Best Pillow for Back Sleepers

Best 10 Pillows for Back Sleepers 2023: Top Picks, Reviews & Buying Guide

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Are you a back sleeper looking for a really comfortable pillow?

Have you been looking for the Best Pillow for Back Sleepers? You’ve come to the right place.

You may not know it, but when it comes to pillows, back sleepers have very different needs than side- or stomach-sleepers.

For example, a back-sleeper pillow needs to be firm enough to prevent your head from pivoting too far back on your neck while remaining soft enough to mold around and support your neck.   This is to keep your spine aligned correctly so you don’t wake up with a stiff, sore neck.

When you sleep on your back the right pillow is also essential for clear breathing. If your head is held too far forward your neck will compress and restrict your airway, which can worsen snoring and sleep apnea.  

In this in-depth buying guide, we will review the seven best pillows for back sleepers currently sold online.

Note: If you are experiencing back pain, I recommend pairing these pillows with the right mattress. Read my reviews of the best mattresses for back pain for a few good suggestions. 


What's In This Buying Guide?

In this pillow buying guide, I'll review what I believe are the best 7 pillows for people who sleep primarily on their back.

I'll also cover the unique needs of back sleepers, the features to consider when buying a pillow for a back sleeper, how to correctly position a pillow for back sleepers and cover a few Frequently Asked Questions.

I hope this guide will simplify your decision and bring you many nights of pleasant, restful sleep.  And no neck pain in the morning.

So let's dive in!


Best Pillows for Back Sleepers

  1. Best Pillow for Back and Side Sleepers: PlushBeds Solid Natural Latex Pillow
  2. Best Shredded Foam Pillow for Back Sleepers: My Pillow Premium
  3. Most Luxurious Pillow for Back Sleepers: Sahara Nights Club
  4. Best Adjustable Pillow for Back Sleepers: Coop Home Goods
  5. Best Pillow for Back Sleepers With Neck Pain: Malouf Z Zoned Memory Foam
  6. Best Pillow for Back Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain: Sleep Innovations
  7. Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Milemont Memory Foam Cervical Pillow
  8. Best Memory Foam Pillow for Back Sleepers: Classic Brands Cool Sleep 
  9. Best Organic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Avocado Molded Latex Pillow 
  10. Best Wedge Pillow for Back Sleepers: EbungBed Wedge Pillow 
Pillow
Price
PlushBeds Solid
Natural
Latex Pillow

PlushBeds Solid Natural Latex Pillow

$

My Pillow Premium

MyPillow Premium Series [Std/Queen, Medium Fill] Available in 4 Loft Levels

$

Sahara Nights Club

Sobel Westex: Sahara Nights Pillow, Best Pillow for Back and Stomach Sleepers – Hotel & Resort Quality Pillows – Gel Fiber Fill 100% Cotton – Hypoallergenic Pillow (Queen Size Pillow)

$$

Coop Home Goods
Adjustable Shredded
Memory Foam


Coop Home Goods - Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow - Hypoallergenic Cross-Cut Memory Foam Fill - Lulltra Washable Cover from Bamboo Derived Rayon - CertiPUR-US/GREENGUARD Gold Certified - Queen

$$$

Malouf Z Zoned
Memory Foam


MALOUF ZZQQHFZD Queenhigh Loft Firm, Queen, White

$

Sleep Innovations
Cool Contour
Memory Foam


Sleep Innovations Cooling Contour Memory Foam Pillow, Cervical Support Pillow for Sleeping, Made in The USA with 5 - Year Warranty, Standard Pillow

$

Milemont Memory Foam Pillow

Milemont Memory Foam Pillow, Cervical Pillow, Orthopedic Contour Pillow Support for Back, Stomach, Side Sleepers, Bed Pillows for Sleeping, CertiPUR-US

$

Classic Brands Cool Sleep Ventilated Gel Memory Foam

Classic Brands Cool Sleep Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Gusseted Pillow with Performance Cool Pass Cover, Queen

$

Avocado Molded Latex Pillow

Avocado Molded Latex Pillow for back- and side-sleepers

$

Bed Wedge Pillow With Memory Foam Top

Bed Wedge Pillow With Memory Foam Top – Ideal For Comfortable and Restful Sleeping – Alleviates Neck and Back Pain, Acid Reflux, Snoring, Heartburn, Allergies - Versatile – Removable, Washable Cover

$

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1. Best Pillow for Back and Side Sleepers: PlushBeds Solid Natural Latex Pillow

PlushBeds Solid Natural Latex Pillow

The PlushBeds solid natural latex pillow is a great choice for back and side sleepers. If you frequently go from sleeping on your back to your side during the night, the PlushBeds pillow ensures you stay comfortable in either position.

With a loft of 4” for the Standard size and 5” for the Queen and King sizes, the PlushBeds pillow is a medium-loft design, which is perfect for back and side combo sleepers.

When you are on your side, the medium-high loft ensures your neck and spine are properly aligned. When you turn on your back, the pillow holds your head at the right height.

In both positions, the medium-firm feel of the latex pillow allows it to conform easily to your head, neck, and shoulders. This eliminates pressure points, ensuring you don’t wake up with a sore neck or shoulder.

In fact, the PlushBeds natural latex pillow is a great choice for sleepers already suffering from neck pain or back pain. 

To get the best from the PlushBeds pillow, pair it with a mattress that’s also comfortable for back sleeping. We recommend a medium-firm or firm mattress like the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss. If your current mattress is uncomfortable and you don’t want to buy a new one, get a mattress topper designed for back sleepers

Underneath the organic cotton cover is solid natural latex. Latex has many advantages over memory foam.

