The 7 best body pillows of 2024, according to a certified sleep coach

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Body pillows are often linked to pregnant women or people recovering from surgeries or injuries, but truthfully, anyone can benefit from snuggling up with one. As a certified sleep science consultant, I know the value of quality sleep, which is why I swear by my all-time favorite sleep product, the body pillow. They're like your sleep's best friend, offering that extra bit of support and comfort. It's a necessary companion among the best pillows. 

To find the best body pillow, I interviewed experts and tested 13 options, evaluating them for comfort, breathability, and support. Our top pick is the Coop Home Goods Body Pillow because you can adjust the fill to fit your preferences, and it offers outstanding comfort and support. As a side sleeper, I was also blown away by the Pluto Puff body pillow's flexibility, softness, breathability, and durability. 

Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches home products.

Our top picks for body pillows

Best overall: Coop Home Goods Body Pillow - See at Amazon

Best for side sleepers: Pluto Puff - See at Pluto

Best for back pain: Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow - See at Amazon

Best cooling: Zoma Sleep Body Pillow - See at Zoma

Most innovative: Buffy Wiggle Pillow - See at Buffy

Best for pregnancy: Eli and Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow - See at Eli & Elm

Best U-shaped: Moonlight Comfort-U - See at Amazon

Best overall

The Coop Sleep Goods Body Pillow checks all the boxes for better sleep. Like our pick for best bed pillow (also from Coop), this body pillow is fully adjustable. You can add or remove the shredded memory foam to suit your sleep style and personal preferences. It also features a removable pillowcase for easy washing.

The Coop is bulky but just the right height for me, not too low and not too elevated. It conformed so well to my body right out of the box that I didn't have to remove any foam. It's extremely flexible, moldable, and supportive — great for any body type. 

It's also the softest, most snuggly pillow I've tested. I love cuddling with it and have continued to use it for months after testing because it's really helped with my shoulder pain. It hasn't flattened out at all, and I sleep so much better with the support it provides. It stays cool throughout the night because it's made with super-breathable polyester and bamboo-derived viscose rayon.

Although a mild chemical odor is normal with memory foam pillows, the Coop had a very strong smell out of the box. The company recommends running it through the dryer with a dryer sheet for an hour to reduce the smell, which I did. While this helped, the odor didn't completely disappear until a week later, though I do think it's worth the wait. This pillow is hypoallergenic and CertiPUR-US certified.

Read our full review of the Coop Sleep  Goods Body Pillow.

Best for side sleepers

In our guide to the best pillows for side sleepers, we name the Coop Body pillow (our best overall pick in this guide) as our top choice because it can easily be adjusted to best suit your needs. However, there's a new contender worth considering for this category: the Pluto Puff body pillow. 

Despite weighing 12 pounds, the Puff is surprisingly easy to maneuver. The medium-firm feel supports side sleepers to keep their head, neck, and spine aligned through the night. Pluto Puff is built with side sleepers in mind, it's flexible, soft, and durable. 

As a side sleeper, I know how tough it can be to find a comfortable position with all that pressure on the shoulders, hips, and knees. The Puff provides ample support in all the right areas, making it a game changer for relieving pressure points and reducing tossing and turning. My husband, with sleep apnea, finds relief by sleeping on his side instead of his back. He reported the Puff to be incredibly helpful in maintaining proper alignment on his head and neck, with just the right amount of elevation.  

The Pluto Puff stood out as one of the best body pillows I've tested. Not only does it boast high-quality materials, but the included pillow case feels incredibly luxurious, silky smooth, and so soft, like cuddling up with a cozy cloud of comfort. It also stays cool without overheating. Overall, the Pluto Puff is an excellent option, especially for side sleepers. It held its shape over time while providing consistent comfort, proper spinal alignment, and reliable support.

Best for back pain

This body pillow, made from Tempur-Pedic material developed by NASA, is engineered with shapeable micro-cushions that respond and adapt exceptionally well to the body. It's designed for use during pregnancy and for side-sleepers, but people with injuries, muscle tension, and back pain can also benefit from the sturdy support it provides. 

