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Best Mattresses for Neck Pain
Last Updated on June 1, 2026
Written by Julia Forbes, Expert Reviewed by Dr. Soma Mandal
Written by Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Testing Process
The Sleep Advisor review team consists of mattress experts who test beds and other sleep-related products in person at our studio. We follow a rigorous product review process to give you informed, unbiased suggestions.
In This Article
Neck pain can keep you at night or make your mornings miserable. Here, I’ve collected mattresses with the right stuff for easing neck pain: a spot-on balance of support, pressure relief, and medium-level firmness.
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When you’re living with neck pain, everyday tasks (and even movements) can become troublesome. Achieving a good night’s sleep might be its own gauntlet of discomfort—especially if your bed is contributing to the problem.
So, what should you look for in your next mattress?
The best beds for neck pain encourage proper spinal alignment, prevent pressure build-up and feel suitably medium-firm. They’re not a quick fix for all your neck issues, but they may help you feel a lot less stiff and a lot more rested.
Best Mattresses for Neck Pain
- Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Neck Pain and Back Pain
- Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain
- WinkBed– Best Mattress for Couples with Neck Pain
- Nolah Signature– Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with Neck Pain
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Neck Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck Pain
- Titan Plus – Most Supportive Mattress for Neck Pain
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Neck Pain
- Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Neck Pain
Compare the Best Beds for Neck Pain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | Helix Midnight Mattress | Saatva Classic | Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Titan Plus Core | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | | Rating | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.2 | | Firmness | Medium-Firm: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6/10 | Medium-Firm: 6/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 8/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6/10 | | Material | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | | Cooling | — | — | — | | — | | — | — | — | — | | Warranty | | | | | | | | | | | | Shipping | | | | | | | | | | | | Trial Period | | | | | | | | | | | | Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | | | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Neck Pain
At Sleep Advisor, we test mattresses in person to grade them on everything from pressure relief to edge support. We cover a variety of performance metrics so that we get a good sense of each bed’s holistic feel.
Thanks to our diverse team of testers, we can also review beds from the perspectives of people with different body types and preferred sleeping positions, so, no one’s left out!
In considering and ranking the best mattresses for neck pain, we looked at the precise aspects of a bed that can help a sore neck. We also had this entire guide reviewed by Dr. Soma Mandal, a board-certified internist, and consulted Dr. Raj Dasgupta, our Chief Medical Advisor.
That’s me, Julia Forbes, examining a mattress in our studio.
What We Want to See in a Mattress for Neck Pain
All mattresses we recommend at Sleep Advisor are going to be top-notch, but when it comes to those for neck pain, we zeroed in on a few important components based on our testing and Dr. Dasgupta’s recommendations.
Support
It’s important that you aren’t uncomfortably digging into your mattress or sinking too low into it. You want to have just the right support.
A supportive bed should also keep your spine properly aligned. Basically, there’s a sweet spot that your spine should be in (essentially a straight line) to ensure that neck pain doesn’t set in or worsen.
For this roundup, we made sure to pick beds that earned at least a 4 out of 5 in our support tests.
Pressure Relief
Some degree of pressure relief is essential for offsetting soreness (in side sleepers, especially). If your bed is too firm to allow any cushion, you may exacerbate existing neck pain.
Therefore, we picked beds that earned at least a 4 out of 5 in our pressure relief tests. The one exception is the Plank Firm, which takes pride in its very, very firm feel.
Medium Firmness
Aside from being the middle-of-the-road, most-recommended firmness option, a medium firmness level should also benefit folks with neck pain. This firmness tends to provides the right balance of comfort and support.
We tried to pick beds within our medium firmness range, from 5 to 6.5 out of 10. There are two exceptions—the Titan Plus and the Plank Firm—for folks who may want a firmer mattress, such as stomach sleepers or heavyweight sleepers.
Top 10 Mattresses For Neck Pain
Helix Midnight – Editor’s Pick
Editor’s Pick
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Affordably Priced
Isolates Motion
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/helix-midnight/
Summer Savings Event
20% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER20 See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$936.30 – $1,748.80 (before any discounts)
Firmness
A cushioned medium-firm. On our firmness scale, it’s a 6 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, queen, king, California king, short queen, RV king
Side Sleepers
With pressure-relieving foams up top to cradle the hips and shoulders, this bed was designed for side sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bed barely got warmer after multiple minutes of our testers lying on top of it.
Those with Back Pain
A medium-firm feel with lots of support means that this mattress may help with back pain.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
It has a lovely balance of pressure relief to support, earning a 5 out of 5 from our testers in both categories
Surprisingly, it isolates motion so well that we gave it a perfect score in this category, too
We found that it stays quite cool over time
Cons of the Helix Midnight
Stomach sleepers, especially heavyweight ones, probably need more support than this bed can offer
People who spread out when they sleep may not appreciate the Midnight’s poor edge support, which pales in comparison to the Saatva Classic‘s
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: The Midnight has one of the most impressive score spreads of all the mattresses we’ve reviewed. The best word to describe it is “balanced”: it’s got pressure relief, support, and cooling power in spades, plus a versatile medium-firm feel that tends to satisfy lots of sleepers.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 5
Why It’s Great for Neck Pain
The Helix Midnight, though originally made for side sleepers, has a plethora of features that make it a great option for anyone dealing with neck pain. With perfect scores in support and pressure relief, this hybrid has a balanced feel that’s sure to keep your spine aligned and cradle sensitive areas.
