Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers in Canada
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According to statistics, side sleeping is the most preferred position around the world (1).
However, whether you will feel comfortable in this position or not also depends on your mattress. Because the wrong bed can easily ruin all the therapeutic effects of sleep.
As the lateral position is one of my favorites too, I set out on a quest to find and review the best mattresses for side sleepers in Canada. So, below you can see my findings as well as check out a few recommendations on how to choose the perfect mattress for yourself!
A Quick Preview
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BEST OVERALL - EDITOR’S CHOICE
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BEST OVERALL - EDITOR’S CHOICE |
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BEST MEMORY FOAM OPTION FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
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BEST MEMORY FOAM OPTION FOR SIDE SLEEPERS |
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BEST COOLING OPTION
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BEST COOLING OPTION |
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Plush Pillow Top Option
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Plush Pillow Top Option |
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Our Reviews of 4 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers in Canada (March 2023)
Best Overall - Editor’s Choice - Novosbed
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Highlights
- 3 firmness levels, would work for any sleeping position;
- after-purchase firmness adjustments for your comfort guarantee;
- offers close conforming for effective pressure relief;
- removable cover for fuss-free cleaning;
- next-generation memory foam comfort layer for improved breathability and cooler sleep.
The Novosbed mattress is my pick as the best mattress for side sleepers because of its excellent support. During my review, I saw that the medium-firm mattress top cradled my pressure points while I rested on my side. I felt my shoulders and hips gently cradled, relieving the pressure in my joints. Also, I liked how the bed’s firmness level can be adjusted, which is a huge plus. This mattress feels supportive, and I liked that it excellently supported my spine.
The Novosbed mattress sleeps very coolly, and I didn’t feel like it trapped my body heat.
“In addition, I felt the edge support and motion transfer on the Novosbed mattress were excellent.”
This bed was sufficiently springy, and the bed sprung back quickly when I sat on it. “In my opinion, couples will love the motion transfer capabilities. The breathable Tencel cover on the Novosbed bed is another helpful addition that offers improved coolness and comfort.
Based on Our Tests
This mattress has open air cells that regulates temperature and offer the necessary freshness for a good night's sleep. My tests also show that the tencel cover adds to the mattress's breathability and luxury.
Recommended for:
- Couples. Low motion transfer and pretty sturdy edges as for a memory foam mattress make the Novosbed a great pick for couples.
- Those who want a bit of customization. If the chosen firmness level doesn’t work for you, the company offers you to purchase a Comfort+ kit, which is basically a mattress topper of a suitable firmness to tailor the mattress to your needs.
- Side sleepers with sensitivities. When you sleep on your side, your face is closer to the mattress surface. The Novosbed features a washable cover and certified materials to eliminate the chances of allergies.
Cons:
- might sleep warmer for heavier users who sink deeper into the hugging comfort layers;
- provides zero bounce, which might not be suited for some users (especially combination sleepers).
Best Memory Foam Option for Side Sleepers - Puffy Mattress
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Highlights
- gel-infused foam for cooler sleep;
- stain-resistant and removable cover for effortless cleaning;
- extended warranty for your peace of mind;
- close conforming for excellent pressure relief and instant relaxation;
- great motion-isolating properties, ideal for partnered sleep (even if one of you can be restless).
The Puffy mattress is my runner-up for the best mattresses for side sleepers because of the quality of construction and overall feel. This mattress is made with memory foam and my review showed its ability to mold and adjust to different body frames. Additionally, I liked how responsive the mattress foam is.
I think the medium-firmness level on the Puffy mattress is ideal for side sleepers and offers remarkable support. However, I don’t think this mattress is suitable for heavier sleepers because it may not be firm enough. I felt that the edge support was disappointing, but the motion transfer capabilities won me over. The gel-infused foam layer ensured I slept cool, and the breathable mattress cover only made this mattress feel even cooler.
Based on Our Tests
During testing, the mattress performs well in giving me spinal alignment which is why I think it would be great for people with back pain. I also saw that it has a breathable design that helps to stay cool.
Recommended for:
- Those who usually sleep hot on foam mattresses. The proprietary materials of the Puffy will help you stay cool and will maintain the optimal temperature in your bed.