The tension relief that I experienced after sleeping with the Tempur-Pedic was incredible. I love this pillow's versatility; I have used it to prop up my legs, relieve pressure on my lower hips, and stabilize my back when I'm sitting up. No matter how I use it, the pillow always returns to its original shape.

The Tempur-Pedic is much firmer than the other pillows I tested. While this is a great feature for larger individuals and people looking for extra support, it might not be as comfortable for smaller folks or people who prefer a softer pillow. The foam is dense and heavy, so moving it around in the middle of the night could be tiring for people recovering from injuries, though the added heft means it doesn't fall off or move around the bed as easily.

Best cooling

If you're a hot sleeper, a cooling pillow could make all the difference. The Zoma Sleep Body Pillow is made with high-quality materials that kept me cool and comfortable throughout the night. The cover is made from a blend of stretchy, lightweight polyester and spandex. It's filled with shredded gel memory foam intended to keep hot sleepers at a comfortable temperature. It's a very well-made, high-quality body pillow that provides great support and breathability. 

It's somewhat firmer than the Coop pillow but still provides great support and comfort. The 6-inch loft is helpful for side sleepers like me who need support between the knees. After a few nights of sleeping with the Zoma, I noticed a positive impact on my posture and spinal alignment.

The Zoma Sleep is 2 inches shorter than our top pick, so it's not possible to rest my head on it and have full leg support at the same time. I'm relatively short, so this could be a more noticeable issue for taller folks who want a pillow that supports the whole body. The smaller size could be perfect for those who sleep with a partner and don't want to hog the whole bed. The cover is also not removable, which makes washing and drying the pillow a lengthy process. 

Despite the shorter size and complicated washing process, the Zoma does provide excellent body support and absorbs heat well. For pregnant people, this pillow is firm enough to rest a growing belly on to relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips.

Most innovative

I was particularly excited to review the Buffy Wiggle pillow, and it did not disappoint. The pillow has a white cover shell crafted from 100% fiber derived from eucalyptus. This fabric requires less water to produce than conventional cotton and is also biodegradable and compostable. Mine got softer after the first wash. You can also choose from 11 pillowcase colors, including linen and fleece, purchased separately. I opted for the fleece cover in a lovely peach color. 

What makes this pillow unique is its eco-conscious design. Crafted entirely from recycled materials, its fill is composed of 55 recycled plastic bottles sourced from a facility certified by the Global Recycling Standard. These bottles, collected from landfills and oceans, undergo recycling and transformation into the fluffy pillows we've come to love. 

I found the Buffy Wiggle to be super versatile. Whether you want to knot it up for lounging on the couch, prop your feet on it, or snuggle up for a cozy night's sleep, it offers great full-body support. The Buffy is the longest pillow we've tested by far, at 82 inches, giving you plenty of room to wrap around and bend it to your liking. However, it's worth noting that its length might occupy more space on your bed, and it's also not as lofty as some might prefer. 

Overall, the Buffy Wiggle impressed us not only with its comfort and flexibility but also with its dedication to sustainability. Its innovative features and commitment to environmental responsibility make it our top choice for the most innovative category in this review.

Best for pregnancy

When I tested the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow for our best pillow for side sleepers guide, I was impressed by the quality of the materials and effectiveness at offering relief for neck and back pain. With sleep solutions a major part of the Eli & Elm brand, the Eli & Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow was designed with expecting mothers in mind to address their unique needs throughout all stages of pregnancy.

During a portion of testing, I had my sister-in-law, who was in her third trimester, try it. She sought proper head, back, hip, and knee support while sleeping. She said the Eli & Elm allowed her to rest in different positions comfortably while minimizing pressure on her joints and improving her overall sleep quality. The ergonomic "J" shape won her over, and she plans to continue using it post-pregnancy. Plus, the removable and easy-to-wash pillowcase was a game changer for her maintenance routine. 

Despite not being pregnant myself, I found this pillow to be incredibly comfortable and versatile. I used it to prop myself against my chair for extra support while working from home at my desk. So, it's not just for expecting moms — anyone can benefit from this pillow. 

I like that the Eli & Elm is adjustable and can be tailored to your preferences, whether pregnant or not. Plus, it's OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it's free of harmful chemicals, reassuring expecting mothers that they can sleep soundly without worrying about any harmful substances.

