Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers
Written by Loren Bullock, Lead Mattress Tester
We spend a good amount of our lives sleeping, so naturally, we want to make sure that we have the best possible sleep experience, in terms of comfort and support. Whether you’re a back sleeper, stomach sleeper, side sleeper, or all of the above, you need to pick the right mattress and mattress topper to suit you. With so many sleeping surface options available out there, it can be hard to choose the right one. Luckily, we’ve managed to create a comprehensive list of some of the best mattress topper options for side sleepers below.
Bottom Line: What’s the Best Mattress Topper Overall?
Our best picks for a mattress topper take various factors into consideration, including pricing, material, softness, pain relief, durability, and temperature regulation. We found that the overall best option for a mattress topper, earning high marks in all categories, is the Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper.
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Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers of 2024
- Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper – Nerd’s Pick
- Layla Mattress Topper – Best Cooling Mattress Topper
- Saatva Latex Mattress Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Heavy Side Sleepers
- Avocado Mattress Topper – Best Organic Mattress Topper
- TEMPUR-Adapt Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Shoulder Pain
- Lucid 3-inch Ventilated Gel Foam Memory Foam Topper – Best Value Mattress Topper
Nerd’s Pick: Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper
A high-quality mattress topper that excels in every category.
Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Mattress Topper
We look at plenty of mattress toppers to figure out which ones are the best of the best. If you want a high-quality mattress topper that does an excellent job in virtually every category, then we’d recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper.
Side sleepers require a pressure-relieving topper, one that contours to pressure points around the hips and shoulders. The Gel Swirl is made of a block of contouring memory foam, creating a hug-like feel for these sensitive areas. The foam is infused with cooling gel, which works to dissipate heat and serves hot sleepers. Perhaps the best part about this quality topper is the price; you can find it for under $100 before sales and discounts. Brooklyn Bedding includes a 30-night trial and 3-year warranty with their topper, so you’ll have plenty of time to decide if it’s truly best for you.
What our testers say: “Overall, I think the Gel Swirl mattress topper will feel best for back and side sleepers because of the amazing pressure relief it provides. The foam will cushion sensitive areas like the lower back, shoulders and hips in both positions, and allow you to wake up pain-free.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper review.
Best Cooling Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers: Layla Mattress Topper
Layla’s mattress topper features copper gel-infused memory foam to prevent overheating.
Layla Mattress Topper
Mattress Nerd Score
4.20 / 5
Read Full Review
If you find yourself waking up sweaty or stuffy but don’t want to drop $1,500 on a cooling mattress, try a topper. For next-level cooling technology, we suggest the Layla Mattress Topper. It has copper gel-infused memory foam to wick away moisture and keep you from overheating at night.
Layla created this topper to feel like a cloud sitting on top of your mattress. Made in the USA, it consists of two inches of thick CertiPUR-US certified memory foam. This foam is designed to not only be cooling but incredibly soft. The copper gel material featured in this foam also helps keep the mattress topper sanitary and clean by repelling odor-causing bacteria as well as dust mites and other unwanted guests. Starting at just $199 for the twin-size option, you’ll find that this topper fits well within your budget, and you can take advantage of the free shipping, 5-year warranty, and 120-night sleep trial, meaning you have approximately three months to test out the topper to see if you like it. In the unlikely event you’re not a fan of the Layla topper, you can return it within that trial period for a complete refund.
What our testers say: “The Layla Topper has the slow response feel that many people expect from memory foam. But thanks to its low density, it doesn’t have the quicksand sensation that some memory foams have. The result is a contouring topper that doesn’t make you feel stuck in your mattress.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full review of the Layla Mattress Topper or explore our top picks for the best cooling mattress toppers.
Best Mattress Topper for Heavy Side Sleepers: Saatva Latex Mattress Topper
The Saatva pillow features a pillow-on-pillow design that enables users to easily adjust the height to their needs, leading to a great night’s sleep.
Saatva Latex Pillow
Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
When it comes to side sleeping, we generally recommend a softer mattress topper—one which allows your hips and shoulders to sink comfortably into the top layer. However, you don’t want to sink too far, as it can put strain on your pressure points and throw your spine out of alignment. And, naturally, the heavier you are the further you sink. That’s why for side sleepers over 230 lbs we recommend something on the firmer side, like the Saatva Latex mattress topper.
Consisting of hypoallergenic, ventilated Talalay latex, this topper provides cooling comfort and is ultimately more durable and breathable than toppers made of Dunlop latex. The responsive design creates unmatched pressure point relief on sensitive areas for side sleepers, such as the hips and shoulders—a very important feature for heavy people. The 100% certified organic cotton found in the topper wicks away moisture, further promoting a cooler sleep experience. The organic materials make Saatva’s natural latex mattress topper a bit pricier, at $195 for a twin size. But we thing you’ll find that it’s well worth the cost.