- Sensitive sleepers. The mattress absorbs motion really well, and if your bedmate is overly active, choose the Puffy to solve this issue and prevent sleep interruptions for the both of you.
- Heavy side sleepers. Even though the Puffy has a medium feel, it also has pretty thick upper layers and sturdy construction, so it can support large side sleepers properly.
Cons:
- might not be supportive enough for users over 230 pounds;
- mediocre edge support, wouldn't work for sleepers who require extra space;
- may not be stiff enough for strict stomach sleepers.
Best for Cooling Option — GhostBed Flex
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Highlights
- It features 7 layers of different mattress types combined for comfort and durability.
- Gel-infused memory foam top layer which contours well to the body pressure points.
- It comes in medium firmness allowing for spine alignment with side sleepers.
- Individually wrapped coils and a thick high-density foam provide good support.
The GhostBed Flex mattress offers several cooling features such as moisture-wicking fabric, a cooling gel foam layer and so on, making this the best cool sleeping surface I reviewed. This mattress features a 7-layer foam construction that makes this bed one of the most supportive beds in this review.
This mattress is also the tallest I reviewed, and the foam construction created a firm and comfortable feel. From my experience, the GhostBed Flex has just enough sinkage, and I felt my shoulders were adequately supported. The wrapped coils make this mattress very supportive and responsive with minimal sinkage.
This mattress didn’t show any signs of trapping heat, and I liked how the foam construction allowed the bed to feel very cool. Moreover, the breathable cover features moisture-wicking properties, so I always felt cool when I slept on the GhostBed. I was also impressed with the motion transfer and edge support capabilities of the GhostBed Flex mattress, so I had more room to roll around without feeling like I would fall.
“In my opinion, the high-quality foam construction with the cooling features make this mattress the perfect for side sleepers who sleep hot.”
Based on Our Tests
First, when I touched the mattress to feel it, I could feel it ranks somewhere around the midpoint of the firmness scale; so it's ideal for side or stomach sleepers. From my tests, I think this mattress' support and cooling are its most outstanding features, making it the optimal choice for heavy and hot sleepers.
Recommended for:
- Partnered sleepers. As a hybrid mattress with a memory foam top layer and the coils individually wrapped, not intertwined, there’s low motion transfer, and partnered sleepers would enjoy sleeping in.
- Hot sleepers. The cover of this mattress adjusts to body heat. Then, the fiber layer and the memory foam added makes it much more breathable and cooling.
- Those who need pressure point relief. If you’ve been feeling slight pain in your back region, your hips, or your shoulder, you should consider the GhostBed Flex. Its combination of memory foam with coils and latex, makes it both contouring and supportive.
Cons:
- Not the most suitable for shoppers on a budget;
- Might not be firm enough for heavier side sleepers.
Plush Pillow Top Option — Logan & Cove Mattress
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Highlights
- Eco-friendly materials, great for breathability and relieving pressure points.
- Cozy pillow-top layer adds extra comfort, suitable for side sleepers.
- Comfortable and supportive at a competitive price point.
At first glance, the Logan & Cove mattress screams luxury. In my opinion, this mattress offers the best plush pillow top that adds an extra layer of cushioning to the mattress. This layer felt silky smooth that felt comfortable to lay on. I also liked how well it contoured and cradled my joints. Moreover, I noticed the cooling gel layer made me feel cool during my review.
This hybrid mattress features responsive coils that made me feel exceptional support. I also noticed that the mattress absorbs motion well, a plus for couples. The Logan & Cove mattress felt plush with the right firmness, so I always felt like my bones were aligned correctly.
Based on Our Tests
From my review, I noticed that this mattress adeptly stops motion, allowing sleepers to enjoy undisturbed sleep. As each coil compresses separately, movements are less likely to propagate to the other side of the bed.
Pros:
- Excellent motion isolation great for couples;
- An innovative mattress that relieves pressure points;
- A great option for those who sleep hot.
Cons:
- Available only for Canadian shoppers;
- Edge support could have been a lot better.
