appreciate the Nolah mattress topper. This topper comes in two support levels: plush and luxury firm. We tested the luxury firm version, which we found to have excellent lower back support and light pressure relief, ideal for higher-weight side sleepers. Average-weight and lighter-weight side sleepers may prefer the plush option for a softer feel. 

The Nolah Mattress Topper is just 2 inches thick and features CertiPUR-US certified AirFoam, which Nolah claims is cooler than standard memory foam. But we found it only had average cooling effects. Also, while we appreciate the topper’s cover is made with organic cotton and is removable for spot cleaning, we wish it were machine washable. 

Our tester on the Nolah Mattress Topper:

“Given the firm feel, my whole body is kept aloft with light sinking at heavier weight-bearing areas, namely the hips and shoulders.”

Our mattress expert’s take

Who may love it

• Side sleepers who want a firmer mattress topper
• People who want a thinner mattress topper

Who may want to avoid it

• Lighter-weight or average-weight side sleepers may want to avoid the luxury firm and opt for the plush firmness-level topper
• People who want a topper with a machine washable cover

Helix GlacioTex™ Premium Mattress Topper: Best Luxury Mattress Topper

Our expert take on the Helix GlacioTex™ Premium Mattress Topper

With its hybrid construction, two firmness choices, and generous 3.75-inch height, the GlacioTex™ Premium Mattress Topper from Helix can add a luxurious feel to your existing mattress. The topper combines a steel micro coil layer with premium memory foam to support, contour, and distribute body weight to relieve pressure, so it’s a great fit for side sleepers. It comes in luxury plush and luxury firm feels, but the softer option is the better choice for side sleepers, who generally benefit from softer mattresses providing ample cushioning around the hips and shoulders.

The topper has corner straps that help secure it properly to the mattress. It also comes standard with Helix’s GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover, woven with fibers that help wick heat, an excellent feature for hot sleepers.

Another bonus is the lengthy sleep trial—you have 100 nights to test this topper and decide whether it meets your needs.

Our mattress expert’s take

Who may love it

• Hot sleepers
• Side sleepers in search of pressure relief
• Those looking to add a touch of luxury to their existing mattress

Who may want to avoid it

• Side sleepers who prefer a medium feel
• Shoppers on a budget

Layla Memory Foam Topper: Best Cooling Mattress Topper

Our expert take on the Layla Memory Foam Mattress Topper

If your existing mattress feels too hot, a cooling topper may support your sleep by keeping you cool. The Layla Memory Foam Topper features 2 inches of foam infused with copper-based gel to draw heat away from the body. The copper is also antimicrobial, which helps naturally block bacteria. 

Although there’s no scientific evidence copper-infused bedding can help absorb heat from your body while you sleep, some people do report preferring this type of cooling technology over a normal mattress. And while our testers said the cover wasn’t necessarily cool to the couch, during testing we noticed no temperature increases, earning the Layla topper high scores in temperature regulation. Our testers attributed this to the copper gel-infused memory foam.

This topper falls on the softer side, which should please lighter-weight side sleepers or anyone who prefers a plusher mattress feel. But while the cover can be unzipped, it’s not washable.  

Our tester on the Layla Memory Foam Topper:

“Although there was no noticeable cooling when I first touched the surface, I think the copper foam kept my body temperature in check. I didn’t notice any temperature increase while I was testing.”

Our mattress expert’s take

Who may love it

• Lighter-weight side sleepers who want a plush topper
• Anyone looking for a cooling mattress cover

Who may want to avoid it

• Higher-weight sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress topper
• Those who want a machine washable mattress topper

ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper: Best Washable Mattress Topper

Our expert take on the ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper

Spot cleaning your mattress cover can be tedious and labor intensive. If you’d like a mattress topper with a machine washable cover, the ViscoSoft Select High Density topper may fit the bill. This topper is the only memory foam topper on this list that’s machine washable. Memory foam toppers tend to be spot-clean only given memory foam’s ability to soak up water, but the ViscoSoft has a removable cover that can also go through a washing machine.

We found the topper’s medium-firm memory foam contoured to the body during side sleeping, offering nice support and pressure relief. It feels like a gentle hug. The ViscoSoft topper also felt cool during sleep, thanks to the gel-infused memory foam. The topper did have a slight chemical smell when we unboxed it (also called off-gassingⓘ The chemical odor given off from a new mattress; the smell is harmless and is usually gone within the first few days 1), although it disappeared after one week. 

Our tester on the ViscoSoft Select High Density mattress topper:

“The topper’s medium-firm foam molds well around the body, keeping my spine from sinking and pressure points from aching.”

Our mattress expert’s take

Who may love it

• Side sleepers who prefer a medium-firm mattress topper
• Anyone who wants a washable mattress topper
• Hot sleepers who want a cooling topper

Who may want to avoid it

• Side sleepers who prefer more plush mattress toppers
• Those who have a sensitive sense of smell and cannot tolerate the short-term chemical odor

How we test the best mattress toppers for side sleepers

Our testing process consists of researching and comparing mattress topper brands and models, surveying hundreds of topper users, and interviewing sleep experts and medical professionals, including physical therapists, about what to look for in a mattress topper for side sleepers. 

