The Best Pillows For Back Sleepers. Review And Buyers’ Guide
Bedding guides
You are rare to find a back sleeper when only 8 percent prefer to sleep in supine positions. There are many benefits to back sleeping. It aligns your spine, reduces acid reflux symptoms, clears sinuses, and prevents chronic headaches. Back sleepers are more likely to experience neck pain than other people, so they should pay attention to the pillow selection.
It is easy to sleep well and reap the benefits of back sleeping by choosing the best pillow for your back. We have compiled a guide that covers the top pillows for back sleepers and all the important factors to consider when selecting the right pillow.
30 Second Summary: The Best Pillow for Back Sleepers
- Amerisleep Comfort Classic – This Pillow is recommended for back sleepers by Amerisleeps Comfort Classic. It has a 15 cm loft, feels medium-firm and features Bio-Pur foam. It also comes with a 10-year warranty.
- Zoma Pillow. We love the Zoma Pillow for its customizable MicroCushions that allow you to customize the pillow to suit your needs. The 10-year warranty is also included, which is quite impressive.
1. Amerisleep Comfort
Amerisleep Comfort classic is our top-rated pillow for back sleepers. It features pressure-relieving memory Foam, is ideal at 15 cm thick and has a medium firm feel. Amerisleeps Comfort Classic not only makes a great back pillow, but it is also our top choice overall for the best pillow. It can be used in any position and provides superior neck support.
The Comfort Classic includes CertiPUR US certifiedBio-Pur. This versatile, open-cell foam is designed to provide better neck support than traditional memory Foams. Bio-Pur is both breathable and responsive. Bio-Pur adapts to your neck and movements faster than other foams, which provides reactive comfort. It also has ventilated airways that prevent heat retention making it ideal for hot sleepers.
The Comfort Classic includes a removable cover that can be removed for easy washing. The cover, made of cotton and polyester and similar to the Bio-Purinside pillow, is breathable and airy.
Amerisleep Comfort classic comes with a 10-year guarantee, ensuring you have a great night’s sleep for many years.
2. 2.
MicroFlex is a foam filling that Amerisleeps Flex Pillow uses. The MicroFlex shredded foam material can be easily molded into the size and shape you require, making it feel like a customized pillow. The Flex Pillow is safe and supportive, no matter if you’re a back or combination sleeper.
MicroFlex does not retain heat or moisture like other foams. MicroFlex has the same lightweight, airy covering as Amerisleeps Comfort Classic Pillow so that sleep won’t be disturbed by night sweats and overheating.
The Flex Pillow is covered by a 10-year warranty. It comes in queen or king sizes.
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Amerisleeps Dual Comfort pillow features Bio-Pur, their plant-based memory foam. This material has fewer petroleum base oils and retains heat and moisture which reduces the likelihood of overheating and night sweats. This foam is non-toxic and eco-friendly, so it’s safe for your family.
There are two firmness options for this pillow: a soft and a firm side. The soft side is more comfortable for back sleepers as it provides enough compression to support the neck and head. Side sleepers might prefer the firm side as the comfort level is slightly higher. This will prevent the head from dropping below the shoulders which can lead to discomfort and pain.
The cooling channels on both sides of the pillow allow for warm air to escape to increase airflow and breathability.
The Dual Comfort Pillow, like all Amerisleep pillows comes with a 10-year guarantee
4. 4.
The Zoma Pillow is another great option for back sleepers. The Zoma Pillow is designed to fit all sleeping positions. However, we love it for back sleepers due to its 15 cm loft and adjustable MicroCushions that allow you to customize the firmness to your liking.
The Comfort Classic’s Zomas Pillow has also been CertiPUR US certified. This means that its fillings are free from PBDE flame retardants and heavy metals as well as any other harmful chemicals.
The Zoma Pillow features a plush filling and a breathable cover.
The cover for Zomas Pillow’s is made from a polyester/spandex mix, making it both stretchy as well as breathable. The cover of Zomas Pillow prevents body heat from building up at night.
