Best Pillow for Neck Pain
By Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach 
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Neck pain affects about two-thirds of the population at some point in their lives—and if you wake up with neck pain, the culprit might be your pillow. The right pillow should relieve pressure in your neck and back, preventing pain. A pillow that’s too thick, too thin, too firm, or too soft may instead aggravate muscle tension, causing pain. The best pillows for neck pain feature a balance of support and comfort, alleviating discomfort. Try switching out your current pillow with a new one, and if the pain continues, see your doctor immediately. Our team of sleep experts found the Zoma Sports Pillow to be the top performer across the board. Designed with athletes in mind, this pillow excels in offering a blend of support and comfort that truly enhances sleep quality. Its responsive design cradles the head and neck, adapting to various sleep positions effortlessly. We particularly appreciated the breathable cover that helps regulate temperature, ensuring a cool and restful night. The Zoma Sports Pillow’s ability to maintain its shape, even under pressure, impressed us during testing. It’s perfect for those with active lifestyles who need a pillow that can keep up with them, providing the right balance of firmness and cushioning. Optimal Support Breathable and Cool Memory Foam Core: Breathable Cover: The Zoma Sports Pillow provides a balanced feel that perfectly blends support and comfort. It feels responsive, contouring gently to your head and neck without sinking too deeply. The pillow offers a medium-firm feel, which our testers found ideal for maintaining spinal alignment while still being soft enough to feel luxurious. Its breathable cover adds a cool and refreshing touch, making it particularly comfortable for those who tend to sleep hot. One of our users Jessica T. shared: “This pillow has been a game-changer for my sleep! As someone who works out regularly, I needed something that supports my neck without feeling too stiff. The Zoma Sports Pillow strikes the perfect balance. Plus, it stays cool all night!” When it comes to customization, the Amerisleep Flex Pillow stands out as the best in its class. Our team was particularly impressed with the pillow’s adjustable loft feature, allowing users to fine-tune the height and firmness to suit their individual sleep needs. Whether you prefer a flatter pillow or something more substantial, the Flex Pillow adapts seamlessly, making it an ideal choice for all sleep positions. The soft, breathable cover also adds to its appeal, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. During our testing, we noticed how easily this pillow can be adjusted, making it perfect for those who frequently change positions or who share a bed with someone who has different sleep preferences. Customizable Comfort: Superior Temperature Control: Adjustable Microfiber Fill: Cooling Cover: The Amerisleep Flex Pillow feels incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust it to your perfect level of comfort. It offers a soft, plush feel when filled generously while reducing the fill gives it a flatter, firmer sensation. Our testers appreciated the pillow’s ability to adapt to different sleep positions, providing a comfortable experience whether you prefer a loftier cushion or a more compact surface. The pillow’s cover is smooth and cool to the touch, enhancing the overall sensation of a comfortable, tailored sleep experience. Mark L. shared: “I love that I can adjust this pillow to exactly how I like it. Whether I’m sleeping on my side or back, I can tweak the loft to make it just right. It’s super soft and breathable too!” When we tried to find the best value pillow, the Vaya Pillow emerged as a clear winner. Despite its budget-friendly price, this pillow offers a level of comfort and support that rivals much more expensive options. Our testers were particularly impressed by its plush feel and ability to maintain consistent support throughout the night. The pillow’s breathable foam helps to regulate temperature, making it a great option for those who sleep hot. Its responsive nature ensures that it adapts to your head and neck, providing the right amount of give without sacrificing support. High-Quality at an Affordable Price: Plush Yet Supportive: Plush Foam Core: Breathable Cover: The Vaya Pillow offers a plush, inviting feel that strikes a perfect balance between softness and support. When you lay your head on it, the pillow feels instantly comfortable, cradling your head without excessive sinking. The foam core is responsive, offering a gentle bounce-back that keeps your neck and head well-supported throughout the night. Emma S. commented: “For the price, this pillow is unbeatable! It’s super comfortable, and I feel supported no matter how I sleep. It’s soft but doesn’t flatten out like some other pillows I’ve tried.” For those who struggle with overheating at night, our team found the Pillow Cube Ice Cube to be the ultimate cooling