If you struggle with neck pain, it can disrupt your daily life. While consulting your doctor is crucial, your sleep environment could contribute to the issue. Ensure your mattress and pillow provide ample support.
Our sleep experts have tested numerous pillows and curated a list of the best ones for neck pain. We cater to different sleeping styles, offering options tailored to your needs.
Table of Contents
- 20 Best Pillows For Neck Pain
- How to Choose a Pillow for Neck Pain?
- Why is a pillow important for relieving neck pain?
- How to choose the right pillow thickness for neck pain
- What Pillow Materials are Best for Neck Pain?
- Do Higher Pillows Help With Neck Pain?
- Is A Firm Pillow Better For Neck Pain?
- What is the Best Pillow Positioning for Neck Pain?
- Is sleeping without a pillow better for your neck?
20 Best Pillows For Neck Pain
1. Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Pillow
The Core Products Tri-Core Cervical Pillow is a solution for neck pain, catering to both back and side sleepers. Its polyfill design strikes a balance between firmness and softness.
The pillow features two differently sized bolsters on each side for tailored neck support. Back sleepers benefit from head cradling in the center valley, while side sleepers enjoy raised sides for optimal support. The trapezoidal core maintains head and spine alignment, reducing stress on upper-body muscles. The indented center allows flexibility for movement, promoting comfort.
Pros:
- Alleviates neck pain for back and side sleepers.
- Balanced firmness and softness.
- Two bolsters for customized neck support.
- Trapezoidal core maintains head and spine alignment.
- Indented center allows flexibility for movement.
- Encourages better sleeping habits.
Cons:
- Unique shape may require adjustment.
- Does not completely eliminate poor posture.
2. Pillow Cube Classic
The Pillow Cube Classic is a specialized pillow designed for side sleepers, offering optimal neck support. Made from memory foam, it maintains its shape, providing a firm feel and high loft. The square shape is engineered to keep your head and shoulders at a 90-degree angle, relieving pressure on your neck. Available in three sizes and a cooling version, it caters to different body sizes and preferences.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for side sleepers.
- Memory foam provides personalized support.
- Available in three sizes for different body heights.
- Cooling version for those who sleep hot.
Cons:
- Primarily comfortable for side sleepers; may not suit other sleeping positions.
3. Tempur-Pedic Ergo Neck Pillow
The Tempur-Pedic Ergo Neck Pillow is designed for optimal comfort and relief from neck and upper-back pain. Its hypoallergenic memory foam interior conforms precisely to the contours of your head, neck, and shoulders, providing exceptional ergonomic support. The pillow includes two differently sized bolsters to cradle your neck, with a slight slope in the middle, making it particularly suitable for side sleepers. With three available profile sizes (small, medium, and large), you can choose the loft that best suits your body type and preferences. The machine-washable cover adds to its convenience.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic memory foam for customized support.
- Two differently sized bolsters and a slight slope cater to various sleep preferences.
- Suitable for side sleepers with a comfortable resting place for the head.
- Available in three profile sizes (small, medium, and large).
- Machine-washable cover for easy maintenance.
Cons:
- Memory foam may not be preferred by those who don’t like a sinking feeling.
- The slight slope may not be suitable for everyone’s sleeping preferences.
4. AllSett Cervical Neck Roll
The AllSett Cervical Neck Roll is a memory foam pillow designed to provide exceptional neck support for individuals experiencing neck pain. Its cylindrical shape and medium-high loft aim to strike a balance between firmness and comfort. The pillow’s targeted support focuses solely on the neck, allowing flexibility for movements during sleep. It is recommended by Dr. Singh, a renowned expert, and features a machine-washable cover for added convenience.
