9 best mattresses for side sleepers in Australia in 2024
Always wake up on the right side of the bed with the mattresses side sleepers ‘highly recommend’.
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There’s a reason why the bedroom is where the magic happens. Anyone who’s had one too many cases of a bad night’s sleep knows it can lead to brain fog, poor concentration, changes in mood and a long list of other problems. Not getting enough sleep has even been linked to a variety of health issues like cardiovascular disease and stroke.
But some peer reviewed studies – including those in the Journal of Applied Ergonomics – suggest finding a mattress that suits your sleeping position can actually reduce discomfort and improve overall sleep quality.
RELATED: Top-rated mattresses to buy in Australia
For those who sleep on their side, Bedshed recommends opting for something with a medium firmness. This is because side sleepers “need more flexible support than back sleepers and medium mattresses have enough ‘give’ in them to contour to the shape of your body and relieve pressure while also providing gentle support”.
One of our tried and tested favourites is the Koala SE Mattress, which our news.com.au checkout Editor called “seriously comfortable”. It’s also the popular brand’s wallet-friendly alternative, making it a dream for anyone on the hunt for an affordable quality mattress.
Fancy a good deal? The Origin Hybrid Mattress is currently $175.80 off, now just $703.20 (down from $879) for a queen size mattress. The Sleep Firm Bed Mattress is also on sale for $1214 (down from $1349).
*All prices reflect Queen-sized options, except where stated otherwise, so make sure to jump through the links for alternative sizes and pricing.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST MATTRESS FOR SIDE SLEEPERS OVERALL
The Origin Hybrid Mattress, $703.20 (down from $879) at Origin
What You Need To Know
For those who want something a little softer but still on the harder side, there’s The Origin Hybrid Mattress. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly bed-in-a-box mattresses, competitively priced at $765 for a full-priced single mattress.
This popular Origin mattress features the brand’s HexaGrid Orthopedic layer, designed to provide enough plush cushioning to alleviate joint pressure while offering enough plush cushioning to help you and your body relax.
It currently holds an impressive five-star rating from over 4300 reviews.
“Brilliant mattress for such a great price! It’s so supportive yet comfortable. I got the mattress topper as well and it’s gives a bit more plush softness that I prefer,” one happy side sleeper reviewed.
“It keeps perfect shape, no sagging or change to firmness. It was so convenient getting it delivered, too.”
Another five-star review wrote, “It’s so soft and cooling, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day. I feel like I’m sleeping on a cloud every night.
I highly recommend this mattress to anyone looking for a comfortable and restful sleep experience.”
Comfort Classic Mattress, $1200 at Eva
Eva Comfort Classic Mattress
What You Need To Know
The award-winning Comfort Classic Mattress from Eva is a hybrid style suitable for any type of sleeper, however as it leans towards the medium/firm end of the scale, side sleepers in particular can expect the perfect balance between support and comfort. Below a soft and breathable cover, is a combination of superior memory foam layers that mould effortlessly to your shape, together with five zone pocket springs that support your body across the entire mattress right up to the edge. Ideal for hot sleepers, a layer of cooling memory foam gel maintains optimal sleeping temperature, while the overall design provides excellent breathability and air flow. And best of all, the foam layers provide low motion transfer which means you can sleep soundly undisturbed by your restless partner.
With a rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from nearly 3000 reviews, this mattress has attracted a great deal of attention form those in search of a good night’s sleep.
“Love Love Love the eva mattress,” wrote one happy customer. “I purchased and the process was so easy! I didn’t even have to worry about a thing because everything was taken care of (even a box cutter for the box it was packaged in!) Would definitely recommend!”
Another left a five-star review saying, “I have had my Eva Mattress for 2 1/2 years now and it is still as amazing as the first day I got it! I no longer suffer from back pain and sleepless nights. With plans to upgrade to a king size bed very soon, I will 100% be going with eva again!”
Emma Luxe Pro Mattress, $3400 at Emma Sleep
Emma Luxe Pro
What You Need To Know
Sitting at the premium end of the scale, the Emma Luxe Pro combines advanced AirGrid Technology and infinity springs to create dreamy cloudlike comfort as well as relief for body aches in shoulders and hips. An ideal choice for side sleepers, the innovative foam adapts to your body and then bounces back to shape as you move around so if you do switch position or toss and turn, you won’t wake yourself up — so come morning time, you’ll feel rejuvenated and energised to take on the day.
The Airgrid technology in this mattress also provides larger air channels for greater air flow and circulation, as well as cooling gel material so you can stay at comfortable sleeping temperature all night long.
Many shoppers have put this luxury Emma Sleep mattress to the test and have enjoyed the best night’s sleep.
“I can tell you this is a life changer,” said one happy customer. “It has provided more support for my back and has helped my quality of sleep”
Another left a five-star review saying, “Our sleep has improved so much and we feel as though we wake up happier and ready for whatever the day throws at us.”
