Pillow for Side Sleepers: Height, Shape and Filling at a Glance
What can matter in a pillow when you sleep on your side, and which options there are.
Why height matters when sleeping on your side
Side sleepers usually look at height first when choosing a pillow. When lying on your side, the head is next to the shoulder, and the pillow fills the gap between head and mattress. How big that gap is depends on your shoulder width and on the mattress.
That is why many side sleepers choose a slightly higher pillow than back sleepers. This is a rule of thumb, not a must. Whether a height feels right for you is something you find out by trying it over several nights.
This page is about comfort criteria. We make no statements about complaints. Our products are not medical products.
For more on height and how to work it out, read the guide Pillow height.
Taking shoulder width and mattress into account
Two things change the gap between head and mattress: how broad your shoulders are and how far they sink in.
- Broader shoulders: the gap is larger, and a higher pillow may feel more right.
- Narrower shoulders: the gap is smaller, and a lower pillow tends to fit better.
- Soft mattress: shoulders and hips sink deeper, so the pillow can be lower.
- Firm mattress: there is more distance, and a higher pillow is often wanted.
If you use or change a topper, how far you sink in changes. Then check the pillow height again. Topper firmness and Mattress too hard or too soft are also helpful.
Size: 40x80, 50x70 or larger
For side sleepers, these sizes are mainly relevant:
- 40 × 80 cm: narrow, long rectangle. Takes up little space.
- 50 × 70 cm: slightly wider, offers a little more surface for the head.
- 80 × 80 cm: large surface, tends to stay under the head even when you move.
The Wolkenkissen comes in 40 × 60, 40 × 80, 50 × 70, 60 × 60 and 80 × 80 cm. More on sizes in the guide Pillow sizes.
If you turn a lot, you often choose a larger size. If you have less space or like a slim pillow, you choose a rectangle. It is a matter of taste.
Comparing fillings for side sleeper pillows
Every filling feels different and has pros and cons.
| Filling | Feel | Possible drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre (polyester, microfibre) | Soft, light, can be fluffed up | Loses volume over time |
| Down / feathers | Very shapeable, soft | Needs care, not everyone's taste |
| Memory foam (core) | Gives way slowly, keeps its shape | Feels firmer, often unfamiliar at first |
| Shredded memory foam | Shapeable, amount adjustable | Can feel heavier than fibre |
| Latex | Springy, firm | High weight, not everyone likes the feel |
Whether you prefer a soft or firm feel is personal. Memory foam gives way under pressure points and moulds to the head. Some feel this as even support, others find it unfamiliar. You will find more on the construction on the product pages.
Adjustable pillows
If you are unsure which height suits you, a pillow with adjustable filling can help.
- Wolkenkissen: shredded memory foam with gel infusion. Using the zip, you can take out or add filling. Removable bamboo viscose cover.
- Wolkenkissen Air+: pre-filled with 2.2 kg of shredded memory foam. You can loosen and redistribute the foam.
There are also formats that many people use when lying on their side:
- Side sleeper pillow: 150 × 50 cm, cover in bamboo or cotton. For the filling, read the details on the product page.
- Body pillow: approx. 150 × 100 cm, cover in cotton, bamboo viscose or micro plush. It is an extra pillow, for example for hugging, and not a replacement for a head pillow.
Whether such an extra pillow is practical for you is something you find out by trying it.
Trial checklist
Here is how to check a pillow when lying on your side:
- Lie on your side and have someone look at how your head and shoulder lie in relation to each other.
- Try it for several nights. A new pillow often feels unfamiliar at first.
- Change the height in small steps, with adjustable pillows by adding or removing a little filling.
- Notice whether the pillow feels right for you when lying down.
- After changing mattress or topper, check the height again.
For returns and withdrawal, read Shipping & returns.
Care
Most pillows have a removable cover, which you wash according to the care label. With foam pillows, the core is usually not washed. For the body pillow, the instructions say the cover is washed on a gentle cycle at 40 °C.
For details: Washing pillows and Cleaning memory foam pillows.
Frequently asked questions
Which pillow height suits side sleepers?
There is no fixed number. When lying on your side, it is mainly shoulder width that sets the gap the pillow fills. Many people choose a higher pillow than when lying on their back. Try it for several nights, preferably with a pillow whose height can be adjusted.
Which size makes sense for side sleepers?
40 × 80 and 50 × 70 cm are common. If you turn a lot, you often choose 80 × 80 cm. Which size you prefer is a matter of taste and also depends on bed width and habit.
Is memory foam suitable for side sleepers?
That is a matter of taste. Memory foam gives way slowly and moulds to the head, but it also keeps its shape. Some find this even support, others find it too firm or too warm. Trying it over several nights helps you decide.
Does a topper change the suitable pillow height?
Yes, possibly. A topper changes how deeply shoulders and hips sink in. Check the pillow height again after the change. More in the guide Topper firmness.
I have health complaints. Which pillow helps?
No pillow replaces medical advice. If complaints persist or come back, please talk to a doctor or physiotherapist. Our products are not medical products. This page is only about comfort and selection criteria.