The biggest is that it sleeps cooler. If you have trouble with overheating or sweating too much at night, sleeping on the PlushBeds natural latex pillow should help.

The organic cotton cover also helps a big deal with cooling and sweat absorption. It feels much better against your skin compared to a pillow with a polyester cover.

Many people also love how latex pillows retain their shape even after many years of use. Natural latex’s springiness allows it to regain shape when you wake up.

The PlushBeds natural latex pillow should last you several years. It comes with a 3-year warranty to guarantee it.

As for care and cleaning, you have two options. The first is to spot clean the pillow if it gets dirty or stained.

Obviously, you cannot throw the latex pillow into the washer and the cotton cover is not removable. Spot cleaning is the only way to get dirt spots out of the cover.

The second option, and this is the one we recommend, is to get a second pillow cover. Look for a cotton cover so that you don’t compromise the pillow’s breathability. A bamboo cover is also great.   

Using a second removable pillowcase protects the pillow, and you only need to wash the case.

Specs

Fill: Solid natural latex

Cover material: Organic cotton

Loft: 4-5 inches

Warranty: 3 years

Cleaning: Spot cleaning

Pros

  • Great support for back and side sleepers.
  • Sleeps cool.
  • Breathable and moisture-wicking organic cotton cover.
  • 3-year warranty.

Cons

  • You cannot remove the cover for washing.
  • Costs more than foam pillows.

2. Best Shredded Foam Pillow for Back Sleepers: My Pillow Premium

MyPillow Premium Series [Std/Queen, Medium Fill] Available in 4 Loft Levels

The MyPillow company was the idea of an entrepreneur, Mike Lindell, who started it after he couldn’t find a comfortable pillow.

The pillow is filled with shredded polyurethane foam like many other pillows. But the foam pieces are different shapes and sizes.     

This allows the pieces to interlock when compressed. The smaller pieces fill in the spaces in between the larger pieces, giving the pillow a firm-but-contouring feel that is perfect for back sleepers.

A 2” gusset gives the pillow a comfortable 6” loft.

My Pillow Premium ensures you turn less at night, sleep more comfortably, sore less and breathe better.

The pillow arrives rolled up and looking rather flat. The company recommends putting it in the dryer for 15 minutes. It will rise its natural plump and soft shape.

Most customers never do this, which explains the negative reviews complaining about the pillow being too flat.

MyPillow claims that the pillow will never go flat. They back that up with a 10-year warranty. You need to plump it regularly.  

The pillow comes in 2 sizes and four fill/comfort options. The dimensions are Standard Queen (16.6 x 26 inches) and King (16.5 x 32 inches).  

MyPillow Premium Series [Std/Queen, Medium Fill] Available in 4 Loft Levels

Comfort options are color-coded: yellow for least firm, white for regular fill, green for more fill and blue for the firm.

If you are not sure which is the best fit for you, they have a handy guide that uses t-shirt sizes to recommend the right size.

If you have been sleeping on a feather pillow, they recommend going one size lower than what the chart recommends. So if you are an ‘XL’ drop one level and get the ‘Large’ comfort fit.

Specs

Cleaning: Machine washable & dryable

Fill: shredded polyfoam

Cover material: 100% cotton

Warranty: 10 years

Pros

  • Contours well around the head and neck.
  • Great head support.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Breathable and moisture-wicking cover.
  • Made in the USA.

The pillow is made from memory foam, so contouring is not an issue. Many customers describe it as sleeping on a soft-but-firm cloud.

It cradles your head while supporting your neck.

The memory foam has an open-cell design that keeps air flowing freely in and out of the pillow. This helps with temperature and moisture regulation.

The microfiber cover further helps keep the pillow cool and wicks away sweat.

Specs

Size: Queen (24” by 15”) & standard (20.8” by 14.2”) sizes

Loft: 5.”

Fill: solid open-cell memory foam

Cover material: microfiber

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: cover is removable and washable

Pros

  • Made in the USA.
  • Contoured design provides great support and comfort.
  • Open-cell memory foam prevents overheating.
  • Moisture-wicking microfiber cover.  

 

 

Cons

  • Might feel too warm for extra heat-sensitive sleepers.
  • The slight chemical smell when you unbox it. It dissipates in 2-3 days.

 


7. Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Milemont Memory Foam Cervical Pillow

best wedge pillow for back sleepers

The Milemont memory foam cervical pillow is another good choice for back sleepers suffering from various aches including back, neck, and shoulder pain.

It has a cervical design that cradles your head and supports your neck. This keeps your spine in the right alignment and prevents or relieves pain in the neck, shoulder, and back.

The Millemont pillow works best for back and side sleepers. The curved lip varies in height on each side of the mattress. Try the lower side (4” loft) if you have a smaller frame and narrow shoulders. Broad-shouldered sleepers will find the higher side (4.5” loft)more supportive.

The Milemont cervical pillow is solid memory foam that contours to your head and neck while providing the right amount of support.

Because memory foam tends to trap heat, the Milemont pillow uses open-cell memory foam that has better airflow to keep you cooler in bed.

The cover is a blend of polyester and Tencel. It is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. However, if you sleep extra-hot, consider replacing the cover with a bamboo rayon or a cotton pillowcase for extra cooling power.

The cover comes with a side zipper. You can remove and wash it. But don’t wash the memory foam core.

The Milemont pillow comes with a 10-year warranty, so you are guaranteed it’ll last a long time.