It earned a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, a true medium feel that can accommodate a variety of sleepers, not just those who sleep on their sides. It also earned high marks for motion isolation and has some bounce. Overall, it’s a solid mattress, and it’s easy to see why it earned top billing.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“When it comes to pain relief, the Midnight steps it up. The thick foam layers help ease pressure from the hips, shoulders, and low back.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Three foam comfort layers. The comfort layers of the Helix Midnight are what we believe make this bed great at relieving both pressure and pain. Helix’s blend of Memory Plus Foam gives the top its cradling and comfortable sinking effect, while the two layers of Helix Response Foam underneath provide added cushioning and support.
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight rates 4.5 stars out of 5 on Helix’s website. The main negative is that reviewers tend to find it too soft for their liking and feel as though they’re sinking. But overall, users say they’re getting a great nights’ sleep and some pain relief.
Want more details? Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review or explore our picks for the best mattresses of this year.
Read More
Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Neck Pain and Back Pain
Best Mattress for Neck and Back Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.2
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Two Coil Units
Lumbar Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping and white glove delivery
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/saatva-classic-mattress/
Memorial Day Sale
Up to $625 Off See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$1,395 – $2,990 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 7 out of 10, which is firm but not extremely firm.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king; two height options (11.5″ and 14.5″)
Combination Sleepers
This bed supported us in every single sleeping position, so you’re all set if you switch your posture during the night.
Back Pain
There are multiple features inside this bed that support the lower back specifically.
Fans of Convenience
White glove delivery is a big plus if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of mattress unboxing and setup.
Saatva Classic Pros
All the built-in lumbar features really kept our lower backs lifted and supported
The edge support on this bed is something else—those foam rails make you feel very secure
You can customize the bed’s firmness level and height
Saatva Classic Cons
There’s very little motion isolation to be had on this bed, so you may feel a partner’s movements; check out the best memory foam beds if a calm surface is important to you
Unlike many other mattress companies we feature, Saatva will charge you a return fee if you send this bed back
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery in the contiguous United States
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Saatva charges a $99 processing fee for returns
The Advisor Says: The Saatva Classic is the gold standard for lower-back support, strong edges, and customizable luxury. It’s not the softest or most motion-isolating bed out there, but it’s a dependable, bouncy hybrid that consistently impresses our testers with its two coil units.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 4
Why It’s Great for Neck and Back Pain
Neck pain doesn’t often travel alone. If you’re also dealing with back pain, you’ll want a mattress that addresses both of these issues. Thankfully, the Saatva Classic is here to help.
This hybrid mattress has multiple enhancements to ensure your lower back remains lifted; there’s supportive quilting in the cover, zoning in the first coil unit (yes, there’s two), and even a wire designed to coax your spine into the proper position. It comes in multiple firmnesses for your choosing: Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. Combine this with an above-average pressure relief score, and your neck and back should be resting comfortably.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The Saatva Classic is a hybrid of foam and coils, but the build is a little bit different than other hybrids out there. It does a great job of cushioning the body’s pressure points and giving you a cushy place to sleep on.”
Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire. As we’ve mentioned, proper sleeping posture is crucial for both back and neck pain, as a misaligned spine can cause or exacerbate existing pain. The Saatva Classic is properly equipped with plenty of features to promote proper alignment. The Spinal Wire stands out as a mechanism located within the two coil units, which it works alongside to provide targeted support in the lower back.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.
Want more details? Read our full Saatva mattress review or check out our best mattress for back pain picks.
Read More
Nectar – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain
Best for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.3
Nectar
Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
Memory Foam
Affordable Mattress
Foam
365 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/nectar-the-nectar-memory-foam-mattress/
Memorial Day Deals
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Material
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
$934 – $2,121 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firm. We rated the Nectar a 7.5 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nectar provides a blend of comfortable pressure relief and firm support that should suit most back sleepers.
Couples
Thanks to the Nectar’s ability to absorb motion, you should be able to sleep through your partner’s movements.
Firm Mattress Fans
At 7.5 out of 10, this bed is on the firmer side, even though it has memory foam on top.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This bed offers pressure relief alongside its support
We were impressed by how well the perimeter of the Nectar held up, making it good for spreading out or sitting on the edges
Memory foam tends to trap heat, but the bed’s cooling cover counteracts this
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
The foams on the Nectar aren’t very bouncy, so consider looking at the best hybrid mattresses if responsiveness is important to you
It’s on the firmer side, so if you need a softer bed, you might want to consider Nectar’s most luxurious model, the Nectar Luxe
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Full refund within trial period
The Advisor Says: We believe that Nectar offers a quality bed backed up by generous policies, and for under $1,000 for a queen (after discounts). If you’re looking for a firmer foam mattress on a budget, the Nectar Classic has you covered.
Support – 4Pressure Relief – 4.5
Why It’s Great for Side Sleepers with Neck Pain
Side sleepers with neck pain need pressure relief with a capital P. The Nectar mattress certainly provides it. This all-foam bed is made up of layers of specialized memory foam that bring targeted support and cradling to areas that need it.
With a firmness level of 6.5 out of 10, it should be versatile enough to complement a range of sleepers, regardless of body type. Of course, side sleepers especially should feel comfortably cushioned on the Nectar’s surface.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The top is soft enough to let you sink in just a bit, especially around pressure points, but you still feel the firm support below. The layers also do a pretty good job with pressure relief, keeping the most sensitive joints from feeling all of the weight bearing down on them.”
Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Therapeutic memory foam. The beginning of what Nectar calls its “NectarTech system,” this 1-inch layer of gel-infused memory foam helps pressure melt away from the mattress surface. It will cradle not just your neck, but your shoulders and hips as you lay on your side.
Customer Reviews of Nectar mattress
With thousands of reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average 4.8 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.
Want more details? Read our full Nectar mattress review or browse our picks for the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Read More
WinkBed– Best Mattress for Couples with Neck Pain
Best Mattress for Couples with Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.3
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Extremely Responsive
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/wink-beds-the-winkbed-2/
Memorial Day Sale
30% Off All Mattresses See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$1,149 – $2,049 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which is comfortably medium-firm.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Combination Sleepers
Its springiness makes it easy to change your sleeping position, and it adapts well to each one.
Hot Sleepers
Gel-infused foams, airflow around the coils, and a breathable cover earned the WinkBed a high cooling score.
Spine Alignment
Its zoned coils and “LumbarLayer™” of foam help to keep the lower back supported and aligned with the rest of the spine.
WinkBed Pros
There are four firmness options available for this bed, including one designed specifically for plus-size sleepers
It’s so springy that it feels like it’s helping you to move around on top of it
The zoned support was really noticeable during testing, and helped to keep our lumbar regions lifted
WinkBed Cons
Its motion isolation isn’t the greatest, so if you’re a restless sleeper who shares a bed, look elsewhere
It has a classic hybrid feel that keeps you on top of the mattress, rather than sinking in; if you want more of a hug from your bed, browse the best soft mattresses
Shipping
Free within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: Our testers often compare the WinkBed to a luxury hotel mattress, which is no surprise given its handcrafted touches and elegant hybrid design. It’s also one of the most customizable beds out there, with a firmness level for every body type.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 4
Why It’s Great for Couples with Neck Pain
If you, your partner, or the both of you are struggling with neck pain, you’re going to want a mattress that addresses all your needs. The WinkBed is a sturdy hybrid that should keep you feeling lifted and comfortably aligned.
It comes in four different firmnesses, including a variant for plus-sized sleepers, so couples can tailor the mattress to their preferences. (We recommend the Luxury Firm for the best compromise, which we rated at medium-firm, or 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale.) Because of its sound edge support, pressure relief, bounce, and decent motion isolation ability, we think it should work for most couples who need relief from neck pain.
The WinkBed set up in our studio.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“I also score the WinkBed high in pain relief. The pressure-relieving foams and zoned support work to keep your body weight evenly distributed, and the built-in lumbar support helps to prevent back pain.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Robust coil unit. Where the WinkBed really shines for neck pain is its supportive lift, and the source of that lift is the bed’s coil unit. It’s also where the bed gets most of its durability, alongside strong edges that should benefit couples. The correct spinal alignment should be easily maintained thanks to the specialized zoning found in the coils, with firmer support at the center to lift the lower back.
Customer Reviews of the WinkBed Mattress
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed earns a 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that it might be too expensive for budget-conscious shoppers, but overall it offers excellent durability and customizable firmness options.
Looking to find out more? Read our in-depth WinkBed mattress review or discover our picks for the best mattresses for couples.
Read More
Nolah Signature– Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with Neck Pain
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief with Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.0
Nolah
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Pressure Relief
Memory Foam
Cooling Foam
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/nolah-signature-mattress-2/
Summer Sale
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code ADVISOR50 See Details
Material
This mattress is made up of multiple foam layers.
Price
$1,299 – $2,798 (before discounts)
Firmness
Medium. More specifically, we gave this bed a 5 out of 10, which is on the medium-to-soft side.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
The Nolah Signature’s blend of pressure relief and support should work well for side sleepers.
Restless Couples
This bed also excels in motion isolation, meaning you shouldn’t feel your partner’s movements from the other side of the bed.
Hot Sleepers
Hot sleepers should appreciate Nolah’s breathable cotton cover and cooling AirFoam™.
Pros of the Nolah Signature
A perfect pressure relief score means this bed will be great for sleepers with pain concerns
Foam beds usually hold onto heat, but the Nolah Signature uses cooler and more breathable foams
Motion should be relatively stifled on this bed’s cushy surface
Cons of the Nolah Signature
This bed isn’t very bouncy, but the Nolah Evolution earned a perfect score for its bounce
The Nolah Signature is a bit too soft for stomach sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping (only in contiguous United States)
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: We recommend the Nolah Signature for sleepers looking for a foam bed that has a soft but accommodating firmness. It also runs cooler than most foam beds, and has enough pressure relief to cradle sensitive joints.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 5
Why It’s Great for Pressure Relief with Neck Pain
We tout pressure relief as one of the best measures if a bed is good for neck pain relief, so you might be putting that at the top of your list in your mattress quest. If you’re looking for a bed with not just a perfect pressure relief score, but also a perfect support score, consider trying out the Nolah Signature.
