Best Wedge Pillows of 2026

Pain and discomfort caused by acid reflux, sinus pressure, and sleep apnea can all interrupt a good night’s rest. For these and other conditions, a wedge pillow is often recommended. A wedge pillow is used to elevate the upper or lower body to help improve circulation, reduce snoring, and relieve pressure on sensitive areas. Wedge pillows are typically made of polyfoam or memory foam, with a triangular shape that stays in place better than standard pillows.

We’ll cover our top picks for the best wedge pillows on the market. Then we’ll outline how to choose a wedge pillow, who these pillows are best suited for, and other important considerations for shoppers.

Best Overall: Helix Wedge Pillow

Best Overall

8.6/10Test Lab Score

Helix Wedge Pillow

27% off sitewide with code: SF27 Shop At Helix

Price: $109

Fill: Gel Memory Foam and Polyfoam

Firmness: Medium Firm

The Helix Wedge Pillow helps relieve pain and pressure with a conforming layer of gel-infused memory foam, while the 10-inch incline can help reduce symptoms of sleep apnea and acid reflux. Keeping the upper body elevated helps keep the airway open. It also helps prevent stomach acid from rising up the esophagus.

What It’s Made of

The rayon and polyester blend cover is breathable and machine washable, making it easy to clean as needed. In addition to pressure relief, the layer of gel-infused memory foam provides comfort for hot sleepers by drawing heat away from the body. The high-density polyurethane foam base increases the durability of the pillow while providing ample support.

Why We Like It

The Helix Wedge Pillow is medium firm, so it benefits both back and side sleepers. When used under the head, the contouring foam helps reduce neck pain. Sleepers can also use the pillow underneath the knees and legs to reduce pressure on the back. This makes it a great wedge pillow for back pain.

The pillow is 24 inches wide and 24 inches long, giving sleepers plenty of space to sit up and read or watch television in bed.

Helix offers a 100-night sleep trial, so purchasers can try out the pillow in the comfort of their homes. The Helix Wedge Pillow is also covered by a 1-year warranty.

Best Value: Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow

Best Value

7.6/10Test Lab Score

Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow

Shop At Brentwood Home

Price: $54 – $69

Fill: Solid memory foam

Firmness: Firm

The Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow is available in three height options, so shoppers can select the best angle for their needs. Its affordable price point makes it a good fit for value-minded shoppers, too.

What It’s Made of

The wedge pillow is made of CertiPUR-US certified therapeutic support foam, making the pillow durable and supportive. Since the Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow is firm, it is ideal for back sleepers.

The 4-way stretch knit cover of the Zuma pillow is composed of bamboo-derived rayon, which helps draw heat away from the body to keep sleepers comfortable. The cover is removable and washable.

Why We Like It

The pillow measures 24 inches wide and 24 inches long, and is available with a 7-, 10-, or 12-inch incline. The lower incline is beneficial for sleepers who need to elevate their knees and legs to relieve pressure on the lower back. Sleepers who suffer from sleep apnea and acid reflux may benefit more from the 10-inch wedge pillow, while the 12-inch incline is more comfortable for sitting up and watching television or reading in bed.

Brentwood Home offers a 30-day sleep trial with free returns. The Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow comes with a 1-year warranty that covers defects in materials and manufacturing.

Best for Reading: The Company Store Down Alternative Reading Wedge Pillow

Best for Reading

6.9/10Test Lab Score

The Company Store Down Alternative Reading Wedge Pillow

Shop At The Company Store

Price: $40 – $65

Fill: Polyester down alternative fibers

Firmness: Medium

If you frequently read or watch television before bed, a supportive wedge pillow can be a useful investment. The Company Store’s Down Alternative Reading Wedge Pillow offers an exceptionally soft feel — but since micro make up most of the fill, you’ll also receive decent overall support.

What It’s Made of

The shell is composed of smooth polyester. You can wash and dry the pillow in any household machine whenever a cleaning is needed. Multiple drying cycles may be required, and The Company Store recommends using dryer balls when laundering the pillow. Two sizes are available, allowing you to choose between lofts of 8 or 12 inches.

