Waking up with a sore neck can make it difficult to get through your day. Though your mattress and sleeping position can add to neck pain, the pillow you are using is actually the biggest contributor to this issue. There are a variety of bones, cartilage, muscles, and tendons in your neck that support the head and help protect your central nervous system. If this area isn’t supported properly when you sleep, it can affect the nerves, creating pain. To combat this issue, you need the best pillow for neck pain you can get your hands on.
Of course, you can’t just get any pillow and hope for the best. There are a few features you need to look for to ensure your neck pain will be eased. The shape is one thing to look at, as different shapes work for different sleepers. The same refers to the firmness of the pillow. So, you also need to consider how you sleep, such as on your back, side, or front. The material inside affects density, heat retention, and even allergic reactions. Lastly, check the cover material to ensure it is comfortable to sleep on.
To choose the best pillow for neck pain, we scoured manufacturer’s websites, read product information, and even checked out countless customer reviews. Then we chose the top products available, created a comparison table, added an in-depth review for each one, and also created a buying guide to help you decide which one is the right pillow for you.
More features: removable middle foam layer; ventilated foam
This cervical pillow has a contoured shape that cradles the natural curve of your neck and keeps your head and spine lined up, which is what most people with neck pain need. It has medium firmness and is listed for side, back and stomach sleepers.
The pillow has three layers of memory foam, and taking out the middle layer lowers the loft so you can match the height to your shoulder width and the way you sleep. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified and made to be ventilated, and the OEKO-TEX bamboo rayon cover is soft, wicks away moisture and can be washed.
More features: made from UTTU DYNAMIC® FOAM, which never becomes hard in winter
Every person is different, which means not everyone’s pillow can be the same height. UTTU has taken this into account, creating a pillow that gives you four different heights to choose from.
There are three layers inside the pillow. When all three are inside, there are high and low contours on the sides that are 4.7 and 3.9 inches respectively. When the middle layer is removed, both of these sides are lowered to 3.5 and 2.8 inches. This allows you to adjust the pillow to fit your body type.
The layers are all made of UTTU Dynamic Foam, which is not just adjustable, it also conforms to your natural curves. This helps support your head and neck while aligning your spine. This feature makes it the best pillow for neck and back pain since your muscles can all relax while you sleep. Another benefit of this type of foam is that it isn’t altered by temperature. It maintains its firmness and comfort, even in cold weather.
On the outside is a cover made of polyester and bamboo. This fabric is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant. It is also breathable to circulate the air in the pillow, which helps keep you cool all night long. You can remove this cover and toss it in the washing machine whenever needed.
More features: removable, zippered, and machine washable cover (filling must be taken out before washing); hypoallergenic, chemical-free fill; can also be used for knee, lumbar, and leg support
A good neck roll gives your cervical spine steady support without the bulk of a full-size pillow, and this one from Leinuosen is flexible enough to earn a place beyond the bed. The 16-inch roll is filled with natural kapok, a plant fiber that molds to the curve of your neck yet springs back instead of packing down, and a side zipper lets you add or remove filling until the firmness feels right for you.
The unbleached organic cotton cover is soft against the skin and breathes well, and it zips off for machine washing once the kapok is removed. Back and side sleepers can use it under the neck, while the same roll works under the knees, behind the lower back in an office chair, or between the legs for hip alignment, so it does not sit idle if your neck has a good night.
More features: provides optimal cervical support; dual zipper design provides full access to pillow filling
If you are looking for a cervical pillow to help with your back and shoulder pain, this one from Nature’s Guest may be the best choice for you. It gives you the right cervical support, keeping your head, neck, and spine aligned to relieve the pain and prevent it from returning. It even works for those who shift from their back to their side repeatedly during the night.
To help these rotating sleepers, there are thick sides to this pillow, which keep your head and neck straight while you sleep. When you roll on your back, your head rests in the middle area, while your neck is supported by the built-in neck roll cushion. There are even large and small neck support areas to choose from, depending on your size and the length of your neck.
