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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can become a vicious cycle for side sleepers. Chronic pain is often associated with poor sleep quality, and poor sleep quality is also thought to worsen pain. Potentially compounding the issue, side sleeping may also contribute to shoulder pain by placing prolonged pressure on the shoulder underneath the body. The right mattress can enhance your overall comfort and sleep experience.
In the last 10 years, we’ve performed extensive hands-on testing on over 2,000 mattress models. Based on the results of our analyses along with construction information and user feedback, we selected our top picks for the best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain.
Our #1 Pick: Helix Midnight Luxe
The Helix Midnight Luxe is specifically designed for side sleepers with a generous comfort system designed to relieve pressure. Zoned firmness also reinforces the lumbar region while offering more give under the shoulders.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall Mattress
:Helix Midnight Luxe
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Best Value Mattress
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
:Nolah Evolution
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Best Hybrid Mattress
:Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Back Pain
:Bear Elite Hybrid
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Best Cooling Mattress
:Layla Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Motion Isolation
:Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
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Best Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $625 — Helix Midnight Luxe
$1,874(List Price $2,499) - Save $259 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$606(List Price $865) - Save $797 — Nolah Evolution
$1,480(List Price $2,277) - Save $720 — Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
$1,679(List Price $2,399) - Save $799 — Bear Elite Hybrid
$1,485(List Price $2,284)
How We Test
How We Determine Our Best Overall Score
With each mattress we test, our team follows the same comprehensive research and evaluation methodology to ensure objective, data-based findings. The mattress testing process consists of four stages, beginning with our detailed analysis of the bed’s construction, materials, and firmness. This cursory exam allows us to calculate an expected lifespan to determine our durability score. We also review the brand’s shipping and return policies, as well as its overall reputation for customer service and satisfaction.
The second stage involves hands-on evaluations in our Seattle Test Lab. We use a wide range of tools and technology to determine how well the mattress relieves pressure, isolates motion, regulates temperature, and resists deep compression when weight is applied. Once we’ve finished the lab-based stage, our field testers take the mattresses home and sleep on them in their own bedrooms for 2 to 3 weeks. These in-home experiences capture how the mattress performs night to night in an authentic sleep environment. Lastly, we collect and read verified customer reviews of each product to make sure our findings are in line with the general public.
Throughout this four-step testing process, we record data and notes that contribute to each bed’s overall and individual performance ratings. The graph below shows how every performance metric contributes to product scores.
How We Determine the Best Mattress for Side Sleepers With Shoulder Pain
We test each mattress based on our predefined testing methodology to get a clear picture of how each performs. Our testing team members vary in body type and position preference to help us understand how each model performs for different sleepers.
To select our picks for the best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain, we paid close attention to these factors:
- Pressure relief: A side sleeper’s shoulder region is often wider than the rest of their body, so it tends to push harder against the mattress. However, a mattress can take pressure off of a side sleeper’s shoulder by distributing their weight more evenly across the surface.
- Firmness: To find a mattress that cradles the shoulder while supporting the spine, side sleepers often look for a firmness toward the middle of the average range.
- Support: While a mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain should have enough give to relieve pressure, a surface that’s too soft can let their shoulder compress too deeply. Balanced support and cradling are key.
Our Testing Team
Logan Foley
Executive Product Director
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Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content
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Jeremy Klein
Product Testing Manager
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Brad Nehring
Product Testing Manager
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Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
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Rachel Grice
Product Content Manager
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Looking at Other Mattresses? Explore Our Mattress Ratings Database
Browse and compare mattress info and our hands-on Test Lab ratings for many of the most popular mattresses on the market.
Best Overall
9.7/10Test Lab Score
Helix Midnight Luxe
A foam-on coil hybrid that excels at pressure relief, motion isolation, and sleeper support.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers of all weights and couples.
- Feel: Balanced plushness and supportiveness for even cradling without a lot of sinkage.
- What It’s Made Of: Comfort layers of memory foam and polyfoam over a zoned pocketed coil core and polyfoam base.
