Knee pillows-1

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

Sleeping positions are a part of life that we don’t usually choose ourselves — instead, sleeping positions pick us.

If you’re a side sleeper, you probably know there are pros and cons to this sleeping position. For example, nighttime hip pain is one major con. But a knee pillow can offer quick relief.

You may be surprised to know that knee pillows help back sleepers. Adding a pillow under your knees can give you a boost of pressure relief.

You can learn more about knee pillows for side and back sleepers by reading this.

Why not just grab a standard pillow for knee support? Good question.

Pillows intended for your head and neck are generally not supportive enough, nor are they the right shape to properly support your knees. Plus, they don’t help with spinal alignment.

Having proper alignment while you sleep — aka good sleeping posture — is important for reducing back pain.

“Most knee pillows are made to fit better to your knees than an ordinary pillow. They won’t flatten out like a standard pillow.”

There are so many knee pillows that it is hard to choose. You can spend days sorting through different shapes and materials.

This list contains only pillows with high ratings and trusted reputations, so you can make your choice a little easier.

The pillows on our list have also been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $30
  • $$ = $30–$60
  • $$$ = over $60

A note on editorial testing

Customer reviews and product descriptions can be overwhelming. We are here to make it easier to research products.

In some cases, we need to have our writers and editors test products to see how they perform in real life. We rely on feedback from retail sites.

Our writer tested many of the products. She kept in mind what she was testing.

  • Both side and back sleeping styles are used.
  • washability
  • Return policies.

Best overall knee pillow for back and side sleepers

The Company Store Knee and Leg Posture Pillow

  • Price: $$
  • Size: 26 by 13 inches

This one is the best knee pillow I have tested. It seems like it does the same for many.

It can be used both between the knees for side sleeping or behind the knees for back sleeping. As a side sleeper, I kept it between my knees and found that it stayed put better than a memory foam knee pillow.

That may be thanks to its polyester fill, as well as its design. It’s sewn down the middle to create two separate chambers and offer ergonomic support. This support, according to the brand, helps ease joint tension in the knees, ankles, and lower legs.

“The design helps keep the pillow’s shape, it doesn’t flatten like a traditional pillow. It is also soft and has cradle-like support.”

Another perk is that it’s machine washable. A 100 percent cotton pillow protector (with an envelope closure) is available but sold separately. I tested the pillow protector too, and think it’s worth the protection.

The only thing I would change about this pillow is its size, it might work better for more people if it were a little longer.

SHOP NOW AT THE COMPANY STORE

Best travel-friendly knee pillow for side sleepers

Sleep Number Knee Pillow

  • Price: $
  • Size: 16 by 9.5 inches

The Sleep Number knee pillow is soft and lightweight. The pillows I tested were heavier than this one, but still supportive.

It is a good choice for a side sleeping person who does not want a heavy option. It is small enough to fit in your bag if you want to take it with you.

This memory foam does contain polyurethane, but the pillow is hypoallergenic. This makes it a good choice for those with allergies.

The fabric on this pillow is soft. The cover is machine-washable and I like the dark gray color. The knee pillows are not as pleasing to the eye, but this one can blend into most rooms.

The pillow cover closes with a small zipper that can make a little jingle noise when you move it. If you’re a light sleeper who tends to toss and turn, the sound may be disruptive.

“Sleep Number offers a 100 night trial for pillows. You can return or exchange your pillow if it isn’t working for you.”

SHOP NOW AT SLEEP NUMBER

Best dense knee pillow for side sleepers

Cushion Lab Side Sleeper Knee Pillow

  • Price: $$
  • Size: 9.5 by 8.5 inches

This CertiPUR-US certified high density memory foam knee pillow means business for side sleepers. Cushion Lab’s in-house ergonomist designed it for easing pressure and cutting back on the urge to reposition your legs as you sleep.

Although it is denser, the fit is still good and it does loosen up when used for a long time.

The cover is made of recycled polyester. It is also designed to keep you cool.

There are two sizes for this pillow. If you are shorter than 5 feet 8 inches, Cushion Lab suggests ordering a medium. If you are taller than 5 feet 8 inches, the company recommends a large. The medium was the perfect size for me, as I am shorter than 5 feet 8 inches.

The pillow has a travel bag and a 1-year warranty.

SHOP NOW AT CUSHION LAB

Best adjustable knee pillow for side sleepers

Coop Home Goods Orthopedic Knee Pillow

  • Price: $$
  • Size: 12 by 7 inches

There is a lot to love about this memory foam pillow. You can make it your own by deciding how much filling you want. Remove one of the inner layers to make the machine less dense. The extra layer should be in place for a firm feel.

I liked the size and shape of the pillow and enjoyed it without the inner layer.

The pillow is quiet and nice for light sleeping. The cover is soft. It is made from a blend of two different types of fibers.

This pillow is CertiPUR-US certified.

SHOP NOW AT COOP HOME GOODS

Best budget knee pillow for side sleepers

Contour Legacy Leg & Knee Foam Support Pillow

  • Price: $
  • Size: 10 by 6 inches

I did not test this pillow, but the option on Amazon has over 25,000 ratings, with a 4.5 star average.

Reviewers said that the pillow has many uses. The shape of the body seems to be a big hit. This pick is said to be cooling. It has a cover that is not permanent.

The pillow has a 1-year warranty.

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

Best body pillow for side sleepers

Casper Hug Body Pillow

  • Price: $$$
  • Size: 18 inches by 38 inches

Body pillows are a great option for side sleepers who want the thickest, sturdiest option for the whole body — not just the knees. This body pillow by Casper offers side sleepers a comfortable way to get proper alignment and pressure relief.

The brand says that side sleepers find relief from the pressure on their limbs when they wrap their arms and legs around the pillow.

The company also mentions body pillows are a popular, comfortable pillow choice for pregnant people.

I can confirm that this pillow is hugability. This is a large pillow that is a little heavy. It may take up a lot of space in your bed. The most expensive pillow on this list is this pick. It is definitely designed to last and feels good.

While the pillow is spot clean only, the removable case it comes with is machine-washable. This pillow also comes with a 1-year limited warranty and a 30-night risk-free trial.

SHOP NOW AT CASPER

Best multi-use knee pillow for side and back sleepers

5 Stars United Half Moon Bolster Semi-Roll Pillow

  • Price: $$
  • Size: 20.4 by 7.8 inches

The bolster pillow is a half-moon shape and is a good choice for both back and side sleeping.

According to the manufacturer, back sleepers can find spinal support by using the pillow under their knees. Putting it behind the back provides lumbar support.

Side sleepers can put it between their knees.

I have not tried this pillow, but reviewers are happy with it, calling it supportive and durable.

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

It is a good idea to first decide on the material and budget. Do you like a pillow that is dense or soft? What about foam versus fill? How large should it be?

If the look of the pillow matters to you, you should consider it.

Be sure to read legitimate reviews before buying, and check out Return policies..

There are a variety of materials and price points for knee pillows. These pillows offer support and relief. Some are pretty warm.

Breanna is a writer in Cleveland. She holds a masters degree in media and journalism.