Pros:
- Exceptional neck support
- Memory foam for a firm yet comfortable feel
- Versatile use between head and shoulders or knees for spine support
- Recommended by Dr. Singh
- Machine-washable cover for easy maintenance
Cons:
- May not suit those who prefer a different pillow loft
- Singular focus on neck support may not address broader upper body comfort
- Specific design may not cater to everyone’s sleep preferences
5. Bluewave Bedding Super Slim Gel Memory Foam Pillow
This pillow caters to back sleepers, offering crucial neck support with its super-slim design (3.25 inches). Crafted from a single slab of gel-infused perforated memory foam, it maintains medium-firm density for optimal comfort. The removable, machine-washable cover ensures easy maintenance.
Pros:
- Ideal for back sleepers seeking lower-loft options.
- Three loft choices: super-slim, ultra-slim, hyper-slim.
- Constructed with gel-infused memory foam for medium-firm support.
- Removable and machine-washable cover for convenient cleaning.
- Vertical positioning under shoulder blades effectively aligns the neck.
Cons:
- Not recommended for side sleepers.
- Pillow itself cannot be machine washed.
6. Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow
The Scrumptious Side Sleeper Pillow is a uniquely designed pillow tailored for side and back sleepers. Filled with copper-infused gel memory foam, it provides excellent neck support and relief from shoulder pressure. The memory foam ensures proper spinal alignment, reducing neck pain, while the copper infusion regulates temperature for a cool sleep experience. Its adjustable features allow customization of firmness and loft, providing maximum comfort. The machine-washable cover simplifies maintenance.
Pros:
- Exceptional neck support and relief.
- Copper infusion regulates temperature for a cool sleep.
- Adjustable firmness and loft for personalized comfort.
- Machine-washable cover for easy maintenance.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for stomach sleepers.
- Initial adjustment period may be needed for some users.
7. Layla Kapok Pillow
The Layla Kapok Pillow is a unique solution designed for comfort and adjustability to relieve neck pain. It combines kapok fiber and shredded memory foam, offering a fluffy and airy feel from kapok tree pods, blended with supportive shredded memory foam.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and adjustability.
- Customizable loft and firmness for personalized preferences.
- Versatile materials (kapok fiber and shredded memory foam).
- Machine-washable cover for easy maintenance.
- Effective in addressing neck pain issues.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those who prefer a more traditional pillow feel.
- Price point might be higher compared to basic pillows.
- Customization options may require some trial and error for the perfect fit.
8. Avocado Molded-Latex Pillow
The Avocado Molded-Latex Pillow is crafted from organic and sustainably sourced latex, featuring a unique slab-style design akin to a sheet cake. It offers consistent support regardless of your sleep position, with three size options (standard, queen, and king) to cater to various preferences.
Pros:
- Crafted from organic and sustainably sourced latex.
- Unique slab-style design for consistent support.
- Available in three sizes: standard, queen, and king.
- Medium-firm firmness for solid support.
- High loft of around five inches, suitable for back and side sleepers.
Cons:
- May be slightly too lofty for individuals with smaller frames or narrower shoulders.
9. Therapeutica Orthopedic Sleeping Pillow (Average Size)
The Therapeutica Orthopedic Sleeping Pillow is designed to provide relief for severe neck pain. It aims to align your neck, offer support to the thoracic spine, alleviate jaw pain, and cradle your head. Available in four sizes, choosing the right one depends on the horizontal measurement from the base of your neck to the tip of your shoulder. Despite its initially rigid shape, the firm molded foam gradually softens over time while maintaining support.
Pros:
- Potential relief for severe neck pain.
- Designed to align the neck and support the thoracic spine.
- Alleviates jaw pain and cradles the head.
- Comes in four sizes for a customized fit.
- Firm molded foam softens over time while maintaining support.
Cons:
- Initial discomfort may be experienced due to the rigid shape.
- Adapting to the pillow may take time.
- Individual results may vary.
10. Marlow Pillow
The Marlow Pillow is a uniquely engineered solution designed for individuals experiencing neck pain and in search of a comfortable and adjustable pillow. Filled with a blend of chopped memory foam and down-alternative microfiber, this pillow combines support and softness.