Why We Like It

Down alternative is a pillow fill with a lot of benefits. The material won’t trigger allergy symptoms or retain too much heat, and its vegan composition is a big draw for animal-conscious shoppers. This pillow also feels exceptionally soft compared to the competition, and may be a good fit if you’ve found foam-based wedge models too firm in the past.

The Down Alternative Reading Wedge Pillow is competitively priced, and reasonable flat-rate shipping is available to customers in the contiguous U.S. Returns are permitted within 30 days of delivery.

Most Comfortable: Avocado Organic Latex Wedge Pillow

Most Comfortable

9.2/10Test Lab Score

Avocado Organic Latex Wedge Pillow

Shop At Avocado

Price: $199 – $219

Fill: Solid Dunlop latex

Firmness: Medium Firm

The Avocado Organic Latex Wedge Pillow is a medium firm pillow that evenly balances contouring and support. The careful construction makes this pillow comfortable for a wide range of sleepers, especially those looking for a well-rounded model that promotes alignment between the head, neck, and spine.

What It’s Made of

Encasing the pillow is a soft, breathable cotton cover. The cover has a zippered design and is removable for easy machine-washable care. Avocado recommends washing the cover in cold water and laying flat to dry. The latex and cotton have certifications from the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), respectively, to show that the materials meet strict standards for organic sourcing. The pillow is also GREENGUARD Gold-certified to ensure it does not contain harmful chemicals.

Why We Like It

The pillow is available in two profiles — 7 and 10 inches — and is composed of 100% Dunlop latex, which feels soft but also more responsive than pillows made of foam, down, or down alternative. The pillow gently conforms to the body to relieve pressure buildup, but offers pushback to prevent uncomfortable sinkage. Since latex is naturally breathable, this pillow should stay fairly cool at night.

The pillow ships free within the contiguous U.S. and comes with a 100-night sleep trial and 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Best for Acid Reflux: MedCline Acid Reflux Wedge & Body Pillow System

Best for Acid Reflux

7.7/10Test Lab Score

MedCline Acid Reflux Wedge & Body Pillow System

Use this link for the most current MedCline discounts Shop At MedCline

Price: $250

Fill: Shredded memory foam

Firmness: Medium

The MedCline Acid Reflux Wedge & Body Pillow System has an innovative design aimed at helping side sleepers who experience shoulder pain during sleep. It includes several pillow components that work together to optimize comfort for your arm and shoulder.

What It’s Made of

The system features a wedge pillow that elevates your head at a 10-degree angle, with a unique cutout on the underside to slide your bed-facing arm through. This creates a comfortable space for your arm to rest, which in turn eases pressure off your shoulder. The system also includes a body pillow to cushion your head and elevate your arm or leg if preferred. An insert pillow fits into the wedge pillow for increased comfort.

Why We Like It

You can sleep on either your left or right side with this pillow, and it’s designed to accommodate sleepers of all heights and sizes. The foam fill contours closely to your body for excellent pressure relief, which is another advantage for people with shoulder pain. The wedge pillow is 34 inches long and 30 inches wide, and the body pillow is 50 inches long and 22 inches wide. Both are 6 inches thick. All cases are removable and machine washable.

Sleep Doctor offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S.

Best for Neck Pain: Sleep Number Adjustable Wedge Pillow

Best for Neck Pain

7.9/10Test Lab Score

Sleep Number Adjustable Wedge Pillow

Shop At Sleep Number

Price: $50

Fill: Memory foam and polyfoam

Firmness: Medium

The Sleep Number Adjustable Wedge Pillow comes in one size that sleepers can adjust for the desired angle and support. This adjustable design makes the pillow a highly comfortable option for a wide variety of sleepers.

