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Best Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers 2025

We tested mattress toppers to find the best ones for side sleepers. The Nolah Mattress Topper is our overall top pick.

Product Resources
  • Our top pick for the best mattress topper for side sleepers is the Nolah Mattress Topper because of its comfort and accessibility.
  • Queen-sized mattress toppers in this article range from $105–$449.
  • Side sleepers require a mattress topper that maintains proper alignment of the spine, hips, and shoulders.
  • Mattress toppers can be an affordable alternative to purchasing an entirely new mattress.

NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattress toppers to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattress toppers, we: 

  • Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress topper
  • Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
  • Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
  • Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
  • Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
  • Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattress toppers and get their opinion
  • Read thousands of verified customer reviews

We’re constantly testing new mattress toppers and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.

Side sleeping tends to be the most popular sleep position. In our 2025 sleep survey, 66% of respondents said they preferred to sleep on their side.1 Your sleep position can make a difference in your overall sleep health. Studies have shown that it offers positive effects on general sleep quality.2 

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Want to learn more? We did an entire review of the best mattresses for side sleepers.

If you sleep on your side, your mattress should support your shoulders and hips to maintain a neutral and aligned spine. For some people, placing a pillow between their knees can help. But others need more support from their sleep surface. If you don’t want to buy a new mattress, a mattress topper can be a good alternative. The best mattress toppers for side sleepers can sometimes give the benefits of improved sleep without the high price.

In our review, we outline how each topper performed in our tests and help you find the best topper for you.

Our Top Pick

Nolah Mattress Topper

Best Overall
Nolah mattress topper
  • Breathable memory foam
  • Strong edge support for stability


  • Excellent motion isolation
  • Works on all mattress types

Best mattress toppers for side sleepers in 2025

Comparing the best mattress toppers for side sleepers

Comparison Features

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Topper

Visit Sitefor Saatva Graphite Memory Foam TopperSaatva Graphite memory foam topper

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Mattress Topper

Visit Sitefor ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Mattress TopperViscoSoft Reflex Gel memory foam mattress topper

Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper

Visit Sitefor Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress TopperHelix GlacioTex Premium mattress topper

Avocado Eco Organic Latex Mattress Topper

Visit Sitefor Avocado Eco Organic Latex Mattress TopperAvocado Eco Organic mattress topper
Score (out of 10)

9.0

8.7

9.4

8.2

7.9

9.8

Best for

Overall

Luxury

Value

Soft

Firm

Pressure relief

Material

Memory foam

Graphite memory foam

Memory foam

Memory foam and coils

Memory foam

Latex

Thickness (inches)

2

3

2-3

3.75

2

2-3

Firmness

Medium

Medium

Medium

Soft

Firm

Medium

What we look for in a mattress topper for side sleepers

We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattress toppers for side sleepers:

Material type

The type of material influences how well a mattress topper supports and aligns a side sleeper’s shoulders and hips. We looked for toppers made with memory foam or latex, because these tend to be the most responsive. 

Density and firmness

The density and firmness of a mattress topper influence how supportive it is. We looked for medium to medium-firm toppers, as that firmness is the best option for the average sleeper to get high-quality sleep.3 But, we did include a soft and firm option because some people do prefer more or less support based on their needs.

Thickness

A mattress topper that is 2”–4” is typically the most effective for proper spine alignment and pressure relief. We looked for toppers within this range.

Pressure relief and contouring

When you sleep on your side, your shoulders and hips are at risk of pressing too deeply into the mattress topper, which can cause soreness. We looked for mattress toppers that address the specific needs of a side sleeper for proper contouring and pressure relief.

Nolah Mattress Topper

We chose the Nolah Mattress Topper as our Best Overall Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers. Its cushioning memory foam supports the hips and shoulders without letting the spine sag. With its 5/5 score for accessibility and 4/5 for cooling, we think the Nolah is a great all-around option for the average side sleeper.