Best u-shaped

The Moonlight Comfort-U Full Body Pillow features an innovative "U" shape, offering great versatility and support on both your front and backside. It was originally crafted with expectant mothers in mind, so the pillow provides 360-degree support and great comfort. It's made with hypoallergenic synthetic down and safe materials, and it includes a convenient removable cover that is easy to wash. Plus, you can opt for a fleece or organic cotton case for added coziness. 

The Moonlight is not limited to expecting moms. Beyond pregnancy, it serves as an ideal companion for both daytime lounging and nighttime relaxation. Its exceptional support and medium-firm feel can also relieve aches and pains, ensuring a restful experience. 

Overall, this pillow has earned its place as a personal favorite. I love to wrap myself around the Moonlight Comfort-U, even if I'm not pregnant or asleep. Since working from home, it's helped me with my posture as back support, and it can be a game changer for expectant parents.

What else we tested

• Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow: The Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow is an Amazon Bestseller, and was previously our top pick for side sleepers. After researching, we discovered that Snuggle-Pedic was acquired in 2020 and no longer offers features we loved, like a trial period and warranty. Recent customer reviews indicate a decline in the pillow's quality, many mentioned reduced fullness and changes in warranty terms. Personally, I also noticed a disparity between the original version we tested in 2020 and a new one that we re-tested, leading us to replace it in our guide. 
• Twilla body pillow: The little pods, or "mini pillows" of Twilla caught our eye and are pretty unique, but we're unsure how well they'll hold up over time.   Some reported that the pods might make the pillow clumpy. Personally, I loved the exterior of the pillow, it is super soft and comfortable. However, the overall flatness persists even with all of the 15 pods inserted. Not sure if dropping $35 on a six-pod pack or more is worth it until I reach my desired loft and firmness. I also noticed that on Amazon, reviews are all from people who got the pillow for free.
• Leahco Snoogle Pillow: The leachco Snoogle pillow is a nice affordable option, though its cover texture is not very soft, and it's difficult to wash. It's firmer than some might prefer and takes up quite a bit of space in bed. However, it offers good support for reading, working your laptop, or lounging, and you can always upgrade to softer covers from Leachco.
• Oubonun Body Pillow: The Oubonun features a hidden zipper to adjust its hypoallergenic polyester fiber fill. It's softer than most but provides sufficient support and won't take up much space in your bed. One side is quilted, which is a nice detail. It even includes a pillowcase as a bonus. I recommend this body pillow if you're on a budget; it's a good value for the money.

What to look for in a body pillow

There are dozens of options on the market for body pillows. Choosing the right one depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors as you search for the perfect body pillow.

Purpose

Identify why you need a body pillow—whether for back pain relief, pregnancy support, or overall comfort. Select a pillow designed with your specific needs in mind.

Shape and size

Assess your bed space and choose a body pillow size that complements it. Dr. Karen suggests considering the pillow size based on your bed dimensions and ensuring it provides sufficient coverage for your entire body. Larger pillows like the Coop Home may be suitable, but for shared beds, consider smaller options like the Zoma. Adjustability, weight, and body size will also influence your selection. Additionally, factor in your preferred sleeping position and needs when selecting your ideal pillow shape:

• I-Shape: The I-shape is like a standard rectangular pillow but longer. A common length is 54", and it can range from four to six feet. It's ideal for people who want a body pillow but don't have a specific need that needs to be addressed.
• U-shape: The U-shape is characterized by its ability to offer support on either side, keep you from rolling, and make it easy to switch positions without having to reposition the pillow, making it an optimal choice for pregnancy. The most common way to sleep is to keep the open part at your feet, cuddle whichever side you prefer, and rest your head on the bend, but you can get creative about how you lounge and sleep with this shape.
• C-Shape: The C-shape is typically pretty customizable. It has a bend on each end and can be contorted and bent into varying shapes. It's a little smaller than the U-shape.
• J-Shape: The J-Shape follows the I shape with the addition of being able to position your head at the curve, wrap your body around the straight portion, or place the hook under the knees and position your back against the straight side. It's a popular choice for side sleepers to curl up with.