What our testers say: “This eco-friendly option is the most expensive given it’s natural sourcing, but it’s also a great option for hot sleepers. Latex is known for its cooling properties, and Saatva even reassured this model wouldn’t trap body heat by adding perforations throughout for added breathability.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full Saatva Latex Mattress Topper review or explore our top picks for the best mattress toppers for side sleepers.
Best Organic Mattress Topper: Avocado Mattress Topper
An organic mattress topper that’s available in two firmness options.
Avocado Latex Mattress Topper
There are many reasons to go with an organic mattress topper: they’re made with all-natural materials, they’re usually longer lasting, and they’re great for people with sensitive skin. For our best organic mattress topper, we chose the Avocado.
The Avocado Mattress Topper is available in two firmness options: plush and firm. It’s constructed using organic and responsibly farmed materials such as latex rubber, wool, and cotton. These materials not only make for a nice, sturdy topper, but also one that is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. At $549 for a Queen, the Avocado is quite expensive. Don’t let the price worry you, though. This mattress topper can significantly improve the quality of your sleep situation for a price that is still much lower than a full mattress replacement.
What our testers say: “If you prefer a softer sleep surface, you can go with the plush topper option, which uses D65 soft natural Dunlop latex and provides a luxury-plush feel. Side sleepers should choose the soft option as it accommodates their hips and shoulders and reduces pressure.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full Avocado Mattress Topper review.
Best Mattress Topper for Shoulder Pain: TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
The TEMPUR-Adapt mattress topper promotes spinal alignment and reduces shoulder pain.
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Mattress Topper + Cooling Technology
A common complaint amongst most side sleepers is that they often wake up with shoulder pain. Since side sleepers spend most of the night putting pressure on their shoulders, it’s no wonder that they suffer from these aches. Fortunately, even if you’re a side sleeper, you don’t need put up with the pain. Instead, you can find a mattress topper that will help alleviate it, such as our recommendation: the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper Supreme.
Side sleepers need to make sure they find a supportive mattress topper that will promote spinal alignment and reduce/prevent shoulder pain. Luckily, the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper can help with that. This topper is made of three inches of proprietary TEMPUR material, which has more than 25 years of history adapting to sleepers’ bodies and contouring to their weight, shape, and body temperature. This type of construction gives you the right amount of support for delicate pressure points on your body, especially around your shoulders. Finally, the removable cover is allergen-resistant and washable, meaning that keeping it clean is incredibly easy.
What our testers say: “The Tempur-Adapt Topper is regarded as a firm mattress topper, but its TEMPUR material composition is meant to accommodate your body in any position.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper review
Best Value Mattress Topper: Lucid 3-inch Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
An excellent mattress topper for those on a budget seeking a cooling topper that provides pressure relief.
Lucid 3″ Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Mattress Nerd Score
4.40 / 5
Read Full Review
When it comes to your comfort, you shouldn’t cut corners, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend large amounts of money either. Mattress toppers can range in cost, and if you’re a bargain-hunter who wants one for a fair price, we recommend the Lucid 3-Inch Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper.
While looking for the right mattress topper, you want one that is comfortable and durable, but you also want to make sure you’re getting the best value as well. If you’re a budget-shopping side-sleeper looking for a mattress topper, we recommend the Lucid 3-Inch Ventilated Gel Memory Mattress Foam Topper. This topper’s ventilated design includes a special heat-capturing cooling gel that regulates temperature and keeps you from overheating, while the memory foam relieves pressure on your shoulder, hips, and knees. Coming with a 3-year warranty and starting at approximately $70 for a twin size, and maxing out at $120 for a California King, the Lucid 3-inch memory foam mattress topper is an excellent option for people looking for a great deal.
What our testers say: “For sleepers who want a little extra cushioning for their sensitive areas, such as their hips and shoulders, this topper may be the solution. Side sleepers and those with conditions such as arthritis should find that this topper eases stress on joints like the hips, shoulders and even elbows.” –Becca Fair, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full Lucid 3-inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper review or explore our top picks for the best memory foam mattress toppers.
Mattress Topper Buying Guide for Side Sleepers
Did you know that sleeping on your side comes with many benefits, such as ridding your body of toxins? However, sleeping on your side can also cause some problems, including pain in sensitive areas, like your shoulders or hips. That’s because your entire body is resting on these parts. If you have a firm mattress or mattress topper, then your hips and shoulders aren’t getting the right amount of support and pressure relief, and you’ll be waking up with aches and pains each morning.
Finding a soft mattress topper is important when you’re a side sleeper. You need something that will cradle your body and allow your shoulders and hips to sink in just the right amount; not only will this relieve pressure on those areas, but it will also promote spinal alignment, resulting in overall better back health in the long run.
Considerations When Buying a Mattress Topper
While having a mattress topper isn’t an absolute necessity, it can significantly impact your overall sleep experience for the better. A mattress topper primarily acts as a cushion and top layer for high-density, firmer mattresses, making them much softer so that side sleepers can get the right amount of support and cushioning they need for their sensitive areas. However, before you purchase a topper, make sure that your current mattress is new enough to properly reap its benefits. If you have an old mattress that’s worn-out, a topper won’t do much to remedy the problem.
