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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Best for Athletes and Active Folks
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Best for Athletes and Active Folks |
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Our Reviews of 5 Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers in Canada
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.
Let’s look at our number one pick; the Novosbed mattress. It is a mattress that offers incredible value for money as it is made to last with its dense support layer and customizable firmness option to support various user weights.
As with all memory foam mattresses, you can expect good motion absorption from the Novosbed, which is awesome if you share a bed with someone or allow your pets to co-sleep with you.
But here’s the thing:
Unlike traditional memory foam, the Novosbed foam doesn’t limit your movements when you decide to change position. Also, it’s dense enough to ensure the level of edge support similar to hybrid beds of the same price, which is another plus.
The three firmness options associated with the Novosbed mattress not only make it a suitable choice for couples but also for heavy sleepers, making it the best mattress for heavy side sleepers in Canada.
The mattress doesn’t sleep hot, even though side sleepers tend to sink deeper into the layers. The Novosbed foam features an open-cell structure, so it traps less of your body heat and more effectively dissipates it into the air. The washable Tencel cover helps deal with extra moisture and additionally improves breathability, thus turning your mattress into a cooling cloud.
The Novosbed mattress is definitely one of my recent favorites. It offers great support for your spine and pressure relief for the whole body.
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).
Next up on the list of mattresses for this read is the Puffy mattress. Most Canadian mattresses for side sleepers I’ve reviewed have at least one foam layer. While foam is, undoubtedly, the best option in terms of cradling and pressure relief, it tends to trap heat. So, let me introduce to you the Puffy mattress: one of the modern memory foam beds that along with generous sinkage and hug can offer you a breeze-like slumber.
The Puffy has a medium firmness level, which is a fit for side sleepers. The mattress adapts to your body curves without creating pressure points and supports healthy spine alignment, thus preventing any pain or discomfort.
The breathability of the mattress is ensured by the combination of the proprietary Cooling Gel Cloud foam and the ClimateControl layer. These layers withdraw heat and adjust to the temperature changes, thus keeping you comfortable throughout the year.
Finally, the Puffy has low motion transfer, so your slumber will remain uninterrupted if you share a bed with someone. The cushioning feel of the mattress will help your partner get comfy faster and toss and turn less frequently during sleep.
I think that the Puffy is a good pick for almost any side sleeper. It’s breathable and cradling, and helps you maintain proper spine alignment during the night. Oh, and the brand donates mattresses to children in need, so buying it could be your way to make a positive change in the world.
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 is a mattress infused with many cooling properties that ensure an always cool-to-the-touch surface, making sleeping hot impossible. However, a product needs more features than sleeping cool to rank as one of the best mattresses for side sleepers in Canada.
You might be wondering if a hybrid mattress is good for side sleepers. Well, this one is really good. I tested this mattress while sleeping on my side, and found it really comforting. The top layer was supple; I could feel the gel memory foam cradle my pressure points especially at the shoulder and the hips. Then, the latex layer in the mix didn’t make me feel sunk-in when i slept.
At the core of the mattress, the individually wrapped coils used for support, provide a balance to the contouring of the memory foam layers. It made the bed more bearing, it felt like floating on bed. Then, there was minimal motion transfer, as well as edge support. Everyone can sit at the side of the bed without slipping off. The core 7.5-inch thick dense foam at the bottom added the solid feel of quality and durability to the mattress.
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.
The Logan & Cove Mattress is the answer for those looking for a luxury pillow top mattress to make them feel like royalty. The zoned foam, silk padding, and zoned coils hug the contours of your body while you sleep so that you wake up feeling refreshed.
The plush pillow-top provides an extra cushioning layer, making it a perfect option for side sleepers. Additionally, since side sleepers with shoulder pain need all of the plushness they can get, this thick mattress is undoubtedly the best mattress for side sleepers with shoulder pain in Canada among other mattresses on this list. If you have ever slept on a memory foam mattress, you know how hot they can get. But the Logan & Cove Mattress has a cooling gel infused in the foam to help regulate your body temperature.
And if you're looking for a mattress for couples, this is a perfect choice. The spacious design and supportive coils ensure partners get a good night's sleep.
Additionally, the top-rated hybrid Logan & Cove Mattress is less expensive than our overall best, The Puffy Mattress. This implies that it is a more affordable option for people that might be on a budget.
So don't wait any longer; order your Logan & Cove Mattress today!
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.
Best for Athletes and Active Folks - Zephyr by Polysleep
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Highlights
- zoned support system for healthy spinal alignment;
- antimicrobial materials, suited for sensitive and allergy-prone sleepers;
- organic cotton cover, breathable and gentle on skin;
- proprietary Nanobionic Technology for faster muscle recovery;
- GelFlex cooling foam to create a neutral sleeping environment and combat night sweats.
Moving further down my review of the best mattresses for side sleepers in Canada, and here’s a real gem. The Zephyr by Polysleep is designed for athletes or those who work physically, so it doesn’t just help you sleep better — it helps you recover and start your day fresh.
First, here comes the cooling GelFlex memory foam layer that contains advanced gel particles. These particles sync with the changes in your body temperature and the surroundings, so you can feel comfortable and sleep cool. Also, the foam is resistant to bacteria and mold growth, which might be a plus if you’re allergic.
The second layer is zoned and made to contour your hips and shoulders more precisely. This layer has denser foam in the middle, which helps in supporting healthy spine alignment and may work for heavy users as well.
Finally, the cover fabric of the Zephyr incorporates phase-change material that can convert some amount of your body heat into infrared energy and work as a therapy pad for your sore muscles. This way, you’ll surely feel refreshed every morning!
The Zephyr is named after a warm and gentle breeze for a reason. Having tested the mattress, I can confirm that it offers a truly therapeutic sleeping experience and can help you improve your overall health.
Recommended for:
- People with a physically demanding lifestyle. The Zephyr can help you sleep better and recover, so your performance will remain on top.
- Those who don’t mind spending a bit more. The mattress falls into the high-end category because of the proprietary materials used. So, if you aren’t limited in terms of budget, this is a worthy investment.
- Those who have hip or shoulder pain. The zoned support layer removes the pressure from your hips and shoulders while supporting natural spinal curves.
Cons:
- some initial odor might be present upon arrival, so you will probably have to leave the mattress to air out in a well-ventilated room;
- might not feel supportive enough for heavier stomach and back sleepers (over 230 pounds).
What Makes a Mattress Suitable for Side Sleepers?
Now, most of the modern brands try to make their mattresses universally comfortable. That’s why you are more likely to find a mattress for a combo sleeper than a bed that fits solely the lateral sleeping position.
However, mattresses designed for those who primarily sleep on their side, have some distinctive features, and I will point them out below.
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
Deciding on an avenue for buying your mattress can be overwhelming at times since purchases can be made at either a local store or an online store. However, between the two options, an online store is better equipped to satisfy its users.
The ease of access offered by a virtual store is one of the reasons why it’s viewed as a better choice. Coupled with the absence of salespersons that might influence user decisions, many people prefer doing their mattress shopping online.
Other benefits and perks of an online store include promotional sales, discounts, home delivery, customer satisfaction surveys, etc.
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/
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