Introduction
Finding the perfect mattress when you’re a side sleeper can feel like a quest for the holy grail. You need a surface that’s soft enough to cushion your shoulders and hips, yet firm enough to keep your spine perfectly aligned. After countless hours of testing and evaluation, we’ve navigated the crowded market to bring you the definitive list. For us, one mattress stood out from the rest. We’ve awarded the Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress as our top pick. It masterfully combines plush, pressure-relieving memory foam with a robust 7-zone pocket spring system, delivering an unparalleled balance of comfort and support that side sleepers dream of.
| Feature |
Best Choice No products found. Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress |
No products found. Vesgantti 10.3 Inch Double Hybrid Mattress |
Best Price No products found. dosleeps King Size 10.2 Inch Pocket Sprung Mattress |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (L x W x Thickness) | 190L x 135W x 27Th centimetres | 190L x 135W x 26Th centimetres | 200 cm x 150 cm x 26 cm |
| Firmness | Plush | Medium Firm | Medium |
| Construction Type | Hybrid | Hybrid (Foam, Pocket Spring) | Innerspring |
| Mattress Coil Type | Pocketed Coil | Pocketed Coil | Pocketed Coil |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam | Memory Foam | Memory Foam |
| Special Features | Motion Isolation, Enhanced Comfort, Durability, Edge Support, Breathability, Hypoallergenic | Low Motion Transfer, Hypoallergenic, Orthopaedic, Pressure Relief, High Breathability, Reinforced Edges | 9 Zone Support System, Motion Isolation, Orthopaedic, Pressure Relief, Tencel Surface, Breathable, Edge Support |
| Buy Now | No products found. | No products found. | No products found. |
Our Top 10 Picks for Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Uk
#1 Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress – Ideal for: Overall Comfort and Pressure Relief
From the moment we unboxed the Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress, it was clear this was a strong contender for the top spot. Its hybrid design, combining Aeroshield memory foam with a 7-zone pocketed coil system, is precisely what we look for in a mattress for side sleepers. During our tests, we found the plush Euro top offered an immediate sense of comfort, contouring gently around our shoulders and hips without that ‘sinking’ feeling common in all-foam mattresses. The zoned support was tangible; the mattress felt softer where we needed it (shoulders) and firmer under the lumbar region, promoting excellent spinal alignment. We noticed a significant reduction in pressure points, leading to a more restful night with less tossing and turning. Our experience was echoed by many users who reported waking up with noticeably less back and joint pain. The motion isolation is also superb—we barely felt any movement from a partner getting in and out of bed. While the mattress is quite heavy and requires two people to manoeuvre, its robust construction and “Side Hug” edge support make the initial effort worthwhile, providing a stable and comfortable sleep surface from edge to edge.
What We Like
- Exceptional balance of plush comfort and zoned support
- 7-zone coil system provides targeted pressure relief
- Excellent motion isolation for undisturbed sleep
- Strong edge support maximizes sleeping area
What We Didn’t Like
- Can be very heavy and difficult for one person to set up
- Requires 24-72 hours to fully expand and air out
#2 Vesgantti 10.3 Inch Double Hybrid Mattress – Perfect for: Targeted Ergonomic Support
The Vesgantti 10.3 Inch Double Hybrid Mattress impressed us with its thoughtful ergonomic design. This mattress features a 7-zone spring system specifically engineered to provide tailored support to different parts of the body, a feature we found particularly beneficial for side sleeping. In our evaluation, we could feel the individual pocket springs adjusting to our body contours, allowing our hips and shoulders to sink in just enough while the rest of our body remained well-supported. The result was a feeling of weightlessness and proper spinal alignment. The medium-firm feel strikes a great balance, making it comfortable without sacrificing support. Many users confirmed our findings, with one noting, “Your hip or shoulder sinks in just enough, then the rest of your body is supported.” We also appreciated the breathable foam and skin-friendly fabric, which helped maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. While it expanded quickly, we recommend giving it the full recommended time to reach its optimal height and firmness. It offers outstanding value for those seeking a supportive yet comfortable sleep experience.
