Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Australia: Comfort, Firmness & Support Guide

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Australia: Comfort, Firmness & Support Guide

Side sleeping can feel natural and cosy, but it also places extra pressure on the shoulders, hips and lower back. If your mattress is too firm, your shoulder may feel pressed into the surface. If it is too soft, your hips may sink too deeply and place strain on your spine.

The best mattress for side sleepers should cushion pressure points while still giving enough support through the waist, hips and lower back. For many Australian side sleepers, a medium to medium-firm mattress with a pressure-relieving comfort layer is a smart place to start.

At Levede, our mattress recommendations are based on mattress type, comfort layer design, support structure, cooling features, firmness feel and common side-sleeper needs. This guide will help you choose a mattress that feels comfortable, supportive and practical for your sleep style.

Looking for a place to start? Browse Levede’s full range of mattresses, including queen mattresses, pocket spring mattresses and memory foam mattresses.

Quick Answer: What Mattress Is Best for Side Sleepers?

The best mattress for side sleepers is usually one that offers shoulder cushioning, hip support, spinal alignment and pressure relief .

For most side sleepers, a medium to medium-firm mattress works well. Lighter sleepers may prefer a softer feel, while heavier sleepers may need firmer support underneath with a softer comfort layer on top.

Best starting point: choose a mattress that feels cushioned on top but stable underneath.

 Shop Levede Memory Foam Mattresses

Why Side Sleepers Need the Right Mattress

When you sleep on your side, your body weight is concentrated through a smaller surface area. The shoulder, hip and knee often take more pressure than they would in other sleep positions.

A mattress that is too firm may cause:

• Shoulder soreness
• Hip pressure
• Numb arms
• Tossing and turning
• Stiffness in the lower back

A mattress that is too soft may cause:

• Hips sinking too far
• Poor lower back support
• A curved sleeping posture
• Difficulty changing position
• A sagging or unsupported feel

That is why side sleepers need both softness and structure . The top layer should ease pressure around the shoulders and hips, while the support layer should help keep the rest of the body steady.

For broader mattress buying advice, read Levede’s guide on  how to choose the right mattress in Australia.

What Firmness Is Best for Side Sleepers?

Mattress firmness is one of the most important buying factors for side sleepers. The surface needs enough give to cushion the shoulder and hip, but the mattress should not be so soft that the body sinks unevenly.

As a simple guide:

A very firm mattress can feel supportive at first, but it may not cushion the shoulders and hips enough for side sleepers. A very soft mattress may feel comfortable at first, but it can allow the body to sink too far.

For more help choosing the right feel, read Levede’s  mattress firmness scale guide.

Why Zoned Support Matters for Side Sleepers

Side sleepers do not place equal pressure across the whole mattress. The shoulder and hip usually need more cushioning, while the waist and lower back need more support.

This is where zoned support can help.

A zoned mattress is designed to support different parts of the body in different ways. For side sleepers, this can help the heavier parts of the body settle more comfortably while still keeping the spine better aligned.

A pocket spring mattress can also be useful because each spring responds more independently. This may help reduce partner movement and provide more targeted support than a traditional connected spring system.

If you want to understand the difference in support zones, read Levede’s guide on  5-zone vs 7-zone pocket spring mattresses.

Best Mattress Types for Side Sleepers

Different mattress types suit different side sleeper needs. The right choice depends on your body weight, comfort preference, sleep temperature and whether you share the bed.

Pocket Spring Mattresses for Side Sleepers

A pocket spring mattress can be a strong choice for side sleepers who want support, airflow and easier movement.

Because the springs move more independently, pocket spring mattresses can help support different body areas and reduce partner disturbance.

Best for:

• Side sleepers who need support
• Couples
• Hot sleepers
• People who dislike the deep sinking feel of foam
• Sleepers who want a more responsive mattress

To learn more, read Levede’s guide on what a pocket spring mattress is .

Memory Foam Mattresses for Side Sleepers

A memory foam mattress can suit side sleepers who want a more cushioned, body-hugging feel. Memory foam can help soften pressure around the shoulders and hips.

It can also help reduce movement transfer, which is useful if one person moves more during the night.

Best for:

• Shoulder pressure
• Hip pressure
• Motion isolation
• Lighter to average-weight side sleepers
• People who like a closer contouring feel

Cooling Mattresses for Side Sleepers

If you sleep on your side and often wake up warm, a cooling mattress may feel more comfortable. Cooling gel, breathable fabric and pocket spring airflow can all help create a fresher sleep surface.

Best for:

• Hot sleepers
• Australian summer nights
• Couples sharing body heat
• Side sleepers who want cushioning without feeling too warm

Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers

If your current mattress feels slightly too firm, a mattress topper can add extra cushioning. This may help reduce shoulder or hip pressure.