Our Top Pick

Nolah Mattress Topper

Best Overall
Nolah mattress topper
  • Excellent support for shoulders and hips
  • Strong edges help provide stability
  • Memory foam for great pressure relief
  • Material type: Memory foam and cotton
  • Thickness: 2”
  • Firmness level: Medium-medium firm
  • Cooling: Breathable foam
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: High-density foam for pressure relief

Why we chose Nolah Mattress Topper as the Best Overall

We chose the Nolah Mattress as the Best Overall Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because its high-density foam impressed us. It supports the shoulders and hips while still keeping the spine in alignment. Its strong edge support and cushioning make it easier to change sleep positions or stand up out of bed. 

The memory foam also helps to reduce movement, making this mattress topper a good choice for people who sleep with a partner or pet. We believe the Nolah is a good all-around option for the average side sleeper.

Nolah Mattress Topper pros and cons

Pros

  • Cushioning high-density memory foam
  • Excellent edge support
  • Great motion isolation (movement won’t wake partner)

Cons

  • Higher cost
  • Not very responsive

Our testing experience with the Nolah Mattress Topper

Our first impression of the Nolah mattress topper was that the materials were of high quality and comfortable. “This mattress topper has a quilted blanket-type cover that is soft and feels like a nice little added extra layer of comfort,” one tester said.

When our testers lay down, they found the topper to be supportive. “This air foam design did a good job of cradling me but not slowing my movements when switching positions,” one tester said. This is important for side and combination sleepers—people who primarily sleep on their side but may switch positions throughout the night—because memory foam can suck you in and make it harder to move.

A person lying on their side on the Nolah mattress topper
Our testers liked how supportive the Nolah mattress topper was when they slept on their sides.

We especially liked that this topper worked well no matter the type of mattress it was placed on. “This topper feels amazing on both the soft and firm mattress,” one tester said. When testers tried the Nolah on a softer mattress, they said the Nolah “felt really plush while also giving me amazing pressure relief.” When they tried it on a firmer mattress, testers said it offered “good support without compromising spinal alignment by being too soft.” Some toppers only work on a hard mattress, but the fact that the Nolah works well on both soft and firm mattresses makes it a more versatile choice.

A woman sitting on the edge of the Nolah mattress topper
Our testers thought the Nolah had excellent edge support.

But the Nolah did earn a 2/5 for responsiveness, meaning it has very little bounce. If you’re someone who likes a little bounce to help you change positions in bed, you might not enjoy this topper.

Nolah customer experience

  • Trial period: 30 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime
  • Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Nolah customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 866-403-6615, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT
  • Email: support@nolahmattress.com
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT 

Payment options 

Nolah accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Topper

We chose the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper as our Best Luxury Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because its high-end construction and luxurious feel make it a supportive and comfortable addition for side sleepers. Plus, Saatva’s impressive customer service makes this topper a great choice for people looking for that extra personal touch.

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam

Best Luxury Topper
Saatva Graphite memory foam topper
  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Cushioning memory foam supports hips and shoulders
  • Cooling graphite keeps you from getting too hot
  • Material type: Memory foam with graphite
  • Thickness: 3”
  • Firmness level: Medium
  • Cooling: Graphite
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Memory foam offers spinal support

Why we chose the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam as the Best Luxury Topper for Side Sleepers

We chose the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam as the Best Luxury Topper for Side Sleepers due to its impressive cushioning and supportive material. These qualities make it a great choice if you like to sleep on your side. You can also enjoy Saatva’s high-end perks, such as a long trial period and excellent customer service.

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam pros and cons

Pros

  • Supportive for side sleeping
  • Cooling graphite helps keep you from getting too hot
  • Long trial period (180 nights)

Cons

  • Topper may not fit on the mattress perfectly, leaving gaps
  • Shorter warranty (one year) than other brands

Our testing experience with the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam

When we tested the Saatva Graphite memory foam topper, we liked how high-quality and plush the memory foam and its cover felt. A topper like this one is an easier way to make your current bedroom setup feel more luxe without having to buy an entirely new mattress.