solution. This pillow is specifically designed to keep you cool and comfortable, thanks to its advanced cooling technology and breathable materials. Our testers noticed a significant difference in temperature regulation compared to other pillows, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers. The pillow’s unique shape is also perfect for side sleepers, offering targeted support to the neck and shoulders while ensuring proper spinal alignment. Advanced Cooling Technology: Ideal for Side Sleepers: Cooling Gel-Infused Foam: Cool-to-the-Touch Cover: The Pillow Cube Ice Cube feels uniquely cool and refreshing, making it an excellent choice for those who tend to overheat at night. The gel-infused foam core creates a cooling sensation that’s noticeable as soon as you lay your head down. It has a firm yet supportive feel, particularly suited for side sleepers who need a pillow that maintains its shape and supports the neck and shoulders. David R. shared: “This pillow is a must-have for anyone who sleeps hot. I’ve never had a pillow that stayed this cool throughout the night.” If you’re someone who appreciates versatility in a pillow, the Amerisleep Dual Comfort Pillow is likely to impress. Our team was excited by its dual-sided design, offering two distinct comfort options in one pillow. One side provides a firmer feel, ideal for those who need more support, while the other offers a softer, more plush experience. During our tests, we found this dual-sided feature to be incredibly convenient, allowing users to switch between firmness levels depending on their mood or sleep position. The pillow’s breathable cover also helps in maintaining a cool sleeping environment, enhancing overall comfort. With its adaptable design and thoughtful construction, it is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys having options. Two Comfort Options in One: Adaptable and Versatile: Dual-Sided Foam Core: Breathable and Soft Cover: This pillow offers two distinct sensations in one pillow, making it versatile and adaptable to different comfort needs. The firmer side feels supportive and structured, ideal for those who prefer more resistance and need solid neck support. The softer side, on the other hand, provides a plush, cushioned feel that’s perfect for sinking into after a long day. Our testers loved the ability to switch between the two, depending on their mood or sleep position, making it a truly versatile pillow. Our team’s testing revealed the Zoma Body Pillow as the top choice for those seeking full-body support. This pillow is designed to cater to those who prefer hugging or positioning a pillow alongside their body for extra comfort. We found that the Zoma Body Pillow offers the perfect balance of softness and support, making it a great companion for side sleepers and pregnant individuals alike. The pillow’s ergonomic design helps alleviate pressure points, promoting better spinal alignment, and reducing discomfort. Its breathable cover also ensures a cool sleep experience, even when snuggled close. Comprehensive Body Support: Ergonomic Design: Shredded Microfiber Fill: Cooling Cover: The Zoma Body Pillow feels like a full-body hug, offering a comforting and supportive experience from head to toe. It’s soft and pliable, allowing you to mold it to your body for customized support. Whether you’re a side sleeper looking to cradle the pillow or someone who enjoys the extra comfort of a body pillow, it provides a cushioned, cozy sensation that helps alleviate pressure points. Amanda C. shared: “This body pillow is amazing! It’s so soft and supports me perfectly when I’m sleeping on my side. It really helps with my back pain, and I can’t sleep without it now.” Side sleepers often face the challenge of finding a pillow that provides adequate neck support without compromising comfort. Our team found the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow to be the perfect solution. This pillow is specifically crafted to contour to the unique shape of side sleepers, offering excellent support for the head, neck, and shoulders. During testing, we were impressed by its adjustable fill, which allows users to customize the pillow’s height and firmness to their liking. The breathable, soft cover adds to its overall appeal, keeping the pillow cool throughout the night. We highly recommend this pillow for side sleepers looking to improve their sleep quality with a pillow tailored to their needs. Tailored for Side Sleepers: Adjustable Fill for Custom Comfort: Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam: Cooling and Soft Cover: The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow feels tailor-made for side sleepers, offering a plush, supportive sensation that cradles the head and neck perfectly. The pillow feels soft yet substantial, providing just the right amount of give to maintain comfort without compromising on support. Our testers loved how it contours to the neck and shoulders, helping to reduce tension and promote proper spinal alignment. The adjustable fill allows for further customization, ensuring a