- What We Don’t Like: The foam layers emit off-gassing smells that can be unpleasant for the first few nights.
- Why It Won Best Overall: The Helix Midnight Luxe earned an exceptionally high overall score, especially from side sleepers of varying body types. With a softer feel under the shoulders and firmer support around the midsection, our side-sleeping testers reported minimal pressure buildup despite notable postural support.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Built with side sleepers in mind, the Helix Midnight Luxe was a top pick among our side-sleeping testers in all weight ranges. The medium firm (6) feel and zoned support allowed their shoulders to sink in without sagging for a strong combination of pressure relief and support.
How It Performed
During our tests, all team members gave the Helix Midnight Luxe outstanding marks for side sleeping. Testers between 130 and 230 pounds were the most impressed, ranking it among the best mattresses they’d tried. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also rated it favorably, though feedback was more mixed from those over 130 pounds because they would have preferred firmer support.
The Helix Midnight Luxe stood out for its pressure relief and edge support, molding to our testers’ bodies to redistribute their weight without compressing excessively when they neared the perimeter. Motion isolation and temperature control were also strong suits, though individuals who sleep particularly hot may prefer the optional upgrades for cooling.
Construction Breakdown
A Tencel cover encases the Helix Midnight Luxe, letting air circulate while feeling soft to the touch. The comfort system uses two layers of memory foam followed by a layer of polyfoam to cushion the surface and adjust to the shape of the sleeper’s body.
A zoned pocketed coil core adds to the cradling, with a softer feel under the shoulders and legs and reinforced support around the lumbar region. A reinforced perimeter delivers edge-to-edge support, and a final layer of polyfoam acts as a base for the coil system.
Several add-ons are also available for an extra charge, including a cover designed for cooling, comfort layer material engineered to pull heat away from your body, and an additional block of polyfoam intended for extra lumbar support.
What Makes the Midnight Luxe Good for Side Sleepers
The Helix Midnight Luxe combines a generous comfort system with zoned support, making it especially well suited to side sleeping. The shoulders and hips can sink in for more even weight distribution, but at the same time, the supportive coil core and reinforced lumbar area provide the necessary lift to help side sleepers maintain a more neutral position.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
When you purchase through the Helix website, the Midnight Luxe comes with free shipping in the contiguous U.S., a 365-night trial period (30-night minimum), and a lifetime warranty. Shipping is also available to Hawaii, Alaska, and most of Canada for an extra charge.
Best Value
8.8/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
An all-foam mattress that hugs and soothes pressure points for restful sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Shoppers on a budget and side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) surface that gently cradles to ease pressure, with a reinforced lumbar region for extra pushback around the midsection.
- What It’s Made Of: A cover quilted with polyfoam over a comfort system combining memory foam and polyfoam, all stabilized by a high-density polyfoam support core.
- What We Don’t Like: The all-foam construction and contouring could make movement more challenging, and a fee applies for returns during the trial period.
- Why It Won Best Value: The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam is competitively priced for a model with strong pressure relief, zoned support, and components designed for cooling.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
While the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam includes several features more often found in higher-priced mattresses, this model carries an approachable price tag. With a medium firm (6) feel, subtle cradling, and significant cushioning, many side sleepers with shoulder pain will appreciate how the surface conforms to their shoulder without putting a lot of pressure on it.
How It Performed
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam was the best match for our side-sleeping testers between 130 and 230 pounds. Lighter team members would have liked to sink in a little more, while most testers over 230 pounds could have used more support. Stomach and back sleepers under 130 pounds also got the support and cushioning they were looking for.
Pressure relief and motion isolation are where this mattress shines. Our pressure mapping showed a fairly even weight distribution across the surface, and our vibration sensors picked up little to no movement when we dropped a kettlebell on one side of the bed.
Construction Breakdown
A cover quilted with 1 inch of cushioning polyfoam tops the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam. A 1.5-inch memory foam comfort layer provides some hug without a lot of sinkage. The material is also infused with copper, which is intended to combat heat and provide antimicrobial properties. A .75-inch layer of polyfoam and 3-inch layer of polyfoam provide additional contouring while gently pushing back against your weight.