Its standout feature is the presence of two compression zippers on either side, allowing easy vertical expansion without the need for adding or removing filling. This innovation enables users to personalize the pillow’s height, ensuring a customized sleep experience that minimizes neck discomfort.
Pros:
- Unique blend of chopped memory foam and down-alternative microfiber.
- Two compression zippers for easy vertical adjustment.
- Personalized sleep experience to suit individual preferences and height.
- Firm and responsive support for proper spinal alignment.
- Innovative design addresses neck pain by finding the ideal combination of firmness and loft.
Cons:
- More expensive compared to traditional pillows.
- Some users might find the adjustment process initially confusing.
11. Mediflow Water Pillow
The Mediflow Water Pillow is a unique solution for neck pain relief, offering customizable support. Its design includes an adjustable water pouch within a soft poly-fiber filling. By controlling the water level, you can easily adjust both firmness and loft. This water-filled pillow conforms to your head’s shape, acting like fluid memory foam, reducing neck stress caused by movement during the night.
Pros:
- Adjustable firmness and loft for personalized comfort.
- Conforms consistently to the shape of your head, reducing neck stress.
- Stable support due to the weight of water, preventing movement during sleep.
Cons:
- Initial apprehension of sleeping on a water-filled pillow.
12. Purple Harmony Pillow
The Purple Harmony Pillow is a cooling pillow designed to provide optimal neck support. It utilizes a unique combination of hyperelastic polymer, perforated latex, and Purple’s gel grid material. These layers work together to promote airflow, preventing discomfort from night sweats.
Pros:
- Unique design with hyperelastic polymer, perforated latex, and gel grid material.
- Customizable loft height options: low, medium, and high.
- Suited for various body frames and sleeping styles.
- Medium-loft version offers exceptional softness with reliable head and neck support.
- Inner latex slab provides substantial support.
- Honeycomb grid maintains shape and responsiveness throughout the night.
- Moisture-wicking cover contributes to a cooler night’s sleep.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those who prefer firmer pillows.
- Price point might be higher compared to standard pillows.
13. Necklow Pillow
The Necklow Pillow is a cutting-edge solution for achieving optimal comfort and support during sleep. Unlike traditional pillows, it features millions of tiny adjustable airballs that mold to the contours of your head and neck, ensuring proper spinal alignment and reducing discomfort. Its 3D ergonomic design accommodates nighttime movements, while the micro airballs provide a plush, cloud-like sensation for unparalleled comfort. Users can easily customize the pillow’s firmness and shape to their liking, and its breathable design prevents heat buildup for a cool and dry sleeping environment. Plus, its durability and easy cleaning make it a long-lasting investment in quality sleep.
Pros:
- Customizable support with adjustable airballs
- Promotes proper spinal alignment and reduces discomfort
- Plush, cloud-like comfort for a restful sleep
- Breathable design prevents heat buildup
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
- Easy to clean in the washing machine for convenience
Cons:
- May be considered pricey for some individuals
- Requires an adjustment period for users to get used to the unique features
- Not a guaranteed solution for all sleep issues
14. AirGrip Pillow
The AirGrip Pillow is a cutting-edge sleep solution designed to provide unmatched comfort and support. Featuring 8 million micro airballs that mold to the shape of your head and neck, it ensures personalized comfort regardless of your sleeping position. Its 3D ergonomic design promotes spinal alignment and helps alleviate chronic neck and back pain, leading to uninterrupted, restorative sleep. The pillow is washable, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, and it caters to various sleeping preferences, whether you prefer to sleep on your side, back, or stomach.
Pros:
- Personalized comfort with 8 million micro airballs.
- Promotes spinal alignment and alleviates chronic neck and back pain.
- Washable construction for easy maintenance.
- Versatile design suitable for all sleeping positions.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to traditional pillows.
- May not be firm enough for some users.
- Consultation advised for individuals with specific medical conditions.