All of these areas inside the pillow have customizable fill, which allows you to add or remove the stuffing to get the right firmness. There are two zippers, one on each side, to help with the fill adjustments. This fill is made of microfiber materials that are not only comfortable to sleep on but also help keep you cool at the same time.
The cover is made of cotton fabric, which is soft against your skin, plus adds breathability to your pillow to reduce heat retention. This pillow is also hypoallergenic for a healthier sleep.
More features: available in queen and king sizes; hypoallergenic; machine washable; water repellent; 100-night free trial
Rectangular in shape, this memory foam pillow is suitable for any sleeping position, most especially stomach, and side sleepers, and helps to solve neck problems. It also provides great pressure relief, ensuring the correct distribution of the weight of the neck and consequently a correct sleeping position. When you sleep on this pillow, it ensures a natural spine alignment.
The pillow is 9 inches high and ergonomic because it adapts to the shape of the head and helps relax the muscles in their natural position. With the cover fabric made from bamboo fibers, it is also anti-mite, hypoallergenic and removable, to facilitate cleaning and maintenance of the pillow.
The filling has a good density that wouldn’t flatten while you can also create the density that suits you most as the pillow is adjustable, that is, you can open the cover, take away some of the pillows so it will be suitable for you not only as a side sleeper but as a stomach sleeper as well.
As a back sleeper, you need a pillow that is 4 to 5 inches high. And while this is nine inches, that means you will have to reduce half of the pillow foams to create the right density and height suitable for keeping the head of a back sleeper in perfect alignment without the head being pushed too further forward and creating neck problems while you wake.
More features: OEKO-TEX certified materials; hypoallergenic, antibacterial and vegan; washable
Stomach sleepers with neck pain are caught between two bad options: a pillow that cranks the head back and twists the neck all night, or a flat one that leaves it with nothing to rest on. This one is built around five support zones covering the head, neck, shoulders and upper back, and it is made for stomach sleeping alongside side and back rather than for side sleepers alone.
The down-alternative fill sits inside structured internal chambers, so the fibers stay where they are put instead of drifting to the edges and leaving a hollow in the middle by morning.
It is made with OEKO-TEX certified materials, is hypoallergenic and vegan, and the whole pillow is washable, which helps if you are sensitive to dust or you sleep with your face pressed into it every night.
More features: CertiPUR-US certified foam, removable machine-washable cover, also suitable for legs and lower back
A wedge works differently from an ordinary pillow: instead of propping up your head on its own, it raises your whole upper body, so your neck stays in line with your back rather than being bent forward all night. The top layer is CertiPUR-US certified memory foam that gives under your head and shoulders, while the high-density foam underneath holds the 7.5-inch incline.
At 24 by 22 inches the surface is wide enough that you stay on it if you shift during the night, and the cover comes off for a machine wash. Bear in mind this is an angled support rather than a soft pillow and the height is fixed, so side and stomach sleepers will not get much out of it, but for back sleepers it doubles as a backrest for reading or watching television.
More features: manufactured locally in Los Angeles, California
The Coop Home Goods pillow is a decent model that uses quality materials that are designed for comfort and support. This pillow is filled with Premium Cross-Cut Memory Foam and Microfiber blend. This shredded material allows you to add or remove as much as needed to give you the right support, no matter what position you sleep in. It may need to be fluffed in the dryer at times, though, otherwise, your neck pain may return as it flattens out.
This foam is not only comfortable and adjustable, it is also safe for you and your family. It is CeriPUR-US certified, meaning it’s made without any harmful materials like heavy metals, TCEP flame retardants, formaldehyde, and phthalates. This certification also meets the standards for durability, so you know the foam will last for years.
Holding all this foam in is an interlock liner, which is soft to the touch. It has a zipper on one end for foam adjustment. There is also a removable cover made of polyester and rayon, which is soft and comfortable against your skin.