Why You Should Trust Me
I’ve reviewed a lot of mattresses in Canada by testing them over the course of 5 days to 2 weeks, taking note of their strong and weak points focusing on side sleepers and their needs. While testing, I’ve paid special attention to thickness, pressure relief, edge support, thermoregulation, hypoallergenic nature, and the effectiveness of comfort layers to narrow down the products with the highest qualities. When it comes to side sleepers, these factors can determine whether the body pressure points, like the hips and shoulders, are relieved, cooled down, and supported. I’ve also taken into consideration factors like price, warranty, sleep trial, and durability.
Based on the above factors, the 4 products on this list ranked higher among all the mattresses. To verify and finalize these choices, I’ve conducted research to find out what mattress materials can be ideal for side sleepers and help with their spine alignment, back pain, and shoulder pain. Having all the pieces of the puzzle put together with the help of my testing methodologies and first-hand experience, I’ve put together this list along with the features helpful for side sleepers to help with decision-making.
What Makes a Mattress Suitable for Side Sleepers?
Side sleepers require a soft or medium-firm mattress with significant hug/sinkage to relieve pressure on the hips, shoulders and lower back. The ideal firmness rating for side sleepers is between 4-6 out of 10 (1 being the softest firmness level and 10 being the firmest). That’s why memory foam mattresses are the best for side sleepers.
Memory foam mattresses typically offer exceptional contouring and don’t feel as firm as hybrid or latex mattresses. “In my opinion, zone support is a helpful feature side sleepers will benefit from.” Mattresses with zoned support feel softer at the shoulders to relieve pressure but firmer at the hips to provide additional lower back support.
Thick Comfort Layers
Those who sleep on their side, generally tend to sink deeper into the mattress layers.
And here’s the tricky part:
If the upper layers aren’t thick enough, the user might feel the firm base layer — especially if they’re on the heavier side — and develop pressure points.
So, if you look for a top-rated mattress for a side sleeper in Canada, make sure that it has two comfort layers or one layer that is on the thicker side.
Targeted Pressure Relief
Another thing to look for in a good mattress for side sleeping is pressure relief. And the best material to give you that is memory foam. It is temperature-sensitive, which means it becomes softer when exposed to your body heat and hence, contours your body more precisely (2).
However, to avoid heat retention issues, I recommend that you look for mattresses with open-cell or gel-infused foam in the upper layers. It often feels a bit softer than regular foam but is more breathable.
Hypoallergenic Materials
You can see the term “hypoallergenic” in many product descriptions.
But here’s the deal:
There are no Federal standards or definitions that govern the use of the term ‘hypoallergenic’ (3). That’s why you need to do your own research when shopping.
Still, mattresses marketed as hypoallergenic are more likely to be safe for side sleepers with hypersensitivities.
Because when you sleep on your side, your face is pretty close to the mattress.
And if your mattress contains some chemicals within its layers, it can provoke your allergy episodes and make them worse in the long term.
That’s why it’s advisable to opt for natural latex, plant-based foams, and natural or semi-natural fabrics, such as cotton or Tencel.
Some highly rated Canadian mattresses for side sleepers have a removable cover that you can wash. This will prevent the dust and dander from building up and save you from allergy outbreaks.
Thermoregulation
Side sleepers typically experience a deeper hug. And because the comfort layers of the mattress envelop them more, side sleepers often deal with overheating at night.
Therefore, a good mattress has to combat this issue. Generally, hybrid and latex models show the best performance in terms of cool slumber. Foam mattresses, on the other hand, are notorious for sleeping hot. That being said, many of them use cooling components (like gel infusion or open-cell design) to counteract heat retention.
What Mattress Firmness Is Best for Side Sleepers?
Side sleepers may benefit the most from soft and medium mattresses. This level of firmness offers a great hug for pressure points in your hips and shoulders and prevents the arm you sleep on from going numb because of your body’s pressure (4).
However, it’s worth mentioning that firmness perception is subjective and can be linked to your weight. For example, if you weigh more than 250 pounds, a medium mattress may fail to offer you proper support. In this case, consider scaling up the firmness level and go for a medium-firm model.
What Is the Best Mattress Type for Side Sleepers?
So, you already know what makes a good mattress for side sleepers and what firmness level you should choose.
But when it comes to selecting a certain mattress type, one can easily get lost. After all, they all have their peculiarities.