However, if your mattress is sagging, uneven or no longer supportive, a topper may only be a short-term fix. In that case, replacing the mattress is usually the better choice.

Best Levede Mattresses for Side Sleepers

Here are Levede mattress options that suit different side-sleeper needs. Product suitability can vary depending on your body type, comfort preference and whether you prefer a softer or firmer sleep surface.

Best Overall Mattress for Side Sleepers: DreamZ 32cm 7-Zone Queen Mattress

For side sleepers who want a strong all-round option, the DreamZ Spring Mattress Pillow Top 7-Zone Pocket Spring Memory Foam 32cm Queen is a practical choice.

It combines a 7-zone pocket spring system with memory foam and pillow top comfort. This makes it suitable for side sleepers who need cushioning around the shoulders and hips, but still want stable support through the lower back.

Why it suits side sleepers

• Pillow top comfort helps soften the surface
• 7-zone support helps support different body areas
• Memory foam helps with pressure relief
• Pocket springs help reduce partner movement
• Queen size gives more room to shift position

Best for: side sleepers, couples, pressure relief and queen bedrooms.

Shop the DreamZ 32cm 7-Zone Queen Mattress .

Best Mattress for Hot Side Sleepers: DreamZ 30cm Cooling 7-Zone Queen Mattress

Side sleepers who wake up warm may prefer a mattress with better airflow and cooling comfort. The DreamZ Queen Cooling Mattress Pocket Spring Euro Top 7-Zone 30cm is a good option for people who want support without feeling trapped in the mattress.

The pocket spring design helps with airflow, while the Euro top adds extra cushioning for side sleepers.

Why it suits side sleepers

• Cooling design for warmer nights
• 7-zone support for different body areas
• Euro top comfort for shoulder and hip cushioning
• Queen size works well for couples

Best for: hot sleepers, couples, side sleepers and summer comfort.

CTA: Levede cooling mattresses .

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Shoulder and Hip Pressure

If your main issue is pressure around the shoulder or hip, the DreamZ Double Queen Mattress Cooling Bed 5-Zone Pocket Spring Euro Top 25cm may be a good fit.

Its Euro top gives the body a more cushioned surface, while the 5-zone support system helps support key areas of the body.

Why it suits side sleepers

• Euro top helps soften pressure points
• 5-zone support helps keep the body steadier
• Cooling design can suit warmer sleepers
• Practical option for everyday comfort

Best for: shoulder pressure, hip pressure, guest rooms and everyday comfort.

CTA: Shop Levede queen mattresses 

Best Budget Mattress for Side Sleepers: DreamZ Gel Memory Foam Queen Mattress

For side sleepers who prefer foam comfort, the DreamZ Queen Mattress Gel Memory Foam Cooling Breathable 15cm is a simple and budget-friendly option.

Memory foam can help cushion the body, while gel memory foam is designed to feel cooler than traditional foam.

Why it suits side sleepers

• Foam comfort helps with contouring
• Gel layer supports a cooler sleep feel
• Good for lighter side sleepers
• Practical choice for guest rooms or smaller budgets

Best for: budget buyers, guest rooms and lighter side sleepers.

CTA: Shop Levede memory foam mattresses .

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is common for side sleepers because the shoulder takes direct pressure through the night. If your mattress is too firm, your shoulder may not sink in enough. This can leave you waking up sore, stiff or numb.

Look for:

• A pillow top, Euro top or foam comfort layer
• Medium to medium-firm feel
• Enough cushioning around the shoulder
• A supportive base that stops the rest of the body dipping too much

A mattress such as the DreamZ 32cm 7-Zone Queen Mattress can be a good option because it combines comfort layers with zoned support.

You may also want to check your pillow height. Side sleepers often need a supportive pillow that fills the space between the neck and shoulder. Browse Levede’s pillows for extra support options.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Hip Pain

Hip pain may happen when a mattress is too firm, too soft or uneven. A firm mattress can create direct pressure on the hip. A very soft mattress can let the hips sink too far, which may affect lower back comfort.

Look for:

• Pressure-relieving comfort layers
• Medium or medium-firm support
• Zoned pocket spring support
• Good weight distribution
• A mattress that is not sagging

A queen mattress with a pillow top or Euro top can help side sleepers feel more cushioned through the hip area.

For added surface softness, you can also consider a mattress topper , especially if your current mattress is still supportive but feels a little too firm.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain for side sleepers often comes from poor spinal alignment. If your hips sink too much, your lower back can twist or dip. If the mattress is too firm, your waist may not feel supported properly.

A good mattress for side sleepers with lower back pain should:

• Cushion the hip and shoulder
• Support the waist
• Keep the spine in a more natural line
• Avoid deep sagging
• Allow easy movement

If back pain is your main concern, read Levede’s full guide to the best mattress for back pain .