The transition layer uses .75 inches of polyfoam, which is zoned to reinforce the lumbar region. The core is made up of 5 inches of high-density base polyfoam for support.
What Makes the CopperFlex Good for Side Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam’s comfort system is what stands out for many side sleepers. It cushions and conforms without a lot of sinkage to reduce sharp pressure points. Additionally, the zoned transition layer makes the bed feel slightly softer under the shoulder region while limiting sinkage around the midsection.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
A 365-night trial period is available. A 30-day minimum applies. Shipping is free in the contiguous U.S., and extra delivery charges apply to customers in Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. All purchases are backed by lifetime warranties.
Best for Pressure Relief
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Nolah Evolution
A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Couples and sleepers across most positions and weight groups.
- Feel: Medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs are available, each combining conforming with zoned support.
- What It’s Made Of: Five layers of polyfoam over a zoned coil core with a polyfoam base.
- What We Don’t Like: The initial off-gassing odor may be fairly pronounced.
- Why It Won Best Pressure Relief: The Nolah Evolution’s thick comfort system includes five distinct layers of foam for ample cushioning. Two of these layers, along with the coil core, are also zoned, letting a side sleeper’s shoulder sink in more deeply than their midsection.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Because a side sleeper’s shoulders are often wider than the rest of their body, they can put more force on the mattress surface. A thick comfort system, like that found in the Nolah Evolution, gives the shoulders more room to sink in before they reach the firmer support of the base layers. With three layers that incorporate zoning, the Nolah Evolution helps reduce unnecessary pressure buildup around the shoulder while keeping the entire body on a more neutral plane.
How It Performed
All of our side-sleeping testers found at least one firmness of the Nolah Evolution suitable, with their preferences directly corresponding to their weight. Those under 130 pounds preferred the medium (5), those between 130 and 230 pounds favored the medium firm (6), and testers over 230 pounds rated the medium firm and firm (8) equally well. Back and stomach sleepers of all weights generally found the firm more comfortable.
Performance was also dependent on firmness. The firmer two options earned higher scores in edge support, temperature control, and ease of movement, while the softer two performed better during motion isolation and pressure relief tests.
Construction Breakdown
The Nolah Evolution starts with a cotton cover that has polyfoam quilted in for cushioning. The layer of ventilated polyfoam underneath is zoned for more targeted support and softness, and it contains copper intended to dissipate heat. The next layer of polyfoam incorporates gel, which is also designed for cooling. A transitional layer of polyfoam adds balanced contouring and support, while a secondary polyfoam transition layer also includes zoning for extra pushback around the midsection.
Pocketed coils in the core are also zoned, with more support around the middle and edges to promote good posture and make it easier to use the full surface. A polyfoam base supports the layers above.
For an additional cost, the Nolah Evolution offers an add-on that includes a cover with extra cooling materials and more quilted foam.
What Makes the Nolah Evolution Good for Side Sleepers
Many side sleepers appreciate zoning to let their shoulder sink in more, and the Nolah Evolution is one of the few models that incorporates zoning in three distinct layers. Multiple firmness options also make it easier for side sleepers to find a feel that suits their body type and personal preferences.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The Nolah Evolution’s trial period lasts 365 nights, including a 30-night break-in period. The mattress ships free in the U.S., and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
Best Hybrid
9.0/10Test Lab Score
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers and couples.
- Feel: Adaptive yet responsive, for a balance between hug and buoyancy.
- What It’s Made Of: A comfort system with four foam layers, including both polyfoam and memory foam, over zoned pocketed coils and a polyfoam base.
- What We Don’t Like: The edge may compress noticeably when sleepers approach the perimeter, especially if they weigh over 230 pounds.
- Why It Won Best Hybrid: Hybrids are often intended to combine the best traits of foam and innerspring models, and the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid delivers. It is responsive yet stable, adaptive yet easy to move on, and buoyant while effectively isolating motion. Three firmness options also allow you to pick based on your unique priorities.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid pairs a plush comfort system and zoned coil core to provide the balanced experience sleepers have come to expect from a high-quality hybrid. The comfort system adds cradling and pressure relief, while the core provides targeted lift where side sleepers typically need it most.