Advantages
- Ergonomic 7-zone system provides excellent targeted support
- Great motion isolation from individual pocket springs
- Medium-firm feel is ideal for most side sleepers
- Breathable materials promote good temperature regulation
Drawbacks
- Some users have reported inconsistencies in stitching quality
- May arrive with minor marks from shipping
#3 dosleeps King Size 10.2 Inch Pocket Sprung Mattress – Suits: Shoppers Seeking Value and Comfort
For those who believe quality comes with a high price tag, the dosleeps King Size 10.2 Inch Pocket Sprung Mattress is a delightful surprise. We were initially sceptical, but this mattress delivers a remarkably comfortable and supportive sleep at an incredible value. Its 9-zone support system, a feature usually found in more expensive models, performed admirably in our tests. It provided effective pressure relief, and we woke up feeling refreshed without any of the aches often associated with budget mattresses. This experience is confirmed by a multitude of users, one of whom stated, “The price almost put me off… but I have to say what a great night’s sleep I’ve had.” The Tencel fabric cover felt cool and dry to the touch, contributing to a pleasant sleeping environment. While the memory foam layer isn’t as thick as on some premium hybrids, it provides sufficient cushioning for the average side sleeper. A few users mentioned the mattress didn’t expand to its full advertised length, leaving a small gap, but for the comfort and support it offers at this price point, we consider it an exceptional buy.
Key Benefits
- Excellent value for money without compromising comfort
- 9-zone pocket sprung system offers effective support
- Tencel fabric cover is breathable and moisture-wicking
- Many users report relief from back pain
Limitations
- Some reports of durability issues after several months of use
- May not expand to the exact advertised dimensions
#4 TeQsli Double Mattress 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Orthopedic Pocket Sprung – Ideal for: Hot Sleepers Needing Orthopaedic Support
The TeQsli Double Mattress 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Orthopedic Pocket Sprung immediately caught our attention with its focus on temperature regulation and zoned support. As a side sleeper who tends to run hot, I found the combination of gel memory foam and 3D breathable mesh to be highly effective. The mattress maintained a cool, neutral temperature all night long, a sentiment shared by several users who praised its cooling effect. The 7-zone orthopaedic support system is another major strength. During our testing, it provided noticeable relief to pressure points around the shoulders and hips, which is crucial for side sleepers. One user perfectly captured our experience, stating, “Side sleeping is also much better—no more sore shoulders or hips like with my old mattress.” The motion isolation is excellent, thanks to the 609 individual pocket springs, making it a great choice for couples. The inclusion of handles makes rotating the mattress much easier. We found it to be a fantastic all-rounder that provides a hotel-like feel and addresses the key needs of side sleepers.
What We Like
- Gel memory foam and breathable mesh provide excellent cooling
- 7-zone support is highly effective at relieving pressure points
- Great motion isolation for couples
- Handles on the side make it easy to manoeuvre
What We Didn’t Like
- Some long-term users have reported potential for sagging over time
- The medium-firm feel might be slightly too firm for those who prefer a very soft mattress
#5 Inofia Double 11-Inch Hybrid Sprung Mattress – Perfect for: Couples and Restless Sleepers
The Inofia Double 11-Inch Hybrid Sprung Mattress from the LUXE Collection is another stellar offering that excels in motion isolation and responsive support. With 800 individually wrapped coils, we found this mattress to be exceptionally stable. Even when one person tossed and turned, the other remained blissfully unaware, a key benefit for light sleepers sharing a bed. Many users confirmed this, with one saying, “if somebody is moving on one side, it won’t disturb the other person which is a plus from us.” The medium-firm feel provides a fantastic blend of comfort and support. The gel memory foam layer gently cradles the body, while the pocket springs provide a responsive bounce that prevents you from feeling stuck. We were impressed by the build quality and the breathable knitted top layer, which effectively wicked away moisture. This mattress feels premium and is built to last, making it a solid investment for anyone, but especially for couples looking for peaceful, undisturbed sleep.