Our testers lay down and immediately noted that the Saatva was comfortable and luxurious. “The cover is a very soft cotton blend and feels high quality,” one tester said. “The foam itself is pretty plush and very responsive.”

A woman lying on her side on the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam topper
Our testers couldn’t help but take naps during testing on the super-comfortable Saatva topper.

Testers also found the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam topper to be supportive and accessible. “It's very easy to switch positions,” one tester said. “There is a bouncy feel to it that pops you up as you move from your side to your back. I feel like I am being hugged by the mattress, not like I am sinking or on top of the mattress itself.” For side sleepers, this responsiveness can make it easier to roll onto your back and stomach. But even if you stay on your side, testers said they felt the right amount of cushion and support without their spines becoming misaligned. And although the Saatva topper worked well on both a soft and firm mattress, testers preferred it on a firm mattress. “It gave the perfect amount of pressure relief in my shoulders and neck, without making me feel stuck in the mattress,” one tester said.

A hand pressing into the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam topper
The Saatva mattress topper is responsive and plush.

We did notice the Saatva doesn’t perfectly fit on a mattress, leaving one-inch gaps on the edges. This might be annoying if you sleep close to the edge.

For more information on Saatva, see our Saatva mattress review.

The Saatva customer experience

  • Trial period: 180 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited 1-year
  • Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Saatva customer service by:

Payment options
Saatva accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Saatva offers a $225 discount on purchases of $1,000 or more to adults age 65 and older, military members and their families, first responders, health care professionals, government employees, teachers, and college students. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Mattress Topper: Best Value

We chose the ViscoSoft Reflex as our Best Value Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because it offers excellent shoulder and neck support for a much lower price than other toppers on our list. It also earned a 4.5/5 for pressure relief, making it a great option for older adults with chronic pain.

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Mattress Topper

Best Value
ViscoSoft Reflex Gel memory foam mattress topper
  • Great pressure relief for side sleepers
  • The most affordable topper on our list by $140
  • Adjustable straps for a snug fit
  • Material type: Memory foam
  • Thickness: 2”–3”
  • Firmness level: Medium
  • Cooling: Gel-infused foam
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Supportive memory foam

Why we chose the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel as the Best Value for Side Sleepers

We chose the ViscoSoft Reflect Gel as the Best Value Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because it combines excellent hip and shoulder support (common pressure points for side sleepers) with an affordable price. ViscoSoft offers the lowest price on this list by about $140, while still providing great support and pressure relief. 

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel pros and cons

Pros

  • Lowest price on this list
  • Excellent edge support
  • Lightweight and easier to move

Cons

  • Not very responsive
  • Tends to trap heat

Our testing experience with the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel

Our testers were impressed by the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel’s comfortable and supportive materials. “The gel foam is very responsive to pressure but takes a minute to snap back to its original shape,” one tester said. This is great for people who move while they sleep. Yet memory foam might not be right for you if you don’t like having to wait for it to soften after you’ve moved.

A hand pressing into the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel mattress topper
The ViscoSoft mattress topper is made with memory foam, which gently contours to sleepers’ bodies, providing plush comfort.

Testers were also pleasantly surprised by the stability of this topper’s edges. “This topper has fantastic edge support with the firm foam,” one tester said. “I was expecting the high conforming nature of this foam to cause some issues with bottoming out on the edge, but it remained very supportive.” 

This is likely due to the ViscoSoft topper’s unique design. Most mattress toppers attach to the bed using straps. The ViscoSoft Reflex Gel acts like a fitted sheet—you place the topper over the entire mattress, rather than using straps. Testers said this makes the ViscoSoft topper easier to remove. “The topper fits really well on the bed and I actually love the protective fitted sheet instead of typical straps or no straps,” said one tester. “It's nice because it’s easily removable to wash, and it holds the topper in place really well.”

