The Best Pillows for Sleep Apnea: Tested in 2025
We tested pillows that can help ease sleep apnea symptoms. Our top pick is the Luxome LAYR.
- The Luxome LAYR is our top pick because its unique mix-and-match interior layers help to prop you up so you can breathe more easily.
- The pillows in this review range from $109–$150.
- Pillows that provide lift to the head, neck, and shoulders may help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
- Pillows designed for side sleeping are also key, because side sleeping is the preferred position for sleep apnea.
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 pillows to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best pillows, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best pillow
- 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 pillows and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new pillows and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.
Luxome LAYR Pillow: Best Overall
- Adjustable firmness and height
- Supports neck and shoulders to promote open airways
- Three inner layers you can mix and match
Layla Kapok Pillow: Best for Back Pain
- Higher loft helps prop up head
- Helps relieve pressure on back
- Great for side sleepers
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow: Best for Neck Pain
- Ergonomic design helps promote open airways
- Helps keep spine aligned and neck supported
- Special contoured design can help ease neck pain
If you find yourself waking up exhausted even after a full night’s sleep, you might have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a potentially serious disorder in which your breathing repeatedly starts and stops.1 We become much more likely to develop sleep apnea as we grow older—some studies estimate that at least 56% of people 65 and older are at risk. The condition usually occurs when the throat muscles relax and close the airway while sleeping.2
Your doctor should always be your first stop when you have concerns about sleep apnea. But you may also help ease some of its symptoms by using the right pillow at night. The best pillow for sleep apnea is supportive and keeps your head, neck, and shoulders slightly propped up. These features can help to keep the airway clear and encourage a better seal with your CPAP mask, if you wear one.
In our review of the best pillows for sleep apnea, we highlight our top picks, explain what makes a pillow good for sleep apnea, and how to find the right one for you.
Best pillows for sleep apnea in 2025
- Luxome LAYR Customizable Pillow: Best Overall Pillow for Sleep Apnea
- Layla Kapok Pillow: Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Back Pain
- TEMPUR-Pedic Neck Pillow: Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Neck Pain
Comparing the best pillows for sleep apnea
| Comparison Features | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10)* | 9.3 |
9.7 |
8.1 |
| Best for | Overall |
Back Pain |
Neck Pain |
| Fill material | Down alternative and memory foam |
Memory foam |
Memory foam |
| Loft/Adjustability | Adjustable; 9.5'' |
Adjustable; 7'' |
Different sizes available; 3.5–4.75” |
| CPAP-compatibility | Yes, adjustable |
Yes, adjustable |
Yes, ergonomic design promotes open airways |
| Trial period | 30 |
30 |
None |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score
What we look for in a pillow for sleep apnea
We looked for the following features when choosing the best pillows for sleep apnea:
Spinal alignment support
A pillow should help maintain the natural curve of the spine, especially at the neck and upper back. That way, you can align your spine and reduce pressure buildup while propping your head up to promote airflow.
Adjustability
People with sleep apnea often benefit from adjusting their pillow height and firmness to suit their preferred angle and CPAP mask design.
Loft (height)
Loft is the pillow’s height. The right loft will keep your head and neck aligned with your spine. People with sleep apnea tend to benefit from a higher loft because it keeps the head propped up. A higher loft can also make it easier to fit your CPAP mask and tube under or next to the pillow.
Firmness level
The right firmness balances comfort and structural support for your head, neck, and upper back.
Luxome LAYR: Best Overall Pillow for Sleep Apnea
The Luxome LAYR is our Best Overall Pillow for Sleep Apnea pick because of its unique mix-and-match inner layers. This design makes it easier for you to create a customized loft and firmness that best fits your sleep needs. With the Luxome LAYR, you can tailor the pillow to help keep your head and neck elevated, providing a better seal with your CPAP mask.
- Three inner layers you can mix and match
- Adjustable firmness and loft to fit CPAP mask or prop up your head
- Helps support neck and shoulders
- CPAP compatibility: Yes, adjustable loft
- Fill material: Down alternative and memory foam
- Adjustability and loft: Adjustable; 9.5''
- Firmness level: Adjustable
- Free trial period: 30 nights
- Cooling: Gel-infused foam, breathable fabric
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Why we chose the Luxome LAYR as the Best Overall Pillow for Sleep Apnea
The Luxome LAYR earned our top spot as the Best Overall Pillow for Sleep Apnea due to its highly customizable design. This makes it a good choice for someone looking to tailor their pillow to their CPAP mask’s design or prop their head up comfortably to help ease symptoms. The LAYR also provides excellent neck and shoulder support for side sleeping. Research shows side sleeping is widely considered the best sleeping position for someone with sleep apnea.3
Luxome LAYR pros and cons
Pros
- Three inner layers make this pillow highly customizable
- Excellent support for side sleeping
- Adjustable to your preferences or CPAP mask design
- High loft helps prop up head and neck
Cons
- Takes some testing to find the right combination
- Shorter trial period (30 nights)
- Traps heat
Our testing experience with the Luxome LAYR
When we tested the Luxome LAYR, our testers were impressed by the three distinct interior layers and how easily they could be mixed and matched. “This is the easiest and most customizable pillow I’ve tested,” one tester said. “I’ve never seen a combination of material choices inside the case to provide the support it does. I loved the materials and the design.”