BEST MEMORY FOAM MATTRESSES FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
Ergoflex 5G Memory Foam Mattress, $1232.49 (down from $1449.99) at Ergoflex
Ergoflex 5G Memory Foam Mattress,
What You Need To Know
One of the best memory foam mattress options for side sleepers is the Ergoflex 5G Memory Foam Mattress. It moulds to your unique body shape for a more tailored approach to reducing pressure points, and includes a temperature-regulating inner core layer to help prevent you from overheating during those balmy nights.
“This is the best mattresses I’ve ever slept on. So much more comfortable than your average memory (foam) mattress, and they don’t have the same odour either, I’ve had mattresses that take weeks to lose that rubber smell, Ergoflex mattress are good to sleep on within a few hours,” raved a reviewer.
“(It’s) delivered quickly and Matthew deals with you personally too — it's not often you get to speak to the owner of a company when you make inquiries. All in all, great experience and a fabulous mattress.”
BEST BOX MATTRESSES FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
The Koala Mattress, $1250 at Koala
What You Need To Know
The Koala Mattress is like the little black dress of the bed-in-a-box world. It’s a popular mid-range option that features pretty much anything you would expect from a box mattress, such as zero disturbance tech and a topper that can be flipped to adjust the firmness between medium-firm and firm. It also comes with a breathable Tencel cover that absorbs and releases moisture so you can stay cool and dry throughout the night.
The brand labels this mattress ideal for side sleepers since it uses Kloudcell technology, which provides support for broad areas, such as your back, and pressure relief for shoulders, hips, knees and feet.
“Sleeping on the firm side is like sleeping on the cloud. I came from spring mattress and enjoy the sleep better,” one reviewer wrote.
“The easiest mattress to set up, expands right out of the box! Honestly so comfortable and supportive feels like sleeping in a hotel bed every night of the week,” another posted.
“Love that you can choose between the different levels of support depending on your preference. Would 100 per cent recommend this mattress it’s well worth the money!”
BEST ADJUSTABLE MATTRESSES FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
SD MACH II Mattress, $1649 at Sleeping Duck
Sleeping Duck SD MACH II Mattress
What You Need To Know
While most adjustable mattresses need to be flipped over to change firmness levels, the SD Mach II has both options on one side so there’s no need to fuss around with a heavy mattress.
In addition to regular Medium or Firm, you can choose the Half-Half option which offers medium-firm on one side and firm on the other. Sleeping Duck also custom-made Precision Foam Pads available if you want a Soft or Extra Firm feel (you can score these for free if you order them within your 100-night trial period).
When it comes to features, this Sleeping Duck Mattress has several support zones to relieve different pressure points, plus a breathable top layer made from bamboo yarn and reinforced edge support to prevent you from rolling off the bed.
“Very comfortable, very stylish (and) has a lot of options in regards to swapping out the top for hard, medium etc … I would recommend Sleeping Duck to anyone looking for quality and a good night’s sleep that won’t break the bank,” praised a shopper.
“The customer service is unparalleled, fast and easy to deal with. The product is 10/10,” agreed another fan, who called the SD Mach II a “quality, comfortable mattress” with “the most incredible value”.
BEST PLUSH, SOFT MATTRESSES FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
The Koala SE Mattress*, $950 at Koala
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
Another Koala option worth mentioning is their wallet-friendly Koala SE Mattress. It’s fitted with a plush quilted topper for comfort, and made with antimicrobial bamboo charcoal to absorb excess moisture and regulate your sleep temperature so you don’t suddenly wake up in a sweat. The mattress is also designed to align your spine with its three-zone support system.
This is the mattress I wish I had been able to buy 10 years ago when I was moving out for the first time. Not only is it affordable (the double size costs just $850!) but it’s also seriously comfortable for both back and side sleepers, is supportive on my lower back, is light enough to move easily (making it perfect for renters) and is designed to be cooling in Australian summer.
Read Hannah’s honest and in-depth review here.
*Product has been provided by Koala for a 100 per cent independent, honest review.
Macoda Mattress, $1300 at Macoda
What You Need To Know
Love that plush, cloudlike feeling? The Macoda mattress is the brand’s softer option and includes a mix of memory foam, latex and pocket springs for a comfortable and supportive experience. The firmness is also adjustable, which is extra handy.
Other features include an eco-friendly bamboo fabric top to wick away moisture, plus a firm edge and a five-zone support system to target different areas.
“Tested many bed in a box mattresses and they have all been way too hard. I felt instantly comfortable on the Macoda on its default setting (medium/soft) and have been having great sleep so far,” a happy shopper reviewed, rating it five stars.
“I love the fact that you have the option to flip the inserts to make it softer or firmer depending on your needs. Would highly recommend Macoda if you are after a plush feel and also have trouble with back or full body pain.”
BEST FIRM MATTRESSES FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
Sleep Firm Bed Mattress, $1214 (down from $1349) at Sleep Firm
What You Need To Know
For side sleepers who prefer a true firm feel, such as those with a larger or heavier frame, Sleep Firm is a brand worth checking out. The Australian-made mattress boasts an S+ Pro 5 Zone Independent Spring System and super high spring count to ensure maximum support for the body and spine, as well as provide pressure relief for the shoulders and knees.
