Pillows by Sleep Position
Best Memory Foam Pillows for Back Sleepers with Medium Loft
7 picks compared
6 min read
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The short answerThe Coop Home Goods Original, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud, and the Sleep Number ComfortFit Ultimate are top choices. Each offers a medium loft with adaptive support. They suit back sleepers who need spinal alignment without a high profile.
?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 Original
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 best overall
This pillow has a shredded memory foam fill that you can add or remove. The medium loft suits back sleepers who want customization. The bamboo-derived cover is soft and breathable.
Fill Shredded memory foamLoft Adjustable (medium default)Cover Bamboo-derived rayonSize 20 x 26 inches
- Adjustable loft for personal comfort
- Machine washable cover
- Good for neck pain relief
- Requires fluffing to maintain shape
- Some find the fill too soft
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best for pressure relief
The TEMPUR material molds to your head and neck, distributing weight evenly. Its medium loft supports back sleepers without pushing the head forward. The cover is removable and washable.
Fill TEMPUR material (viscoelastic)Loft Medium (4.5 inches)Cover Removable, machine washableSize Standard 16 x 26 inches
- Excellent pressure relief
- Durable over time
- Consistent support
- Retains heat for some sleepers
- Heavier than other pillows
Best for: best for pressure relief
Sleep Number ComfortFit Ultimate
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for cooling
This pillow features a breathable cover and a gel-infused foam that draws heat away. The medium loft keeps the spine aligned for back sleepers. It has a zipper for loft adjustment.
Fill Gel-infused memory foamLoft Adjustable (medium)Cover Breathable knitSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Stays cool throughout the night
- Adjustable loft
- Soft yet supportive
- May be too soft for some
- Cover is not removable
Best for: best for cooling
Snuggle-Pedic Ultra Luxury
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best value
This pillow uses a shredded gel memory foam that is adjustable. It comes with a bamboo cover and a carry bag. Owners report good support for back sleeping at a lower price point.
Fill Shredded gel memory foamLoft Adjustable (medium default)Cover Bamboo rayonSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Adjustable to your preferred loft
- Breathable cover
- Affordable price
- Needs fluffing regularly
- Some may prefer a solid foam
Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for side sleepers who switch
This pillow has a gel fiber fill that mimics down but offers more support. Its medium loft works for back and side sleepers. The cotton cover is soft and breathable.
Fill Gel fiberLoft Medium (5 inches)Cover CottonSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Soft yet supportive
- Good for combination sleepers
- Machine washable
- May flatten over time
- Not adjustable
Best for: best for side sleepers who switch
MyPillow Premium
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 best for firmness preference
The MyPillow uses a patented interlocking fill that you can adjust. It offers a medium loft but with a firmer feel. The cotton cover is soft and breathable.
Fill Interlocking poly-fillLoft Adjustable (medium)Cover CottonSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Adjustable fill
- Firm support for back sleepers
- Machine washable
- Some find it too firm
- Requires fluffing
Best for: best for firmness preference
Eli & Elm Ultra Support Side Sleeper Pillow
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for neck pain
This pillow has a contoured shape that supports the neck and shoulders. Its medium loft is designed for back and side sleepers. The memory foam is infused with charcoal for odor control.
Fill Memory foamLoft Medium (4.5 inches)Cover Removable, machine washableSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Ergonomic contour for neck support
- Charcoal-infused foam
- Removable cover
- Contour may not suit all
- Heavier than standard pillows
Best for: best for neck pain
We compared specifications like fill type, density, and cover material. Owner feedback highlighted comfort and durability. We also considered adjustability and cooling features.
How to Choose a Medium Loft Pillow
Loft is the height of the pillow when lying on it. Medium loft typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches. Back sleepers need a loft that keeps the head aligned with the spine. Measure your neck to mattress distance to find your ideal loft. A pillow that is too high or too low can cause neck strain.
Memory Foam vs. Other Fills
Memory foam conforms to your head and neck, offering pressure relief. It may retain heat, but many models include cooling gels. Shredded foam allows adjustability, while solid foam provides consistent support. Other fills like down or fiber are softer but may not offer the same support. Consider your sleep temperature and firmness preference.
Key Features to Look For
Look for a removable, washable cover for hygiene. Adjustable fill lets you customize loft. Cooling features like gel infusion or breathable covers help regulate temperature. Check the pillow's dimensions to ensure it fits your bed. Read owner reviews for insights on durability and comfort.
Who Should Avoid Medium Loft
Stomach sleepers often need a low loft to avoid neck strain. Side sleepers may need a higher loft to fill the space between shoulder and head. If you have chronic neck pain, consult a professional. Medium loft is a compromise, but not ideal for everyone. Test different lofts to find what works.
Questions people ask
What is the best memory foam pillow for back sleepers?
The Coop Home Goods Original is a top pick due to its adjustable loft and supportive shredded foam. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud also offers excellent pressure relief. Choose based on your preference for adjustability or solid foam.
How do I know if a pillow has a medium loft?
Check the product specifications for loft height, usually in inches. Medium loft is typically 4 to 6 inches. Some pillows are adjustable, allowing you to change the loft. Look for dimensions and fill descriptions.
Can a memory foam pillow be too high for back sleepers?
Yes, a high loft can push your head forward, straining the neck. Back sleepers need a loft that keeps the spine neutral. If the pillow is too high, consider a lower loft or an adjustable pillow.
Is an adjustable loft pillow better?
Adjustable pillows let you customize the height to your exact needs. This is beneficial if you are unsure about your ideal loft. They may require more maintenance, like fluffing. Many back sleepers find them useful.
How often should I replace my memory foam pillow?
Most memory foam pillows last 2 to 3 years. Over time, foam loses its support and shape. If you wake up with neck pain or the pillow feels flat, it's time to replace it. Check for visible wear or odor.
What is the difference between memory foam and latex pillows?
Memory foam conforms closely and offers pressure relief, but may retain heat. Latex is more responsive and cooler, but can be firmer. Both come in various lofts. Your choice depends on your comfort and temperature preferences.
Can I wash a memory foam pillow?
Most memory foam pillows are not machine washable. Instead, spot clean the cover and foam. Some covers are removable and washable. Always check the care instructions. Use a pillow protector to extend the life.
Which pillow is best for neck pain in back sleepers?
The Eli & Elm Ultra Support Side Sleeper Pillow has an ergonomic curve that supports the neck. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud also provides pressure relief. Consider your specific pain and comfort preferences.
Do cooling memory foam pillows really work?
Cooling features like gel infusion or breathable covers help dissipate heat. They can make a difference for hot sleepers. However, they may not eliminate heat entirely. Read reviews to see how effective they are.
Is a medium loft pillow good for side sleepers?
Side sleepers often need a higher loft to fill the space between shoulder and head. A medium loft may work for side sleepers with smaller shoulders. If you switch positions, a medium loft can be a compromise.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most back sleepers, the Coop Home Goods Original offers the best balance of support and adjustability. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud is ideal if you prefer a solid foam. Consider your budget and cooling needs when choosing.
