Best pillows for side sleepers in New Zealand

For side sleepers, the right pillow is more than just a comfort item—it’s crucial for proper spinal alignment and avoiding neck or shoulder pain. Side sleeping creates a gap between your head and the mattress that needs to be filled to keep your spine straight. Without proper support, you risk discomfort and long-term issues like shoulder pain, neck strain, or poor sleep quality.

The ideal pillow for side sleepers provides enough loft to fill the space between your ear and shoulder while maintaining firm support to prevent your head from sinking. It should contour to your head and neck, evenly distributing weight to relieve pressure points and minimise strain.

Proper pillow support for your sleep position can improve your overall well-being, reducing chronic pain, headaches, and spinal misalignment, not to mention help you get more shut-eye! To choose the best pillow, consider your shoulder width, mattress firmness, and any existing discomfort. Finding the right balance of loft and firmness tailored to your needs can transform your sleep and support your long-term health.

Let’s discuss what to look for in a pillow for side sleepers, and some of the best options available at Briscoes.

When it comes to choosing the best pillows for side sleepers, New Zealand residents have several excellent material options to consider. Each pillow filling offers unique benefits for supporting your head and neck in a side sleeping position. Let's explore these materials and their specific advantages:

Memory Foam: Memory foam pillows are a popular choice for side sleepers due to their contouring abilities. They mould to the shape of your head and neck for personalised support, help maintain proper spinal alignment, relieve pressure points in the neck and shoulders, and are available in solid or shredded forms for adjustable loft. The Galaxy Contour Memory Foam Pillow is an excellent example of this material's benefits for side sleepers.

Latex: Natural latex pillows offer excellent support for side sleepers. They provide a responsive and bouncy feel, maintain shape well throughout the night, are naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, and offer breathable and cooling properties. The Nature's Feel Talalay Pillow Medium is a great option for those seeking these benefits.

Polyester/Microfibre: Synthetic-filled pillows can be a budget-friendly option for side sleepers. They are available in various firmness levels, hypoallergenic and easy to clean, lightweight and moldable. Look for higher-density fills for adequate support. The Sleep Maker Comfort Firm Pillow utilises high-quality synthetic fill to provide comfort and support.

Down Alternative: For those who prefer the softness of down but need more support, down alternative pillows can be an excellent choice. They offer a plush feel with better support than traditional down, are hypoallergenic, and often more affordable than natural down pillows.

When selecting a firm pillow for side sleeping, it's crucial to consider loft and density in addition to material. A pillow with medium to high loft (4-6 inches) and firm density will help keep your head properly elevated and aligned with your spine.

For optimal neck support, many side sleepers benefit from a side sleeper neck support pillow with a contoured design. These pillows often feature a higher loft under the neck and a slight dip for the head, promoting proper alignment throughout the night.

Ultimately, the best pillow material for side sleepers depends on individual preferences for feel, support, and temperature regulation. Many side sleepers find success with memory foam or latex options, but it may take some experimentation to find the perfect fit for your unique needs. With this understanding of pillow materials, let's move on to discussing how to choose the right pillow size and loft for your specific needs as a side sleeper.

Find your perfect pillow at Briscoes

Choosing the right pillow is a personal journey, and what works best for one side sleeper may not be ideal for another. Don't be afraid to try different options until you find the perfect fit. With the range of high-quality pillows available at Briscoes, you're sure to find the ideal pillow to support your side sleeping needs and ensure restful, comfortable nights.

After considering the key features that make a great side sleeper pillow, you'll be pleased to know that Briscoes offers a range of high-quality options designed to meet your specific needs. Let's take a closer look at some of the best pillows for side sleepers available in New Zealand:

1. Galaxy Contour Memory Foam Pillow

The Galaxy Contour Memory Foam Pillow is designed with a unique shape that helps prevent neck and shoulder pain that can accompany sleeping on your side. It features:

- Contoured design to support the natural curve of your neck - Memory foam core that adapts to your head and neck shape - Medium-firm support ideal for side sleeping, maintaining proper spinal alignment - Breathable cover for temperature regulation, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep

2. Sleep Maker Comfort Firm Pillow

The Sleep Maker Comfort Firm Pillow is a standard size pillow at a high profile and firm fill weight is most suitable for side sleepers. It offers:

- Cotton-rich cover for breathability and comfort - 600 grams of recycled fill for eco-conscious support - Firm support to maintain proper head and neck alignment - High loft ideal for filling the gap between head and shoulder

3. Nature's Feel Talalay Pillow Medium

The Nature’s Feel Talalay Pillow Medium is suitable for various sleep positions,soft as a cloud while provideding just the right amount of lift for side sleepers. It features:

- Natural Talalay latex core for responsive support, adapting to your head and neck shape - Hyper-responsive feel for personalised comfort - Medium support suitable for side sleepers who prefer a slightly softer pillow - Breathable and naturally hypoallergenic, ideal for those with allergies or asthma

4. Dream Science Bamboo Foam Core King Pillow

The Dream Science Bamboo Foam Core Pillow is a fully adjustable pillow that allows you to customise the level of foam to achieve the right balance between support and comfort. Add or remove fill to achieve a customised loft and level of support. King size also allows for those with border shoulders to sleep more comfortably.

5. Hilton Relax Therapy Knee Support Pillow

While not a head pillow, this Side Sleeper Knee Support Pillow promotes improved body alignment during the night. It offers:

- Ergonomic design to support proper hip and spine alignment - Helps reduce pressure on lower back and knees - Removable velour cover for extra comfort and easy cleaning - Complements your head pillow for overall side sleeping comfort

When selecting the best pillow for your side sleeping needs, consider factors like loft, firmness, and material to ensure proper support for your head, neck, and shoulders throughout the night. Briscoes offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs. Now, let's address some common issues side sleepers face and how the right pillow can help.

Pillow Materials and Their Benefits for Side Sleepers