Specs

Fill: Solid Open-Cell memory foam

Cover material: Polyester and Tencel

Loft: 4-4.5 inches

Warranty: 10 years

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Great support for back sleepers.
  • Relieves neck, shoulder and back pain.
  • Breathable cover and memory foam.
  • Washable cover.

Cons

  • Extra-hot sleepers may still find the pillow a tad too warm – you may need to buy a cooling cover.

8. Best Memory Foam Pillow for Back Sleepers: Classic Brands Cool Sleep Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Gusseted Pillow 

best soft pillows for back sleepers

Memory foam pillows are great at pressure relief and support. The memory foam molds around your head and neck to relieve pressure and maintain proper spine alignment.

One of the best memory foam pillows for back sleepers is the Classic Brands ventilated gel memory foam pillow.

There are two big reasons why we love this pillow, other than the fact that it is memory foam.

One, it is gusseted. Gusset is a side panel that holds the pillow’s structure and shape. It ensures the pillow maintains its supportive loft, which keeps your head and neck in the right position all night long.

Two, it is designed to keep you cool. The ventilated memory foam circulates air, which carries away heat from the pillow. The memory foam is also infused with a cooling gel that draws heat away from your head and neck.

It’s still memory foam, so some extra-hot sleepers may find the pillow a bit warm. But for most sleepers, it sleeps cool enough.

For added comfort, the pillow comes with a special Cool-pass performance knit cover that dissipates heat away from the pillow and wicks sweat from your skin.

The Classic Brands memory foam pillow is designed with a medium-plush feel. It has some give when you lay your head on it but is firm enough to hold your head at the right loft.

The 4.5” pillow height works great for most back and side sleepers.

Specs

Fill: Solid ventilated gel memory foam

Cover material: Cool knit fabric

Loft: 4.5 inches

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Great support and pressure relief for back sleepers.
  • Sleep cool for most people.
  • Washable cover.
  • Hypoallergenic.

Cons

  • Heat-sensitive sleepers may still find the pillow too warm.

9. Best Organic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Avocado Molded Latex Pillow

best wedge pillow for back sleepers

If you are shopping for an organic pillow, your best option is a latex mattress. One of the best bedding companies when it comes to green and organic bedroom products is Avocado Green.

Their molded latex pillow is perfect for back sleepers, especially those looking for a firmer pillow with extra support.

The molded organic latex is firm without being rock hard. You still get a small amount of giving that relieves pressure from your head and neck.

The Avocado latex pillow has a higher than usual loft of 5.5” for the standard size and 6” for the queen and king sizes. This makes it ideal for back sleepers with a big frame and broad shoulders. It’s an especially great choice for men.

The loft is high enough to also accommodate most side sleepers.

Being natural latex, the Avocado pillow has no trouble staying cool. It has excellent airflow and doesn’t trap heat like memory foam.

The latex is infused with charcoal to improve cooling. Charcoal also prevents moisture build-up and keeps your pillow smelling fresh by neutralizing any unpleasant odors. 

An organic cotton cover rounds out the pillow's cool feel. The cover is machine washable.

By the way, don’t worry that you’ll be stuck with a pillow you won’t like. If you are cautious about buying a firm latex pillow, Avocado Green offers a 100-night sleep trial with free returns. If you don’t like the pillow within that time, you can just return it. 

Specs

Fill: Organic charcoal-infused latex 

Cover material: Organic cotton

Loft: 5 or 6 inches

Warranty: 1 year

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Firm support for back sleepers and side sleepers.
  • Sleeps cool.
  • Organic latex core and cotton cover.
  • 100-night sleep trial.

Cons

  • Pricey.
  • Pillows may be too high for some back sleepers.
  • Short warranty.

10. Best Wedge Pillow for Back Sleepers: Ebung Bed Wedge Pillow

best pillow for back sleepers

They may not look as comfortable as ordinary pillows, but wedge pillows can be a lifesaver, literally, for some people.

A wedge pillow is helpful for people who need to sleep in a raised position. For instance, a wedge pillow can make breathing easier for people with sleep apnea.

A wedge pillow can also relieve acid reflux, heartburn, and snoring. Your doctor may also recommend it for post-surgery recovery, pregnancy, back pain, or neck/shoulder pain. 

Even if you have none of these problems, a wedge pillow is great for reading or watching TV in bed without straining your back and neck.

Our favorite wedge pillow is the Ebung bed wedge pillow.  

It measures a foot high at the highest point, which keeps your upper body elevated. The Ebung pillow is made with high-density memory foam. It is firm – not plush like other memory foam pillows.

The firmness is good for support. It also makes it easier to lift yourself off the bed especially if you have an injury. The memory foam still has some give for comfort and pressure relief on your back.

Another advantage of the firm feel is that the pillow doesn’t get as hot since the memory foam does not hug your body closely as softer memory foam pillows do.

By the way, feel free to take your wedge pillow to the couch when watching TV or reading. It can also work as leg support when you need to elevate your legs.

The Ebung pillow comes with a washable polyester cover. It’s okay but doesn’t match the softness and cooling power of cotton or bamboo rayon.

Luckily, there are pillow cases designed specifically for wedge pillows, like this MoonRest 100% cotton bed wedge cover

Specs

Fill: High-density memory foam

Cover material: Polyester

Loft: 12 inches

Warranty: Not specified

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Relieves acid reflux, sleep apnea, back pain and other problems.
  • Durable and supportive high-density memory foam.
  • Washable cover.
  • Versatile – can be used for knee and leg support as well.