Fill and firmness

Determine your preferred firmness level, balancing proper spinal alignment with comfort. Factors such as weight, height, and sleeping position influence this choice. Most of the body pillows we've examined have a memory foam or down-alternative fill, but body pillows are available in all the typical fillings of pillows, including down, wool, and latex as well. Memory foam pillows are firmer and offer more support, while down-alternative and polyfill will sleep more plush. Opt for hypoallergenic options, and for foam fill, ensure it's CertiPUR-US certified. Always check if the materials are safe and certified for a worry-free sleeping experience.

Ease of cleaning

Consider the ease of cleaning. Some body pillows feature removable, washable covers (e.g., Coop Home and Tempur-Pedic). Even those without removable covers, like the Snuggle-Pedic and Zoma, can be machine-washed. A pillowcase is recommended for regular washing, though washing larger pillows may be time-consuming. As body pillows increase in popularity, more bedding brands offer body pillow covers; just be sure to match the dimensions of your pillow. 

Temperature regulation

If you sleep hot, opt for a breathable pillow designed to regulate temperature. Breathability is crucial, as overheating can disrupt sleep quality. 

Medina emphasizes, "You don't want to become overheated on the body pillow, as an increased body temperature can provoke a wake response." A good body pillow enhances support, comfort, and breathability for improved sleep.

Return policy and trial period

Prioritize pillows with a flexible return policy and trial period. Since side sleepers may need time to find the perfect fit, allowing at least a week to adjust is essential. Ensure you can exchange or return the pillow if it doesn't meet your expectations.

How we tested the best body pillows

I managed a sleep laboratory for over two years and have conducted extensive research on sleep. I've tested products for SleepScore labs and presented my work at the Eastern Psychological Association.

To find the best body pillows, I did hands-on testing with 13 different models, relied on my background in sleep research, and interviewed sleep expert Zeke Medina, PharmD, and physical therapist Karen Litzy, DPT.

As a sleep researcher and certified sleep science consultant, it's important for me to review items that truly improve quality sleep. I paid close attention to how well I slept with each pillow, including how comfortable, breathable, and supportive they were. Here's how I evaluated each pillow:

Setup: First, I wanted to know whether the body pillows emitted any chemical odors as soon as I opened the package. If there was an odor, I evaluated how long it took for any smells to dissipate. I also noted if the pillows were adjustable and if they included a removable and washable cover. 

Specs and components: I recorded each body pillow's length, weight, firmness, and quality of materials. I also noted if they were hypoallergenic and researched if the pillows' fills were CertiPUR-US certified or made without toxic materials. 

Sleeping: I slept with each body pillow for seven consecutive nights, taking note of how well I fell asleep, stayed asleep, and felt in the morning. I evaluated how comfortable and soft the materials were, whether I slept cool or hot, and how much support and tension relief I felt throughout the night and in the morning. 

Return policy: I looked at the return policy and warranty of each pillow. This is important in case individuals are unsure it's the right fit. "No single pillow is the answer for everybody," says Medina, so it's best to try out body pillows to figure out what works for you.  

Long-term use: Since original testing, I've continued to use our top picks regularly and will report back about their durability over time.

Body pillow FAQs

What are body pillows used for?

The benefits you get from a body pillow will depend on your individual needs and preferences, but they can relieve muscle tension, help with blood circulation, can be used post-surgery and during pregnancy, and may reduce snoring. They're also beneficial for side sleepers to "hug" throughout the night as a way to promote healthy spinal alignment, as well as the psychological benefits provided by cuddling with a body pillow. 

How to use a body pillow

"You can throw your leg over it to take the stress off your shoulder, hip, and knees," said sleep expert Zeke Medina. "You can also place the pillow between your legs to alleviate the pressure between the knees."

Can you wash a body pillow?

In many cases, you can treat a body pillow like a regular pillow. Get a good body pillow protector, so you have to clean the pillow itself less frequently. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and only use a large-capacity washer and dryer so you don't damage your machine.

What is the best body pillow fill?

Most of our topic picks are filled with memory foam, which offers a good balance of support and firmness. However, our pick for a pregnancy pillow contains synthetic down. The right fill will depend on your preferences and sleep style.