sleep experience that feels personalized and deeply comfortable. One of our users John D. reviewed: “As a side sleeper, I’ve always struggled to find a pillow that supports my neck properly. The Easy Breather is perfect—it’s adjustable and feels just right. My neck pain is gone!” For those who prefer shopping on Amazon, the Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow offers a reliable and convenient option. Our team was particularly impressed with the pillow’s cooling gel-infused memory foam, which provides excellent support while helping to regulate temperature. We found that this pillow adapts well to different sleep positions, making it a versatile choice for various sleepers. The soft, breathable cover enhances overall comfort, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. During our testing, we appreciated the pillow’s balance of firmness and plushness, which contributes to its wide appeal. Given its accessibility and performance, we believe the Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow is the best choice for those seeking a high-quality pillow available on Amazon. Cooling Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Versatile for All Sleep Positions: Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Soft and Breathable Cover: The Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow feels cool and supportive, with a medium-firm texture that adapts to your head and neck. The gel-infused memory foam creates a balanced sensation, combining the contouring comfort of memory foam with a cooling effect that prevents overheating. Our testers found it comfortable across various sleep positions, appreciating its ability to provide a consistent, supportive feel throughout the night. The pillow feels soft to the touch, yet it offers enough resistance to keep your head and neck properly aligned. Lisa W. reviewed: “This pillow is a great find on Amazon! It’s cool and comfortable, and I like how it supports my head without being too firm. It’s been a big improvement in my sleep quality.” Sometimes there’s no clear cause for neck pain because the neck bones, tendons, and nerves are grouped together so tightly it’s difficult to find the exact source. Common causes include: If symptoms continue for more than three months, the condition is categorized as chronic neck pain—often, psychological stress is a factor behind chronic neck pain. Neck pain typically improves on its own with a few minor life changes. See your doctor if the pain continues unabated for several days, if it’s the result of a severe accident, or if you experience the following symptoms in conjunction with the neck pain: There are lots more pillow options available besides the standard pillow for neck pain. If you experience chronic neck pain, look at specialty cervical support pillows that evenly balance the weight of your head and neck. A standard pillow is your normal bed pillow. Typically, a standard pillow is 20 inches by 26 inches, with a super standard offering an extra 2 inches. A standard pillow can cause neck pain if it leaves parts of the neck unsupported. You might need to try a different thickness or a different type of pillow altogether. A contour pillow, sometimes also known as a cervical pillow, has two raised ends on opposite sides to support your neck—with one end higher than the other, you can pick which side is more comfortable. Your head rests in the curve between the sides. Many contour pillows are solid memory foam pillows. Memory foam gives the pillow a responsive feel—the downside is that contour memory foam pillows have a relatively shorter lifespan compared to pillows with shredded fills. These small U-shaped pillows wrap around the neck for head and neck support. Travelers often use them on long plane trips or bus rides to prevent their heads from tilting to the side, but these pillows can also alleviate neck pain at home or work. Take care that the pillow isn’t too thick, however, because that will push your head too far forward. Neck pain is not uncommon when pregnant. A body-size U-shaped pillow offers support to a pregnant woman’s stomach, back, and neck. To use a pregnancy pillow, rest your head on the curve of the “U,” while tucking one leg of the U between the legs for proper hip alignment. A wedge pillow is a triangular pillow that elevates the upper body when placed at the head of the bed. Sleeping on a wedge pillow can ease pressure in the neck, while also alleviating symptoms of acid reflux, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea. The material inside the pillow determines its price, feel, and durability. There is no one pillow fill that’s best for neck pain, as each type has its advantages and disadvantages—the best pillow fill comes down to personal preference. A down pillow is plush, lightweight, and breathable. The malleable fill is made from the soft plumage from under a duck’s and geese’s front feathers. The price of a down pillow ranges from $50 to $180, with the average down pillow costing close to $100. Cheaper down pillows tend to contain less down. A