This bed earned a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, true medium-firm, but the cushioning it provides makes it seem softer than it is. If you’re a side sleeper, a lightweight sleeper, or just looking for that uber-soft sink, the Nolah Signature should satisfy. The support layers underneath also work to keep you aligned, so you won’t wake up with any more cricks in your neck.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“This bed has no problem adapting to your body’s shape. We’re feeling absolutely no pressure build-up as it hugs to the body. And when we say ‘hug,’ we mean it. This thing is coming at you like your grandma walking in through the front door to embrace you at Christmas.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Contouring AirFoam™. This proprietary layer of foam is the first comfort layer in the Nolah Signature, so it provides the primary feel of the mattress surface. It excels in pressure relief and should comfortably cradle your body—especially sensitive areas like your neck. As an added bonus, the foam’s open-celled structure allows air to keep flowing through, yielding a cooler foam.
Pros
Cooler than typical foam – AirFoam™ makes the Nolah Signature more breathable and thus more cooling than the traditional all-foam mattress.
Soft but supportive – The combination of pressure-relieving foams and a solid core give the Nolah Signature a unique balance of cushioning and lift.
Cons
Can feel too soft – Stomach sleepers and heavyweight sleepers (who need a firmer bed) should steer clear.
Lacking edge support – We noticed sinking when we laid or sat on the edges.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Signature
The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. One potential drawback of the Nolah Signature mattress is its limited firmness options, but it excels in providing exceptional pressure relief and a cooling sleep experience.
Want more details? Read our full Nolah Signature review and check out our best pressure relief mattresses.
Read More
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress for Neck Pain
Best Cooling Mattress for Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.3
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Phase Change Material
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/bear-mattress-elite-hybrid/
Sleep Advisor Deal
40% Off Sitewide with Code ADVISOR40 See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$1,893 – $3,920 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, or Firm). We tested the Medium version and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which means it’s medium-firm with some cushion.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The lumbar support on this bed felt fantastic under our lower backs.
Bounce Fans
This is an extraordinarily responsive bed with a 5 out of 5 testing score in the bounce category.
Couples
Strong edge support, above-average cooling, and decent motion isolation make it a good pick for couples.
Bear Elite Hybrid Pros
You’ll have three firmness options to choose from
We got some real air while jumping on this bed, and never felt restricted by or stuck in its upper foam layers when moving around
The zoned coils gave our lower backs noticeable support and kept our spines aligned
Bear Elite Hybrid Cons
There was some pressure buildup around the shoulders while resting on our sides; the best mattresses for pressure relief list will have better recommendations for people with shoulder pain.
The motion isolation is pretty good for a hybrid, but it’s still not amazing
Shipping
Free inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: This is a memorably bouncy and supportive hybrid with state-of-the-art cooling elements. It had a delightful balance of cushion and lift for back and stomach sleeping in particular.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 4
Why It’s a Great Cooling Mattress for Neck Pain
Every tester felt fully aligned atop the Bear Elite Hybrid, thanks in part to its zoned coils boosting up our lower backs. This unflagging support should be great for people with neck pain, who will also benefit from the hybrid’s different firmness options: Soft, Medium, or Firm. (We thought the Medium was a balanced 6 out of 10 on our scale.)
If you sleep hot, then there’s more good news. This mattress combines phase change material, copper-infused foam, and the airflow around its coils to create a refreshing sleep environment. During our tests, its surface temperature only increased by about 10 degrees after we’d laid on top of it for 10 minutes, indicating lots of cooling power.
Performing our temperature tests on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“The pillow top is incredibly cushioning and hugging, but you still stay elevated on the mattress as it provides full-body support. It really, truly does have one of the best balances of comfort and support that we’ve seen.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Zoned coil unit. These coils help to cool the bed down by fostering airflow, but they also made a big impression when it came to lumbar support and spinal alignment. All three of us felt that our lower backs were lifted and supported by the stronger coils in the center of the bed.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid
According to Bear’s website, where the Bear Elite has over 3,700 reviews, the mattress scores 4.6 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.
Looking for more info? Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid review, or consult our list of the best cooling mattresses.
Read More
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck Pain
Best Hybrid Mattress for Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Plush Hybrid
Cooling and Springy
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/brooklyn-bedding-signature-hybrid/
Summer Sale
25% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER25 See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$665 – $1,599 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, and Firm). We tested the Medium and found it skewed soft, around a 5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
This bed felt wonderful to our testers when they rested on their backs, with a nice mix of support and pressure relief.
Side Sleepers
The foams on top are plush enough to cradle hips and shoulders.
Hot Sleepers
This bed handily passed our cooling tests with a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Pros
We felt very lifted and yet cushioned by this hybrid, awarding it perfect scores in both support and pressure relief
It’s a very bouncy bed that should encourage rather than hinder movement
For a hybrid of its caliber, this bed is priced extremely affordably
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Cons
It’s too soft for stomach sleepers, who will need more support beneath their hips; read up on the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to see other options
The Medium model felt very plush; if you’re looking for a firmer hybrid that’s also pretty customizable, check out the Saatva Classic
Shipping
Free shipping inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns
The Advisor Says: For shoppers on a budget, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is one of the top hybrids we recommend. It’s simultaneously soft and bouncy, with three firmness options and decent cooling power.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 5
Why It’s a Great Hybrid Mattress for Neck Pain
With perfect scores for both support and pressure relief, the Signature Hybrid is already a standout amongst affordable hybrids. Sleepers with neck pain should also appreciate that you can order it in three possible firmnesses (Soft, Medium, or Firm) to customize its feel.
As for us, we tested the Medium, and actually found it to be quite cushy—around a 5 out of 10 on our scale. It was intensely responsive, so if you like lots of bounce to go with your spinal alignment, you may have found your match. But if you need major motion isolation, look elsewhere.