The Luxome LAYR has a soft down-alternative layer, a medium-firm layer of shredded memory foam, and a third firm layer of cooling memory foam. Our testers found that this pillow can be easily adjusted for supportive side sleeping. “I liked taking out the larger memory foam piece to lower the loft of the pillow for my neck and shoulders,” one tester said. “That made it good for lying on my side. I also removed the two memory foam inserts, so it was plush, which made it more comfortable on my stomach.”
Sleepers looking for a higher pillow to prop up their head might appreciate the LAYR’s higher loft (9.5”), which is the highest height on this list (others range from 3.5–7”). Some studies suggest that specially designed pillows or head-positioning devices may help reduce snoring and improve sleep apnea symptoms, though results vary depending on the device.4 The same study found that “[Neck] positioning, such as head extension with a pillow, can provide a simple, noninvasive, and comfortable means of reducing sleep-disordered breathing” in people with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Propping your head up may help to prevent your tongue and soft palate from falling backward and blocking your airway.
If you sleep in one position, the Luxome LAYR could be a good choice for you. But if you shift positions throughout the night, you might not like that the pillow isn’t very responsive. In that case, you may prefer a pillow made of only one layer, such as the Layla Kapok. The LAYR also trapped the most heat during our testing. While the average temperature change was 12.5 degrees, the LAYR increased by 17 degrees. So you may not enjoy this pillow if you’re a hot sleeper.
For more information on side sleeping, see our review of the best mattresses for side sleepers. And for more information on an adjustable sleeping experience, see our review of the best adjustable beds.
Luxome LAYR customer experience
- Trial period: 30 days
- Shipping: Free standard
- Warranty: Limited
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Luxome customer service by:
- Email: support@luxome.com
Payment options
Luxome accepts all major credit cards as well as Shop Pay, AmazonPay, PayPal, and Google Pay. It offers financing through Affirm.
Layla Kapok: Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Back Pain
The Layla Kapok pillow is our Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Back Pain. We found its mix of support and softness helps to minimize pressure buildup along the neck, shoulders, and spine. The Layla Kapok is excellent for side sleeping, and its high, adjustable loft can make it easier to prop up your head or customize it for your CPAP mask.
- Extremely supportive and helps relieve pressure on the back
- Adjustable loft and responsive
- Sleeps cool
- CPAP compatibility: Yes, adjustable loft
- Fill material: Shredded memory foam and kapok fibers
- Adjustability and loft: Removable fill, 7''
- Firmness level: Adjustable firmness
- Free trial period: 30 nights
- Cooling: Breathable cover
- Shape: Traditional rectangle
Why we chose the Layla Kapok as the Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Back Pain
The Layla Kapok is our Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Back Pain, as it provides the necessary neck and spine support to help prevent pressure buildup and minimize pain. Its higher, adjustable loft can make it easier to customize for your CPAP mask. The Layla Kapok is especially good for side sleeping, which is recommended for maintaining clear airways.5
Layla Kapok pros and cons
Pros
- Great at keeping spine aligned
- Minimizes pressure buildup
- Elevates head and neck for better CPAP mask seal
Cons
- Shorter trial period (30 nights)
- Some may prefer a firmer pillow
- Limited ways to contact customer service
Our testing experience with the Layla Kapok
When our testers received their Layla Kapok pillows, they were impressed by the high-quality look and feel. “This is a very well put together pillow,” one tester said. “It has cooling and breathable properties, which I notice as soon as I put my head on the pillow.”
The Layla Kapok pillow is both supportive and responsive. It keeps the spine in a neutral position, which reduces pressure buildup. “I felt really comfortable as soon as I lay down on my side, and my neck and shoulders were aligned with my spine even though you sank quite a bit into the pillow,” one tester said.
Testers said the Layla Kapok pillow was soft, but still supportive. “Even though this pillow is pretty soft, it still has good support,” one tester said. “When I was on my back the sides of the pillow came up and hugged around my neck and allowed for more support.” That feature can benefit those with sleep apnea. Our testers reported that the Layla Kapok supported and propped up their heads without creating pressure on their necks.
“I didn’t feel any strain on my back or neck,” another tester said. If you have back pain and sleep apnea, the Layla Kapok may help address both issues.
Caption: The Layla’s shredded interior can be removed for a customized loft.
