Back Sleeper Pillows
Quick answer
Back sleepers generally sleep best on a medium height, medium to firm pillow that supports the curve of the neck without pushing the head forward. This range includes gel infused and bamboo cover memory foam, Comfortech Talalay latex, and medium fibre pillows such as Tontine Luxe Anti Allergy. Choose foam for a steady shape, or fibre for an adjustable feel.
Firmer, thinner pillows providing advanced neck support
Often heralded as the best and healthiest sleeping position, back sleepers enjoy great spinal alignment and are much less likely to wake up sore. But no good night's sleep is complete without the perfect pillow! With so many factors and also personal preference it can be a little bit difficult to decide which one’s right for you. Luckily for you, we’ve curated the best pillows for back sleepers, giving you the ultimate selection of supportive, comfortable pillows.
Not sure which size? See the Pillow size guide (standard, European & king) or the full Tontine bedding size guide.
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Frequently asked questions
What firmness of pillow is best for back sleepers?
Medium to firm tends to be the preference for back sleepers, as it provides ample support for the neck and head while also conforming to the natural curvature of your thoracic and cervical spine.
Is it healthy to be a back sleeper?
Sleeping on your back is considered one of (if not) the best sleeping position for your health, with numerous benefits. So no matter whether you soldier or starfish as a back sleeper you can expect to improve spinal alignment and posture, alleviate muscle aches, and even reduce tension headaches.
How do I become a back sleeper?
For some people sleeping on their back can feel unnatural and exposed, but with a few handy tricks you can train your body to become a back sleeper. Spreading out limbs, elevating your head and strategically placing pillows in areas of tension like knees or the lower back can help avoid any literal or metaphorical pain points.
What type of pillow is best for back sleepers?
Memory foam suits back sleepers who want a pillow that holds one shape all night, while Talalay latex feels springier and pushes back gently as you move. Fibre pillows are softer and can be plumped to adjust the height. All three work for back sleeping, so choose the material by the feel you like, then check the pillow is medium height.
What is the best pillow for back and side sleepers?
If you start on your back and turn onto your side, pick a pillow at the higher end of medium, with enough firmness to fill the gap between shoulder and head when you roll. A responsive fill such as latex or a firm fibre adjusts more quickly as you change position than slower-moving memory foam.
What is the best pillow for back sleepers with neck pain?
Look for a medium height pillow that fills the space under your neck without tipping your chin towards your chest, such as a medium height and firm memory foam pillow. A pillow cannot treat neck pain, so if discomfort continues, it is worth talking to a health professional about your sleeping set-up.