A cutaway view of the Signature Hybrid.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“It feels wonderful. The cushion around my hips is pushing back ever so slightly with this buoyant feel, which we can credit the coils for.”
Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Supreme Response Comfort Foam. This material, found in the first interior layer of the bed, feels like memory foam and latex had a baby. It’s both springy and contouring, a cozy mix for people with sore necks.
Customer Reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.
Want more details? Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review and check out our best hybrid mattress picks.
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Titan Plus – Most Supportive Mattress for Neck Pain
Most Supportive Mattress for Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.3
Brooklyn Bedding
Titan Plus Core
Plus-Size Friendly
Good for Couples
Firm
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/titan-plus-mattress/
Summer Sale
25% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER25 See Details
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
$699 – $1,499 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firm. Coming in at an 8 out of 10 on our scale, this is a truly firm bed.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, split king, RV king
Heavyweight Sleepers
The Titan Plus was made with plus-size sleepers in mind, so it’s no surprise that this bed is a fit for them.
Firm Mattress Fans
Don’t buy this bed expecting it to be medium-firm–it’s truly firm.
Hot Sleepers
The Titan’s hybrid construction lends itself well to breathability, keeping it cool at the mattress surface.
Pros of the Titan Plus
The Titan Plus has a weight capacity that goes up to 1,000 pounds, and it has the construction to comfortably support that weight
Despite its firmness, this mattress has a balanced feel of pressure relief and support
We were able to sit and lay at the edges while feeling secure
Cons of the Titan Plus
Unfortunately, the Titan Plus won’t work well for lighter sleepers
As we’ve tried to drive home, this bed is super firm, so make sure you’re not partial to a medium-firm or soft mattress
Shipping
Free shipping in contiguous United States ($125 for Alaska and Hawaii, $250 for Canada)
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: Brooklyn Bedding created the Titan Plus to cater to heavier shoppers looking for a bed that truly met their needs, and we believe they’ve delivered. Consider buying the Titan Plus if you’re looking for a comfortably supportive mattress with added benefits like cooling and bounce.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 4
Why It’s So Supportive for Neck Pain
The Titan Plus was actually designed for plus-size sleepers, hence the name. Rather than double down on the support, it doubles up to give folks of all sizes lift and security. When it comes to addressing neck pain, the Titan Plus should provide alignment and cushion in a lovely ratio. In fact, our heavyweight tester, Spencer, was so cozy on it that he joked about stealing it from the studio!
For Loren and I, this bed felt firmer than average (about a 7 out of 10), and we wanted a bit more pressure relief. But we were all impressed by how well it isolated motion, given its strong, springy coils.
Spencer tests out the Titan Plus.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“Great lift and full-body support. No matter your body size, you don’t sink down too much and your spine stays in good alignment. There’s a good balance of comfort and support but it leans more on the support side.”
Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Our Favorite Feature
TitanFlex™ Foam. This proprietary foam doesn’t have the slow, steady sink of memory foam. Instead, it snaps back into shape quickly, more like latex foam. For Spencer, it relieved the exact right amount of pressure while refusing to sag or hold onto a body impression.
Customer Reviews of the Titan Plus
Users on Titan by Brooklyn Bedding’s site have given the Titan Plus a 4.7 out of 5 stars. There are over 2,500 reviews where most customers find the Titan Plus mattress to offer exceptional durability and support, but some mention that it might be too firm for those who prefer a softer feel.
Want to learn more? See our full Titan Plus review.
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Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Neck Pain
Best Firm Mattress for Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
Ultra-Firm
Memory Foam
Flippable
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/plank-brooklyn-bedding/
Summer Sale
25% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER25 See Details
Material
This mattress is made up of multiple foam layers.
Price
$749 – $1,532 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Flippable with two possible firmnesses, both on the firmer side. The firm side ranked a 7 out of 10, and the extra-firm side ranked 8.5 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers need a firm surface to keep their hips supported, and the Plank Firm succeeds at just that.
Heavyweight Sleepers
Sleepers over 230 pounds should feel aloft on the Plank Firm’s firm surface.
Couples
Since it earned decent marks in edge support, cooling, bounce, and motion isolation, we think the Plank Firm is a good fit for couples.
Pros for the Plank Firm
This mattress is flippable, so you don’t have to compromise between a traditional firm feel and a sleeping-on-the-floor feel
The Plank Firm is supportive enough for both stomach sleepers and folks over 230 pounds
Spinal alignment felt wonderful on this mattress
Cons for the Plank Firm
The Plank Firm is truly firm, so check out our picks for the best medium-firm mattresses if that’s more your jam
This bed might not provide the necessary pressure relief for some sleepers
Shipping
Free shipping in contiguous United States ($125 for Alaska and Hawaii, $250 for Canada)
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: We’re constantly calling this mattress one of the firmest in the online market, and if you don’t believe us, try it for yourself! It offers both a classic firm and extra-firm feel in its flippable design, alongside posture-aligning support. Bonus points for good marks in performance for cooling, bounce, and couples.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 3.5
Why It’s a Great Firm Mattress for Neck Pain
It doesn’t get more flatly supportive than the Plank. This mattress has two sides: a traditionally firm one ( 7 out of 10 on our scale), and an ultra-firm one ( 8.5 out of 10). None of us really loved the floor-like feel of the ultra-firm side, but the firm side gave us awesome alignment on our backs and stomachs.