How It Performed
While our testers liked all three firmness options for side sleeping, they were split on which design felt best. Those under 130 pounds gravitated toward the medium (5) and medium firm (6), those between 130 and 230 favored the medium firm, and those over 230 pounds preferred the firm (7). For back and stomach sleepers, the medium firm and firm were the most comfortable options.
We observed significant pressure relief from all three versions of the bed. Additionally, the firmer two earned high marks in ease of movement and temperature control, whereas the medium isolated motion to a more noticeable extent.
Construction Breakdown
The cover of the Sapira Chill Hybrid includes fibers designed for cooling and polyfoam quilted in for cushioning. A layer of proprietary polyfoam underneath is engineered for pressure relief, breathability, and responsiveness. Subsequent layers of memory foam and transitional polyfoam deepen the cradling.
Below the comfort system, a pocketed coil core supports the surface. The coils are zoned beneath the midsection and along the perimeter, giving your midsection an extra lift and providing extra edge support. A dense polyfoam base completes the hybrid design.
What Makes the Sapira Chill Hybrid Good for Side Sleepers
The Sapira Chill Hybrid has a thick comfort system that molds to a side sleeper’s curves to limit pressure buildup. The surface is also responsive, meaning a side sleeper is less likely to feel stuck in their body impression if they need to roll over. Zoning adds to the cradling effect, with more give under a side sleeper’s sensitive shoulder region and more support around their midsection.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
This model comes with a 365-night trial (including a 30-night break-in period) and lifetime warranty. Standard ground shipping is free to all 50 states.
Best for Back Pain
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Bear Elite Hybrid
A close-conforming memory foam hybrid offering great pressure relief.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers who frequently experience aches and pains, as well as couples.
- Feel: A close, hugging sensation combined with a slight bounce, with three firmness options available.
- What It’s Made Of: A three-layer polyfoam and memory foam comfort system over a zoned pocketed coil core with a polyfoam base.
- What We Don’t Like: The softer models, in particular, have limited support for back and stomach sleepers, which may be especially uncomfortable for combination sleepers with back pain.
- Why It Won Best for Back Pain: The Bear Elite Hybrid’s close-conforming comfort system adjusts to the sleeper’s shape, cradling their side and lower back. At the same time, zoned support fortifies the area under a sleeper’s lower back and hips, reducing unnecessary sagging that could otherwise affect their lumbar region.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Some side sleepers experience back pain alongside shoulder pain, especially if their mattress doesn’t offer the right level of support for their body type. For those individuals, the Bear Elite Hybrid is worth taking a closer look at. It’s available in three firmness options to suit different sleepers: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). All three feature close-conforming comfort systems and zoned coils, so the mattress molds to your body while providing strong support.
How It Performed
Among our testers, firmness preferences varied based on weight, though everyone found at least one version of the bed exceptionally comfortable for side sleeping. Side sleepers under 130 pounds rated the medium (5) highly, those between 130 and 230 pounds gave the medium firm (6) the strongest marks, and testers over 230 found the firm (8) most comfortable. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers of all weights generally preferred the medium firm and firm options.
The mattress stood out most for its pressure relief, which was particularly notable in the softer versions. For testers who prioritize edge support, ease of movement, or temperature control, the firm model has the upper hand.
Construction Breakdown
A Celliant cover is designed to promote airflow and regulate temperature. Memory foam underneath hugs the sleeper’s body closely, while a copper infusion in the material is engineered to transfer heat away from the material. Two layers of polyfoam add to the contouring while providing lift to limit the “trapped in the bed” sensation sometimes associated with generous comfort systems.
The support layer uses pocketed coils arranged in five firmness zones for sturdier support around the lumbar region and perimeter. A final polyfoam layer gives the coils a more stable base to compress against. For an extra charge, sleepers can also add quilting foam with phase change material for enhanced cooling.
