If you’ve struggled to find the right pillow to improve your sleep, perhaps the secret to your ultimate slumber lies in one of the best body pillows. These elongated pillows can help promote proper spinal alignment and relieve pressure on key areas, making them ideal for pregnancy, post-surgery recovery, or even those with sleep apnea.
Besides the frequent night-time bathroom trips that our bladders are blessed with as we get older, getting (and staying comfortable) is a nightly feat when even your favourite sleeping position can’t overcome the discomfort of night sweats. So if you’re finding yourself in a constant struggle for more sleep – whether it’s due to the menopause, joint pains or back problems – it’s probably time to invest in one of the best body pillows money can buy. Because really, who can put a price on good sleep?
SKIP TO: How do I choose a body pillow? | Are body pillows good for you? | What is the best body pillow for side sleepers? | Our full reviews
How do I choose a body pillow?
Body pillows come in all shapes and sizes (literally), each with their own pros and cons, so it’s worth assessing your options before you buy.
U-shaped body pillows offer a full-body cradle but take up a lot of bed real estate, so they’re probably best if you have a king-size or larger bed frame… or are sleeping solo.
C-shaped body pillows will also give you the full-body support you might be after, but with slightly less back support.
If you’re looking for something compact, you can’t beat a V-shaped body pillow – ideal if you’re also planning on moving it from the bedroom to the living room on the regular.
Another option is a straight body pillow – they’re great for both side sleepers and for those with back and neck problems.
Are body pillows good for you?
While body pillows are often skewed towards pregnant women – we’ve got a full edit of the best pregnancy pillows here – they’re actually a worthwhile investment, pregnancy or not, particularly if you suffer from neck or back problems. Body pillows elevate your limbs in all the right places, which takes the pressure off your joints and muscles and leaves you feeling refreshed the next morning. Plus, they make a great spooning partner. Top it off with one of the best electric blankets and you’ll be snoozing sounder than a bear in hibernation.
What is the best body pillow for side sleepers?
Our pick of the best body pillow for side sleepers would be John Lewis’ V-shaped pillow. It’s a mid-range option and boasts countless rave reviews and a host of ways to use it. Offering full support in the places you need it most – including the head, neck and shoulders – it has a dirt-repelling fabric protection and a makeup that’s washable up to 40ºC. Despite it’s serious body support, it’s also made from cotton, so it’ll be suitable for sensitive skin types, too.
After more sleep content? Let’s start with the basics: head this way for low platform bed frames to transform your bedroom, and in this direction for mattresses and the best pocket sprung mattresses for your best night’s sleep yet. Next up: over here for mattress toppers, mattress protectors, duvets, bed sheets, weighted blankets and anti-allergy pillows. Finish things off with the best duvet covers, blankets, linen bedding, silk bedding or the best silk pillowcase. For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.