Side sleeping is the most common position in Australia — and the most demanding for mattress requirements. Side sleepers put concentrated pressure on hips and shoulders. Here's what you need and which mattresses deliver it.
Side sleeping is the most common sleep position in Australia — and also one of the most demanding when it comes to mattress requirements. Side sleepers put concentrated pressure on their hips and shoulders, and if the mattress doesn't allow these pressure points to sink in appropriately, the result is joint pain, shoulder discomfort, and disrupted sleep.
This guide covers what side sleepers need from a mattress, the key features to look for, and the best options currently available in Australia.
When you sleep on your side, the full weight of your body is channelled through two main contact points — your hip and your shoulder. A mattress that's too firm creates pressure at these points, cutting off circulation and causing pain. A mattress that contours appropriately allows these points to sink in while supporting the rest of the body.
Good spinal alignment for a side sleeper means the spine remains horizontal — not bowing upward because the mattress is too firm at the hips, and not sagging downward because the mattress is too soft. A medium-feel mattress that offers contouring pressure relief while maintaining good underlying support typically achieves this best.
The shoulder takes particular abuse when side sleeping. A mattress that's too firm can create the equivalent of sleeping with your arm pressed against a hard surface all night. Softer comfort layers, particularly memory foam or latex, are gentler on the shoulder.
Most side sleepers do best on a soft to medium mattress — roughly a 4–6 on a 10-point firmness scale. Lighter side sleepers (under 65kg) may find a medium mattress actually feels quite firm, so they can benefit from softer options. Heavier side sleepers (over 90kg) need a medium-firm option that provides enough resistance to prevent excessive sinking.
Memory foam is the classic recommendation for side sleepers because of its body-contouring properties. The foam responds to heat and pressure, moulding around the hip and shoulder to relieve pressure. Koala and Emma are among the most popular options for side sleepers in Australia.
A good hybrid with a soft-to-medium foam comfort layer on top of pocket springs also works well for side sleepers. The foam provides pressure relief while the coils provide support and prevent excessive sinking. Sleeping Duck's Mach II is a popular choice.
Natural or synthetic latex provides excellent pressure relief with a slightly more responsive feel than memory foam. It doesn't have the same 'stuck' sensation and tends to sleep cooler. Less common in the Australian market but worth considering.
The medium Koala is consistently one of the most recommended options for side sleepers. The Kloudcell foam layer provides excellent pressure relief at hips and shoulders, and the overall feel is soft enough to relieve pressure without feeling like you're sinking into the mattress. 120-night trial.
Emma's zoned foam construction specifically targets pressure relief at common side-sleeping pressure points. The foam adapts well to shoulder and hip contouring. Excellent for back pain associated with side sleeping.
The adjustable firmness feature is excellent for side sleepers who want to personalise their feel. Set to the softer configurations, it provides great pressure relief with the support benefits of a hybrid.
Side sleepers also need appropriate pillow height to maintain neck alignment. A pillow that's too flat or too high can cause neck pain regardless of mattress quality. Side sleepers generally need a thicker, firmer pillow to fill the gap between the head and the mattress.
For side sleepers in Australia, the Koala Original is the standout recommendation at its price point. Emma is a close second, particularly for those with existing back or joint pain. If you prefer a hybrid feel, the Sleeping Duck Mach II in a soft configuration is excellent. Whatever you choose, prioritise a medium or softer firmness and a mattress with quality foam comfort layers.
| Mattress | Price | Trial | Warranty | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koala 🥇 Best Overall 2026 |
$1,050 | 120 nights | 10yr | 4.8/5 | View Deal → |
| Emma Best Value 2026 |
$1,149 | 100 nights | 10yr | 4.6/5 | View Deal → |
| Sleeping Duck 🥈 Best for Couples |
$1,399 | 100 nights | 10yr | 4.7/5 | View Deal → |
| Ecosa 🥉 Best Budget Pick |
$799 | 100 nights | 15yr | 4.5/5 | View Deal → |
| Ergoflex Best for Back Pain |
$1,395 | 100 nights | 7yr | 4.4/5 | View Deal → |
| Origin Best Hybrid Value |
$1,199 | 100 nights | 10yr | 4.4/5 | View Deal → |
Always look for at least 100 nights. Koala (120 nights) and Sleeping Duck (100 nights) offer some of the best trials available. A trial lets you test the mattress through different seasons including Australian summer.
A 10-year warranty is standard for quality mattresses. Ecosa offers 15 years, which is exceptional. Be wary of brands offering less than 5 years.
All-foam mattresses offer excellent motion isolation but can sleep warm. Hybrid mattresses use pocket springs under foam, improving airflow significantly — important for Australian summers.
Medium is most versatile for side and back sleepers. Stomach sleepers generally need firmer. If unsure, Ecosa lets you adjust firmness.
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