Cons

  • Some sleepers may find the pillow too firm.
  • Takes up a lot of space in the bed.

What is the Best Pillow for Back Sleepers?

The best pillow for back sleepers is one that is firm enough to support your head and neck at the right height and soft enough to relieve pressure.

Unlike stomach sleepers, a back sleeper needs a thicker pillow with a loft between 4” and 7” (depending on body size). This ensures your neck is in alignment with your spine.

If your head and neck are too high, you are going to get neck pain. The same is true if the pillow is too low and your head tips backward.

An unsupportive pillow can also cause or worsen shoulder and back pain.

As for firmness, a medium-firm pillow is the best for back sleepers. It provides the best balance between support and contouring.

As for material, some of the most comfortable pillows for back sleepers are memory foam. Memory foam hugs your neck and head to relieve pressure while also providing the right amount of support for spine alignment.

The only problem with memory foam is that it tends to get a bit too warm. A gel or open-cell memory foam pillow will sleep cooler. But if you tend to overheat easily, we recommend getting a latex pillow instead.

We also recommend latex if you prefer your pillow on the firm side or you don’t like the dead feel of memory foam.

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Features to Consider When Buying Pillows for a Back Sleeper

Sleeping on your back keeps your spine in natural alignment and can help with acid reflux. 

But it also increases the risk of neck strain and can worsen snoring.

To avoid these problems, get a pillow that props up your head at the right height to maintain good breathing and provides proper support for your neck.

Here’s what you should consider when shopping for a back sleeper pillow.

Loft

Loft refers to the height of the mattress.

If it’s too high, your head will be higher than your body, and your neck will be forced to curve upwards. If it’s too low, your head will drop too far back, and your neck will curve backward.

Both are bad for your neck and spine.

The best loft for back sleepers is somewhere in the middle – between 4” and 7”.

This ensures your head and neck are perfectly aligned with your spine.

If you are not sure the exact height that will be comfortable for you, get an adjustable pillow with a customizable loft.

Size

Pillow sizes range from small (20” by 12”) to full body size.

The most common sizes are Standard (20 by 26 in), Queen (20 by 30 in), and King (20 by 36 in). Note that the dimensions vary slightly from brand to brand.

Get a larger pillow if you have a bigger body. You’ll also appreciate a wider pillow if you toss and turn a lot at night.

Surface Design

If you don’t want the traditional pillow with a smooth uniform surface, get a contoured pillow, also called a cervical pillow.

This is a pillow with a sunken center and raised edges. It molds perfectly to your head and neck profile, proving a great combination of support and contouring.

Contoured pillows are beneficial for people with specialized comfort needs such as neck pain, pinched neck, and other joint and spinal problems.

Firmness

As with loft, back sleepers find middle-of-the-road firmness pillows to be the most comfortable. It shouldn’t be too firm or too soft.

This allows the pillow to provide a good mix of support and contouring.

Some pillows have a zoned support design. This is where certain sections are firmer than others.

A good example is the Malouf Z Zoned Memory Foam Pillow I have reviewed above.

Zoned pillows generally provide better contouring and support than pillows with a uniform firmness. They are especially beneficial for people with special comfort needs.

Fill

Back sleepers need a pillow that is neither too soft nor too firm. So the type of filling, which determines firmness, is essential.

The best pillow materials are buckwheat, memory foam, shredded memory foam or poly foam and latex.

These pillows provide an excellent level of firmness and the right loft.

If you tend to get too warm at night, go for latex or gel memory foam pillows. They sleep cooler than standard memory foam pillows.

We don’t recommend down, down alternative or polyester pillows. They tend to flatten out too quickly and are too soft to provide proper support.

Solid vs Shredded Memory Foam

If you are planning to get a memory foam pillow, there are two popular options: solid memory foam and shredded memory foam.

Solid memory foam is just that; a solid uniform piece of memory foam. The foam will often be open-celled or infused with gel for cooling.

While they provide excellent support for back sleepers, the lack of adjustability is a big issue for some people. These pillows also tend to wear out faster.

Shredded memory foam pillows consist of small pieces of memory foam.    

They mold better to your head and neck compared to solid memory foam, providing better support and pressure relief.

These pillows also tend to last longer. They do not flatten as quickly as solid pillows.

The biggest advantage of shredded pillows is that you can often adjust the loft and feel of the mattress by taking some of the pieces out.

Cover Material

Most pillows have a cotton cover. It’s right at wicking away sweat. It’s also breathable, which keeps the pillow cool.

Some pillows use unique fabrics like Tencel and Rayon to enhance cooling.

Ease of Cleaning

Before you buy a pillow, check whether you can machine-wash it. This makes it easy to keep the pillow clean and hygienic.

Some pillows, especially those that use solid memory foam, cannot be washed. The only option is to remove the cover and clean it.

If you buy such a pillow, make sure the cover is removable and washable. I also recommend purchasing a pillow protector to keep the pillow clean and stain-free.

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How to Position the Pillow Correctly for Sleeping on Your Back

There’s no rocket science to positioning your pillow for maximum comfort. Just use it normally.

Make sure only your head and neck are resting on the pillow. If part of your back is on the pillow, it’s going to mess up your neck-spine alignment.

If the pillow is adjustable, you may need to test different configurations to find the most comfortable one for you.

This usually involves removing or adding filling.

