Welcome back to Mattress Matters where side sleepers finally get some respect
Side sleepers make up the majority of sleepers.
Yet somehow, they are the most uncomfortable.
Sore shoulders.
Achy hips.
Lower back feeling like it has aged ten years overnight.
If this sounds familiar, do not blame your sleeping position.
Blame the wrong mattress.
In this edition of Mattress Matters, Funkybedz is breaking down exactly what side sleepers need from a mattress and what to avoid like cold toast.
Why side sleepers need a different mattress
Sleeping on your side puts pressure on specific points.
Mainly shoulders and hips.
If a mattress is too firm, those areas take the hit.
If it is too soft, your spine dips out of alignment.
The right mattress cushions pressure points while keeping your spine straight.
That balance is everything.
Signs your mattress is wrong for side sleeping
- Shoulder pain in the morning
- Numb arms during the night
- Hip soreness after sleep
- Lower back stiffness
- Constant tossing to get comfortable
If you tick more than one, your mattress is not doing its job.
What firmness is best for side sleepers
Medium to medium-soft works best for most side sleepers.
This allows:
- Shoulders to sink comfortably
- Hips to be cushioned
- Spine to stay aligned
Extra-firm mattresses are rarely suitable.
They create pressure and tension.
Comfort should feel supportive, not punishing.
Memory foam mattresses for side sleepers
Memory foam is a favourite for side sleepers.
And for good reason.
It moulds to your shape.
It cushions pressure points.
It reduces joint stress.
Modern designs also address heat retention.
Our memory foam mattresses are breathable and supportive without swallowing you whole.
Comfort without the quicksand.
Pocket sprung mattresses and side sleeping
Pocket sprung mattresses also work brilliantly.
Each spring reacts independently.
This supports the waist while allowing shoulders and hips to dip naturally.
They also offer excellent airflow.
Which side sleepers appreciate when buried in duvets.
Explore our pocket sprung mattresses for balanced side sleeper support.
Why pressure relief matters more than firmness
Side sleepers feel pressure more intensely.
If pressure builds, blood flow is restricted.
This causes numbness and discomfort.
A mattress that relieves pressure allows muscles to relax.
This leads to deeper, uninterrupted sleep.
Less pain.
Better mornings.
Mattress thickness and comfort layers
Side sleepers benefit from generous comfort layers.
Thicker mattresses offer better contouring.
Look for:
- Multiple comfort layers
- Quality foam or cushioning
- Strong support core underneath
Thin, cheap mattresses struggle to deliver this balance.
Does your bed frame affect side sleeping comfort
Absolutely.
An uneven or flexible base can undo good mattress support.
Your mattress needs a solid foundation.
Pair it with a sturdy bed frame to keep alignment spot on.
Storage beds and side sleepers
Storage beds are perfectly suitable for side sleepers.
Comfort depends on mattress quality, not the storage underneath.
A well-built storage base supports the mattress evenly.
Our ottoman storage beds are designed to keep everything aligned while hiding clutter.
Your hips will not know the difference.
Best mattress sizes for side sleepers
Side sleepers tend to curl or shift positions.
More space helps.
Popular options include:
- double beds for solo sleepers
- king size beds for extra room
- super king beds for ultimate sprawl
Bigger bed equals fewer pressure points.
When side sleepers should replace their mattress
If pain appears only in the morning, that is a sign.
If your mattress has visible dips, that is another.
If it is over seven years old, do not ignore it.
Check using our mattress lifespan calculator.
Your body will thank you.
Why Funkybedz mattresses suit side sleepers
We design with real sleepers in mind.
Our mattresses focus on:
- Pressure relief
- Spinal alignment
- Breathability
- Long-term comfort
No gimmicks.
No extreme firmness.
Just sensible support that works.
Final word from Mattress Matters
Side sleeping should not hurt.
The right mattress makes it comfortable, supportive and restorative.
If you are waking up sore, do not accept it as normal.
Upgrade your mattress.
Upgrade your sleep.
Built in Yorkshire.
Slept on properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What firmness is best for side sleepers
Medium to medium-soft works best for most side sleepers.
Is memory foam good for side sleeping
Yes. It cushions pressure points effectively.
Are pocket sprung mattresses suitable for side sleepers
Yes. Independent springs support natural alignment.
Can a firm mattress cause shoulder pain
Yes. Excessive firmness creates pressure points.
Should side sleepers choose a bigger bed
Yes. Extra space improves comfort and movement.