What It’s Made of

The Adjustable Wedge Pillow contains three foam inserts, which include two 2-inch wedges and one 4-inch insert that serves as a firmer cushion. These components combine to give a supportive feel that also conforms to the body. With all three wedges, the pillow measures 8 inches thick. Removing one or more of the inserts lowers the height to 2, 4, or 6 inches.

The removable polyester cover is machine-washable, but the pillow itself requires spot cleaning. The cover has a gusseted design that fits the pillow’s adjusted shape. The cover’s zipper allows sleepers to add or remove the inserts easily.

Why We Like It

This pillow’s customizable design allows sleepers to adjust the angle and try out different loft levels to determine which one best meets their needs. The synthetic foam is also resistant to the buildup of common allergens. Back sleeping on this pillow provides the most benefit, whereas side and stomach sleeping might cause discomfort.

Sleep Number offers free shipping within the contiguous U.S. Sleep Number offers a 30-day trial during which consumers can return the pillow free of charge, as well as a one-year warranty for those who wish to keep it.

Best for Back Pain: Contour BackMax Foam Bed Wedge

Best for Back Pain

8.7/10Test Lab Score

Contour BackMax Foam Bed Wedge

Shop At Contour

Price: $270 – $300

Fill: Solid memory foam

Firmness: Firm

Contour’s BackMax Foam Bed Wedge is designed to provide the utmost comfort and support in any position. Four wedges make up the pillow system, allowing you to lie on your back or stomach, sit upright, or recline with your legs elevated for a zero-gravity effect.

What It’s Made of

Each of the BackMax’s four pillows is constructed from dense, solid memory foam encased in a synthetic fleece cover. The two largest wedges are designed to rest against your back and underneath your knees. A third wedge can be attached to the leg pillow to elevate your feet, and the fourth and smallest wedge is used to cradle your neck.

Contour’s website features a helpful visual representation of the various configurations you can use for the pillow, such as sitting upright with or without elevating your head, reclining with a bent knee, on your stomach in an arched position, or lying on your back with knee and calf support.

Why We Like It

The versatility of the BackMax Foam Bed Wedge is a major selling point, especially for people with frequent or chronic back pain. You can adjust the pillow for just the right amount of cushioning in your shoulders and lumbar region. The BackMax is also useful if you live with leg, knee, or foot pain.

Each wedge comes with a removable and machine-washable cover. Make sure each cover is fully dry before reassembling – otherwise you might damage the foam. Standard and deluxe options are available, with the latter measuring roughly 8 inches wider than the former. Contour Living offers free shipping for all orders, and your order includes a 45-night trial period. If you decide to keep the BackMax, it’s also covered under a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

What Is a Wedge Pillow?

A wedge pillow is an orthopedic pillow that can be used to help sleepers with various ailments. One of the most common uses of a wedge pillow is to help reduce snoring and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Elevating the upper body may also help sleepers who suffer from acid reflux, as gravity helps keep stomach acid from rising up the esophagus.

The triangular shape of a wedge pillow keeps sleepers at an incline throughout the night. The height of wedge pillows varies, but most are 7 to 12 inches high. The shape of a wedge pillow is versatile, and sleepers can use one to prop up their head and neck, or support their back and shoulders when sitting up in bed. They can also be used to elevate the legs and help improve circulation.

Back sleepers and side sleepers alike have found wedge pillows to be beneficial, as these pillows can help relieve pressure on the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Wedge pillows are often recommended for pregnant people to provide additional support and pressure relief.

Most wedge pillows are constructed with foam, as this helps them maintain a consistent shape and level of support for sleepers. We’ll break down common wedge pillow materials, shapes, and uses to help shoppers determine what kind of wedge pillow will be best for their needs.

How to Choose a Wedge Pillow

Each sleeper is unique, and shoppers will need to keep their preferences in mind when choosing a wedge pillow. All wedge pillows are designed to offer support and elevate the upper or lower body. They can be used to help alleviate a variety of ailments, but are also used to relax in bed while reading a book or watching a movie. Since there is an overwhelming number of wedge pillows on the market, shoppers should keep the following in mind to help them make a purchase.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Wedge Pillow

Wedge pillows offer multiple benefits for sleepers, but there are several important factors to consider when shopping for a wedge pillow. These pillows are available in different sizes, shapes, and inclines, each of which accommodates certain needs and preferences. Understanding the following features will help shoppers prioritize what is most important to them, so that they can select the best wedge pillow for their needs.