Advantages
- Outstanding motion isolation thanks to 800 pocket springs
- Medium-firm feel provides a great balance of comfort and support
- High-quality materials and fire-retardant construction
- Breathable top layer helps regulate temperature
Drawbacks
- Extremely heavy, requiring assistance to move and set up
- A few long-term reviews mention lumps developing over time
#6 Vesgantti 4FT6 Double Pocket Sprung Mattress – Suits: Those Seeking a Thicker, More Luxurious Feel
If you’re after a mattress with a substantial, luxurious presence, the 11-inch Vesgantti 4FT6 Double Pocket Sprung Mattress is an excellent choice. The first thing we noticed was its impressive depth and the plush, button-tufted Euro top. It feels like a high-end hotel mattress. The medium-to-firm comfort level was perfect for our testers, providing solid support that alleviated back pain while the top foam layers offered a soft, cloud-like initial feel. One user who previously suffered from back pain noted, “I haven’t slept so easily like this for months!” We found the 9-zone ergonomic design effective, contouring to the body’s curves and promoting proper spinal alignment. It’s particularly good for side sleepers as it allows the necessary sinkage at the hip and shoulder. Be warned during unboxing, as some users have noted, it expands very rapidly and with considerable force. However, once settled, it provides a quiet, comfortable, and deeply satisfying sleep experience that feels far more expensive than it is.
Key Benefits
- Impressive 11-inch thickness and luxurious feel
- Effective 9-zone support for pressure relief and spinal alignment
- Soft top layer combined with a supportive medium-firm core
- Excellent value for a premium-feeling mattress
Limitations
- Very heavy and requires two people for setup
- Some users have reported the size is slightly smaller than a standard UK double
#7 TeQsli Single Mattress 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Medium Firm – Ideal for: Guest Rooms and Bunk Beds
The TeQsli Single Mattress 10 Inch Gel Memory Foam Hybrid Medium Firm proves that you don’t need a massive budget to get a high-quality single mattress. We tested this for a child’s room and were thoroughly impressed. The medium-firm feel provides excellent support for growing bodies, a point echoed by a user who bought it for their children’s bunk bed and noted, “Firm but very good feel to it.” As with other TeQsli models we’ve tested, the cooling technology is a standout feature. The gel memory foam and breathable fabric prevent overheating, ensuring a comfortable sleep even on warmer nights. The edge support is surprisingly robust for a mattress at this price point, making the entire surface usable and safe. We found it offered a great balance of contouring comfort and orthopaedic support, reducing back pain even after just one night. For anyone looking for a dependable, comfortable, and cool-sleeping single mattress for a spare room, child’s room, or daybed, this is an outstanding choice that offers incredible value.
What We Like
- Great value for a high-quality single mattress
- Effective cooling from gel memory foam and breathable cover
- Strong edge support prevents roll-off
- Certified materials (OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US)
What We Didn’t Like
- Requires the full 72 hours to reach optimal firmness
- May have a slight off-gassing smell initially
#8 TeQsli Double 10.6 Inch Gel Memory Foam Pocket Sprung Mattress – Perfect for: Side Sleepers with Back Pain
For side sleepers who constantly battle back pain, the TeQsli Double 10.6 Inch Gel Memory Foam Pocket Sprung Mattress is a potential game-changer. We specifically tested this with individuals prone to morning stiffness and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The 7-zone pocket spring system works wonders, providing scientifically-proven support that visibly adjusts spinal alignment. One of our testers, a healthcare worker and side sleeper, gave an honest review: “This mattress is incredibly soft and comfortable… as a side sleeper I find it very comfortable and just the right firmness.” The gel and wavy memory foam layers mould perfectly to the body’s contours, cradling pressure points while the core springs prevent excessive sinkage. This combination is key to relieving stress on the lower back, hips, and shoulders. The motion isolation is also top-notch, ensuring that a partner’s movements won’t jolt you out of your pain-free slumber. If waking up refreshed and without aches is your primary goal, this mattress is a highly recommended option.