So, let’s take a closer look at the most popular mattress types for side sleepers and see which one would work for you the best:
- Memory foam. Favored for its hugging feel, memory foam effectively molds to the shape of the sleeper’s body (4). It is a highly adaptive material that will easily fill in the curves of your body while allowing the heavier parts to sink in a bit deeper. Such properties make memory foam an excellent option for side sleepers. However, you should remember that this mattress type can often trap body heat. If you wish to avoid that, consider models that use open-cell or gel-infused foams (at least for the comfort layer).
- Polyurethane foam. This type is slightly more resilient than memory foam and doesn’t have that quicksand feeling. Polyfoam is cheaper but can hug the protruding body parts just as well. Therefore, it would work for side sleepers too.
- Latex. Latex mattresses are known for their pressure-relieving properties. However, this material is rather bouncy and will not hug your body just as much. I mean, it would still allow for sinkage when lying on one side, but you will not feel stuck in your mattress. Due to its resilience, latex might also be a good solution for restless or combination sleepers as it does not restrict movement.
- Hybrid. When it comes to side sleeping, a hybrid mattress might be an excellent choice, but you should be careful. You see, because of the reliable coil base, hybrid mattresses often feel very sturdy and resilient. Therefore, a good hybrid model for side sleepers should have extra-thick comfort layers that would gently hug the protruding hips and shoulders.
Also read: Mattresses in a Box in Canada
A side note: innerspring mattresses might not be the best option for side sleepers, as they don’t typically offer that much cradling for the protruding body parts (5) (which can cause discomfort and even painful pressure points). As for air mattresses, while they allow for firmness customization, I do not recommend using them regularly. Even the best air mattress will not deliver the needed targeted support and pressure relief when lying on one side.
Other Considerations When Looking for a Good Mattress for Side Sleepers
There are some extra factors you might want to account for when shopping, especially if you wish to make a well-thought-out decision:
- Warranty. This one is simple, but many shoppers forget about this aspect. The warranty coverage will protect you against defects, premature sagging of your new mattress, or other disappointments. That’s why it’s necessary to read what the warranty covers before making a purchase.
- Sleep trial. You can also call it a “comfort guarantee”. A sleep trial will allow you to test your new mattress for some time and return it for a full refund in case it doesn’t feel comfy. It might also be a perfect solution for those shoppers who aren’t sure what they are looking for exactly. However, keep in mind that many mattresses require a break-in period. Therefore, don’t be in a hurry to apply for a refund after the first few nights. Give your body more time to get used to a new sleeping surface.
- Edge support. This aspect can be crucial for those side sleepers who enjoy lying near the edge (often with their arm hanging down the side of the mattress). Edge support is also important for couples who require more sleeping space. Whatever the case is, hybrid mattresses usually have the sturdiest edges among all types.
- Cover. Now, a removable zippered cover is always a huge plus. It will make cleaning much easier for you. Also, pay attention to the fabric type. Natural fabrics (such as cotton, bamboo, Tencel, viscose) are breathable and good at wicking moisture. This means they might sleep cooler. As for polyester (or polyester blends with natural fabrics), it is less breathable but easier to care for.
- Seals of approval. In other words, safety certifications. Check for such seals of approval as CertiPUR-US, GreenGuard, Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) for latex mattresses, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Organic Content Standard, or Oeko-Tex Standard.
- Thickness. For proper support and enough cradling, you might want to avoid thin mattresses (stick to 8-inch models and up). However, if you are a heavier sleeper (over 230 pounds), you may need something extra-thick to get the needed amount of cushioning and to enjoy proper support.
- Motion absorption (for partnered sleep). If one of you is a restless sleeper, you need a mattress that would effectively absorb shock from motion and prevent it from transferring to the other side of the bed. In this case, consider foam or latex mattresses. If you want a hybrid bed, at least make sure that it has thick enough comfort layers that would minimize motion transfer.
- Durability. Another vital feature to look for in a quality mattress for side sleepers is the mattress durability. Even though this is not easily identified, mattress type and construction influences it. Mattresses with a dense core tend to last longer.
- Price. All considerations for purchase are still subject to a user's budget. The best recommendation is to make a purchase where the value being offered is commensurate with the price. However, it is essential to note that expensive mattresses have more sleep enhancing features than their less costly counterparts.