Plus, the Layla Kapok was extremely breathable. While the other pillows we tested heated up about 12.5 degrees, the Layla’s temperature only increased by 10.4 degrees. This makes the Layla a great choice for hot sleepers or those living in warm climates.
Although testers said the Layla Kapok was soft yet supportive, some people (like higher-weight testers) may prefer a firmer pillow. Also, the Layla Kapok pillow has a shorter 30-night trial period (like the Luxome LAYR).
For more information on sleeping with back pain, see our review of the best pillows for back pain and the best mattresses for back pain.
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.
TEMPUR-Neck: Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Neck Pain
We chose the TEMPUR-Neck pillow as our Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Neck Pain. Its contoured design is created specifically to keep the neck, shoulders, and spine aligned. It follows the natural curve of your head and neck to provide support, prevent pressure buildup, and help keep your airway open. This neck pillow (also known as a “cervical pillow”) comes in three sizes and works well for both side and back sleeping.
- Helps keep the neck aligned in a neutral position
- Can help promote an open airway
- Special contoured design for reducing neck pain
- Comes in three sizes for different heights
- CPAP compatibility: Yes, ergonomic design promotes open airways
- Fill material: Tempur-Pedic memory foam
- Adjustability and loft: Not adjustable; 3.5–4.75”
- Firmness level: Medium-firm
- Free trial period: None
- Cooling: Cooling memory foam
- Shape: Contoured
Why we chose the TEMPUR-Neck as the Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Neck Pain
We chose the TEMPUR-Neck as the Best Sleep Apnea Pillow for Neck Pain because of its unique contoured design. The pillow is crafted to support the neck, minimize pain, and promote open airways. We liked that the TEMPUR-Neck comes in three sizes to tailor to a person’s specific height, and that it is supportive for side sleeping with sleep apnea.
TEMPUR-Neck pros and cons
Pros
- Contoured neck support for open airways
- Helps keep the neck, shoulders, and spine aligned
- Designed for side sleeping
Cons
- No free trial period
- Choosing the incorrect size for your height might be uncomfortable
- Some people might find it too firm
Our testing experience with the TEMPUR-Neck
The TEMPUR-Neck is a specially contoured pillow designed to keep pressure from building up in the neck and shoulders. We found this pillow to suit those with sleep apnea who might have difficulty finding a pillow to prop their head up without straining their neck.
“This is a pillow that is meant to help support your neck and shoulders throughout the night, but it takes a minute to adjust into a comfortable position,” one tester said. The TEMPUR-Neck comes in three sizes that are designed for different heights. You are meant to measure the distance between your neck and shoulder and then choose the pillow that aligns with that measurement for the best fit. If you choose a pillow that’s too large or small, you might find that it doesn’t feel comfortable. But the right size may help keep your neck in the right position and reduce any pain.
For people who sleep with CPAP masks, the TEMPUR-Neck’s unique shape could be useful for placing your device and hose into a comfortable position. The way the pillow lifts your head is also great for encouraging a better seal with your mask.
The TEMPUR-Neck pillow does not offer a free trial period (unlike the Luxome LAYR and Layla Kapok, which both have a 30-day free trial period). You’ll need to choose the right size (small, medium, or large) or risk discomfort. Tempur-Pedic doesn’t accept pillow returns or exchanges unless there’s a manufacturer's defect or it was damaged during delivery. So you could choose the wrong size but have no way to exchange or return it.
The TEMPUR-Neck is also the only non-customizable pillow on this list, so you’ll need to measure and make sure you order the right size.
For more information on sleeping with neck pain, see our review of the best mattress for neck pain.
TEMPUR-Neck customer experience
- Trial period: None
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 5-year limited
- Financing: Yes
Customer service
You can contact TEMPUR customer service by:
- Phone: 888-811-5053
- Email: Available on the website
- Live chat: Available on the website
Payment options
TEMPUR-Pedic accepts most major credit cards. They also offer their own credit card for qualifying buyers. TEMPUR-Pedic offers financing for purchases that are $1,000 or more.
Our process testing the best pillows for sleep apnea
Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses, pillows, and other sleep accessories so you can feel confident in our reviews. We work with experts in sleep, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, so we know what features are most important when searching for the best pillows for sleep apnea.
For this review, we personally tested 15 pillows identified through our research to help ease sleep apnea symptoms. Each pillow was put through rigorous testing by older adults to ensure we have real-world data about how they perform.
We considered these important factors when testing the best pillows for sleep apnea:
Spinal alignment support
For people with sleep apnea, it can help to use a pillow that props you up without causing extra strain on your head, neck, and shoulders. We noted which pillows elevated your head without putting your spine out of alignment.
Pressure relief
The extra elevation needed for clearer airways can increase pressure buildup in the head, neck, and shoulders. We tested each pillow to make sure that it still provided the right amount of relief from pressure and pain.