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Benefits of a Back Sleeper Pillow

  • It prevents your neck from straining. A good back sleeper pillow ensures your head position is not forcing your neck into an awkward shape.
  • It promotes good breathing and reduces snoring. Sleeping on your back constricts your airways and is especially unpleasant for people with sleep apnea and breathing problems. A back sleeper pillow raises your head and neck, allowing you to breathe normally.
  • It helps with neck pain. If you have chronic neck pain because of an accident or a medical condition, a good quality back sleeper pillow can help. Contoured and zoned support pillows are especially good.
  • It maintains proper sleeping posture. A back sleeper pillow keeps your head, neck, and spine at the same level. This not only keeps your neck from getting stiff and sore, but it also prevents back pain — less turning and tossing. If you toss and turn a lot at night, it’s probably because you are not comfortable. A good back sleeper pillow should help you sleep more soundly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What firmness is best for back sleepers?

Medium firm.

What is the best pillow for back pain?

Any pillow that provides good support and alignment for the head and neck.

I highly recommend a cervical pillow with a sunken middle and raised edges. It provides the best alignment and support.

What kinds of pillows are used in hotels?

Hotel pillows tend to fall more on the soft and plush side. This is because they use down, down alternative or microfiber.

This is a problem for back sleepers who often need firmer support and a loftier pillow. But most hotels are glad to provide you with a foam pillow if you ask.

Are memory foam pillows good for your back?

Yes, they are.

They provide a right balance between firm support and soft comfort. The pillow will let your head sink into a soft hug but hold your neck at the right height.

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Cons

  • You can feel the shredded pieces through the cover.
  • Fairly expensive considering it uses poly foam, a cheap type of foam and a simple cotton cover.

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3. Most Luxurious Pillow for Back Sleepers: Sahara Nights Pillow

Sobel Westex: Sahara Nights Pillow, Best Pillow for Back and Stomach Sleepers – Hotel & Resort Quality Pillows – Gel Fiber Fill 100% Cotton – Hypoallergenic Pillow (Queen Size Pillow)

Many customers bought the Sahara Nights pillow after experiencing its plush but supportive feel at 5-star hotels. It offers one of the most luxurious sleeping experience for back and side sleepers. 

If you like the feel of a down pillow but would also prefer something a bit firmer to support your head and neck, Sahara Nights is the best pillow.

It hits that sweet spot between firm and soft that most back sleepers love. It is soft enough to contour around your head but also firm enough that your head doesn’t sink too much.

The pillow uses a polyester fiber gel fill that not only feels comfortable but also keeps you fresh.

The hypoallergenic soft cotton cover does an excellent job of wicking away perspiration and maintaining free airflow for heat dissipation.

The pillow is available in 3 sizes: Standard, Queen, and King.

Specs

Fill: polyester fiber gel

Cover material: 100% cotton (woven with 233 thread count)

Cleaning: machine washable

 Pros

  • Luxury hotel comfort level (the Sahara Nights pillow is used in many top hotels).
  • A soft-yet-firm feel that is perfect for back sleepers.
  • Gel fiber fill keeps the pillow cool.
  • Machine washable.
  • Great price.

Cons

  • Doesn’t last very long – around one year.

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4. Best Adjustable Pillow for Back Sleepers: Coop Home Goods Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

Coop Home Goods - Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow - Hypoallergenic Cross-Cut Memory Foam Fill - Lulltra Washable Cover from Bamboo Derived Rayon - CertiPUR-US/GREENGUARD Gold Certified - Queen

Pillows with shredded filling are particular favorites for back sleepers. They mold better to your head and neck, and you can adjust the loft of the pillow by removing some of the fillings.

This shredded memory foam pillow by Coop Home Goods is one of the most popular with over 15,000 reviews on Amazon.

It uses CertiPUR-US Certified foam so don’t worry about PBDEs, phthalates or other harmful chemicals. It contains none of them.

The memory foam immediately molds to your head when you go to sleep. The 4.5” loft keeps your head at the right level in alignment with your spine.

But if it feels too high, it’s easy to adjust the pillow. Just take some of the foam out to lower it.

Coop Home Goods - Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow - Hypoallergenic Cross-Cut Memory Foam Fill - Lulltra Washable Cover from Bamboo Derived Rayon - CertiPUR-US/GREENGUARD Gold Certified - Queen

The hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant cover  consists of polyester (60%) and bamboo-derived rayon (40%).

Rayon helps keep the pillow cool while the polyester part of it adds durability and wicks away perspiration.

There is also an inner stretchy liner that improves contouring.

The pillow is available in Queen (20” by 30”) and King (20” by 36”) sizes.  

Specs

Fill: shredded memory foam

Cover material: polyester and rayon derived from bamboo

Loft: adjustable

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: machine washable

Pros

  • One of the most comfortable pillows for back sleepers.
  • Adjustable height and comfort.
  • Hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant cover.
  • Machine washable.
  • Stays cool and dry.
  • Contours better and lasts longer than solid memory foam pillows.

Cons

  • Requires regular fluffing to keep it in shape.  

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5. Best Pillow for Back Sleepers with Neck Pain: Malouf Z Zoned Memory Foam Pillow

MALOUF ZZQQHFZD Queenhigh Loft Firm, Queen, White

I’m a big fan of pillows (and mattresses) that provide zoned support sections for different parts of the body. 

This Z-zoned pillow is a great example. Instead of a uniform surface, it provides different firmness levels for your head and neck.      

The center where your head goes is softer. This allows the foam to cradle your head in a comforting hug.

The edges, where your neck is positioned, are firmer. This ensures your neck has proper support and alignment. This is particularly helpful for back sleepers suffering from neck pain. 

The zoned design provides just the right balance of support and comfort. 

