Pillows by Sleep Position
Best Pillows for Back Sleepers Under
7 picks compared
6 min read
ProductPickly is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our picks.
The short answerFor back sleepers under the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow, Sleep Number PlushComfort Pillow Ultimate, and Snuggle-Pedic Ultra Luxury Pillow stand out. Each offers adjustable loft and solid support.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best Overall
The Eden Pillow features a shredded memory foam fill that you can add or remove to customize loft. Its bamboo-derived rayon cover feels cool and breathable. Owners report that it helps align the spine for back sleeping.
Fill Shredded memory foamLoft AdjustableCover Bamboo-derived rayonSize 20 x 26 inches
- Adjustable loft for personalized support
- Cooling cover material
- Machine washable cover
- May have a slight initial odor
- Fill can shift over time
Sleep Number PlushComfort Pillow Ultimate
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best Value
The PlushComfort Ultimate uses a blend of microfiber and down alternative for a plush yet supportive feel. Its baffle box construction keeps the fill evenly distributed. It offers a medium loft that suits most back sleepers.
Fill Microfiber and down alternativeLoft MediumCover Cotton blendSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Soft and supportive
- Baffle box prevents clumping
- Hypoallergenic
- Not adjustable
- May be too soft for some
Snuggle-Pedic Ultra Luxury Pillow
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Neck Pain
This pillow features a shredded gel memory foam fill that conforms to the neck and head. Its patented breathable cover helps regulate temperature. The adjustable loft allows for a custom fit.
Fill Shredded gel memory foamLoft AdjustableCover Breathable bamboo rayonSize Standard 20 x 26 inches
- Excellent neck support
- Cooling gel-infused foam
- Adjustable loft
- May be too firm for some
- Cover may wrinkle
Best for: Best for Neck Pain
Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best Cooling
The Beckham Hotel Collection pillow is filled with a gel fiber that wicks away heat. Its double-stitched border and gusset design provide support without flattening. It has a medium firmness that works for back sleepers.
Fill Gel fiberLoft MediumCover PolyesterSize Queen 20 x 30 inches
- Cooling gel fibers
- Machine washable
- Durable construction
- Not adjustable
- May be too thick for petite users
MyPillow Classic Pillow
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best for Side Sleepers (with back option)
The MyPillow Classic is known for its adjustable fill, allowing you to add or remove foam to change loft. Its patented interlocking fill provides support that adapts to your sleep position. It comes in various sizes and firmness levels.
Fill Shredded polyurethane foamLoft AdjustableCover CottonSize Queen 18 x 28 inches
- Adjustable fill
- Multiple size options
- Machine washable
- Some find it too soft
- May require fluffing
Best for: Best for Side Sleepers (with back option)
Utopia Bedding Down Alternative Pillow
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best Budget
This pillow offers a plush down alternative fill at an affordable price. Its soft, breathable fabric adds to the comfort. It is a good choice for back sleepers who prefer a softer feel.
Fill Down alternativeLoft Medium-softCover PolyesterSize Queen 20 x 28 inches
- Very affordable
- Soft and comfortable
- Machine washable
- May flatten quickly
- Not adjustable
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Pillow
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for Pressure Relief
The TEMPUR-Cloud pillow uses TEMPUR material that molds to your head and neck, relieving pressure points. It has a medium loft that suits back sleepers. The pillow maintains its shape over time.
Fill TEMPUR materialLoft MediumCover KnitSize Standard 16 x 26 inches
- Excellent pressure relief
- Retains shape
- Medium support
- May feel too firm for some
- Cannot adjust loft
Best for: Best for Pressure Relief
What to Look For
Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck. A medium loft, around 4 to 5 inches, is often ideal. The fill should be responsive, not too soft or too firm. Consider materials like memory foam or down alternative for comfort. Cooling features help if you sleep hot.
Understanding Loft and Firmness
Loft refers to the height of the pillow when lying on it. For back sleepers, a medium loft keeps the head aligned with the spine. Firmness affects support; medium-firm is usually best. Adjustable pillows let you change the loft to suit your preference. Test different options to see what feels right.
Fill Materials Compared
Memory foam conforms closely and offers pressure relief. Down alternative is soft and hypoallergenic. Gel-infused foams provide cooling. Shredded fills allow adjustability. Each material has pros and cons, so consider your priorities.
Cooling and Breathability
Some pillows trap heat, causing discomfort. Look for breathable covers like bamboo or cotton. Gel-infused foams or ventilated designs promote airflow. If you tend to sleep hot, prioritize cooling features.
Care and Durability
Check if the pillow is machine washable. Some covers are removable and washable, while others require spot cleaning. Durable materials like high-density foam last longer. Read owner reviews to gauge longevity.
Questions people ask
What is the best pillow for back sleepers?
The Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow is a top choice for back sleepers. It offers adjustable loft and good support. The Sleep Number PlushComfort Ultimate is also great for balanced comfort.
How high should a pillow be for back sleepers?
A medium loft of about 4 to 5 inches is ideal for back sleepers. This height keeps the head aligned with the spine. Adjustable pillows allow you to fine-tune the height.
Is memory foam good for back sleepers?
Yes, memory foam provides contouring support that cradles the neck and head. It helps maintain proper alignment. Look for a medium-firm memory foam pillow.
Can a pillow be too soft for back sleepers?
Yes, a pillow that is too soft may not provide enough support. It can cause the head to sink, straining the neck. Choose a medium-firm pillow for adequate support.
What is the difference between a back sleeper pillow and a side sleeper pillow?
Back sleeper pillows have a medium loft and support the neck's curve. Side sleeper pillows are higher to fill the space between the shoulder and head. They serve different alignment needs.
Are adjustable pillows better for back sleepers?
Adjustable pillows let you customize the loft to your exact needs. This is useful because individual preferences vary. Many back sleepers find them beneficial.
How often should I replace my pillow?
Most pillows last 1 to 2 years. Over time, they lose support and accumulate allergens. Replace when the pillow no longer holds its shape or feels comfortable.
Is a cooling pillow worth it for back sleepers?
If you sleep hot, a cooling pillow can improve comfort. Gel-infused foam or breathable covers help regulate temperature. It may be worth the investment.
Can a pillow help with neck pain for back sleepers?
Yes, the right pillow can alleviate neck pain by supporting proper alignment. A contoured or adjustable pillow may be helpful. Consult a healthcare professional for chronic pain.
What is the best pillow material for back sleepers?
Memory foam and down alternative are popular choices. Memory foam offers contouring support, while down alternative is soft and breathable. Choose based on your comfort preference.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For back sleepers under the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow offers the best overall support and adjustability. The Sleep Number PlushComfort Ultimate is a great value, and the Snuggle-Pedic Ultra Luxury is ideal for neck pain. Choose based on your specific needs.