What Makes the Bear Elite Hybrid Good for Side Sleepers
The Bear Elite Hybrid is a strong option for side sleepers due to the adaptive yet supportive design. Its comfort system shapes to a side sleeper’s body to redistribute their weight, reducing pressure buildup around their shoulders and hips. The model also uses a zoned support core, providing extra lift around the hips to reduce the risk of excessive sagging that could pull the spine out of alignment.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Bear offers a 365-night trial policy (30-night break-in period), free shipping in the contiguous U.S., and a lifetime warranty for the Elite Hybrid. Shipping to select locations in Alaska and Hawaii is available for a charge.
Best Cooling
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Layla Hybrid
A close-conforming, flippable hybrid with a different firmness on each side.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Sleepers with changing needs or preferences.
- Feel: The softer side has a close, hugging sensation, while the firmer side feels more like sleeping “on” the mattress rather than “in” it.
- What It’s Made Of: A memory foam and polyfoam comfort system on either side with a pocketed coil core sandwiched in between.
- What We Don’t Like: The mattress is fairly heavy, so flipping it may be challenging.
- Why It Won Best Cooling: The Layla Hybrid incorporates several materials designed for cooling, including copper-infused memory foam engineered to pull away heat, polyfoam with channels to allow airflow, and a breathable coil system and cover. We detected minimal heat buildup on the firmer side of the mattress, and the softer side also performed well compared to the plush surfaces on other mattresses we’ve tested.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
The Layla Hybrid features a flippable design with a different firmness on each side of the bed. Sleepers can choose between medium soft (4) and firm (7), and both sides include cooling components.
How It Performed
The medium soft (4) side of the mattress was the clear favorite for our side-sleeping testers under 130 pounds, while the firm (7) was the option of choice for side sleepers over 230 pounds, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers. For side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, neither side of the mattress was ideal, but both were comfortable enough to earn decent ratings.
When it came to cooling, the firmer side stood out. Sturdier reinforcement also helped this side perform better during edge support and ease of movement tests. On the other hand, the softer side’s thicker comfort system and deeper hug enhanced the motion isolation and pressure relief.
Construction Breakdown
Each side of the mattress starts out with a memory foam comfort layer to cushion and cradle the sleeper’s body. A copper infusion helps dissipate heat despite the foam’s close hug. Each side has its own polyfoam transition layer to serve as a buffer. On the softer side, this transition layer contains channels to let air circulate while adding subtle zoned support.
Between the two comfort layers, a pocketed coil core provides support, with sturdier coils around the perimeter to give the edge a more stable feel. The Layla Hybrid is also encased in a zippered cover that can be removed for easy cleaning.
What Makes the Layla Hybrid Good for Side Sleepers
The Layla Hybrid is one of the few mattresses on the market that uses a flippable design with a different firmness on either side. This gives side sleepers more options on a night-to-night basis. Cooling materials also help the mattress resist heat buildup and maintain a comfortable temperature for sleeping.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night trial period (30-night minimum), free shipping in the contiguous U.S., and a 10-year limited warranty. Shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada costs extra.
Best for Motion Isolation
7.6/10Test Lab Score
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
A budget-friendly mattress cushioned with premium memory foam.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.
- Feel: Deep cradling with a notable hugging sensation.
- What It’s Made Of: Two layers of memory foam over a dense polyfoam core.
- What We Don’t Like: The close hug may trap heat and make it more difficult to move, and many back and stomach sleepers would benefit from more support.
- Why It Won Best Motion Isolation: We detected very little motion transfer when testing the TEMPUR-Cloud. Its memory foam comfort system effectively absorbs vibrations, which may appeal to sleepers who awaken easily when their partner moves.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Full Breakdown
Tempur-Pedic mattresses are known for their use of pressure-relieving, motion-isolating memory foam, and the TEMPUR-Cloud offers that experience at a more approachable price-point with doorstep delivery options.