A person lifting the corner of a sheet to show the ViscoSoft mattress topper
A fitted sheet keeps the ViscoSoft topper secured to the mattress.

This makes the ViscoSoft a great choice if you need help standing up from bed. But it did earn one of our lowest cooling scores (2/5), so you could be uncomfortable if you run hot or live in a warmer climate.

ViscoSoft customer experience

  • Trial period: 90-day
  • Shipping: Free delivery
  • Warranty: 5-year warranty
  • Financing: Yes, through AfterPay

Customer service

You can contact VIscoSoft customer service by:

Payment options
ViscoSoft accepts most major credit cards, as well as GPay, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and ShopPay.

Helix GlacioTexTM Premium Topper: Best Soft Topper for Side Sleepers

We chose the Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper as the Best Soft Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers. Its unique combination of memory foam and innerspring coils provides plush comfort. It also provides excellent support for the shoulders and hips. This topper is great for people who like a softer sleep experience (it’s the softest on our list).

Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper

Best Soft Topper
Helix GlacioTex Premium mattress topper
  • Unique combination of memory foam and innerspring coils
  • Soft and plush sleep surface
  • Comfortable support for side sleepers
  • Material type: Memory foam and steel microcoils
  • Thickness: 3.75”
  • Firmness level: Soft
  • Cooling: Cooling cover
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Coils for pressure relief

Why we chose the Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper as the Best Soft Topper for Side Sleepers

The Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper is our Best Soft Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because its unique innerspring layer provides the hip and shoulder support that a soft mattress topper often lacks. The Helix GlacioTex is the softest topper on this list, but it doesn’t sacrifice support for plushness. The coils help to minimize pressure buildup and distribute weight evenly.

Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper pros and cons

Pros

  • Innerspring coils support hips and shoulders
  • Cooling fabric
  • Plush memory foam

Cons

  • Most expensive on this list by $50
  • Edges could be stronger

Our testing experience with the Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper

When we tested the Helix GlacioTex Premium Topper, we liked that the topper was truly plush and soft. “This 3.75-inch topper feels soft, cooling, and luxurious,” one tester said. This soft feel is most likely because the Helix is the thickest topper on our list (others on this list range from 2–3 inches).

A woman lying on her side on the Helix mattress topper
Testers said the innerspring coils made this topper extra comfortable in the side sleeping position.

After lying on their sides, our testers thought the Helix’s innersprings offered great support. “I felt great pressure relief in my lower back and the topper gently hugged my body,” one tester said. “In every position: side, back, and stomach, my body felt supported, comfortable, and pressure relief was a 10/10.”

This makes the Helix a great option if you tend to wake up sore. The soft feel is great if you prefer a more plush sleep experience. But since the Helix GlacioTex is so soft, it’s not a great option to use on soft mattresses. “Putting this on a soft mattress felt amazing at first, but didn’t offer enough support. My body was completely stuck in the mattress and did not have good spinal alignment,” one tester said. “But with a firm mattress, this topper performed amazingly and really helped relieve pressure when I was lying on my side.”

A woman sitting on the side of the Helix mattress topper
Though the Helix topper was a tester favorite, the team agreed it lacked strong edge support.

It’s worth noting that this is the softest and thickest topper on this list. A thicker topper does increase your mattress’s overall height, which may cause your feet to hang instead of touching the floor. Testers also noted that the edges could be stronger and rated it a 3/5 for edge support. If you have mobility issues, a thinner topper could be a better choice.

For more information on Helix, see our Helix mattress review.

Helix customer experience

  • Trial period: 100 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime
  • Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Helix customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 831-777-5976, available Monday through Friday from 12–6 p.m. ET
  • Text: Texting HELIX to 67069, available Monday through Friday from 12–6 p.m. ET
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
  • Email: help@helixsleep.com
  • Website: Submit a contact form

Payment options
Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay. 

Layla Mattress Topper: Best Firm Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers

We chose the Layla mattress topper as our Best Firm Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers because the dense foam provides a firmer sleep surface that supports the shoulders and hips. If you have a softer mattress and need more support, the Layla could be a good choice for you.

