What is the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?

You may think that just because you sleep on your side, you're doomed to uncomfortable sleep and achy joints. But that's just not true. Like people who sleep on their backs or stomachs, side sleepers have options when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. And we'll tell you everything you need to know to choose your ideal mattress for your sleeping habits. By the end, you'll know which mattress type is best for side sleepers. Let's get right into it!

The Struggles Side Sleepers Face

As a side sleeper, you are more likely to deal with a few issues, including finding a comfortable position, getting enough support for your hips and shoulders, and experiencing pain in your joints or muscles. If you can relate to any of these struggles, don't worry. There's a mattress out there that'll remedy all of these problems for you, ensuring deep, restorative sleep night after night.

What is the Best Type of Mattress for Side Sleepers?

The best mattress type for side sleepers is, without a doubt, gel memory foam. 

Gel memory foam mattresses are known for their contouring ability. That means that when you lie down on one, it will "hug" your body and fill in the spaces around you. This can provide excellent support for side sleepers who (like everyone else) need to keep their spines aligned for restful sleep. 

It can also help with pressure relief, as the foam will cradle your hips and shoulders.

One downside of traditional gel memory foam mattresses is that they can feel hot. That's because they are designed to contour to your body, which can trap heat. 

But the most innovative manufacturers have addressed this issue by adding cooling gel to the foam or using airflow technology in the construction of the mattress. So if you want to try out a memory foam mattress, be sure to look for one with cooling features.

What Firmness Should Side Sleepers Choose?

Side sleepers should opt for a gel memory foam mattress that is neither too firm nor too soft. This will provide the support and pressure relief that side sleepers need to avoid pain in their hips and shoulders. It will also ensure that you won't wake up to sore joints from too much firmness.

With that being understood, the right mattress firmness will depend partly on your weight. Heavier side sleepers will need a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from sinking too deeply into the bed. Lighter side sleepers may find that they need a softer mattress for optimal sleep. 

If you're not sure which firmness is right for you, we recommend starting in the middle with a medium-firm mattress. You can also take our quiz for a personalized recommendation.

Why Other Mattress Types Don't Compare to Gel Memory Foam

While side sleepers have some leeway when it comes to mattress type, there are some that just don't measure up to gel memory foam. Innerspring and latex mattresses, for example, are not as good at contouring to the body. This can leave side sleepers without enough support or pressure relief.

Hybrid mattresses, which combine innerspring coils with foam layers, may be a better option for side sleepers. But even hybrids aren’t as comfortable and durable as gel memory foam mattresses. If you're looking for the best possible mattress for side sleepers, gel memory foam is definitely the way to go.

Not all Gel Memory Foam Mattresses are Created Equal

Now that you know gel memory foam is the best type of mattress for side sleepers, it's important to understand that not all gel memory foam mattresses are created equal. There are a few things you should look for when shopping for a side sleeper mattress:

• A thick layer of gel memory foam. If there’s not enough foam, you’ll feel uncomfortable, and your sleep quality will suffer. 
• Cooling features. As we mentioned before, some gel memory foam mattresses can trap heat. Look for a mattress with cooling gel or airflow technology to avoid this issue.
• A removable cover. This will make it easy to keep your mattress clean and fresh.
• Superior workmanship. The longevity and comfort of a gel memory foam mattress depends on the manufacturer. And some manufacturers put much more time and attention into a given mattress's materials and design than others. Choose a gel memory foam mattress from a manufacturer that cares - the proof is in the final product.
• A good warranty. Look for a mattress with a warranty of ten years or more to get the most bang for your buck.

This is not an exhaustive list of things to look for in your gel memory foam mattress. Luckily, in the below section, we'll share our favorite side sleeper mattress to make your shopping experience easier.

What is the Best Foam Mattress for Side Sleepers?

Up to this point, we've primed you with all the information you need to know about side sleepers and mattresses. Now, it's time for the fun part - the reveal. Below, you'll find our favorite gel memory foam mattress for side sleepers. We've also included a full overview of the mattress's key features to illuminate why it's won our top spot.

Our Top Mattress Pick for Side Sleepers: CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress by Dynasty Mattress

The CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress by Dynasty Mattress is our top pick for side sleepers. It's got everything going for it, from gel-infused memory foam to a removable cover to a fantastic warranty. The Sleep Foundation even recognized it as one of their top picks for 2021! Here are some of its main features:

Cooling Gel Memory Foam Layer

The mattress has a cooling gel memory foam layer that helps to prevent heat buildup. It also supports your body in all the right places, whether you're in a side-sleeping state or not. So, when you sleep on this mattress, you'll stay cool and comfortable all night long.

Breathable Foam Underneath

Under the cooling gel memory foam layer, there are two layers of breathable foam. These work to facilitate airflow as you get your Zs. That way, you won't wake up feeling hot and sweaty in the middle of the night or at the break of dawn.

Latex Layer

Unlike many gel memory foam mattresses, this mattress comes with a latex layer. It increases the longevity of the mattress by enhancing its ability to bounce back rather than sink in. Without this layer, side sleepers may find that their mattress starts to sag sooner rather than later.

Multiple Firmness Options For Max Comfort

No single firmness level will work for all side sleepers - it depends on your weight and personal preferences. Luckily, the CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress comes in three firmness levels: medium-firm, firm, and very firm. Though, medium-firm is ideal for most side sleepers who weigh 150 pounds or more.

Note: If you weigh less than 150 pounds, go for a 14-inch CoolBreeze Plush medium-soft gel memory foam mattress. It boasts many of the same amazing benefits as the 12-inch CoolBreeze mattress but with a bit more softness and height.

Removable Cover

The 12-inch CoolBreeze Gel Memory Foam Mattress comes with a removable cover. But not just any cover - it's made of a cool silk material that's soft to the touch. Plus, it's machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Superior Workmanship

Dynasty Mattress is a company that takes great pride in their workmanship. They use only the highest quality materials in their mattresses - and it shows. All Dynasty Mattress brand products are made to last; that’s why the CoolBreeze mattress has an impressive lifespan of at least 30 years.

Fantastic Warranty

Dynasty Mattress also offers a 30-year warranty on the CoolBreeze Gel Memory Foam Mattress. So, you can rest assured that your mattress will last. And if you run into any snags, Dynasty Mattress will help out in any way they can.

Loads of Sizes to Choose From

The CoolBreeze 12-inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress comes in all standard sizes, from Twin to California King. And if you need the mattress for an RV or camper, they are also RV sizes available. You can also get XL and Split sizes if needed. So you're sure to find the perfect size for your needs.

Can You Afford the CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress?

When it comes to mattresses, you get what you pay for. Bargain memory foam mattresses often leave much to be desired and don't last half as long as quality mattresses. The CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress will cost around $400 to $1000+, depending on its size. The larger the mattress is, the more it will cost.

For some, the mattress may be expensive. But, when you consider all that it has to offer side sleepers, it's well worth the price tag.

If you're interested in getting the CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, you can find it on the Dynasty Mattress website or on Amazon.

As a side sleeper, it can be hard to find a mattress that won't leave you feeling worse than you did before you went to bed. But, with the CoolBreeze 12-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, side sleepers can rest easy knowing they have found their perfect match. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and see how it improves your sleep quality and comfort level. You won't be disappointed!