This pillow is hypoallergenic and resists dust mites. The entire pillow is machine washable and dryer safe, so you can clean it as needed. It also comes with a 100-night trial period so you can test it out before fully committing to it. If you do keep it, it also comes with a five-year warranty for your peace of mind.
More features: hypoallergenic and machine washable cover; made in the USA
Some people like having something to hug while they sleep, adding extra pillows to their bed for this reason. The Hugg-A-Pillow by Duro-Med gives you a great supportive pillow that is curved, cradling your head while giving you a piece to cuddle with at the same time.
This curved boomerang pillow is supportive, with fiberfill material inside that molds to the contours of your body. This allows you to sleep on your side or back with full support, reducing the pain other pillows can cause. Though this fill is a bit lumpy, it retains its shape as you sleep, staying firm instead of falling flat during the night.
There is a removable poly cotton cover on this pillow, but some people find it a bit rough to sleep on. It is machine washable, though, so can be cleaned as often as needed. You can also use a separate pillow case over this cover, though the dimensions of the pillow will likely need a king-size case for full coverage.
As well as adding some comfort and relieving your neck, shoulder, and back pain, this pillow is pretty versatile. You can use it to prop yourself up or place it under your legs and feet if they need to be elevated at any time.
If you’re having neck pain, adding a comfortable and supportive pillow to your bed can help alleviate this issue. Of course, you can’t just use any old pillow for this. It needs to have the right firmness, thickness, and support, plus be made of materials that keep you comfortable and cool while you sleep. You also need the right one for your preferred sleeping position. Otherwise, it may not work as intended. To help you make your decision, check out our handy guide.
Neck pain, also known as cervical pain, can come from a variety of issues. Some common neck problems come from conditions like herniated discs, pinched nerves, or injuries like whiplash. Common infections and viruses can lead to the swelling of your lymph nodes, which causes discomfort. Rare infections can also create pain in your neck, including tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, and meningitis.
Though the issues above can be quite dangerous, neck pain isn’t always caused by illnesses. If you sleep in an uncomfortable position, your neck can be strained. Using the wrong mattress or pillow can also create neck pain, especially if the pillow is forcing your neck into an unnatural angle.
If you’re in the market for the best pillow for neck pain relief, there are a few features you should consider before you spend your hard-earned money. Since different pillows work for different people, knowing which type to buy will ensure you have the right one for you.
Pillow shapeThere are a few different pillow shapes to choose from if you are dealing with neck pain. The most common is the traditional pillow. You have likely seen many pillows of this type in your lifetime. They are rectangular-shaped and fit all mattress sizes. They can be soft, firm, or anywhere in between, fitting people of any size.
Wedge pillows are shaped exactly like they sound, with one low side and one high side. They give you an upright sleeping position, which helps with back and neck pain. This sleeping position can also reduce some breathing issues, such as snoring or sleep apnea.
Rolls or bolsters are rounded pillows that give you the right amount of support between your head and back, meaning the neck gets the necessary pressure relief. This also creates the perfect alignment, keeping everything straight. These are best for back sleepers, though can be used for side sleepers as well as long as the height is right.
The last pillow for neck pain is the curved or boomerang pillow, like the DMI Hugg-A-Pillow Hypoallergenic Bed Pillow. This type works for all sleepers, as it can be positioned how you need it to support you. It fits nicely under your neck while supporting your head at the same time. It also allows those who like to hug something when they sleep to cuddle with the sides of the pillow.
Memory foam is one of the most popular pillow fillings for neck pain because it adjusts to your body in every sleeping position. Many pillows use shredded memory foam, which moves easily for the right shape. Some pillows contain solid memory foam, like UTTU Sandwich Pillow, which isn’t as easily adjusted, but still offers similar body molding as you sleep.
Polyester fiberfill, or polyfill, is a synthetic material made of fine fibers that are durable enough to last through months of use, plus they maintain their shape. This material is quite affordable and naturally hypoallergenic, so it is a popular choice for manufacturers.