Layla

Best Firm Topper
Layla memory foam topper
  • Firm memory foam for support and cushioning
  • Good edge support
  • Makes changing sleep positions easier
  • Material type: Copper-infused memory foam
  • Thickness: 2”
  • Firmness level: Firm
  • Cooling: Breathable fabric
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Copper-infused memory foam provides lasting spinal support

Why we chose Layla Mattress Topper as the Best Firm Topper for Side Sleepers

The Layla is our Best Firm Topper for Side Sleepers because it offers a truly firm sleep experience. It offers enough give to help cradle and support the shoulders and hips while being the firmest topper on our list. The high-density foam makes it a great choice for those with a mattress that needs more support.

Layla Mattress Topper pros and cons

Pros

  • Durable copper-infused foam
  • Strong edges
  • Easier to change sleep positions

Cons

  • Doesn’t work as well on a firm mattress
  • Tends to trap heat

Our testing experience with Layla Mattress Topper 

The Layla mattress topper’s dense foam construction impressed our testers with its support and cushioning for their shoulders and hips. “It’s very easy to change positions due to how firm the topper is,” one tester said. “It does not have any bounciness to it, so it doesn't feel like I am being sucked in.”

A heat gun pointed at the Layla mattress topper
Though cozy, the Layla topper trapped heat. People who sleep hot should choose a different topper on this list.

When testers put the Layla topper on a soft mattress, they were able to feel all the benefits. “This topper felt much better to me on a soft mattress,” one tester said. “I could feel more support and sinkage in my hips and shoulders, which allowed for more contour in my lower back. Putting this topper on a soft mattress actually gave it that memory foam feeling and support.”

For someone with mobility issues, a firm topper like this may make it easier to move around and get up during the night. You won’t feel like you’re ‘fighting’ the topper to turn over or stand up. “The edge support is really good on this topper,” one tester said. “I do not feel like I would slide off when sitting or laying down on the edge.”

A person lifting the corner of the Layla mattress topper
Our testers liked that the Layla mattress topper had the brand’s signature hexagonal fabric. Small touches like that go a long way in making a topper feel special.

If you like a truly firm sleep experience, or if you have a softer mattress without the right amount of support, the Layla might be right for you. But if you already have a firm mattress, the Layla could be uncomfortable. And the Layla earned our lowest cooling score (1/5) so you might be better off with a different topper if you sleep hot or live somewhere warm.

For more support, try pairing a Layla topper with a Layla pillow. For more information, see the best pillows for back pain (where Layla is our best pick overall).

Layla customer experience

  • Trial period: 30 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: 5 years
  • Financing: Yes

Customer service

You can contact Layla customer service by:

  • Phone: 855-358-1676
  • Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7

Payment options 

Layla accepts major credit cards, Amazon Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Avocado Eco Organic Topper: Best Pressure Relief for Side Sleepers

We chose the Avocado Eco Organic as our Best Pressure Relief Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers. Its latex material is supportive and provides excellent pressure relief and cushioning for the shoulders and hips. The Avocado Eco Organic Topper could be a great alternative to a new mattress if you have chronic pain.

Avocado Eco Organic

Best for Pressure Relief
Avocado Eco Organic mattress topper
  • Excellent pressure relief for the shoulders and hips
  • High-quality and organic materials
  • Strong edges and stable surface make this topper more accessible
  • Material type: Latex
  • Thickness: 2”-3”
  • Firmness level: Plush or Medium
  • Cooling: Breathable latex
  • Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Talalay latex for pressure relief

Why we chose Avocado Eco Organic Topper as the Best Pressure Relief Topper for Side Sleepers

We chose the Avocado Eco Organic Topper as the Best Pressure Relief Topper for Side Sleepers because we think the latex materials provide superior pressure relief for the hips and shoulders. The Avocado earned a near-perfect pain relief score of 4.75/5 and provides a mixture of impressive pressure relief with plush comfort.