down pillow needs frequent fluffing to maintain its shape. Bits of down may fall out as the pillow ages, but the pillow should last several years. A down alternative pillow contains polyester fibers to imitate the feel of down, providing a hypoallergenic option for those with a feather allergy. The fill is less expensive than genuine down, and a pillow often costs around or under $25. Like genuine down, a down alternative pillow needs an occasional fluffing to retain its shape. Down alternative pillows tend to last two to three years with regular use. Feather pillows are a budget alternative to down pillows—the fill is mostly feather quills mixed with a few down clumps for softness. Like down, a feather pillow molds well to the head and neck, although feather quills may poke through the cover and disturb comfort. On average, a feather pillow costs between $30 to $40 and may last around three years with regular fluffing. See our guide on how to fluff a pillow. Memory foam responds to heat and weight, which is why a memory foam pillow conforms to your head and neck for pressure relief. According to Sleep Like The Dead, eighteen percent of owners said their memory foam pillows reduced neck pain. There are two types of memory foam pillows—solid and shredded. Shredded memory foam is often more cooling as air flows better between the pieces, and shredded memory foam tends to last a year or two more than a solid piece, since you can fluff and wash it. A one-piece memory foam pillow provides more consistent support while requiring little maintenance. Both types of pillows cost, on average, between $40 to $50. Latex is similar to memory foam—the material molds itself to your head and neck, relieving pressure and providing support. Its dense structure resists allergens and dust mites, although that same density can make the pillow heavy and hard to move. A latex pillow is durable, lasting at least three years with regular use. A buckwheat pillow tends to feature excellent support. The fill contains small, hard buckwheat hulls, which resist flattening as you lie down, better maintaining your spinal alignment. The fill is also adjustable, as you can add or remove hulls; however, the shells tend to make noise when compressed, and they naturally feel firm. An average buckwheat pillow costs around $75. A water pillow is highly adjustable; you fill it with water until the pillow is at your preferred loft and firmness. Finding your favorite thickness and feel might take some experimentation, and filling the pillow can be a messy task. Once you fill the pillow, it should weigh quite a few pounds, leaving you with a pillow that stays in place. Loft refers to a pillow’s height or thickness, and there are three—low, medium, high. Each loft works best with a different sleeping position, and a common reason for neck pain is sleeping on a pillow with the wrong loft. If your pillow is too thick, it raises your head and neck out of alignment; but if it’s too low, your head slumps and your neck strains without sufficient support. A comfortable pillow for side sleepers should have a high loft (between 4 to 6 inches) since this position creates the greatest distance between the neck and sleeping surface. A back sleeper needs a pillow with a medium loft that’s 3 to 5 inches thick. A stomach sleeper should look for a pillow thinner than 3 inches, or may even benefit from skipping the pillow altogether. Your sleeping position can also increase your chances of waking up with neck pain. Side sleeping and back sleeping maintain neutral spine alignment, but stomach sleeping often causes neck pain because you have to twist your neck to the side to breathe while you sleep. Some stomach sleepers find that sleeping without a pillow helps their neck pain. Once you have the right pillow, caring for it extends its use. The first step to protect your new pillow is by encasing it in a pillow protector. Protectors prevent allergens and pests from penetrating the pillow, extending its lifespan. Pillows with adjustable fills (down, feather, shredded foam) need fluffing every morning to maintain their shape. To fluff your pillow, hold both ends and push inward. Wash your pillowcase and pillow cover every week with your other bedding. Washing it in a hot water cycle is the best way to eliminate any dust mites or bacteria. If your pillow is machine washable, wash it every six months or so. If your pillow smells after a wash—which can happen with down and feather pillows—freshen it up with a few hours in the sun. You can clean nonwashable pillows with a vacuum hose, spot cleaning, and a sprinkling of baking soda. Try to vacuum your pillows once a week, when you change your bedding. Before you purchase a pillow, check for a sleep trial, warranty, or return policy. Many pillows do not come with a sleep trial, but you should always buy a pillow that includes a good warranty—if a pillow lacks that, it’s a red flag that the company isn’t willing to back its product. Not every pillow comes with a sleep trial, although they are fairly common with online pillows. If you’re