Shoppers should also keep in mind that bedding companies can use misleading or exaggerated claims to entice shoppers. Though a wedge pillow can be beneficial for a multitude of ailments, it is important to consult with a doctor if you experience medical issues that interrupt your sleep.

Once you have determined that a wedge pillow is right for you, the following factors can help you narrow down your options.

Size
On average, wedge pillows measure 20 to 24 inches in both length and width, with varying heights that determine the angle of incline. The size and shape of a wedge pillow keep sleepers elevated throughout the night. Since wedge pillows can be larger than standard pillows, shoppers should keep their mattress size in mind when shopping. Those with a twin or full mattress may want to opt for smaller wedge pillows, while shoppers with a queen or king mattress can select larger sizes.

Incline
The incline of a wedge pillow can be measured in inches or in degrees. Most wedge pillows have a height of 6 to 12 inches, or 30 to 45 degrees. A lower incline is often preferred by sleepers who use a wedge pillow under their knees and legs. Mid-level inclines are often used by sleepers with acid reflux or sleep apnea. A higher incline can be beneficial for shoppers who plan to use the pillow to sit up in bed.

Shape
Wedge pillows have a triangular shape, with a gradual slope from the low side to the high side of the pillow. While all wedge pillows have this easily recognizable shape, they can differ in size and construction. Some wedge pillows have a contoured surface designed to relieve pressure and target areas like the neck and shoulders. Others are completely flat on each side.

Weight
The weight of a wedge pillow depends on the type and density of fill used to construct it. Lighter pillows are easier to move or adjust as needed, but heavier pillows are more likely to stay in place on the bed.

Firmness Level
Wedge pillows are typically constructed with a solid block of foam, so most are medium firm to firm. This helps the pillow keep its shape throughout the night, supporting sleepers and keeping them elevated. Medium firm wedge pillows may be more comfortable for side sleepers, while back sleepers often prefer a firm surface.

Customization
Some wedge pillows are adjustable. An adjustable wedge pillow typically has a foldable design or multiple components, allowing sleepers to stack parts of the pillow for a higher or lower incline. This type of wedge pillow is less common, but still available and a good option if your ideal loft level varies by position or activity.

Pressure Relief
Wedge pillows are regularly used to relieve pressure in different areas of the body. These pillows can be made with memory foam, which is known for contouring to the shape of the body for top-notch pressure relief. Placement of the wedge pillow can also affect how much pressure relief sleepers receive. A wedge pillow under the knees can reduce pressure on the lower back, while one used underneath the upper body can relieve pressure on the neck and shoulders.

Price
Shoppers should expect to spend between $50 and $100 on a high-quality wedge pillow. Price is not the only measure of quality, but a higher price can indicate that the pillow is made with durable materials designed to last.

Quality Materials
The quality of materials used impact the lifespan of the pillow. For those who plan to use the wedge pillow nightly, selecting one made with high-quality materials will ensure the pillow maintains its shape. Low-density foam is more likely to degrade or sag with consistent usage. The average wedge pillow performs for three years before needing to be replaced.

Ease of Care
Many wedge pillows come with a removable cover that can be machine washed. If the cover needs to be spot cleaned or dry cleaned, this means extra time — and possible extra expenses — are needed to keep your pillow hygienic.

Temperature Regulation
Shoppers will want to look for a wedge pillow that helps regulate temperature, especially if they tend to sleep hot. Foam tends to retain heat, but some wedge pillows take measures to offset this tendency. This may include gel-infused foam to draw heat away from the body, or a breathable cover that increases airflow and wicks away heat and moisture.

Who Should Use a Wedge Pillow?