Loft retention and height adjustments
If your pillow thins in height (also known as “loft”) over time, your CPAP mask may not fit as well, or your snoring may increase. We tested the pillows to make sure that they retained their loft over multiple nights.
Firmness and responsiveness
We tested the responsiveness of the pillow by evaluating how quickly it bounces back. This is particularly important for those who may want to adjust their pillow to fit the correct shape around their CPAP equipment.
How pillow choice affects sleep apnea
It might not seem like your sleep apnea symptoms can be affected by something as small as a pillow. But recent research has shown that the right pillow not only helps reduce sleep apnea symptoms but can also improve the overall quality of your sleep.6 This study found that a specific memory-foam pillow about 6” high reduced snoring and awakenings compared to a laboratory pillow, although more research is needed (the study didn’t show improvement in overall sleep apnea severity and didn’t test pillow height as a variable).
The pillows in this list have a range of loft from 3.5–9.5” and are all made with memory foam.
There’s a strong connection between your sleep and your health, so it’s important to try to get the best night’s rest you can.
For more information on ways you can get restful, restorative sleep, see our review of the best mattresses for older adults.
Best sleeping position for sleep apnea
The best sleeping position for sleep apnea is usually on your side.3 The experts we talked with agree: “Side sleeping is often the best way to breathe well,” said Steve Carstensen, DDS, a dentist and sleep expert at the Center for TMJ and Sleep Solutions in Seattle.
This position helps to keep the airways clear and unblocked, allowing you to get the right amount of air. But side sleepers should be careful about curving their neck toward their chest too much, which can restrict airflow. “The best posture for breathing is the same as the best posture while awake: Head centered over the shoulders. If a pillow tips the chin closer to the chest, for example, it’s harder to breathe,” said Carstensen.
Sleeping on your back may put too much pressure on your throat and cause your airways to collapse. Sleeping on your stomach is generally not advised, especially if you have a CPAP mask. Pressing your face against the mattress can cause your mask to dislodge.
55% of surveyed adults said they preferred to sleep on their side versus their back or stomach.
— NCOA 2025 March survey of older adults who sleep with chronic pain6
What to look for in a pillow for sleep apnea
Sleep comfort is personal, but there are certain features that make a pillow better for easing sleep apnea symptoms.
Some features to consider when buying a pillow for sleep apnea include:
Elevation / Incline
Look for a pillow that helps to elevate your head, neck, and shoulders enough to keep your airways clear but not enough to put extra strain on your body. Wedge or contoured pillows can be a good option.
Carstensen likened this to the posture of a CPR dummy. “Tip the head back and thrust the jaw forward to open the airway. The closer we can get to that posture in a pillow, the easier it is to breathe,” said Carstensen. “Keeping the head tilted back is not always comfortable, but a neutral posture comes pretty close. If a pillow can support the back of the neck and allow the head to fit into a recess, it’s pretty good for breathing.”
Cervical alignment
It’s important to keep your neck in a neutral position that maintains open airways. Contoured pillows (like the TEMPUR-Neck) are great for keeping your spine and neck aligned properly.
Firmness
A medium-firm pillow offers stable support for your head and neck and prevents you from sinking too much.
Sleep position compatibility
People with sleep apnea may feel better by sleeping on their sides. Look for a pillow that is designed for side sleeping to keep you comfortable throughout the night.
Adjustability
A pillow that you can adjust is great for giving you the chance to fine-tune the pillow’s loft and firmness to your own comfort needs, and any CPAP accessories, like a mask.
How much do the best pillows for sleep apnea cost?
The best pillows for sleep apnea cost from $109–$150. Costs can vary based on factors such as pillow size, materials, and adjustability.
| Comparison Features | Luxome LAYR Pillow |
Layla Kapok |
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price range | $150 |
$109 |
$109 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
| Warranty | Limited |
5-year |
5-year limited |
| Return fees | Decided at return |
No return fees |
No returns |
How to save money on pillows
The easiest way to save money on pillows is to wait until they are on sale before making a purchase. Look for holiday sales, such as Memorial Day or Labor Day. Some companies will send you a discount if you sign up for their email and text lists, too.
You can also save money by taking advantage of the company’s promotions, such as a free trial period or free returns.
Frequently asked questions
Can a pillow really help with sleep apnea?
Yes, research shows the right pillow can help ease sleep apnea symptoms.
What type of pillow is best for snoring?
A contoured or wedge pillow that elevates the head, neck, and shoulders is best for snoring.
Should sleep apnea pillows be soft or firm?
Sleep apnea pillows should be medium-firm to help provide stability that keeps the airways clear.
Are wedge pillows comfortable for side sleepers?
Yes, wedge pillows can be comfortable for side sleepers if they are responsive and conform to your body.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org