investing a significant amount of money in your pillow, such as more than $50, we recommend looking for one with a sleep trial. Your sleep trial might be as short as 45 days or stretch to 120 days. A warranty guarantees that the company will repair or replace a defective pillow. Manufacturing defects commonly covered include tears or cracks in the material or damage to the cover that falls outside of normal wear and tear. The length of a pillow warranty can vary. Some warranties are as short as a year; others cover a lifetime of use. Most pillows need replacing every three to seven years, so a good warranty should cover five or more years. A return policy outlines how long you have to make a return and the condition your pillow must be in to be eligible for return. Some companies will only take a pillow back if it’s been damaged in shipping or it’s unopened. If you have any questions about the return policy, reach out to a customer service representative. A mattress may be indirectly responsible for neck pain if it’s too firm. A firm mattress keeps the body lifted, maximizing the distance between the neck and the bed. The best mattresses conform to a sleeper’s body and minimize the gap between the neck and bed. Not getting enough sleep can cause or worsen pain. If you’re getting less than 7 hours of sleep per night, you might need to take steps to fix your sleep schedule. The first step is to wake up and fall asleep at roughly the same time every day. Sleeping in on weekends throws off your biological clock. Establish a bedtime ritual, such as a hot bath or reading a chapter in a book. Avoid electronics for at least an hour before bed, as the bright blue light can delay sleepiness. Keep your room between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and sleep with cool, breathable bedding—avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester and rayon. For your pillow, you might want a cotton or bamboo cover. It may take more than even the perfect pillow to eliminate your neck pain. Speak with your doctor if neck pain continues or if it interferes with your daily life. Changes to your working environment can leave your nights pain free. Try adjusting the height and back of your chair and the distance between your chair and keyboard for better posture. Change the height of your computer monitor and use an ergonomic keyboard, mousepad, and computer mouse. Move about when you can, as movement increases blood flow throughout your body. You might fear physical activity will make the pain worse, but the opposite is true. Exercises designed to strengthen your neck can prevent and relieve neck pain. If you have a stiff neck at home, try applying heat or ice to it. You can use a medical ice pack or just fill a bag with ice and wrap it in cloth to protect your skin—apply it to the skin for no more than 20 minutes. For heat, you can use hot compresses, heating pads, or just take a hot shower. Do not fall asleep with a heating pad or an ice pack, as they can damage the skin if left on for too long. We strongly advise side sleepers and back sleepers to keep a pillow under their heads. Stomach sleepers may sleep better without a pillow but still risk neck pain because of how they twist their neck to breathe. Sleeping in a room between 60 to 75 degrees can promote better sleep. Experiment with your thermostat to find what is best for you—if you wake up too hot or too cold, adjust the temperature by a couple of degrees. Breathable bedding can cut down on heat retention, such as a cotton cover for your pillow. Side sleeping reduces pressure on the heart, increases blood flow to the head, helps the brain dispose of waste, and opens up the airway for better breathing. Conversely, stomach sleeping is the least healthy sleep position. If you’re a stomach sleeper who frequently wakes up with neck pain, consider switching to another position. Your current pillow might be responsible for your morning neck pain, particularly if it’s old and worn out. A new pillow designed to support your neck can lead to a good night’s sleep. If your discomfort continues, make an appointment with your doctor, as the pain might be a sign of a serious medical condition. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional. Sarah Anderson is a sleep, health, and wellness writer and product reviewer. She has written articles on changing and improving your sleep schedule, choosing the right mattress for chronic pain conditions, and finding the best pillow for you. Sarah Anderson has her Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University in Journalism and Mass Communications. Prior to working for Zoma, she wrote for a variety of news publications. Sarah's work has been featured on Bustle, PureWow, and other publications.Best Pillow for Neck Pain
Best Pillow Overall
1. Zoma Sports Pillow
Our testers found the Zoma Sports Pillow to provide exceptional support, making it ideal for athletes and those with active lifestyles. Its design focuses on maintaining proper neck and spinal alignment, crucial for recovery and performance.