Many sleepers may benefit from using a wedge pillow, including those who suffer from poor circulation, chronic pain, acid reflux, and sleep apnea. We’ll detail the kinds of individuals that may benefit from the use of a wedge pillow along with the general benefits of using a wedge pillow here.

Those with Poor Circulation
Sleepers with poor circulation can place a wedge pillow under their feet and legs to help encourage blood flow to the heart. This keeps blood from collecting in the lower legs and reduces pressure on the veins. Elevating the legs can help reduce swelling and aid in circulation to help prevent blood clots. Leg elevation is also beneficial for sleepers with varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. The wedge pillow should have a high enough incline to keep the legs above heart level.

Sleepers with Back, Neck, or Shoulder Pain
A wedge pillow can help promote proper spinal alignment and relieve pressure on the back, neck, and shoulders. Sleepers with chronic pain in these areas may want to consider a wedge pillow with memory foam that conforms to the shape of the body and helps relieve pressure. Those with lower back pain may benefit from a wedge pillow with a low incline that can be placed under the knees to relieve pressure on the lumbar region.

People with Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid enters the esophagus. Keeping the head and shoulders at an incline can help keep acid in the stomach, as gravity helps prevent it from rising up the esophagus. A wedge pillow that extends from the head to the hips to keep the entire upper body elevated may be most beneficial.

Sleepers Who Snore
Snoring is often caused by congestion or obstructive sleep apnea. For sleepers with sinus issues, a wedge pillow helps drain the sinuses while relieving pressure. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax and the tongue and tissues block the airway. Keeping the head and neck elevated can help keep the airway open. A wedge pillow with a higher incline is usually recommended.

Pregnant People
Side sleeping is recommended for pregnancy, and a wedge pillow can be used to prevent pregnant people from rolling onto their backs as they sleep. Additionally, pregnancy can lead to acid reflux, which may be alleviated with a wedge pillow. Those who experience lower back pain, pressure, and restless legs syndrome can use a wedge pillow underneath the legs.

Side Sleepers
A contoured wedge pillow can help relieve pressure on the neck and shoulders for side sleepers. This type of wedge pillow helps keep the spine aligned while preventing pressure points from developing. A wedge pillow with conforming memory foam is especially helpful for side sleepers with sharp pressure points or shoulder pain.

Back Sleepers
A wedge pillow can help back sleepers feel comfortable by supporting the upper body and promoting spinal alignment. A lower incline is often preferred by back sleepers.

Those Who Like to Sit Up in Bed
A wedge pillow can be used as a head or back rest for those who like to sit up in bed. This type of pillow allows users to prop themselves up without the need for multiple pillows. It also stays in place more easily. A higher incline makes it easier to watch television in bed.

What Types of Wedge Pillows Are Available?

While there is not much variation when it comes to wedge pillows, there are differences in materials and design that can affect how the pillow performs. These differences are important for shoppers to understand, as certain characteristics may be better suited for their needs than others.

Memory Foam:Memory foam is a viscoelastic polyurethane foam that responds to heat and pressure to closely conform to the shape of the body. This results in standout pressure relief, as memory foam offers a customized, cushioning feel. Wedge pillows may be entirely made of memory foam, or they may just use a 1- to 2-inch layer of memory foam on top of support foam for pressure relief.

Polyfoam: Polyfoam, or polyurethane foam, is commonly used in wedge pillows. This type of foam typically springs back to shape more quickly than memory foam, and may not conform as closely. Polyfoam can vary in firmness and density, but many wedge pillows are constructed with firm, dense polyfoam for durability and support.

Flat: Wedge pillows have a tapered, triangular shape, but the surface can be flat or contoured. A flat wedge pillow is better for back sleepers and those who want to use the pillow under their legs.

Contoured: A contoured wedge pillow has a curved surface. This type is considered to be the best wedge pillow for side sleepers, as it helps keep the spine aligned by following the curves of the neck, shoulders, and spine. It can also relieve pressure on these areas.

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