Best overall

The Coop Home Goods Body Pillow checks all the boxes for better sleep. Like our pick for best bed pillow (also from Coop), this body pillow is fully adjustable. You can add or remove the shredded memory foam to suit your sleep style and personal preferences. It also features a removable pillowcase for easy washing.

The Coop is bulky but just the right height for me, not too low and not too elevated. It conformed so well to my body right out of the box that I didn't have to remove any foam. It's extremely flexible, moldable, and supportive — great for any body type. 

It's also the softest, most snuggly pillow I've tested. I love cuddling with it and have continued to use it for months after testing because it's really helped with my shoulder pain. It hasn't flattened out at all, and I sleep so much better with the support it provides. It stays cool throughout the night because it's made with super-breathable polyester and bamboo-derived viscose rayon.

Although a mild chemical odor is normal with memory foam pillows, the Coop had a very strong smell out of the box. The company recommends running it through the dryer with a dryer sheet for an hour to reduce the smell, which I did. While this helped, the odor didn't completely disappear until a week later, though I do think it's worth the wait. This pillow is hypoallergenic and CertiPUR-US certified.

Read our full review of the Coop Home Goods Body Pillow.

Best for side sleepers

In our guide to the best pillows for side sleepers, we name the Coop Body pillow (our best overall pick in this guide) as our top choice because it can easily be adjusted to best suit your needs. However, there's a new contender worth considering for this category: the Pluto Puff body pillow. 

Despite weighing 12 pounds, the Puff is surprisingly easy to maneuver. The medium-firm feel supports side sleepers to keep their head, neck, and spine aligned through the night. Pluto Puff is built with side sleepers in mind, it's flexible, soft, and durable. 

As a side sleeper, I know how tough it can be to find a comfortable position with all that pressure on the shoulders, hips, and knees. The Puff provides ample support in all the right areas, making it a game changer for relieving pressure points and reducing tossing and turning. My husband, with sleep apnea, finds relief by sleeping on his side instead of his back. He reported the Puff to be incredibly helpful in maintaining proper alignment on his head and neck, with just the right amount of elevation.  

The Pluto Puff stood out as one of the best body pillows I've tested. Not only does it boast high-quality materials, but the included pillow case feels incredibly luxurious, silky smooth, and so soft, like cuddling up with a cozy cloud of comfort. The Pluto Puff is an excellent option, especially for side sleepers. It held its shape over time while providing consistent comfort, proper spinal alignment, and reliable support.

Best for back pain

This body pillow, made from Tempur-Pedic material developed by NASA, is engineered with shapeable micro-cushions that respond and adapt exceptionally well to the body. It's designed for use during pregnancy and for side-sleepers, but people with injuries, muscle tension, and back pain can also benefit from the sturdy support it provides. 

The tension relief that I experienced after sleeping with the Tempur-Pedic was incredible. I love this pillow's versatility; I have used it to prop up my legs, relieve pressure on my lower hips, and stabilize my back when I'm sitting up. No matter how I use it, the pillow always returns to its original shape.

The Tempur-Pedic is much firmer than the other pillows I tested. While this is a great feature for larger individuals and people looking for extra support, it might not be as comfortable for smaller folks or people who prefer a softer pillow. The foam is dense and heavy, so moving it around in the middle of the night could be tiring for people recovering from injuries, though the added heft means it doesn't fall off or move around the bed as easily.

Best cooling

The Zoma Sleep Body Pillow is made with high-quality materials that kept me cool and comfortable throughout the night. The cover is made from a blend of stretchy, lightweight polyester and spandex. It's filled with shredded gel memory foam intended to keep hot sleepers at a comfortable temperature. It's a very well-made, high-quality body pillow that provides great support and breathability. 

It's somewhat firmer than the Coop pillow but still provides great support and comfort. The 6-inch loft is helpful for side sleepers like me who need support between the knees. After a couple of nights sleeping with the Zoma, I noticed a positive impact on my posture and spinal alignment.

The Zoma Sleep is 2 inches shorter than our top pick, so it's not possible to rest my head on it and have full leg support at the same time. I'm relatively short, so this could be a more noticeable issue for taller folks who want a pillow that supports the whole body. That said, the smaller size could be perfect for those who sleep with a partner and don't want to hog the whole bed. The cover is also not removable, which makes washing and drying the pillow a lengthy process. 