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers Who Share a Bed

If you share a bed, your mattress needs to support more than one sleep style. One person may sleep on their side, while the other may sleep on their back, stomach or move around often.

For couples, side sleepers should look for:

• Good motion isolation
• Stable edge support
• Enough room to move
• Balanced firmness
• Cooling comfort for shared body heat

A queen mattress is usually a practical choice for couples, while a king mattress gives more space if both people move a lot.

Pocket spring mattresses and memory foam mattresses can both work well for couples. Pocket springs can help with airflow and responsiveness, while memory foam can help reduce partner disturbance.

Browse Levede’s queen mattresses or king mattresses to compare sizes.

Queen, Double or King: Which Mattress Size Is Best for Side Sleepers?

Side sleepers often shift position during the night, so mattress size can affect comfort too.

For most adults, a queen mattress is the most practical choice. It gives enough space for side sleeping, turning and sharing the bed without needing an oversized bedroom.

For measurements, see Levede’s bed sizes in Australia guide.

How to Check If Your Mattress Suits Side Sleeping

When lying on your side, ask yourself:

• Does your shoulder feel cushioned?
• Does your hip feel supported but not pressed?
• Does your waist feel supported?
• Does your spine feel reasonably straight?
• Can you turn over without effort?
• Do you wake up with numb arms?
• Do you wake with hip or lower back soreness?
• Has your mattress started sagging?

If your mattress feels too firm but is still in good shape, a mattress topper may help. If the mattress is sagging or uneven, it may be time to replace it.

Side Sleeper Mattress Buying Checklist

Before choosing your next mattress, use this checklist:

To protect your new mattress, pair it with a mattress protector . A protector can help guard against spills, sweat and everyday wear.

Why Buy Your Side Sleeper Mattress from Levede?

Choosing the right mattress online can feel tricky, especially if you are trying to solve shoulder pressure, hip discomfort or poor sleep support. Levede makes the process easier by offering a wide range of mattress options for different comfort needs, room sizes and budgets.

With Levede, you can compare:

• Queen, double, single, king single and king mattress sizes
• Pocket spring, memory foam and cooling mattress styles
• Mattress toppers for added cushioning
• Pillows for side sleeper neck and shoulder support
• Mattress protectors to help keep your mattress fresher for longer

You can also build a full bedroom setup by pairing your mattress with Levede bed frames, bedside tables, pillows, bedding and mattress protectors.

Final Thoughts

The best mattress for side sleepers is not always the softest mattress. It should cushion the shoulders and hips, support the waist and lower back, and help the spine stay in a more natural position.

For most side sleepers, a medium to medium-firm mattress with a comfort top, memory foam layer or pocket spring support is a strong choice.

Start with Levede’s queen mattresses if you want a practical everyday size, or browse the full mattress collection to compare pocket spring, memory foam, cooling and pillow top designs.

CTA: Shop Levede mattresses and choose the right feel for your sleep style.

FAQs About Mattresses for Side Sleepers

What mattress firmness is best for side sleepers?

Most side sleepers suit a medium to medium-firm mattress. Lighter sleepers may prefer a softer feel, while heavier sleepers may need firmer support to stop the hips from sinking too far.

Is a firm mattress good for side sleepers?

A firm mattress can work for some heavier side sleepers, but it may feel too hard for many people. If it creates shoulder or hip pressure, a medium or medium-firm mattress with a comfort layer may be better.

Is memory foam good for side sleepers?

Yes, memory foam can be good for side sleepers because it contours around the shoulders and hips. Hot sleepers may prefer gel memory foam or a cooling pocket spring mattress.

Is a pocket spring mattress good for side sleepers?

Yes, a pocket spring mattress can suit side sleepers, especially when it includes a pillow top, Euro top or foam comfort layer. It can offer support, airflow and reduced partner movement.

What mattress is best for side sleepers with shoulder pain?

A mattress with a pressure-relieving comfort layer is usually better for shoulder pain. Look for pillow top, memory foam or Euro top cushioning with supportive layers underneath.

What mattress is best for side sleepers with hip pain?

Choose a mattress that cushions the hip while supporting the lower back. A medium to medium-firm mattress with zoned support can be a good choice.

What mattress is best for side sleepers with lower back pain?

A supportive medium to medium-firm mattress is usually a good starting point. It should cushion the shoulder and hip while helping the waist and lower back stay supported.

Do side sleepers need a special pillow?

Side sleepers often need a supportive pillow that keeps the neck aligned with the spine. A pillow that is too low or too high can place strain on the neck and shoulder.

Should side sleepers use a mattress topper?

A mattress topper can help if your mattress feels slightly too firm. But if your mattress is sagging or no longer supportive, it is better to replace the mattress.

Is a queen mattress good for side sleepers?

Yes, a queen mattress is a practical choice for many side sleepers. It gives more room to turn, stretch and share the bed compared with a double mattress.