15. ProEase Pillow
The ProEase Pillow is a revolutionary sleep accessory designed to provide ultimate comfort and support, particularly for individuals suffering from neck pain. It features an orthopedic ergonomic design and patented Tension-Relieving Fiber cushioning technology, combined with a hypoallergenic ventilated latex core and breathable mesh cover. This unique combination ensures proper alignment of the head and neck, reducing stiffness and tension while promoting relaxation throughout the night.
Pros:
- Provides unparalleled comfort and support for neck pain relief.
- Versatile design accommodates all sleeping positions.
- Cooling technology prevents overheating for a comfortable sleep environment.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard pillows.
- Brief adjustment period may be required for some users.
- Personal preferences may vary in terms of firmness and support.
- Requires slightly more maintenance due to specialized materials.
16. Purity Pillow
The Purity Pillow is an advanced sleep aid designed to improve comfort and support during sleep. Featuring a 2-in-1 Cervical design and ergonomic memory foam, it ensures proper alignment of the head, neck, shoulders, and back, reducing discomfort and promoting relaxation. Adjustable heights cater to individual preferences, while hypoallergenic and cooling materials regulate temperature and provide a gentle sleeping surface. CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certifications guarantee safety and quality, making it suitable for allergy sufferers.
Pros:
- Customizable comfort with adjustable heights.
- Effective pain relief for neck, shoulder, and back discomfort.
- Reduced snoring for a quieter night’s sleep.
- Hypoallergenic and cooling materials for allergy sufferers.
- Safety certifications ensure a chemical-free sleep experience.
- Easy maintenance with a removable, machine-washable pillowcase.
Cons:
- Initial odor may be present but dissipates quickly.
- Priced slightly higher compared to standard pillows.
17. Dosaze Contoured Orthopedic Pillow
The Dosaze Contoured Orthopedic Pillow is a specially designed pillow to alleviate neck, shoulder, and back pain during sleep. Its unique contoured shape, crafted by ergonomic experts, ensures proper spinal alignment regardless of your preferred sleeping position. Made from premium CertiPUR-US® Certified Memory Foam, this pillow molds to the contours of your head and neck for personalized support while maintaining its shape over time. The cooling bamboo rayon cover helps regulate temperature, keeping you comfortable throughout the night.
Pros:
- Alleviates neck, shoulder, and back pain.
- Unique contoured shape promotes proper spinal alignment.
- Made from premium CertiPUR-US® Certified Memory Foam for personalized support.
- Cooling bamboo rayon cover helps regulate temperature for added comfort.
Cons:
- May take some time to adjust to the optimal sleeping position.
- Not suitable for individuals with highly specialized medical conditions or unique pillow preferences.
18. SOLPAD Luxeloft Goose Down Pillow
The SOLPAD Luxeloft Goose Down Pillow is a top-tier pillow designed to provide unmatched comfort and support for a peaceful night’s sleep. It features a unique construction with 800 Fill Power goose down and feathers, arranged in a tri-chamber design to conform to your head and neck while maintaining structural integrity. The pillow’s SilkenDream™ fabric cover, made from a blend of cotton and TENCEL™, adds a luxurious touch and enhances breathability for a cool and comfortable sleep experience.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and support.
- Durable construction maintains fluffiness over time.
- Hypoallergenic and antibacterial, suitable for allergy sufferers.
- Unique design prevents flattening and maintains structural integrity.
- Breathable fabric promotes airflow for temperature regulation.
Cons:
- Premium price point may be a deterrent for some buyers.
19. Thera Sleep Orthopedic Pillow
The Thera Sleep Orthopedic Pillow is a specially designed pillow to tackle neck and back pain issues while improving sleep quality. It features an ergonomic contouring and a premium memory foam core that cradles the head and neck, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure points. This innovative design ensures comfort and support for users of all sleeping positions, whether on their back, side, or stomach, leading to a more restful sleep experience overall.
Pros:
- Provides relief from neck and back pain.
- Improves sleep quality by promoting proper spinal alignment.
- Suitable for all sleeping positions.
- Ergonomic contouring and premium memory foam ensure comfort and support.