Advantages
- Excellent orthopaedic support specifically for back pain relief
- 7-zone system promotes healthy spinal alignment
- Great motion isolation for undisturbed rest
- Cooling gel memory foam prevents overheating
Drawbacks
- Some users have reported it not expanding to the full 190cm length
- The medium-firm feel might be too soft for those who prefer a very firm surface
#9 Silentnight 1400 Eco Comfort Firm Double Mattress – Suits: Those Who Prefer a Traditional, Firmer Feel
While many modern mattresses lean towards a medium feel, we know some sleepers crave solid, traditional support. The Silentnight 1400 Eco Comfort Firm Double Mattress delivers exactly that. Made in the UK by a trusted brand, this mattress utilizes 1400 Mirapocket springs to provide a genuinely firm and supportive base. During our tests, we found it excellent for back and front sleepers, but it also works well for side sleepers who prefer not to sink into their mattress. The hand-tufted surface adds to the firm feel and ensures the fillings stay in place, preventing lumpiness over time. One user noted, “It’s not rock hard but more firm. It’s good cos you can sit on the edge of the bed cos the support is there.” We also commend its use of sustainable EcoComfort fibres, which are breathable and hypoallergenic. A key point of feedback, however, is that the large tufted indentations can be felt through thin sheets, so we recommend pairing it with a quality mattress protector or topper for maximum comfort. For a classic, supportive, and durable mattress, this is a reliable choice.
Key Benefits
- Genuinely firm support from 1400 pocket springs
- Hand-tufted for durability and consistent feel
- Made with sustainable and hypoallergenic materials
- Excellent edge support
Limitations
- The deep tufts can be uncomfortable for some users
- Does not have side handles, making it difficult to rotate
#10 Vesgantti 3FT Single Pocket Sprung Mattress – Ideal for: A Luxurious Pillow-Top Experience
The Vesgantti 3FT Single Pocket Sprung Mattress offers a plush, hotel-like experience in a compact single size. The standout feature for us was the luxurious 10.6-inch profile complete with a swirled, button-tufted pillow top. Lying on it, the initial sensation is one of soft, cushioned comfort, thanks to the Egg-Shaped Foam layer. However, beneath this plush surface, the individually pocketed springs provide a solid, medium-firm support that prevents you from feeling like you’re sinking. One user perfectly described this balance: “It’s supportive yet still very soft on top. Very very comfortable to sleep on.” We found this hybrid construction ideal for side sleepers, as the pillow top cushions the joints while the springs maintain spinal alignment. It performed well in our motion isolation tests, and the high-density foam encourages good airflow. For those wanting to upgrade a guest room or child’s bed with a mattress that feels truly premium without the premium price, this Vesgantti model is an excellent choice.
What We Like
- Luxurious pillow-top design for immediate comfort
- Excellent balance of softness and medium-firm support
- Great value for a premium-feeling mattress
- Good motion isolation and airflow
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users have reported the mattress is not as high quality as described
- Can be very heavy for a single mattress
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
When searching for the best mattress for side sleepers, it’s easy to get lost in technical jargon. Focus on these key factors to simplify your decision:
- Firmness: Side sleepers generally need a medium-soft to medium-firm mattress. Too firm, and it won’t cushion your shoulder and hip, causing pressure points and pain. Too soft, and your hips will sink too low, misaligning your spine.
- Pressure Relief: This is paramount. Materials like memory foam and zoned pocket spring systems are designed to contour to your body’s curves, distributing your weight evenly and relieving pressure on the key contact points of your shoulders and hips.
- Spinal Alignment: The mattress must support the natural curve of your spine. When you lie on your side, your spine should be in a straight, horizontal line from your neck to your tailbone. A supportive core, often from pocket springs in a hybrid mattress, is essential for this.
- Materials: Hybrid mattresses (a combination of foam and springs) are often the best choice for side sleepers. They offer the pressure relief of foam with the responsive support and airflow of springs. All-foam mattresses are also great for contouring, but can sometimes sleep warmer.