For someone with neck pain, this level of rigid support may be what you need to keep your spine straight as an arrow. Just be aware that you’ll get almost no cushion at all from this bed.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“My lower back is cushioned and the gap between it and the bed is filled in. I could lay like this for awhile.”
Loren Bullock, Former Lead Product Tester
Our Favorite Feature
High-Density Support Foam Core. This 6-inch core is the source of the Plank’s power. It’s dense, thick, and unyielding—perfect for anyone who wants a flat, firm surface to encourage a neutral spine and neck.
Customer Reviews of the Plank Firm
On Plank’s website, the Plank Firm gets 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm mattress for its exceptional firmness, but some have found it to be too rigid for their comfort preferences.
Want to learn more? See our full Plank Firm mattress review or peruse the best firm mattresses.
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Birch Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Neck Pain
Best Organic Mattress for Neck Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
4.2
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Latex
Luxury
Medium-Firm
Latex Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping
Navigate to https://www.sleepadvisor.org/go/birch-living-birch-natural-mattress/
Summer Savings Event
20% Off Sitewide with Code SUMMER20 See Details
Material
This mattress contains latex foam, additional comfort layers, and a coil unit.
Price
$1,373 – $2,248 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Medium-firm. We rated this mattress as a 6 out of 10, which is a middle-of-the-road firmness.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
Latex and wool regulate the temperature of this mattress to keep it from overheating at the surface.
Eco Shoppers
Birch is one of the top names in the organic mattress game, so eco-conscious shoppers should be more than satisfied with their claims and certifications.
Stomach Sleepers
This mattress is on the firmer side of medium-firm, so it should support those who sleep on their stomach.
Pros of the Birch Natural
The combination of wool and latex creates a lifted feel that should have you sleeping “on top” of your mattress rather than “in” it
Laying near or sitting on the edges of the bed, we felt secure
This bed has plenty of bounce that should satisfy combination sleepers and sexually active folks
Cons of the Birch Natural
The Birch Natural may be too firm for some folks, who may want to consider a softer mattress
Latex isn’t the best for absorbing motion, so you may want to consider a bed that scored better for couples or a memory foam mattress
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States ($250 for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada)
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: Dare we say the Birch Natural is the bed that comes to mind when we think latex? As the name implies, this bed combines natural components with quality construction, yielding a supportive, luxurious, and eco-friendly mattress.
Support – 5Pressure Relief – 4
Why It’s a Great Organic Mattress for Neck Pain
Medium-firm mattresses tend to be best for neck pain because they support the spine, but also cushion the shoulders and more sensitive joints. This balance keeps the neck well-aligned, helping to alleviate and prevent pain.
The Birch Natural is a medium-firm mattress ( 6 out of 10 on our scale) that aims for the exact harmony described above. But perhaps its biggest draw is its natural components, ranging from organic cotton and wool to Talalay latex. The latex in particular was a hit with us testers—we thought it felt soft and snappy all at once, with a reassuring amount of support beneath.
Testing Studio Soundbite
“I have a straight spine, but I noticed that the loft of the pillow’s going to play a big role in keeping everything aligned for the upper body. The lift is really good, on par with the Plank but far cushier around pressure points.”
Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Our Favorite Feature
Talalay latex. The latex layer in this bed combines pressure relief with lots of responsiveness. We felt the mattress helping us to adjust and move around with its springy feel. Latex is also naturally cooling, so that’s a big bonus.
Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural
According to Birch’s website, the Birch Natural scores a 4.6 out of 5 stars. While some users consider the Birch Natural mattress to be on the pricier side, it gains customer appreciation for its organic materials and sustainable, eco-friendly construction.
Like what you’re seeing? See our full Birch Natural mattress review or explore our picks for the best organic mattresses.
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How Can a Mattress Help with Neck Pain?
You may be surprised to learn that a mattress can either help you or hurt you when it comes to neck pain. Like we’ve tried to drive home, a bed that keeps your spine aligned and keeps the pressure off is going to be the best for driving away neck pain.
As Dr. Raj Dasgupta puts it, “Your mattress can make your neck pain worse if it isn’t supportive, isn’t the right firmness, or can’t relieve pressure points.”
What’s the Best Mattress Type for Neck Pain?
We recommend that you look at either hybrid mattresses or memory foam beds if you’re dealing with neck pain. Both of these mattress types can offer the right blend of support and pressure relief.
If you’re still between options, we’ll outline how each mattress type can combat neck pain below.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid beds can be any combination of materials. Usually, they’re a blend of a coil unit on the bottom and latex or memory foam (or both) on top. If you’re on the fence about whether you should get a foam mattress or an innerspring bed, one of the best hybrid mattresses could be a happy compromise.
Hybrid beds combine the best of both worlds: support from the coils, and pressure relief from the foams, both of which are essential for neck pain relief. Many hybrids are equipped with zoning in the coils to promote proper spinal alignment, too.
Finally, it’s easy to find medium-feel hybrid mattresses, as they tend to hover around this firmness level or have multiple options available.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam beds are also good for neck pain as they tend to excel in pressure relief. They are also good if you’re a side sleeper or a back sleeper wanting a softer feel. These may contour best to the shape of your body, preventing joint pain and promoting spinal alignment.1
But make sure you find a bed with a strong support core to back it up. The best memory foam mattresses have thick and dense foam support layers. The big downside is that they may not provide a lot of bounce or cooling.