From there, we developed scoring criteria and selected about a dozen models to test due to their competitive pricing, features, and positive customer reviews. 

Testing consists of evaluating each model’s firmness, pressure relief, comfort, and performance and considering what mix of elements makes for a good mattress topper for side sleepers. To learn more about our testing, review our sleep methodology. 

We continuously test new mattress toppers each month to ensure we give you the most up-to-date information possible. We’re always considering new brands and models to bring in for hands-on testing, so check back for updates.

How to choose a mattress topper if you are a side sleeper

When choosing a mattress topper for side sleeping, our experts laid out the following factors to keep in mind. 

Firmness

According to spine and pain management doctor Taher Saifullah, a medium-firm topper is generally best for side sleepers. “[This] provides that sweet spot where it’s soft enough to cushion your shoulders and hips but still firm enough to support your body,” he explained. 

Also, some research links medium-firm mattresses with better sleep quality, improved spinal alignment, and lower back pain. Check out our picks for the best mattresses for back pain for more guidance. 

Pressure relief

“Side sleepers need ample cushioning for shoulders and hips, which bear the most weight,” said physical therapy Bryan Wright. To relieve pressure points, we primarily featured toppers made from materials that cushion and contour to the body, like memory foam. 

Cooling

“Gel-infused memory foam or breathable covers can be great for preventing overheating, which is essential for a good night’s sleep,” said Saifullah. We added toppers with cooling features to our roundup, like graphite-infused memory foam, to help you regulate your body temperature.

How to improve sleep for side sleepers

Once you’ve chosen the right mattress topper, use the following tips to get the most out of your upgraded bed: 

Use the right pillow

In addition to choosing a mattress or topper designed for side sleepers, your pillow can make a difference. “Use a firm pillow that fills the gap between your neck and the mattress to keep your neck in line with your spine,” Saifullah instructed.

Add a hip or body pillow

If you still struggle with pressure when side sleeping, try adding a second pillow between your legs. This gives you something to hug, keeping your arms and shoulders aligned, Wright said. 

Switch sides regularly

According to Saifullah, changing the side you sleep on can help distribute pressure more evenly and prevent pain. If you wake up achy and usually lie on your left side, try sleeping on the opposite side for a few nights to see if it makes a difference. 

Practice good sleep hygiene

Even when you’re equipped with a luxury mattress, mattress topper, pillow, and other sleep accessories, it’s still important to practice good sleep hygiene. 

Simple techniques you can incorporate into your bedtime routine include the following:

• Cool the room. Your body temperature lowers during sleep. Try to keep your bedroom around 67 degrees Fahrenheit to encourage this natural temperature drop.
• Keep a consistent schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends.
• Nix caffeine before bed. Cut off your caffeine intake at least six hours before bed to avoid feeling jittery. 
• Avoid blue light. Put away your electronics, like phones and tablets, at least two hours before bed to avoid blue light exposure. 
• Try meditating. Some research links meditation to better quality sleep, so consider starting a mindfulness practice to unwind before bed. 

Compare the best mattress toppers for side sleepers, as of 2024

Bottom line 

Our choice for the best mattress topper for side sleepers is the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper due to its cooling memory foam surface that counters the body. But other toppers can also provide a good experience for side sleepers, like the firm and supportive Nolah Mattress Topper or the cooling and plush Layla Memory Foam Topper. For the best results, combine your new topper with a high-quality side-sleeping pillow and good sleep hygiene practices. 

To feel comfortable and pain-free when side sleeping, experts we spoke with recommend a bed with a medium-firm feel, good pressure relief, and ample lower back support. If you want a quick way to upgrade your existing mattress, a topper can offer additional comfort at an affordable price. 

If you’re considering a full mattress upgrade, check out our choices for the best mattresses of 2024.

Additional sleep resources

• Best mattress for sciatica
• Best mattress for arthritis
• Best mattress for hip pain
• Best mattress for shoulder pain
• Best mattress for fibromyalgia
• Best pillows for neck pain

Frequently asked questions

What bed firmness is best for side sleepers?

According to our experts, a medium-firm mattress and topper can relieve pressure points in the hips and shoulders (common pressure points for side sleepers) while still supporting the spine.

How thick should a mattress topper be for a side sleeper?

Our experts recommend a mattress topper that’s about 2–4 inches thick to enhance comfort for side sleepers. Consider the overall height of your existing mattress when choosing a topper. If your mattress is low, a taller topper might make it easier to get into bed without squatting down. Or, a shorter mattress topper can offer additional support or comfort without elevating your bed too much.

Does a 2-inch memory foam topper make a difference?

Yes. Our experts say that a memory foam mattress topper with a minimum of 2 inches in thickness can make a positive difference in your sleep quality.

Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

1. Zhang Y, et al. The Relationship between Sleeping Position and Sleep Quality: A Flexible Sensor-Based Study. Sensors (Basel). Aug. 19, 2022. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9416198/ 
2. Caggiari G, et al. What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Dec. 8, 2021. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8655046/
3. Indiana University Northwest. Sleep Hygiene Tips. Found on the internet at https://northwest.iu.edu/counseling-services/resources/sleep-hygiene.html 
4. Rusch HL, et al. The effect of mindfulness meditation on sleep quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Dec. 21, 2018. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6557693/