The breathable cover and responsive foam work together to ensure a cool and comfortable sleep environment, which impressed our team during testing. This pillow is a standout for those who want to stay cool while getting a restful night’s sleep.Best Adjustable Loft Pillow
2. Amerisleep Flex Pillow
We picked it for its impressive adjustable loft feature, allowing users to customize the pillow’s height and firmness. This makes it suitable for a wide range of sleepers, regardless of their preferred sleep position.
The pillow’s soft, breathable cover enhances its comfort by keeping it cool throughout the night. Our team noticed how effective it was in maintaining a pleasant sleep temperature, making it a great choice for those who tend to sleep hot.Best Value Pillow
3. Vaya Pillow
It offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. Our team was impressed by how well this pillow performed, delivering the same level of comfort and support as higher-priced options.
Despite its budget-friendly price, it provides a plush feel that doesn’t sacrifice support. It’s responsive and adapts to your head and neck, ensuring consistent comfort throughout the night.Best Cooling Pillow
4. Pillow Cube Ice Cube
Our testers chose it for its remarkable cooling abilities. The pillow’s design incorporates advanced cooling technology that keeps sleepers comfortable, even in warmer environments.
The Pillow Cube Ice Cube’s unique shape and structure make it perfect for side sleepers. It offers targeted support to the neck and shoulders, promoting proper alignment and reducing discomfort.Best Dual Sided Pillow
5. Amerisleep Dual Comfort Pillow
We picked it for its innovative dual-sided design. This feature allows users to choose between a firmer or softer side, catering to different comfort preferences or changing needs.
The versatility of this pillow impressed our team, making it suitable for various sleep positions and preferences. Whether you need extra support or a plusher experience, this pillow adapts to your needs effortlessly.Best Body Pillow
6. Zoma Body Pillow
The Zoma Body Pillow was selected for its ability to provide full-body support, which is especially beneficial for side sleepers and pregnant individuals. Our testers found that it alleviates pressure points and enhances overall comfort.
Designed to promote better spinal alignment, this pillow impressed our team with its ergonomic shape. It helps reduce discomfort by providing support exactly where it’s needed, making it a top choice for those seeking full-body comfort.Best for Side Sleepers
7. Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillow
We chose this pillow because it’s specifically designed to meet the needs of side sleepers. Its contoured shape offers excellent support for the neck and shoulders, enhancing sleep quality.
Our testers appreciated the adjustable fill feature, which allows users to modify the pillow’s height and firmness to their liking. This customization ensures that side sleepers can find the perfect level of comfort and support.Best Mattress on Amazon
8. Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow
The Weekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow stood out to our team for its cooling gel-infused memory foam, which offers excellent support while keeping sleepers cool. It’s a reliable option for those who tend to overheat at night.
We picked this pillow for its versatility, as it adapts well to different sleep positions. Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, this pillow provides balanced support and comfort, making it a popular choice on Amazon.Why Does Neck Pain Happen?
Best Pillow Types for Neck Pain
Standard
Contour
Neck
Pregnancy
Wedge
Common Pillow Fills
Down
Down Alternative
Feather
Memory Foam
Latex
Buckwheat
Water
Pillow Loft
Taking Care of Your Pillow
Sleep Trial, Warranty, Return Policy
Sleep Trial
Warranty
Return Policy
Sleep on the Right Mattress
Getting Better Sleep
Other Ways to Relieve Neck Pain
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sleeping without a pillow better for your neck?
Is it healthier to sleep in a cold room?
What is the healthiest sleeping position?
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Sarah Anderson, Certified Sleep Science Coach