The pillow contains Zomas’ MicroCushions, which are a mixture of polyester fiber filling and shredded foam. This pillow has a little bit of softness due to the inclusion of fiber filling. It is not as chunky as it used to be because of the shredded foam. The MicroCushions can be used inside to shape the pillow to your preferences. The MicroCushions are made to stay flat so that your pillow will remain lofty for many years.
Zoma offers a 10-year warranty that covers workmanship and structural defects.
5. Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable
Another memory foam pillow is next on our list. However, it features shredded foam pieces instead of a single block. Coop Home Goods adjustable foam pillow has been rated a solid 5-star by 72%. This pillow also comes with a 100-night trial and a 5-year warranty.
Coop Home Goods Premium Shredded Loft Shredded Memory Foam has been CertiPUR US and Greenguard Gold certified. It is free of harmful chemicals. The filling is made up of microfiber and memory foam. It provides a balanced level of support and cushioning comfort. You can adjust the firmness and loft of your pillow by adding or removing filling until you feel it is comfortable.
This pillow’s cover is made from a blend of viscose rayon, polyester and bamboo-derived viscose rayon. This pillow is naturally hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant, so you can rest comfortably. The pillow received positive reviews from users who noted that it is cool to sleep on and does not retain heat as other memory foam options.
6.
Malouf Z Shredded latex
The Malouf Z pillow is another adjustable option. It features 100% cotton cover and shredded latex foam. The natural cooling properties of latex pillows are ideal for hot sleepers, and the pillow’s cotton cover is crisp and cool to the touch.
Latex is responsive and springy, while its quick pushback provides neck support. You can adjust the firmness and loft of the pillow just like with the Coop Home Goods choice.
This pillow’s shredded latex is made to not clump or shift so that you don’t have to change the way you fluff it night after night. The cover can be machine washed for easy maintenance.
Malouf pillows come with a 3-year warranty to protect your investment.
Although a pillow is a great way to relieve pressure points, it doesn’t offer the same benefits as an adjustable base. Learn more in our guide.
7. Hullo Buckwheat
The Hullo adjustable Buckwheat pillow is a great choice if you are looking for an all natural pillow. This pillow is vegan and eco-friendly thanks to its organic cotton twill cover and buckwheat shells.
Another adjustable option is the Hullos Buckwheat Pillow. To achieve the right level of support, you can adjust the amount of buckwheat shells. The hulls of this pillow mold to the shape of your neck and head, providing all-around comfort that allows your neck muscles to relax.
The Hullo’s cover is breathable and airy. This allows air to circulate throughout the pillow. The cover can be machine washed for easy cleaning. Its breathability is due to the Hullo’s buckwheat shells.
They are able to move around and provide exceptional airflow, which prevents heat buildup.
Buckwheat pillows were most popular in Asia for many years. They only became more popular in the United States recently. Hullo gives you a 60-night trial of each pillow, so you can decide if it is right for you. They will refund your money if you don’t like it.
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Our last pillow is the MyPillow, the world’s most comfortable pillow. It was first seen on TV MyPillow. You will be asked to complete a short questionnaire when you choose a pillow from their website to find the best one for you.
For back sleepers, the White or Green fill levels will be most comfortable. The Green pillows have a firmer feel than the White pillows. The questionnaire will assess your body type so those who are particularly small or large may require something else.
MyPillow has a unique interlocking foam filled. It adjusts to your movements and provides neck support. It has built-in cooling technology to reduce heat retention. This makes it an ideal choice for hot sleepers. The cover is made of 100% cotton and is breathable.
MyPillow includes a 60-night trial and a 10-year guarantee. It can be machine washed and dried.
It’s time to update your entire bed set. Check out our guide to finding the best mattress.
What Should Back Sleepers Look For In A Pillow?
While there are some basic guidelines you can follow when looking for the best back pillow, ultimately it will be up to you to find yourbest pillows.