Avocado Eco Organic Topper pros and cons

Pros

  • Excellent pressure relief
  • Eco-friendly materials
  • Supportive, comfortable, and cooling

Cons

  • Not suitable for people with a latex allergy
  • May trap heat

Our testing experience with the Avocado Eco Organic Topper

When we tested the Avocado Eco Organic Topper, our testers were immediately impressed by its comfortable feel. “This topper is pretty amazing. My first impression is the latex bouncy feel and the soft organic cover feels like no other topper I’ve tried,” one tester said. “The topper has this amazing sinkage to it, but immediate responsiveness at the same time. It feels breathable, cool, soft, bouncy, and I am an immediate fan.”

That mixture of sinkage and responsiveness can help relieve pressure but also make it easier to change positions in bed.

A woman lying on her stomach on the Avocado mattress topper
Side and stomach sleepers will appreciate the support of the Avocado.

The Avocado’s superior pressure relief helps to minimize pain while you sleep. As a side sleeper, it’s especially important to make sure your shoulders and hips are supported. Testers weren’t shy about how well this topper helps ease pressure. “This topper felt like heaven on a firm or soft mattress,” one tester said. “On each bed, I felt great support, spinal alignment, and my body felt weightless. The latex design lifts my body in alignment but allows that nice sinkage where I almost felt weightless. This topper is truly in a league of its own.”

Plus, the highly supportive latex may make this topper a great option for people with mobility issues. “Changing positions on this topper was a breeze,” one tester said. “The latex design creates a bouncy surface that springs you out of each position.”

Our testers also noted that the Avocado improved the edge support of their current mattress. “The cover keeps you in place and the latex helps lift you out of the bed,” one tester said. “I didn't feel like I would slide off or bottom out through the materials like with other toppers.” This can help if you feel like your mattress has lost some of its structure over time. We appreciated how accessible and supportive this mattress is for side sleepers who may also require a bit of extra support when rising to stand.

A woman sitting on the side of the Avocado mattress topper, lifting its corner
The Avocado topper feels very plush to the touch.

If you have a latex allergy, this topper might not be suitable for you. Also, this topper may not be great for hot sleepers. It earned a 3/5 for cooling. While slightly above average, if your main concern is a cooling topper, this one might not be for you.

Avocado customer experience

  • Trial period: 100 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: 1-year
  • Financing: Yes

Customer service

You can contact Avocado customer service by:

Payment options 

Avocado accepts most major credit cards as well as PayPal, ShopPay, Amazon Pay, and GPay. You can finance through Affirm or ShopPay, or use your FSA/HSA to pay through Sika.

Our process testing the best mattress toppers for side sleepers 

Our team has spent thousands of hours testing mattresses, pillows, and mattress toppers to find the best ones for older adults. We consider the features such as spinal support, pain relief, cooling, and motion isolation. You can find our guide to the best mattress for side sleepers here.

Spinal alignment support 

Our testers lay on the mattress toppers on their sides and made note of any pressure buildup in their shoulders or hips—two common places for pain and pressure buildup in the side sleeping position. We noted any misalignment or sinkage. For more information, see our review of the best mattress for shoulder pain.

Support under lower back and hips

We measured how well the mattress toppers supported our lower backs and hips. Lack of support in these areas can result in back pain when you wake up. For more information, see our review of the best mattresses for back pain and the best mattresses for hip pain.

Pain and pressure relief

We monitored the amount of pressure buildup during a full night’s sleep while sleeping on our sides. Mattress toppers that don’t distribute weight evenly and properly support the spine tend to result in more soreness and aches over time.

Firmness and responsiveness

We tested how responsive the mattress topper was by evaluating how quickly the mattress topper bounces back after lying down. A responsive mattress is important for people who change positions during the night or who may have trouble turning over easily.