The filling is memory foam. It is an open cell to ensure it doesn’t retain too much heat. For additional cooling, the pillow is wrapped in a removable tencel cover.

Compared to cotton, Tencel is cooler and better at wicking moisture.

The 7” loft may seem a bit too high, but it’s comfortable for most back sleepers. But if you think it is too high, there is a lower loft option (4.5”).

Specs

Size: queen – 29” by 16.”

Loft: 7” or 4.5.”

Fill: Open cell memory foam

Cover material: tencel

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: cover is removable and machine washable

Pros

  • Zoned support design provides enhanced contouring and support for back sleepers.
  • Open cell foam keeps the pillow cool and fresh.
  • Cool and moisture-wicking tencel cover — two loft options.

Cons

  • Non-adjustable.
  • You can only wash the cover.

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6. Best Pillow for Back Sleepers with Neck and Shoulder Pain: Sleep Innovations Cool Contour Memory Foam Pillow

Sleep Innovations Cooling Contour Memory Foam Pillow, Cervical Support Pillow for Sleeping, Made in The USA with 5 - Year Warranty, Standard Pillow

This Sleep Innovations memory foam pillow has a contoured design: a low center to cradle your head and a raised lip on the edges to support your neck.

One edge is slightly higher than the other. I recommend trying both sides for three days each to see which one feels more comfortable.  

The contoured design is great for neck and shoulder pain relief, whether you sleep on your back or side. The raised lip keeps your neck at the right height for proper spinal alignment. It also prevents pressure on your shoulders.  

The pillow is made from memory foam, so contouring is not an issue. Many customers describe it as sleeping on a soft-but-firm cloud.

It cradles your head while supporting your neck.

The memory foam has an open-cell design that keeps air flowing freely in and out of the pillow. This helps with temperature and moisture regulation.

The microfiber cover further helps keep the pillow cool and wicks away sweat.

Specs

Size: Queen (24” by 15”) & standard (20.8” by 14.2”) sizes

Loft: 5.”

Fill: solid open-cell memory foam

Cover material: microfiber

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: cover is removable and washable

Pros

  • Made in the USA.
  • Contoured design provides great support and comfort.
  • Open-cell memory foam prevents overheating.
  • Moisture-wicking microfiber cover.  

 

 

Cons

  • Might feel too warm for extra heat-sensitive sleepers.
  • The slight chemical smell when you unbox it. It dissipates in 2-3 days.

 


7. Best Orthopedic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Milemont Memory Foam Cervical Pillow

best wedge pillow for back sleepers

The Milemont memory foam cervical pillow is another good choice for back sleepers suffering from various aches including back, neck, and shoulder pain.

It has a cervical design that cradles your head and supports your neck. This keeps your spine in the right alignment and prevents or relieves pain in the neck, shoulder, and back.

The Millemont pillow works best for back and side sleepers. The curved lip varies in height on each side of the mattress. Try the lower side (4” loft) if you have a smaller frame and narrow shoulders. Broad-shouldered sleepers will find the higher side (4.5” loft)more supportive.

The Milemont cervical pillow is solid memory foam that contours to your head and neck while providing the right amount of support.

Because memory foam tends to trap heat, the Milemont pillow uses open-cell memory foam that has better airflow to keep you cooler in bed.

The cover is a blend of polyester and Tencel. It is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. However, if you sleep extra-hot, consider replacing the cover with a bamboo rayon or a cotton pillowcase for extra cooling power.

The cover comes with a side zipper. You can remove and wash it. But don’t wash the memory foam core.

The Milemont pillow comes with a 10-year warranty, so you are guaranteed it’ll last a long time.

Specs

Fill: Solid Open-Cell memory foam

Cover material: Polyester and Tencel

Loft: 4-4.5 inches

Warranty: 10 years

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Great support for back sleepers.
  • Relieves neck, shoulder and back pain.
  • Breathable cover and memory foam.
  • Washable cover.

Cons

  • Extra-hot sleepers may still find the pillow a tad too warm – you may need to buy a cooling cover.

8. Best Memory Foam Pillow for Back Sleepers: Classic Brands Cool Sleep Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Gusseted Pillow 

best soft pillows for back sleepers

Memory foam pillows are great at pressure relief and support. The memory foam molds around your head and neck to relieve pressure and maintain proper spine alignment.

One of the best memory foam pillows for back sleepers is the Classic Brands ventilated gel memory foam pillow.

There are two big reasons why we love this pillow, other than the fact that it is memory foam.

One, it is gusseted. Gusset is a side panel that holds the pillow’s structure and shape. It ensures the pillow maintains its supportive loft, which keeps your head and neck in the right position all night long.

Two, it is designed to keep you cool. The ventilated memory foam circulates air, which carries away heat from the pillow. The memory foam is also infused with a cooling gel that draws heat away from your head and neck.

It’s still memory foam, so some extra-hot sleepers may find the pillow a bit warm. But for most sleepers, it sleeps cool enough.

For added comfort, the pillow comes with a special Cool-pass performance knit cover that dissipates heat away from the pillow and wicks sweat from your skin.

The Classic Brands memory foam pillow is designed with a medium-plush feel. It has some give when you lay your head on it but is firm enough to hold your head at the right loft.

The 4.5” pillow height works great for most back and side sleepers.

Specs

Fill: Solid ventilated gel memory foam

Cover material: Cool knit fabric

Loft: 4.5 inches

Warranty: 5 years

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Great support and pressure relief for back sleepers.
  • Sleep cool for most people.
  • Washable cover.
  • Hypoallergenic.