How It Performed
In our testing, side sleepers up to 230 pounds gave the TEMPUR-Cloud high marks because it molded closely to their shape without letting them sag. However, the mattress felt too plush to some side sleepers over 230 pounds, along with back and stomach sleepers across weight ranges — for all of these testers, the bed’s softer design made it harder for them to maintain good posture.
The use of memory foam also helped the TEMPUR-Cloud excel in our pressure relief and motion isolation tests. That said, the same hug that allowed it to perform well in those categories was a drawback for ease of movement, temperature control, and edge support.
Construction Breakdown
The TEMPUR-Cloud starts with a stretchy cover designed for moisture wicking and breathability. Two layers of memory foam cradle the sleeper’s body, while a polyfoam base supports the surface.
What Makes the TEMPUR-Cloud Good for Side Sleepers
Memory foam has long been popular with side sleepers due to its pressure-relieving properties, and Tempur-Pedic is one of the brands most closely associated with this material. The TEMPUR-Cloud offers that experience at a lower price than the company’s other models.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
The TEMPUR-Cloud comes with a 90-night trial (30-night minimum), free shipping in the contiguous U.S., and a 10-year warranty. Returns incur a $175 return shipping fee.
What to Consider When Shopping for a Mattress for Side Sleepers With Shoulder Pain
The best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain should redistribute pressure away from the area while supporting good sleep posture. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but considering the following factors can help you find the best option for your needs.
Mattress Type
Performance varies between models, but you can often get a better idea of how a mattress may perform by understanding the different types.
- All-foam: All-foam models often excel at even conforming, pressure relief, and motion isolation. Memory foam comfort systems are associated with the type of cradling side sleepers with shoulder pain often look for, but some firmer models contour less and feel more supportive.
- Hybrid: Hybrid mattresses combine thick foam or latex comfort layers with a coil base. For many side sleepers with shoulder pain, a hybrid model is a best-of-both-worlds option that combines a pressure-relieving hug with responsive support.
- Latex: As the name implies, latex models consist entirely of latex layers. The material is naturally buoyant, conforming moderately while limiting sinkage. A latex mattress may not transfer pressure away from a side sleeper’s shoulder to the same extent as foam, but it’s often comfortable for those who want pressure relief without feeling like they’re sinking in deeply.
- Innerspring: Innerspring mattresses typically pair a very thin comfort system with a supportive coil system. This can make the bed more responsive, though side sleepers with shoulder pain often need more cushioning.
Sleeping Position and Body Weight
For any sleeper, position and weight are two of the biggest factors in determining the best mattress for you.
Side sleepers typically look for a softer mattress compared to back and stomach sleepers. Medium firm mattresses are a good baseline for most side sleepers with shoulder pain to consider. To sink in enough without sagging, side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds may look for a slightly softer option, while those over 230 pounds might prefer slightly firmer.
| Side Sleeper Weight Range | Firmness Starting Point |
|---|---|
| Less than 130 lbs. | Soft (3) to medium (5) |
| 130 to 230 lbs. | Medium (5) to medium firm (6) |
| More than 230 lbs. | Medium firm (6) to firm (7-8) |
Delivery and Setup Options
Many brands offer mattress in a box orders, which means they ship mattresses compressed, rolled, and packaged in a box for you to move into your home and set up. This often calls for the work of two able-bodied adults to lift and carry the box. If you prefer that someone else bring in and unpack your mattress, look for models with in-home delivery and setup, also known as White Glove delivery.
Dig Deeper — More Mattress Guides
Our team tests mattresses that run the gamut in terms of cost, ranging from ultra-affordable budget beds to high-end luxury models. Check out the guides below to see our top mattress picks for different price ranges.
Shopping Guides for Different Mattress Types
- Best Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers
- Best Mattress for Athletes
- Best Mattress for Couples
- Best Mattress for Kids
- Best Mattress for Toddlers
- Best Mattress for Seniors
- Best Mattress for Teenagers
- Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain
- Best Mattress for Back Pain
- Best Mattress for Hip Pain
- Best Mattress for Arthritis
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Colin leads our product research team and doubles down as our head of video production. He has a distinct passion for translating complicated topics into fun and digestible content.