Some pillows use cotton fibers, usually blended with some other materials, such as wood pulp fibers. These are quite cost-effective, plus breathable to keep you cool at night. They are also soft, yet supportive to help reduce neck pain.
The position you sleep in will also help determine which pillow you should buy since different positions require different levels of support. For those who sleep on their back, the head is lower, lining up with the back. The neck will need more support, though, to keep it aligned with those two areas. If you’re a back sleeper, Sweet Home Collection Premium Bed Wedge Pillow might be the ideal choice for you.
When you sleep on your side, your shoulders raise your head up, requiring a thicker pillow to keep everything straight and aligned. This also requires a bit more neck support to keep your head from tilting down and straining your neck. Nature’s Guest Cervical Support Pillow (see similar options on Amazon) is explicitly designed for side and back sleepers.
For stomach sleepers, support isn’t needed as much. Instead, a thin pillow is best to ensure the head isn’t lifted and the back isn’t arched, which could result in some pain in the morning. If you enjoy sleeping on your stomach, consider getting the Coop Home Goods – PREMIUM Adjustable Loft as it can be adjusted to practically any thickness you might prefer.
The firmness of your pillow is also an essential factor, which will be determined not only by your preference but by your sleep position as well. If you’re a back sleeper, a medium firm pillow is best, giving you support while keeping you comfortable.
Side sleepers need a firm pillow since their heads are higher up and need the extra support. Their firm pillow should also be thick enough to keep their head aligned with their spine and their neck cradled between them.
If you like to sleep on your stomach, a soft pillow is best, to allow your head to sink in and stay almost flat on the bed.
Pillow covers need to be soft and comfortable, especially if you aren’t using a regular pillowcase with them. These can be made of a variety of materials, such as cotton, polyester, or even organic bamboo fibers. To increase their comfort, they should be breathable as well, to let the air flow through the pillow and keep you cool. Many of these covers are also machine-washable, which makes them easy to clean, but be sure it has a decent zipper that can handle a bit of rough use.
Like all the other products you buy, a pillow needs to have a good warranty. If the seams come loose, the zipper fails, or the thickness is wrong, you’ll want to have it replaced or repaired, with no extra cost. Some brands have only short warranties, such as the 30-day limited warranty you get with the Nature’s Guest Cervical Support Pillow (see similar options on Amazon). Other pillows, like the Royal Therapy Adjustable Contour Cervical Pillow, do not list their warranty terms, so it is worth confirming coverage with the seller before you buy.
When buying any pillow, whether for comfort or pain relief, there are a few extra features worth getting. One is adjustability, which allows you to alter the firmness of the pillow depending on your sleeping position and preferences. Some even send out extra bags of filling if needed, plus bags to store what you remove.
Another thing to look for is a removable cover, which allows you to wash it together with the rest of your bedding. If the whole pillow is washable, this is an added bonus.
Certification is also a must, to ensure your pillow is made using safe materials that contain no harmful chemicals, heavy metals, etc.
You should also check the pillow for any strong odors. Though many pillows have some odor initially, this should fade within a few days. If it lasts longer than that, an exchange may be in order.
As well as getting the right pillow for neck pain, there are a few other things you can do to ease it, including:
Though there are many different pillows available for those with neck pain, it may be hard to choose which one is right for you. All the products we reviewed have their benefits, but there are a few worth paying special attention to.
The Royal Therapy Adjustable Contour Cervical Pillow is our top choice since it works for side, back and stomach sleepers and has a removable middle foam layer for adjusting thickness and support. This pillow uses ventilated memory foam that is CertiPUR-US certified and has a washable bamboo rayon cover.
The UTTU Sandwich Pillow boasts a five-year limited warranty, plus uses solid memory foam with adjustable layers and has varying side heights for the proper neck support at all times.
If you like neck rolls, the Leinuosen Organic Kapok Neck Roll Pillow is versatile, with a 16-inch length for easy positioning. The natural kapok filling molds to your body and can be adjusted through the side zipper, and the organic cotton cover is soft and breathable.