The firm mattress also contains Dunlop foam, which is Sensitive Choice approved, GECA certified and treated with Ultra Fresh (an antimicrobial treatment).
“After sleeping on the Sleep Firm I am very impressed and would highly recommend it if you’re after a good firm mattress. I will never buy a memory foam mattress again,” an impressed reviewer wrote.
“As this was my first ‘mattress in a box’ purchase, I was a little sceptical about how the quality would be but there was nothing to worry about. Great mattress, good edge support, very happy with the quality and looks like it will last a long time.”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A MATTRESS FOR A SIDE SLEEPER
When choosing what mattresses to include on this list we evaluated several factors:
Temperature regulating
Is the mattress made from breathable materials that will keep you cool during a hot Australian summer? Moisture-wicking and temperature regulating properties are super important factors to consider when buying a mattress.
Back support
Even for side sleepers, back support is imperative to not only having a good night’s sleep but also just general health of the body. Some research suggests a firmer mattress can offer better support than a softer mattress, but keep in mind the right firmness is different for everyone and can be influenced by the person’s weight and age.
Firmness
There are downsides to all sleeping positions, even for one of the most recommended styles – side sleeping. If you’re a side sleeper, shoulder pain or neck pain can become an issue because you’re pushing the shoulder down into the mattress. A mattress that’s too soft might not provide enough support, while an overly firm one can place too much pressure when you’re pushing the shoulder down into the mattress.
Medium firmness is usually seen as the way to go. The fact you can choose medium soft and medium firm is also handy for those who want a little more plush or hardness.
While some research suggests a firmer mattress can offer better support than a softer mattress, keep in mind the right firmness is different for everyone and can be influenced by the person’s weight and age.
Minimise partner disturbance
Being woken up by your partner’s tossing and turning or if they wake up/go to bed at a different time to you can be very frustrating. We made sure to include options that specifically work to target these types of disturbances.
Warranty
A mattress is an investment and something you want to last for years so we looked out for long warranties, of around 10 years, to include.
Trial period
Testing something out before you buy is just basic common sense especially when the purchase is a considerable amount of money.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY DO SIDE SLEEPERS NEED A SPECIFIC MATTRESS?
There’s no such thing as a one-size fits all mattress, but there are a couple of downsides that impact side sleepers more compared to sleep positions.
But keep in mind that how comfortable and supportive a mattress is will vary for each person. It depends on a variety of factors, including:
• Age
• The weight and height of the person or couple
• Size of the mattress and bed frame.
• Materials and technology.
Shoulder pain
Side sleeping on the side can potentially cause shoulder pain since it’s pressed into the mattress and up toward your neck, according to Healthline, which may lead to misalignment and soreness. It’s why they recommend opting for a firmer mattress and pillow to help avoid this risk.
If the mattress feels a little too hard, you can use a memory foam mattress topper or any other mattress topper to soften the surface.
Tossing and turning
Bedshed alternatively suggests steering towards a softer feel to make it more comfortable when you’re tossing and turning throughout the night, a habit which tends to appear among side sleepers.
WHAT ARE THE BEST SLEEPING POSITIONS?
All sleeping positions have their pros and cons, but here are some highlights on your sleeping style can affect you.
Side sleepers
Side sleeping can potentially take some of the pressure away from your spine, with some also claiming it can potentially help with digestive system function and even snoring. The downside is that it may contribute towards neck and shoulder pain.
Stomach sleepers
Sleeping on your belly is generally seen as the least kind position on your body because it puts pressure on your back and spine as well as your organs. This makes it especially difficult to keep a neutral spine position because most of the weight is in the middle of the body. Sleeping on your stomach can also cause neck tenderness since you’re twisting your neck to breathe.
But you can improve things by using a low profile pillow with a soft or medium firmness to reduce the angle of your head and neck, or add a pillow between your knees to help maintain a neutral spine.
Back sleepers
Back sleeping is claimed to be one of the most beneficial sleeping positions since it can help encourage spinal alignment, although you do need to make sure you have supportive pillows and mattress. However, back sleeping isn’t ideal if you’re pregnant, while those who suffer from sleep apnoea, acid reflux or heartburn might need to make some adjustments to make the position more comfortable.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR MATTRESS?
Experts recommend changing your mattress every seven to 10 years. Other factors, like the quality of the mattress, can impact this though.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A HYBRID MATTRESS AND A FOAM MATTRESS?
A hybrid mattress contains multiple types of mattress fillings, such as pocket springs and a gel memory foam layer, rather than a simple all-foam mattress design.
A typical memory foam mattress can make a good side sleeper mattress since they contour to the shape of your body, offering support for your hips and back.
Looking for a better night’s sleep? Score savings on luxury mattresses from brands such as Koala, Sleep Republic, Ecosa and others with news.com.au Coupons.
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