Pillows by Sleep Position
Best Adjustable Pillows for Side Sleepers Under
7 picks compared
6 min read
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The short answerThe Coop Home Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow, the Sleep Number ComfortFit Ultimate, and the Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow are top picks under Each offers adjustable loft for side sleepers.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Coop Home Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 Best overall
This pillow comes with a bag of extra fill so you can adjust the loft precisely. The cover is a soft, breathable bamboo-derived rayon. Owners report it holds up well over time.
Fill Shredded memory foam and microfiberLoft range Adjustable, up to 5 inchesCover Bamboo-derived rayonSize Queen, King
- Easy to adjust fill
- Machine washable cover
- Good support for side sleepers
- Can be too firm for some
- Requires fluffing
Sleep Number ComfortFit Ultimate Pillow
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best value
The Sleep Number pillow offers a zippered cover for easy fill adjustment. It contains a blend of down alternative and microfiber. The cover is soft and breathable.
Fill Down alternative and microfiberLoft range AdjustableCover CottonSize Queen, King
- Soft yet supportive
- Zipper access for easy adjustment
- Good value for price
- May flatten over time
- Not as durable as foam
Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best budget
This pillow features a shredded memory foam fill that you can remove through a zipper. The cover is a soft, breathable cotton blend. It provides good support for side sleepers.
Fill Shredded memory foamLoft range AdjustableCover Cotton blendSize Queen, King
- Very affordable
- Easy to adjust
- Good support
- May have a slight odor initially
- Requires fluffing
Snuggle-Pedic Ultra Luxury Bamboo Pillow
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for hot sleepers
The Snuggle-Pedic pillow uses a breathable bamboo cover and shredded memory foam fill. It is designed to promote airflow and reduce heat retention. The fill is adjustable via a zipper.
Fill Shredded memory foamLoft range AdjustableCover Bamboo rayonSize Queen, King
- Cooling cover
- Adjustable loft
- CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Can be too soft for some
- Cover may pill
Best for: Best for hot sleepers
Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best for neck pain
This pillow has a gel-infused memory foam fill that contours to the neck. It offers a medium-firm feel that many side sleepers find supportive. The cover is a soft, breathable fabric.
Fill Gel-infused memory foamLoft range AdjustableCover PolyesterSize Queen, King
- Good neck support
- Cooling gel
- Durable construction
- Heavier than other options
- May be too firm for some
Best for: Best for neck pain
Zinus Cooling Memory Foam Pillow
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best for back and side sleepers
The Zinus pillow features a contoured shape that supports both back and side sleepers. It has a cooling gel layer to regulate temperature. The fill is not adjustable, but the shape provides consistent support.
Fill Memory foamLoft range Fixed, medium-highCover PolyesterSize Standard, Queen, King
- Contoured support
- Cooling gel
- Good for multiple positions
- Not adjustable
- May be too high for some
Best for: Best for back and side sleepers
Mlily Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best for stomach sleepers
This pillow has a low-profile design that suits stomach sleepers. The shredded foam fill can be removed to lower the loft further. The cover is soft and breathable.
Fill Shredded memory foamLoft range Adjustable, low to mediumCover PolyesterSize Standard, Queen, King
- Low loft option
- Adjustable fill
- Soft cover
- May not provide enough support for side sleepers
- Some owners report a chemical smell
Best for: Best for stomach sleepers
Many pillows claim adjustability but have limited range. We focused on models with clear fill access and a wide loft range. We also considered cover quality and durability.
What to Look for in an Adjustable Pillow
Focus on the fill type. Shredded memory foam offers firm support and easy adjustment. Down alternative is softer but may flatten. Check the loft range to ensure it matches your sleeping position. Side sleepers typically need a higher loft, around 4 to 6 inches. Look for a zippered cover for easy fill removal. Consider the cover material for breathability and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Loft for Side Sleeping
Your pillow should fill the space between your shoulder and head. Measure the distance from your ear to the outside of your shoulder. That measurement is your ideal loft. Adjustable pillows let you add or remove fill to achieve this. Start with the pillow as shipped and test it. Remove fill gradually until your neck feels aligned.
Fill Materials: Memory Foam vs. Down Alternative
Memory foam provides more support and contouring. It is heavier and may retain heat. Down alternative is lighter and cooler but offers less support. Some pillows blend both for a balance. Consider your preference for firmness and temperature. Owner reviews often mention these trade-offs.
Caring for Your Adjustable Pillow
Most adjustable pillows have a removable, washable cover. Wash the cover regularly to keep it fresh. The fill should be fluffed to maintain its shape. Some fills can be spot cleaned. Check the care label for specific instructions. Avoid machine washing the foam fill.
Questions people ask
What is the best adjustable pillow for side sleepers?
The Coop Home Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow is a top choice. It offers a wide loft range and quality materials. Many owners report excellent support for side sleeping.
How do I adjust the loft of a pillow?
Most adjustable pillows have a zipper on the cover. Open it and remove or add fill to change the height. Start with a small amount and test the comfort.
What loft height is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers typically need a loft of 4 to 6 inches. It depends on your shoulder width and mattress firmness. Measure the distance from your ear to the outside of your shoulder.
Is an adjustable pillow worth it?
Yes, if you struggle to find the right height. Adjustable pillows let you customize the loft to your body. This can improve sleep quality and reduce neck pain.
Can I use an adjustable pillow for back sleeping?
Yes, many adjustable pillows work for back sleepers. Set the loft lower to keep your head aligned. Some models have a contoured shape for back support.
What is the difference between shredded memory foam and solid memory foam?
Shredded foam is more flexible and adjustable. Solid foam offers more contouring but is not adjustable. Shredded foam allows airflow, which can sleep cooler.
How often should I replace an adjustable pillow?
Most pillows last 1 to 2 years with regular use. If you notice lumps or loss of support, it's time to replace. Some covers are washable, which can extend the life.
Do adjustable pillows come with extra fill?
Some models include a bag of extra fill. The Coop Home Goods pillow does. Others may not, so check the product description.
What is the best pillow for side sleepers with neck pain?
The Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow is a good option. It provides firm support and cooling. Adjustable pillows also help you find the right height.
Are adjustable pillows good for stomach sleepers?
Yes, if you choose a low loft. The Mlily Adjustable Pillow allows you to remove fill for a thin profile. Stomach sleepers need minimal loft to avoid neck strain.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The Coop Home Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow is the best overall for side sleepers under For budget, the Xtreme Comforts is a solid pick. Choose based on your specific needs for cooling, support, or adjustability.