Latex Mattresses
Latex has some of the same pressure-relieving properties as memory foam, so it could be a good option for neck pain. Instead of being mostly made out of synthetic materials, it’s derived from rubber tree sap. This “natural” aspect can make these beds more expensive, but there are some added perks.
The best latex mattresses are known to provide a cooler sleeping experience than memory foam. Latex also provides more responsiveness, or bounce, making it great for those who want more mobility.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds can be highly supportive, which is great for body alignment. And a happy spine makes a happy neck.
However, they don’t have the extra foams and cushioning offered by hybrids. They also might use interconnected coils rather than pocketed coils, so their spring units may be less durable and motion-isolating.
If you’re someone who doesn’t need much cushioning, such as a firm mattress fan or a stomach sleeper, maybe an innerspring could work for you; especially if it’s a fancier one with specialized coils. But for neck pain, we recommend hybrids over innersprings for their added pressure relief.
What’s the Best Sleeping Position for Neck Pain?
The best sleeping position for neck pain is the one that’s most likely to keep your spine in the proper alignment. People with neck pain may find the most relief by sleeping on their back, which is often considered the “best” sleeping position overall.
Of course, it’s difficult to break a habit, so we’ll outline how to sleep comfortably in each position without exacerbating neck pain.
Back Sleeping
The best beds for back sleepers are ones that provide balanced support, and this can typically be achieved with mid-level firmness, which is also recommended for neck pain.
Since these folks are usually the easiest to please, they might have the largest selection to choose from. Just make sure you feel supported and that your spine is aligned—no uncomfortable digging or sagging as you lay on top of your mattress.2
Side Sleeping
Side sleeping is one of the most common sleeping positions.3 It’s not necessarily bad for neck pain, but again, you’ll want to ensure your spine is in the proper alignment—it’s easy for side sleepers to have a bend in their neck, depending on the height of their pillow. Ideally, you want your neck and spine to look like a straight line, from your head to your tailbone.
You also might want to invest in a softer mattress that contours around their shoulders and hips to prevent pressure buildup. The best mattresses for side sleepers all prioritize pressure relief.
Stomach Sleeping
Sorry, fellow stomach sleepers, but we’re at the most risk for developing or aggravating neck pain. If you sleep on your stomach (and refuse to change, like me), a bed that is relatively firm will keep your hips elevated.
The best beds for stomach sleepers with neck pain, then, might be firmer than the medium firmness we’ve recommended elsewhere in this article. You might even consider sleeping without a pillow, as one that’s too high can throw your neck out of alignment.
Combination Sleeping
Combination sleepers switch between positions throughout the night, so they can be difficult to please. And, on top of that, if you’re struggling with neck pain, you’ll need to consider beds with plenty of support and pressure relief.
It’s important to find a bed that not only accommodates each position, but that also allows you to switch between them easily. You’ll want a bed with plenty of responsiveness. Usually, this is achieved through sturdy coils or firmer foams. The best bed for a combination sleeper is likely a hybrid or an especially bouncy foam mattress.
What to Look For in a Mattress for Neck Pain
If you’re experiencing neck pain, you’ll want to look for a mattress that keeps your spine aligned while also relieving any bothersome pressure. It’s a delicate balance, but it comes recommended by our Chief Medical Advisor, the quadruple-board-certified Dr. Raj Dasgupta:
“If you’re looking to ease neck pain with your mattress, look for one that’s medium-firm, supportive, offers pressure relief, and keeps your spine aligned. Memory foam or latex can be good materials for this, and you can also consider adding a mattress topper for a more plush surface.”
We’ll talk a bit more about these factors and how we test for them below.
Support and Spine Alignment
If your bed doesn’t provide adequate support, your body will sink into it unevenly and your spine won’t rest in its natural, neutral position. This lack of alignment can increase the risk of both back and neck pain.
The solution? Finding a bed with enough consistent support to align your spine and neck in a neat, relatively straight line. This posture will reduce the strain placed on your neck and hopefully reduce or prevent future neck pain.
How We Test It
When we lie on top of a mattress, we make note of how straight and aligned our spines feel. We judge by sensation and also by looking at one another as we each test a bed.
We want to ensure that no part of our bodies is dipping or buckling, and that our backs and necks look level while feeling comfortable. We rate a bed between 0 (not supportive at all) and 5 (very supportive) depending on the level of support it offers.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to a bed’s ability to cushion and cradle the body and prevent pressure buildup. Too much pressure equals discomfort, especially around sensitive regions such as the neck and joints.
People with neck pain will want enough pressure relief from their bed to feel snug rather than sore. Too much pressure relief, however, can mean lots of sinkage, and that may interfere with your alignment.
That’s why it’s important to have pressure relief and support balance one another out.
How We Test It
We use pressure maps that gauge a bed’s pressure-relieving abilities. By lying on an electronic map placed atop the mattress, we generate a color-coded map that shows us where pressure is present.
Blue and green indicate areas where there’s not a lot of pressure. Yellow, orange, and red signal areas of higher pressure, where you could potentially feel sore after a long time on the bed.
We rate a bed for this category between 0 and 5 depending on how green and blue its maps appear.
Testing pressure relief on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid.
Medium Firmness
A medium-firm bed is just the right feel for the average person with neck pain. That’s because it’s a very versatile, middle-of-the-road firmness that tends to correlate with a good balance of support and pressure relief.