- Can lead to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.
Cons:
- May be relatively expensive compared to standard pillows.
- Core cannot be washed, although a protective cover can be used.
- Some users may experience an adjustment period.
- Not explicitly marketed as hypoallergenic, so caution is advised for those with allergies.
20. Nuzzle Pillow
The Nuzzle Pillow is a high-tech sleep aid designed to revolutionize your nightly rest. It features NASA-inspired nano-coil fibers that cradle your head and neck, promoting proper alignment and reducing discomfort. The pillow also boasts phase-change fabric to regulate temperature, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the night. Simply fluff the pillow, select the right layer based on your sleep position, and fine-tune for personalized comfort.
Pros:
- NASA-inspired nano-coil fibers offer exceptional support.
- Phase-change fabric regulates temperature for optimal comfort.
- Customizable layers cater to different sleeping positions.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- Some users may need time to find their perfect setup.
- Customer service response time can be slow.
How to Choose a Pillow for Neck Pain?
Choosing the right pillow for neck pain is essential for a good night’s sleep and relief from discomfort. Here’s a simple guide to help you find the perfect pillow for your needs:
Loft: Consider the height and thickness of the pillow. Side sleepers need a higher loft, back sleepers benefit from a medium loft, and stomach sleepers should choose a lower loft to maintain proper neck alignment.
Support: Ensure the pillow provides adequate support to your neck and head. Cervical pillows contour to your neck’s shape, offering excellent support and maintaining proper spinal alignment for side and back sleepers.
Firmness Level: Match the pillow’s firmness with your mattress. Medium to firm pillows work well for side sleepers, medium firmness is suitable for back sleepers, and stomach sleepers usually prefer soft pillows.
Pressure Relief: Choose a pillow that alleviates pressure points by conforming to your sleeping position and body shape. This ensures proper neck support and reduces the risk of pain.
Shape: Pillows come in various shapes. Cervical pillows with a contouring shape provide targeted support. Some use additional pillows, like a small neck roll, for enhanced support.
Price: While considering your budget, remember that a good pillow significantly impacts well-being and sleep quality. Investing a bit more for the right pillow is worthwhile.
Quality Materials: Opt for pillows made from high-quality materials like memory foam, latex, buckwheat, or feathers. Each material has unique qualities, such as memory foam’s excellent support, latex’s buoyancy and hypoallergenic properties, buckwheat’s breathability and conforming ability, and feather pillows’ softness and conforming ability.
Why is a pillow important for relieving neck pain?
A good pillow is crucial for relieving neck pain because we spend about a third of each day sleeping. Dr. Naimish Baxi, a Physiatrist, emphasizes the importance of keeping the neck in a ‘neutral’ position during sleep to avoid pain.
While no specific pillow type is universally recommended, an uncomfortable pillow can lead to neck pain, poor sleep, stiffness, and headaches. Choose a pillow that maintains your neck alignment without tilting in any direction for optimal relief.
How to choose the right pillow thickness for neck pain
Choose the right pillow thickness for neck pain by considering your sleeping position:
Side Sleepers: Use a thicker pillow to align your ears with your shoulders and prevent neck strain.
Back Sleepers: Opt for a medium-thick pillow for neck support and alignment, avoiding arching forward.
Stomach Sleepers: Select a thinner pillow to maintain a neutral neck position. Placing a pillow under your shoulder can aid spine alignment.
Additionally, consider your frame: Petite side sleepers and those with broad shoulders may need different pillow thicknesses.
What Pillow Materials are Best for Neck Pain?
Choosing the right pillow material is crucial for relieving neck pain and ensuring a good night’s sleep. Different materials have their own benefits and considerations.
Memory Foam: Memory foam pillows are a top pick for neck pain. They mold to your head and neck, offering customized support and maintaining proper alignment to reduce pressure points. They’re hypoallergenic and resist dust mites, great for allergy-prone folks. But, be aware – memory foam can hold heat, which might be uncomfortable for those who tend to sleep hot.