Back sleepers generally need a medium- or high-loft cushion that can support their head and keep it in line with their rest.
This section will discuss the most important things that back sleepers need to consider when choosing a pillow.
Loft
Loft is the height or thickness of a pillow. No matter what your sleeping position is, your pillow loft should match your body and support your head between the shoulders.
Too thick pillows can push your neck upwards. A pillow that is too thin can make your neck droop backwards, which can lead to pain and aches.
Low-loft pillows have a minimum thickness of three inches. These pillows are most suitable for stomach sleepers as they require minimal elevation from a pillow. Because they raise the neck and inflame pressure points, thicker pillows can be uncomfortable for stomach sleepers.
Medium-loft pillow can be as thick as three to five inches. These pillows are great for side sleepers but also work well for back sleepers. A high-loft pillow might be needed if your shoulders are wider.
High-loft pillows should be at least 13 cm thick. They are best suited for back sleeping positions. This thick of a pillow is uncomfortable for stomach and side sleepers. They can be used in the ideal height for proper posture when they are placed on the back.
Medium-loft pillows are best for back sleepers of average build. High-loft pillows will be more comfortable for those with larger statures.
An adjustable pillow is a great choice for first-time buyers. It allows you to personalize your pillow according to your preferences. If you find the pillows too high, you can adjust the height. These pillows can be adjusted to provide neck support for those who don’t know what they need.
Firmness
Your pillow should be as firm as loft and hold your neck in neutral alignment. The pillow should be flexible enough to conform to your neck and relieve pressure. Personal preference will also play a role in determining the firmness of your next pillow.
You can choose from a medium or firm pillow that offers similar neck support.
Material
Pillows can be filled with latex, memory foam or down as well as polyester. Although each material has its own sleep-promoting benefits and not all are suitable for back sleepers, they all have their unique advantages. We have listed some of the best pillow fillings that are supportive for back sleepers.
- Buckwheat – Buckwheat pillows are great for back sleepers as they provide a lot support and firmness. These pillows can be adjusted so that back sleepers can adjust their comfort. Buckwheat pillows are also known for their excellent breathability. This helps to prevent hot nights.
- Latex – Latex pillows are great for those who sleep on their backs. They are extremely durable. These pillows contour well and provide neck support. They also retain their shape well over time. The cooling properties of latex make it ideal for hot sleepers.
- Feather – While down pillows might not be able to properly support your neck, feather pillows can. Feather pillows are made with the outer feathers from ducks and geese. These feathers are stronger and more supportive than those of down. These pillows can provide support for your neck to help maintain a neutral spine alignment.
- Memory Foam – Medium to firm memory foam pillows for back sleepers are ideal because they’re flexible, supportive, and pressure-relieving. Memory foam pillows can promote spinal alignment and stop tossing or turning. For back sleepers who want adjustability, shredded memory foam can be a great option. Cooling gel memory foam is great to use for hot sleepers.
Shape
Pillows come in many sizes and shapes.
Many people prefer the flat pillow but you can often sleep better on pillows with ergonomic designs.
We recommend cervical pillows for back sleepers. More specifically, contour pillows. All contour pillows can be considered cervical pillows. However, not all cervical pillows can be called contour pillows.
We have broken down their differences.
The cervical pillow is a broad term that describes a pillow that has a curved design to fit the neck and shoulders of side and back sleepers. These pillows can help reduce your snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
Simple cervical pillows with a concave centre are our favorite. These pillows give you a place to rest your head and the raised sides around its center depression provide more support for the neck. These pillows will keep your head still and prevent you from tossing and turning during sleep.
We recommend memory foam contour pillows that have two raised sides, in addition to the basic cervical pillows. These pillows have two slopes with a central depression. Both heights can be tested below your neck to determine which is most comfortable.
These pillows have a sloped design that will relieve tension and provide solid support. Regularly using cervical or contour pillows can reduce neck pain and prevent future discomfort.