Cons

  • Heat-sensitive sleepers may still find the pillow too warm.

9. Best Organic Pillow for Back Sleepers: Avocado Molded Latex Pillow

best wedge pillow for back sleepers

If you are shopping for an organic pillow, your best option is a latex mattress. One of the best bedding companies when it comes to green and organic bedroom products is Avocado Green.

Their molded latex pillow is perfect for back sleepers, especially those looking for a firmer pillow with extra support.

The molded organic latex is firm without being rock hard. You still get a small amount of giving that relieves pressure from your head and neck.

The Avocado latex pillow has a higher than usual loft of 5.5” for the standard size and 6” for the queen and king sizes. This makes it ideal for back sleepers with a big frame and broad shoulders. It’s an especially great choice for men.

The loft is high enough to also accommodate most side sleepers.

Being natural latex, the Avocado pillow has no trouble staying cool. It has excellent airflow and doesn’t trap heat like memory foam.

The latex is infused with charcoal to improve cooling. Charcoal also prevents moisture build-up and keeps your pillow smelling fresh by neutralizing any unpleasant odors. 

An organic cotton cover rounds out the pillow's cool feel. The cover is machine washable.

By the way, don’t worry that you’ll be stuck with a pillow you won’t like. If you are cautious about buying a firm latex pillow, Avocado Green offers a 100-night sleep trial with free returns. If you don’t like the pillow within that time, you can just return it. 

Specs

Fill: Organic charcoal-infused latex 

Cover material: Organic cotton

Loft: 5 or 6 inches

Warranty: 1 year

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Firm support for back sleepers and side sleepers.
  • Sleeps cool.
  • Organic latex core and cotton cover.
  • 100-night sleep trial.

Cons

  • Pricey.
  • Pillows may be too high for some back sleepers.
  • Short warranty.

10. Best Wedge Pillow for Back Sleepers: Ebung Bed Wedge Pillow

best pillow for back sleepers

They may not look as comfortable as ordinary pillows, but wedge pillows can be a lifesaver, literally, for some people.

A wedge pillow is helpful for people who need to sleep in a raised position. For instance, a wedge pillow can make breathing easier for people with sleep apnea.

A wedge pillow can also relieve acid reflux, heartburn, and snoring. Your doctor may also recommend it for post-surgery recovery, pregnancy, back pain, or neck/shoulder pain. 

Even if you have none of these problems, a wedge pillow is great for reading or watching TV in bed without straining your back and neck.

Our favorite wedge pillow is the Ebung bed wedge pillow.  

It measures a foot high at the highest point, which keeps your upper body elevated. The Ebung pillow is made with high-density memory foam. It is firm – not plush like other memory foam pillows.

The firmness is good for support. It also makes it easier to lift yourself off the bed especially if you have an injury. The memory foam still has some give for comfort and pressure relief on your back.

Another advantage of the firm feel is that the pillow doesn’t get as hot since the memory foam does not hug your body closely as softer memory foam pillows do.

By the way, feel free to take your wedge pillow to the couch when watching TV or reading. It can also work as leg support when you need to elevate your legs.

The Ebung pillow comes with a washable polyester cover. It’s okay but doesn’t match the softness and cooling power of cotton or bamboo rayon.

Luckily, there are pillow cases designed specifically for wedge pillows, like this MoonRest 100% cotton bed wedge cover

Specs

Fill: High-density memory foam

Cover material: Polyester

Loft: 12 inches

Warranty: Not specified

Cleaning: Removable and washable cover

Pros

  • Relieves acid reflux, sleep apnea, back pain and other problems.
  • Durable and supportive high-density memory foam.
  • Washable cover.
  • Versatile – can be used for knee and leg support as well.

Cons

  • Some sleepers may find the pillow too firm.
  • Takes up a lot of space in the bed.

What is the Best Pillow for Back Sleepers?

The best pillow for back sleepers is one that is firm enough to support your head and neck at the right height and soft enough to relieve pressure.

Unlike stomach sleepers, a back sleeper needs a thicker pillow with a loft between 4” and 7” (depending on body size). This ensures your neck is in alignment with your spine.

If your head and neck are too high, you are going to get neck pain. The same is true if the pillow is too low and your head tips backward.

An unsupportive pillow can also cause or worsen shoulder and back pain.

As for firmness, a medium-firm pillow is the best for back sleepers. It provides the best balance between support and contouring.

As for material, some of the most comfortable pillows for back sleepers are memory foam. Memory foam hugs your neck and head to relieve pressure while also providing the right amount of support for spine alignment.

The only problem with memory foam is that it tends to get a bit too warm. A gel or open-cell memory foam pillow will sleep cooler. But if you tend to overheat easily, we recommend getting a latex pillow instead.

We also recommend latex if you prefer your pillow on the firm side or you don’t like the dead feel of memory foam.

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Features to Consider When Buying Pillows for a Back Sleeper

Sleeping on your back keeps your spine in natural alignment and can help with acid reflux. 

But it also increases the risk of neck strain and can worsen snoring.

To avoid these problems, get a pillow that props up your head at the right height to maintain good breathing and provides proper support for your neck.

Here’s what you should consider when shopping for a back sleeper pillow.

Loft

Loft refers to the height of the mattress.

If it’s too high, your head will be higher than your body, and your neck will be forced to curve upwards. If it’s too low, your head will drop too far back, and your neck will curve backward.

Both are bad for your neck and spine.

The best loft for back sleepers is somewhere in the middle – between 4” and 7”.

This ensures your head and neck are perfectly aligned with your spine.