Latex: Natural latex pillows provide a buoyant and supportive feel, promoting neutral spinal alignment and reducing neck pressure. Hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, latex is durable, lasting for years. Keep in mind, though, they’re firmer and less adjustable than other pillows, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Buckwheat: Buckwheat pillows are filled with hulls that interlock for great support. They shape to your head and neck, ensuring proper alignment. Breathable and hypoallergenic, they keep you cool. But, be aware – some find them noisy, and adjusting to their unique feel may take time.
Feather: Feather pillows are soft and mold to your liking. Easily fluffed and reshaped, they’re customizable by adjusting the loft with added or removed feathers. Keep in mind, though, they may lose support over time, needing frequent fluffing. Not the best choice for severe neck pain as they may not provide sufficient support.
Polyfoam: Polyfoam pillows contour well and respond quickly to pressure, similar to memory foam. Lightweight and affordable, they resist common allergens, offering a good balance of support and comfort. Just be aware, they may trap heat like memory foam, which could be uncomfortable for those who tend to sleep hot.
Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Gel-infused memory foam pillows merge the contouring of memory foam with cooling properties. The gel dispels heat, tackling the warmth issue with traditional memory foam. These pillows offer superb support and pressure relief while keeping your sleep environment cooler.
Do Higher Pillows Help With Neck Pain?
A higher pillow may not be the solution, as overly tall pillows can misalign your head and neck, causing discomfort.
To avoid neck pain, ensure your pillow maintains a neutral position, aligning your neck with your spine and shoulders.
Consider your mattress type and sleep position when selecting a pillow. On a softer mattress, opt for a thinner or softer pillow to provide ample support without unnecessary elevation.
Is A Firm Pillow Better For Neck Pain?
In dealing with neck pain, a firmer pillow is generally recommended for maintaining neutral spine alignment during sleep. Unlike softer options like down pillows that may compress overnight, firmer pillows provide better support.
Studies suggest that using a memory foam pillow alongside chiropractic treatment can lead to improved outcomes for those with chronic pain.
Pillows with ergonomic features, such as molded foam or special stitching, are inherently firmer and help cradle the head and support the neck and spine.
What is the Best Pillow Positioning for Neck Pain?
To ease neck pain, position your pillow for optimal spinal alignment and reduced strain on neck muscles. If you have neck pain, prioritize back or side sleeping.
Back Sleeping: When you sleep on your back, use a pillow that keeps your neck’s natural curve and keeps your head level with your spine. A medium-loft pillow usually works well for most back sleepers. You can also add a small, rounded pillow under your neck or a roll-shaped pillow for extra support and to maintain the natural curve of your neck.
Side Sleeping: For side sleepers, pick a higher-loft pillow that fills the space between your head and shoulders. This keeps your neck aligned with your spine. You can use a contoured or cervical pillow made for side sleeping to cradle your head and neck, reducing pressure points. Also, placing a pillow between your knees can improve spinal alignment.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it strains the neck and causes discomfort. To reduce neck pain and have better sleep, use the right pillow and position. Try different pillows and positions to find what works best for you and gives relief from neck pain, regardless of your preferred sleeping position.
Is sleeping without a pillow better for your neck?
Sleeping without a pillow can be better for back and stomach sleepers as it helps maintain neutral spine alignment. However, side sleepers should use a pillow to support healthy posture and relieve pressure at the shoulders and hips.
Ava Mitchell has over 7 years of experience as a writer and editor for various print and digital publications. She oversees Consumer Tested Reports’s home content, covering topics like home improvement, cleaning, gardening, cooking, smart home technology, organization, and parenting. While her focus is primarily on editing, she also writes consumer education content and product reviews.
Previously, Mitchell held the position of regional editorial director at Where travel guide, where she was highly respected. She has contributed to several other publications including the Boston Herald, Newport Life, Exhale magazine, Huffington Post, The Augusta Chronicle, St. Augustine Record, and many more.