Another type of orthotic pillow for back sleepers is the knee pillow. If you sleep flat, sometimes a gap may form between your small back and the mattress. A pillow placed below your knees can close this gap and improve spinal alignment.
Different Types Of Back Sleeping Positions
There are three main positions for sleeping at the back.
Either you can lie flat, with your hands on your sides, or bend your legs slightly. This is the most common choice for back sleepers. You can also choose to sleep in one of the following positions:
StarfishPose or the
SavasanaPosition
The Starfish position can be described as: you lie flat on your back, with your legs outstretched like a starfish. To get the most comfortable position, people place their arms above their heads and bend one or both of their knees.
The Savasana position is a bit simpler than the two previously described. This position allows you to sleep with your legs and arms fully extended. Keep your arms straight down and your head not raised.
No matter what position you prefer for back sleep, it is still possible to reap the health benefits of sleeping in a healthy position.
Our guide to finding the best bed for a back problem will help you get the best sleep possible and avoid pain every morning.
The Pros And Cons Of Back Sleeping
Most sleep experts and doctors agree that you should sleep on your back or side. It is difficult to decide which position is best for you, as everyone has different needs. However, these positions can help you sleep more comfortably and rest better.
Back sleeping has its pros and cons. We will now discuss the top three benefits of back sleeping.
- Natural spine alignment Back sleeping leads to better alignment. This position is generally better for your spine than side sleeping or stomach sleeping, unless you are twisting or contorting the body.
- Less wrinkles Side and stomach sleepers are more likely to develop wrinkles from sleeping on their backs. This can be avoided by back sleepers who don’t let their heads touch their pillows while they sleep.
- Reduces digestive discomfort: A pillow elevated on the back can help you fall asleep quicker and stay asleep unaffected.
Although back sleeping is a good option for some people, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people who snore a lot, and those with sleep apnea.
If you lie down on your back, your breathing muscles relax and your tongue collapses in your airways. This can lead to snoring, as well as symptoms such obstructive sleep disorder.
Pregnant women shouldn’t sleep on their backs as it can cause compression of the veins.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Do Back Sleepers Need A Pillow?
Side and back sleepers need to use a pillow. Only stomach sleepers can sleep comfortably without one. To keep their neck straight and prevent it from dipping or craning, back sleepers should use a medium- or high-loft pillows.
Which Is Better: On Your Side Or Back?
Side and back sleeping are both healthy. The choice of which one is best for you depends on your sleep habits and preferences. People who are susceptible to snoring (OSA) or who have difficulty sleeping on their sides should be sleeping on their backs. Back sleep can worsen these conditions. Women who are pregnant should also sleep on their left side, as back sleeping can place too much pressure on their wombs. People with shoulder or hip pains might prefer to sleep on their backs. This is because it supports your natural curve.
What Makes It So Bad To Lie On Your Back While You Sleep?
Your airway can become narrowed or blocked if you sleep on your back. This is why people with sleep apnea and those who are susceptible to snoring should not be able to rest on their backs. Back sleeping is considered a healthy sleeping position.
Which Pillow Is Best For Back Sleepers?
Memory foam cervical pillows are popular among back sleepers because they provide pressure relief and cradle necks in a comfortable way. Standard mid- and high-loft pillows can also be used by back sleepers to support your neck.
Is It Better To Not Use A Pillow When You Sleep?
If your neck is able to remain aligned without the support of a pillow, it’s better to not use one. Stomach sleepers will either sleep with a very thin pillow or without one. This allows them to sleep flat and keeps their heads in alignment. Side or back sleepers should not sleep without a pillow as it can cause aches and pains.
Have You Found Your Next Pillow?
We hope this guide helped you find the best pillow for your needs. Back sleepers should be able to use medium-to-high-loft pillows that have a firm to medium feel. The best way to choose the right pillow is to reflect on your sleeping habits and preferences.