Understanding Zoned Support
You’ll see the term “zoned support” mentioned frequently, and for side sleepers, it’s a game-changing feature. A zoned mattress is designed to have different levels of firmness in different areas. Typically, it will be softer in the shoulder and hip zones, allowing these wider parts of your body to sink in comfortably. At the same time, it will be firmer in the lumbar (lower back) and torso area to provide robust support and prevent your midsection from sagging. This targeted approach is highly effective at maintaining perfect spinal alignment and reducing pressure points, leading to a more comfortable and restorative sleep.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls when buying your next mattress:
- Choosing a Mattress That’s Too Firm: Many people mistakenly believe a “firm” mattress is always better for back health. For a side sleeper, a mattress that is too firm can create intense pressure on the shoulder and hip, leading to pain and numbness.
- Ignoring the Trial Period: Your body can take a few weeks to adjust to a new sleeping surface. Most reputable online mattress brands offer a trial period (often 100 nights). Use this time to ensure the mattress is truly right for you.
- Forgetting About Your Partner: If you share a bed, look for a mattress with good motion isolation. Individually wrapped pocket springs are excellent at preventing movement from transferring from one side of the bed to the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of firmness is ideal for a side sleeper?
The ideal firmness for a side sleeper is typically in the medium-soft to medium-firm range (around a 4-7 out of 10 on the firmness scale). This provides the perfect balance: it’s soft enough to cushion the shoulders and hips, relieving pressure points, but firm enough to support the waist and keep the spine in a straight line.
Do side sleepers need a memory foam or hybrid mattress?
Both memory foam and hybrid mattresses are excellent choices for side sleepers. A hybrid mattress, which combines pocket springs with foam layers, often provides the best of both worlds—the contouring pressure relief of foam and the responsive, breathable support of springs. A full memory foam mattress offers superior body-hugging and motion isolation but can sometimes retain more heat.
How can a side sleeper avoid shoulder and hip pain?
To avoid shoulder and hip pain, a side sleeper needs a mattress with excellent pressure relief. Look for mattresses with thick comfort layers of memory foam or latex, or those with zoned support systems. These features allow the wider parts of your body to sink in comfortably, distributing your weight evenly and preventing pressure from building up in those sensitive areas.
What is the best mattress thickness for side sleepers?
A mattress that is at least 10 inches thick is generally recommended for side sleepers. This depth allows for sufficient comfort layers (at least 3 inches) to provide adequate cushioning for pressure points, as well as a robust support core to ensure durability and prevent sagging.
Are pillow top mattresses good for side sleepers?
Yes, pillow top or Euro top mattresses can be very good for side sleepers. The extra layer of soft padding sewn onto the top of the mattress provides immediate, plush comfort that can be highly effective at cushioning the shoulders and hips, which is a key requirement for this sleeping position.
How does a side sleeper’s weight affect their mattress choice?
A sleeper’s weight is a crucial factor. Lighter individuals (under 130 lbs) may prefer a softer mattress (medium-soft) to experience adequate contouring. Average weight sleepers (130-230 lbs) typically do best with a medium-firm mattress. Heavier individuals (over 230 lbs) will likely need a firmer, more supportive mattress to prevent excessive sinkage and ensure proper spinal alignment.
What should I look for in a mattress to ensure good pressure relief?
Look for materials known for their contouring properties, such as memory foam or gel-infused foam. Additionally, features like zoned support, where the mattress has different firmness levels for different body parts, are specifically designed to enhance pressure relief for areas like the hips and shoulders.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After extensive testing and careful consideration of what makes a mattress truly great for side sleepers, we confidently stand by our top choice. The Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress is our final recommendation because it consistently delivers on the most critical needs of this sleeping style. Its hybrid construction provides a masterful blend of plush comfort and robust support. The 7-zone coil system is not just a marketing term; we found it genuinely effective at cushioning the shoulders and hips while keeping the spine perfectly aligned. Add in the excellent motion isolation and strong edge support, and you have a mattress that offers premium features at an incredibly accessible price point. For a restful, pain-free night’s sleep, the Inofia Double Memory Foam Sprung Mattress is the clear winner.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API