As you shop for a new mattress topper, it is wise to consider the following factors.
Thickness
You will notice that a majority of mattress toppers range in thickness between two to four inches, with the thicker toppers being softer. If you are lighter or have a smaller body frame, or you simply prefer a little extra firmness in your sleep experience, then you will want a thinner mattress topper. If you are a medium- or heavy-sized individual who wants extra cushioning for their shoulders and hips, we recommend you go with a thicker mattress topper.
Materials
Similar to mattresses, toppers are often made of various quality materials, each coming with their own benefits and features. Memory foam mattress toppers are very soft and will contour to your body’s unique shape and form, giving you a cushioning feeling and limiting motion transfer (a wonderful feature for couples).
Gel memory foam has similar benefits, but it also promotes better airflow and ventilation, making it extra cool and refreshing. Latex is slightly firmer than memory foam (putting it just under a medium-firm rating), but it often features a responsive design that helps alleviate pressure points on sensitive areas of your body.
Mattres Topper Firmness
Both materials and thickness of your mattress topper will affect the firmness, which is an important thing for side sleepers to pay attention to. For the most part, you’ll want something on the softer end of the firmness scale, as it will allow your hips and shoulders to sink comfortably below the surface and be supported there. Foam toppers tend to be a great choice for this reason. They generally contour to your body a bit better than latex toppers do, and they can be counted on to relieve pressure.
How Properly Sleep on Your Side
Most of us can’t help which side we sleep on, but it’s important that we take the right steps to make certain that we’re doing everything we can to improve our sleep experience. If you’re a side sleeper, you will find several tips and tricks below to help you have a much more comfortable and relaxing night’s rest. Or, for more info, check out our full article on how to properly sleep on your side.
Neck Support
Picking out the right mattress and topper can have a significant impact on your sleep experience, but you need to also consider your pillow options, especially if you’re aiming to reduce neck pain. When you sleep on your side, your neck needs to be kept level with the rest of your body and your spine, or else you risk waking up with major aches in the morning. As you shop for a new mattress or topper, make sure to look into good pillows for side sleepers so that your neck is adequately supported.
A Pillow Between Your Legs
Have you ever found yourself slipping a pillow between your legs to help you sleep? There’s actually a scientific reason as to why this helps side sleepers have a better sleep experience. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs can eliminate pressure between your knees, keep your hips and pelvic area aligned, reduce stress on your hips, prevent lower back pain or aggravation, and even assist with breathing abnormalities such as sleep apnea.
If you’re going to sleep with a pillow between your legs, make sure you’re doing it the right way. Find a pillow that isn’t flat; a plump, firm pillow will help provide better cushioning. Place the pillow in a way so that it extends all the way from your knees to your ankles, which will keep these two parts of your body in line with each other.
Sleep on the Left Side
You might think that sleeping on one side is just as good as the other, but the fact of the matter is that you should aim to sleep on your left side. By sleeping on your left side, you’re taking advantage of numerous scientific principles to aid with your sleep experience and improve overall health. Possible benefits of left-side-sleeping include aided digestion (gravity helps push waste through our intestines), reduced risk of heartburn (gastric juices remain lower than your esophagus), better mental health (interstitial waste is cleared from the brain), and reduction of snoring or sleep apnea (your tongue won’t fall into your throat and partially block your airway). If you’re interested, you can check out our, “What is the Best Side to Sleep On?” article for more information.
Wrap-Up
As a side sleeper, you have the advantage of being able to improve your mental and physical health by taking the right steps during your nightly sleep ritual. While you should always pay attention to your overall sleep personality, it’s also important to remember that the right sleeping surface also plays a major role in your sleep experience. You may think you don’t need a mattress topper because you already have a mattress pad, but it’s ideal to have both if you want to have a truly relaxing night’s sleep. Make sure you carefully consider our above mattress topper recommendations for side sleepers, and don’t forget to think about which factors matter the most to you.
FAQ
How thick should a mattress topper for side sleepers be?
Mattress toppers for side sleepers should be roughly two to four inches thick. What thickness you choose ultimately depends upon how much softer you’d like your mattress to be. For a softer feel, get a thicker topper.
What is the best cooling material for a mattress topper?
The best cooling material for a mattress topper is most likely latex foam, since latex has naturally cooling properties.
Should side sleepers use memory foam?
Memory foam is known for its hugging feel and pressure relief, which is great for side sleepers. The material cradles and eases pressure points at the shoulder and hip.
Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers Recap
- Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper – Nerd’s Pick
- Layla Mattress Topper – Best Cooling Mattress Topper
- Saatva Latex Mattress Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Heavy Side Sleepers
- Avocado Mattress Topper – Best Organic Mattress Topper
- TEMPUR-Adapt Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Shoulder Pain
- Lucid 3-inch Ventilated Gel Foam Memory Foam Topper – Best Value Mattress Topper
Loren Bullock
Lead Mattress Tester
About Author
Loren is the Senior Associate of Content at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel.
Combination Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach
