Best mattress for a side sleeper | Bedshed
Sleep & Health

What is the best mattress for a side sleeper?

What is the best mattress for a side sleeper?

Ever wake up feeling like you're on the wrong side of the bed? It’s a familiar experience for many of us. Rather than waking up feeling refreshed, we uncurl to a chorus of cracks or find ourselves squinting at the sunlight, wishing for a few more hours of sleep.

You’ve Googled the problem, and you know it can’t be because you’re a side sleeper – the internet says it’s one of the most popular sleeping positions. So, what’s going wrong? Well, your mattress could be the issue. Different sleeping positions require different types of support, and the perfect mattress for a back sleeper or tummy sleeper may feel completely wrong for you.

If you suspect your mattress isn’t doing its job, read on to learn how to choose the best mattress for a side sleeper.

What to consider when choosing your side sleeper mattress:

Finding the right support

Support seems like the obvious thing to evaluate first – but what does it actually mean?

Support is influenced by the firmness level of the mattress. While firm mattresses can sound uncomfortable, firmness isn’t a negative. It simply comes down to what your body needs to stay aligned.

For most side sleepers, a medium mattress strikes the right balance. Side sleepers generally require slightly softer, more flexible support than back sleepers. A medium feel contours to the shoulders and hips, relieving pressure while still providing enough stability to keep your spine aligned. Because side sleepers often move more during the night, a slightly softer feel can also make it easier to change positions.

Memory foam or springs?

So which type of mattress gives side sleepers that combination of contouring, pressure relief and easy movement? There’s no universal answer, but certain constructions tend to suit side sleepers more than others.

Ultimately, the best option is the one that feels right when you try it.

Memory foam

Memory foam is known for deep body-contouring comfort. Its ability to gently contour at the shoulders and hips can help maintain spinal alignment for side sleepers. The only trade-off is that memory foam can feel less responsive, making it slightly harder to switch positions quickly.

Pocket spring mattresses with comfort layers

Mattresses that combine coils with foam layers can be a great option for side sleepers, as they offer both contouring and responsive support. Options like the Drift ReGen, Drift ChiroCurve, Drift Renew, Insignia Luxuria Mattress and Dreamsense Serenity feature individually wrapped pocket coils that respond to your body’s shape, along with comfort layers such as latex, foam or gel to help cushion the shoulders and hips. This style also makes movement easier throughout the night compared to full-foam mattresses, which many side sleepers find beneficial.

Gel mattresses

Gel-infused mattresses provide pressure relief similar to memory foam but often with improved responsiveness and cooling. Models such as the Insignia Platinum or Dreamsense Serenity incorporate gel-infused comfort layers designed to contour the body without creating a deep sinking feeling. For side sleepers who prefer a balance of soft cushioning and gentle support, these types of mattresses can deliver a comfortable “middle ground” experience.

How do you know if it ‘feels’ right?

Nearly every mattress expert will tell you to trust your preferences. But if you’re unsure what “right” feels like, here’s a simple checklist to help:

Check for pressure points.

If your hips or shoulders feel sore, the mattress isn’t suitable.

Test your movement.

Roll over and shift positions—does it feel smooth or awkward?

Assess the contouring.

The mattress should mould to your body without swallowing you.

Check your spine.

For side sleepers with lower back discomfort, your spine should stay neutral—not dipping or arching.

What pillow is best for side sleepers?

Mattresses get most of the attention, but your pillow plays a major role in spinal alignment too.

Everyone sleeps differently, so there’s no single pillow that suits everyone. Side sleepers, for example, often benefit from a higher-profile pillow to maintain proper neck and shoulder alignment. To find the right fit for your body and sleep style, visit your nearest Bedshed store for a personalised pillow fitting and expert advice.

Need an expert’s assistance?

bedshed assistant

If you need expert advice on the best type of mattress for side sleepers, visit us in-store - our mattress experts know all about how to pick a mattress based on your favourite sleeping position.

Wake up to savings!

Subscribe now for exclusive mattress, furniture and bedding deals.

What makes us
better in the bedroom.

These are just some of the ways we make your Bedshed experience better.

Next day delivery now available!

Bedshed Logo

Bedshed is one of Australia's largest mattress, bedding and bedroom furniture retailers. We carry ranges of beds, bedroom suites, children's bedroom furniture, headboards & bases and mattresses from brands like Sealy, Sleepmaker, Drift, TEMPUR, Kingsdown, Dreamsense and Insignia, as well as a wide range of manchester and pillows.

©2026 Bedshed Franchising Pty Ltd

We accept:

*In selected stores only, not available online