It’s not so rigid that you feel like you’re on a brick, but it’s not so soft that you’re sinking through its layers.
That said, both your body type and your sleeping position will influence the firmness that feels best to you. Heavier folks and stomach sleepers require firmer beds; lightweight people and side sleepers tend to enjoy softer ones.
How We Test It
We have testers with different body types lie on a bed and report how firm it feels, on a scale of 1 to 10. One means the bed is a literal cotton ball, and ten means it feels like concrete.
We then agree on an overall firmness rating that takes everyone’s notes into account. Medium-firm beds are those that fall between a 5 and 6.5 on our scale.
Motion Isolation
As you move around on your mattress to try and get comfortable, you run the risk of disturbing anyone who’s sharing the bed with you.
A bed with good motion isolation minimizes this problem: it absorbs movement that might transfer from one side of the bed to the other.
A mattress that cancels motion can allow you to sleep undisturbed throughout the night. In turn, it might keep you from jolting awake or repositioning frequently, either of which may aggravate your neck pain.
Testing motion isolation on the Birch Natural.
How We Test It
We generate motion on top of each mattress we test by rolling around on top of it, and by getting in and out of the bed. We measure the motion that travels by using a seismograph app.
The readings the app produces let us know how good the bed’s motion isolation is: a very spiky seismograph means poor motion isolation, whereas a flat one means the motion isolation is excellent.
Personal Comfort Factors
We test for a variety of other performance aspects, not all of which are relevant to neck pain. But if you’re looking for a new bed, it’s important to know which elements are necessary for your comfort, and which are simply nice to have.
For example, if you sleep hot, you may want a cooling mattress that regulates temperature well. If you’re a nighttime sprawler, you may want a bed with lots of edge support to prevent you from slipping off the sides. And if you’re on a budget, you may want a more affordable mattress that doesn’t have too many bells and whistles.
As you shop, ask yourself which performance categories are essential for an easy sleep, and which you can go without.
Mattress Accessories for Neck Pain
Your pillow should help your neck and spine stay aligned, not create a bend in your neck because it’s too tall or too low.
In addition to your mattress, certain accessories may also pave the way toward relief from neck pain.
- Invest in a new pillow – Pillows can play a large role in preventing neck pain. Different types of pillows may work for different types of sleepers. Feather pillows will conform to the shape of the neck, but won’t offer much support. Memory foam pillows may be a good fit because they will contour and cradle your head and neck. Explore our picks for the best pillows for neck pain.
- Avoid tall and/or firm pillows – These types of pillows can add strain to your neck which may lead to additional pain or stiffness.
- Add a mattress topper – Mattress toppers are a great way to add firmness to a mattress that is too soft or softens up an overly firm one. This can help those with neck pain find a more suitable firmness.
- Try an adjustable base – Adjustable bed frames can be a great choice if you are experiencing neck pain. These bases allow you to modify the elevation of your upper back and head. Before purchasing an adjustable base, you will want to make sure that it is compatible with your mattress.
Best Mattress for Neck Pain Price Comparison
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Review |
| Helix Midnight | Editor’s Pick | $1,199 | Helix Midnight Mattress Review |
| Saatva Classic | Back and Neck Pain | $1,995 | Saatva Classic Mattress Review |
| Nectar | Side Sleepers | $999 | Nectar Mattress Review |
| WinkBed | Couples | $1,799 | Winkbed Mattress Review |
| Nolah Signature | Pressure Relief | $1,599 | Nolah Signature Mattress Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Cooling | $2,305 | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Hybrid | $1,249 | Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Titan Plus | Support | $1,249 | Titan Plus Mattress Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,249 | Plank Firm Mattress Review |
| Birch Natural | Organic | $1,799 | Birch Natural Mattress Review |
Best Mattress for Neck Pain FAQs
Is a firm or soft mattress better for neck pain?
The quick answer: neither. We actually recommend sticking to the medium-firm range (from 5 to 6.5 out of 10 on our scale). This firmness tends to offer the best balance of support and softness, a combination that’s best for neck pain.
Of course, there may be some outliers. If you’re a heavyweight sleeper who tends to find medium beds too soft, you may want to go a bit firmer. Some lightweight sleepers may also choose softer beds that allow them to sink in comfortably.
What’s the best mattress for neck and back pain?
We recommend the Saatva Classic for folks with neck and back pain. This bed brings the support alongside a comfortable, pressure-relieving pillow top, and a plethora of built-in features to bolster the lumbar area.
Why does my neck hurt after I sleep?
Starting your day with neck pain is not what anyone dreams of. There can be many reasons for it, from stress to complex conditions like osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis.
However, some factors that may cause or exacerbate neck pain are within your control—such as your choice of mattress. A mattress with improper support may also be contributing to your neck pain.
Of course, you should always consult with your health care provider when experiencing any pain, acute or chronic. They’re the ones qualified to diagnose the source of your neck pain and prescribe treatment.
Julia Forbes
Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
About Author
Julia specializes in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
References:
- Caggiari, Gianflippo., et al. “What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature.” Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. 2021.
- Lee, Won-Hwee Lee., Ko, Min-Seok. “Effect of sleep posture on neck muscle activity.” National Library of Medicine. 2017.
- Schjelderup Skarpsno, Eivind., et al. “Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms.” National Library of Medicine. 2017.