Why side sleepers need a specific kind of mattress topper

Side sleepers are unique in that most of their weight is on their shoulders and hips while lying down. Because of this, they need a mattress topper that helps to distribute their weight while still keeping the spine aligned. Otherwise, they risk putting extra pressure on their lower back and waking up with back pain or soreness.

Side sleepers can also experience numbness from sleeping on top of their arm. The right mattress topper has enough sinkage to provide some relief to the arm.

What to look for in a mattress topper for side sleepers

When looking for a mattress topper for side sleepers, you should consider the following features:

Material type

The right material is important for a comfortable and supportive sleep experience. For a side sleeper, look for memory foam or latex. Memory foam is the most contouring material, which is great for providing support to the shoulders and hips. Latex is a good choice if you prefer something organic or eco-conscious. For more information, see the best memory foam mattress.

Thickness

Any topper that is 2”–4” could work for a side sleeper. Generally, the thicker the topper, the better, since you’ll need extra cushioning for your shoulders and hips.

Firmness

A medium-soft to medium-firm mattress topper is typically best for pressure relief without causing your spine to sag or arch.3 If you’re a lighter-weight sleeper, you might want something slightly softer. And a higher-weight sleeper might want something more firm.

Pressure relief performance

A mattress topper that evenly distributes your weight from shoulders to hips can help with pain relief by reducing pressure buildup in a given area.

Zoning or ergonomic shaping

Some mattress toppers feature targeted zones to provide extra support for specific areas, such as the shoulders or hips. That extra support can help prevent pressure from building up.

Cooling features

Materials like gel, graphite, copper, or breathable fabric all contribute to helping reduce heat retention and keeping you cool at night.

Certifications

Look for CertiPUR-US®, OEKO-TEX®, and GOTS/GOLS labels if you want to make sure you’re purchasing an organic or eco-friendly topper.

Trial & return policy

Risk-free trials and simple return policies make it easier to feel good about purchasing a mattress topper to try out in your home. Look for a minimum 30-day free trial period (trial periods on this list range from 30–180 nights) to ensure you have enough time to decide whether it improves your sleep.

How much do the best mattress toppers for side sleepers cost?

The mattress toppers in our guide range between $105–$449 for a queen size. When choosing the right one for your budget, consider other benefits or perks being offered, such as a long trial period or free returns.

Comparison Features

Nolah Mattress Topper

Nolah mattress topper

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Topper

Saatva Graphite memory foam topper

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Mattress Topper

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel memory foam mattress topper

Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper

Helix GlacioTex Premium mattress topper

Layla Mattress Topper

Layla memory foam topper

Avocado Eco Organic Latex Mattress Topper

Avocado Eco Organic mattress topper
Price range

$449

$295

$105

$498

$249

$219

Shipping costs

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

Warranty

Limited lifetime

1 year, limited

5 years

Limited lifetime

5 years

1 year

Trial period (nights)

120

180

90

100

30

100

Return fees

None

None

None

None

None

None

How to save money on mattress toppers

The easiest way to save money on a mattress topper is to buy it while it’s on sale. Look for seasonal specials such as Memorial Day or the 4th of July. Sometimes, companies offer first-time buyer discounts or coupons when you sign up for their email list.

Frequently asked questions

What mattress topper thickness is best for side sleepers?

Mattress toppers between 2”–4” are the best thickness for side sleepers, because this range cushions the shoulders and hips.

Is a memory foam or latex mattress topper better for side sleepers?

Both memory foam and latex are good choices for side sleepers. It depends on your personal preference.

Can a mattress topper fix a mattress that’s too firm?

Yes, a softer mattress topper can fix a mattress that’s too firm.

What firmness is ideal for pressure relief at the hips?

Medium-firm is typically the best firmness for pressure relief at the hips.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org

Sources

  1. NCOA. Pain and Position Sleep Survey. 300 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched March 2025
  2. 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://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9416198/
  3. Radwan, A., et al. Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials. Sleep Health. December 2015. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352721815001400

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