Also read: Mattresses for Back Pain
A quick tip: while choosing the best mattress for side sleepers, don’t forget to pay attention to your pillow as well. It should be thick and firm enough to keep your head supported and fill in the space between your neck and the mattress surface. You might also use an extra pillow to put between the knees for proper spinal and hip alignment.
Where to Buy a Good Mattress for Side Sleepers
You can buy a good mattress for side sleepers online or at a physical store. Sleepers can purchase the mattress from the manufacturer’s website or merchant websites such as Amazon, eBay, etc. Buying a mattress online is the most convenient option, and you can get your bed by sitting on your couch.
Fortunately, most mattress manufacturers offer a return policy, so you can return the mattress if it doesn’t meet your needs. However, if you don’t want to go through the whole process of returning the mattress, you can visit a store and test how the mattress feels before spending your hard-earned money.
Ultimately, where you decide to buy a mattress depends on your preference. Buy the mattress online if you want the most convenient option. Moreover, you’ll be exposed to more mattress options online than at a store. However, if you prefer testing the mattress before buying it, I recommend purchasing the bed at a store.
F.A.Q.
How firm should a mattress for a side sleeper be?
Side sleepers typically require a deeper hug and a generous amount of sinkage for their protruding body parts. Therefore, average side sleepers are usually recommended to choose medium or soft-to-medium models. Heavier folks (above 230 pounds) require more support, so they are advised to pick medium to medium-firm mattresses. As for lightweight side sleepers (less than 130 pounds), soft mattresses usually work the best.
Is memory foam good for side sleepers?
Generally, yes. Memory foam does a great job of molding to the curves of one’s body, so it can deliver targeted support and usually aids proper weight distribution. Additionally, gentle comfort layers of memory foam mattresses often minimize the risk of developing painful pressure points in side sleepers.
How do I know if my mattress is too firm?
There are a few ways to tell if your mattress is too firm for you. Firstly, it might be overly stiff if you wake up with shoulder, neck, or back pain. If you feel too much pressure on the protruding body parts when lying down, that might also be a sign of unsuitable mattress firmness. Another “symptom” to look out for is waking up multiple types during the night, especially due to the discomfort at your pressure points.
How thick should a mattress for a side sleeper be?
In most cases, anything between 8 and 14 inches would work for side sleepers. Just remember that this sleeping position requires more cushioning, so try to stay away from thin mattresses. Additionally, if you are a larger user (over 230 pounds), you might want to consider a taller mattress (at least 10-12 inches) that would have thicker comfort layers and a taller, sturdier support layer.
Summary
Every sleeping experience is unique, so there can’t be a universal mattress for anyone. But in this review, I’ve tried to collect the best mattresses for side sleepers in Canada that can suit the demands of even the pickiest side sleepers. Like me. And that’s why it’s very difficult to outline my favorite.
Our recommended pick for this read is the Novosbed mattress. It is a mattress that provides side sleepers with appropriate cushioning and lumbar support needed for optimal relaxation. In addition, it boasts an ultra-breathable easy-to-wash mattress cover that guarantees easier cleaning and maintenance.
Do you agree with me about my choice? Or, have you got your eye on another model? I’d love to know what you think, so feel free to share in the comments section!
References:
- Anna’s Linens (December 26, 2012). National Sleep Survey Pulls Back The Covers On How We Doze And Dream. Retrieved from https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-sleep-survey-pulls-back-the-covers-on-how-we-doze-and-dream-184798691.html
- Abe Abbas (October 27, 2019). How to Create an Allergy-Free Home With the Right Furniture. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/create-allergy-free-home-1391566
- Jill Seladi-Schulman (November 20, 2019). Why Does Your Shoulder Hurt When You Sleep, and What Helps? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-when-sleeping-on-shoulder
- Beth Sissons (August 28, 2020). Memory foam mattresses vs. hybrid mattresses. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/memory-foam-vs-hybrid
- Candace Osmond (March 04, 2020). What are the Benefits of an Innerspring Mattress? Retrieved from https://www.homedit.com/benefits-of-an-innerspring-mattress/
Our research
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Mattresses Considered
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Hours of Research