If you are not sure the exact height that will be comfortable for you, get an adjustable pillow with a customizable loft.

Size

Pillow sizes range from small (20” by 12”) to full body size.

The most common sizes are Standard (20 by 26 in), Queen (20 by 30 in), and King (20 by 36 in). Note that the dimensions vary slightly from brand to brand.

Get a larger pillow if you have a bigger body. You’ll also appreciate a wider pillow if you toss and turn a lot at night.

Surface Design

If you don’t want the traditional pillow with a smooth uniform surface, get a contoured pillow, also called a cervical pillow.

This is a pillow with a sunken center and raised edges. It molds perfectly to your head and neck profile, proving a great combination of support and contouring.

Contoured pillows are beneficial for people with specialized comfort needs such as neck pain, pinched neck, and other joint and spinal problems.

Firmness

As with loft, back sleepers find middle-of-the-road firmness pillows to be the most comfortable. It shouldn’t be too firm or too soft.

This allows the pillow to provide a good mix of support and contouring.

Some pillows have a zoned support design. This is where certain sections are firmer than others.

A good example is the Malouf Z Zoned Memory Foam Pillow I have reviewed above.

Zoned pillows generally provide better contouring and support than pillows with a uniform firmness. They are especially beneficial for people with special comfort needs.

Fill

Back sleepers need a pillow that is neither too soft nor too firm. So the type of filling, which determines firmness, is essential.

The best pillow materials are buckwheat, memory foam, shredded memory foam or poly foam and latex.

These pillows provide an excellent level of firmness and the right loft.

If you tend to get too warm at night, go for latex or gel memory foam pillows. They sleep cooler than standard memory foam pillows.

We don’t recommend down, down alternative or polyester pillows. They tend to flatten out too quickly and are too soft to provide proper support.

Solid vs Shredded Memory Foam

If you are planning to get a memory foam pillow, there are two popular options: solid memory foam and shredded memory foam.

Solid memory foam is just that; a solid uniform piece of memory foam. The foam will often be open-celled or infused with gel for cooling.

While they provide excellent support for back sleepers, the lack of adjustability is a big issue for some people. These pillows also tend to wear out faster.

Shredded memory foam pillows consist of small pieces of memory foam.    

They mold better to your head and neck compared to solid memory foam, providing better support and pressure relief.

These pillows also tend to last longer. They do not flatten as quickly as solid pillows.

The biggest advantage of shredded pillows is that you can often adjust the loft and feel of the mattress by taking some of the pieces out.

Cover Material

Most pillows have a cotton cover. It’s right at wicking away sweat. It’s also breathable, which keeps the pillow cool.

Some pillows use unique fabrics like Tencel and Rayon to enhance cooling.

Ease of Cleaning

Before you buy a pillow, check whether you can machine-wash it. This makes it easy to keep the pillow clean and hygienic.

Some pillows, especially those that use solid memory foam, cannot be washed. The only option is to remove the cover and clean it.

If you buy such a pillow, make sure the cover is removable and washable. I also recommend purchasing a pillow protector to keep the pillow clean and stain-free.

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How to Position the Pillow Correctly for Sleeping on Your Back

There’s no rocket science to positioning your pillow for maximum comfort. Just use it normally.

Make sure only your head and neck are resting on the pillow. If part of your back is on the pillow, it’s going to mess up your neck-spine alignment.

If the pillow is adjustable, you may need to test different configurations to find the most comfortable one for you.

This usually involves removing or adding filling.

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Benefits of a Back Sleeper Pillow

  • It prevents your neck from straining. A good back sleeper pillow ensures your head position is not forcing your neck into an awkward shape.
  • It promotes good breathing and reduces snoring. Sleeping on your back constricts your airways and is especially unpleasant for people with sleep apnea and breathing problems. A back sleeper pillow raises your head and neck, allowing you to breathe normally.
  • It helps with neck pain. If you have chronic neck pain because of an accident or a medical condition, a good quality back sleeper pillow can help. Contoured and zoned support pillows are especially good.
  • It maintains proper sleeping posture. A back sleeper pillow keeps your head, neck, and spine at the same level. This not only keeps your neck from getting stiff and sore, but it also prevents back pain — less turning and tossing. If you toss and turn a lot at night, it’s probably because you are not comfortable. A good back sleeper pillow should help you sleep more soundly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What firmness is best for back sleepers?

Medium firm.

What is the best pillow for back pain?

Any pillow that provides good support and alignment for the head and neck.

I highly recommend a cervical pillow with a sunken middle and raised edges. It provides the best alignment and support.

What kinds of pillows are used in hotels?

Hotel pillows tend to fall more on the soft and plush side. This is because they use down, down alternative or microfiber.

This is a problem for back sleepers who often need firmer support and a loftier pillow. But most hotels are glad to provide you with a foam pillow if you ask.

Are memory foam pillows good for your back?

Yes, they are.

They provide a right balance between firm support and soft comfort. The pillow will let your head sink into a soft hug but hold your neck at the right height.

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1 thought on “Best 10 Pillows for Back Sleepers 2023: Top Picks, Reviews & Buying Guide”

  1. I was going to buy the MyPillow but they were going to charge me $32 shipping “and handling” for a $20 queen pillow that they squash down and roll up in a bag. Deceptive marketing to make you think you are getting a good “deal” and trick you by jacking up the cost to make up for the “discount”. I guess that is what I should have expected from Lyndell. Maybe I will go with the better rated Coop pillow that that you can adjust the level of stuffing.

    Reply

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