While your mattress plays a big role in a good night’s rest, your pillow is also important for your spinal alignment, sleep quality and overall comfort. If you’re one of the many New Zealanders who sleep on their side, you might be wondering if your pillow is the right one? In this guide, we explore what makes a great pillow for side sleepers and why it matters.
Why a pillow matters
Neck pain is one of the most common complaints among side sleepers. Without proper support, your neck can strain overnight, leaving you stiff or sore in the morning.
According to the Sleep Foundation, around 70% of people with neck pain also report poor sleep quality, your pillow could be part of the problem. Disrupted sleep can affect your overall health and well-being, so it’s worth ensuring your pillow is giving you the support you need.
At Sealy, we focus on spinal alignment in our mattresses, and the same principle applies to pillows. Your head, neck and shoulders should line up naturally with the rest of your body. If your pillow causes your head to tilt up or down too far, it can lead to muscle strain, tension and stiffness.
The best pillow for side sleepers
The ideal pillow for side sleepers keeps your head and neck in a neutral, level position. This usually means you’ll need a slightly higher pillow than back sleepers — but stacking two pillows isn’t the answer. Too much height can push your neck out of alignment, causing more discomfort.
What to look for when shopping
If you’re shopping for a new side sleeper pillow, consider more than just its shape:
- Loft: Make sure your neck and shoulders form a straight line with your back. Choose a pillow height that suits your body frame — neither too flat nor too thick.
- Firmness: Pillows come in soft, medium and firm options. For side sleepers, medium to firm is often best to maintain alignment, but comfort is key.
- Materials: Fabric, filling and cooling properties all affect your sleep experience. Feather and down pillows tend to compress overnight, while memory foam pillows can help provide more consistent support and regulate temperature.
Simply answer a few quick questions and we’ll recommend the best mattress for your sleep profile. We can also send you a customised report, which you can take into a local Sealy stockist so you can experience your recommended bed.