Despite the shorter size and complicated washing process, the Zoma does provide excellent body support and absorbs heat well. For pregnant people, this pillow is firm enough to rest a growing belly on to relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips.

Most innovative

I was particularly excited to review the Buffy Wiggle pillow, and it did not disappoint. The pillow has a white cover shell crafted from 100% fiber derived from eucalyptus. This fabric requires less water to produce than conventional cotton, it's also biodegradable and compostable. Mine got softer after the first wash. You can also choose from 11 pillowcase colors, including linen and fleece, purchased separately. I opted for the Fluffy Fleece cover in a lovely peach color. 

What makes this pillow unique is its eco-conscious design. Crafted entirely from recycled materials, its fill is composed of 55 recycled plastic bottles sourced from a facility certified by the Global Recycling Standard. These bottles, collected from landfills and oceans, undergo recycling and transformation into the fluffy pillows we've come to love. 

I found the Buffy Wiggle to be super versatile. Whether you want to knot it up for lounging on the couch, prop your feet on it, or snuggle up for a cozy night's sleep, it offers great full-body support. The Buffy is the longest pillow we've tested by far, at 82 inches, giving you plenty of room to wrap around and bend it to your liking. However, it's worth noting that its length might occupy more space on your bed, and it's also not as lofty as some might prefer. 

Overall the Buffy Wiggle impressed us not only with its comfort and flexibility but also with its dedication to sustainability. 

With its innovative features and commitment to environmental responsibility, that's why it's our top choice for the most innovative category in this review.

Best for pregnancy

When I tested the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow for our best pillow for side sleepers guide, I was impressed by the quality of the materials and effectiveness at offering relief for neck and back pain. With sleep solutions a major part of the Eli & Elm brand, the Eli & Elm Memory Foam Pregnancy Body Pillow was designed with expecting mothers in mind to address their unique needs throughout all stages of pregnancy.

During a portion of testing, I had my sister-in-law, who is in her third trimester, try it. She mentioned needing proper head, back, hip, and knee support while sleeping. She said the Eli & Elm allowed her to rest in different positions comfortably while minimizing pressure on her joints and improving her overall sleep quality. The ergonomic "J" shape won her over, and she plans to continue using it post-pregnancy. Plus, the removable and easy-to-wash pillowcase was a game changer for her maintenance routine. 

Despite not being pregnant myself, I found this pillow to be incredibly comfortable and versatile. I used it to prop myself against my chair for extra support while working from home at my desk. So, it's not just for expecting moms — anyone can benefit from this pillow. 

I like that the Eli & Elm is adjustable and can be tailored to your preferences, whether pregnant or not. Plus, it's OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it's free of harmful chemicals, reassuring expecting mothers that they can sleep soundly without worrying about any harmful substances.

Best u-shaped

The Moonlight Comfort-U Full Body Pillow features an innovative "U" shape, offering great versatility and support on both your front and backside. It was originally crafted with expectant mothers in mind, so the pillow provides 360-degree support and great comfort. It's made with hypoallergenic synthetic down and safe materials, and it includes a convenient removable cover that is easy to wash. Plus, you can opt for a fleece or organic cotton case for added coziness. 

The Moonlight is not limited to expecting moms. Beyond pregnancy, it serves as an ideal companion for both daytime lounging and nighttime relaxation. Its exceptional support and medium-firm feel can also relieve aches and pains, ensuring a restful experience. 

Before committing to the Moonlight, consider the pillow's dimensions relative to your bed size, especially if you have a smaller bed. Also, remember that washing this pillow can be a bit time-consuming due to its size and extended drying time. 

Overall, this pillow has earned its place as a personal favorite. I love to wrap myself around the Moonlight Comfort-U, even if I'm not pregnant or asleep. Since working from home, it's helped me with my posture as back support, and it can be a game-changer for expectant parents.

What else we tested

• Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow: The Snuggle-Pedic Body Pillow is an Amazon Bestseller, and was previously our top pick for side sleepers. After researching, we discovered that Snuggle-Pedic was acquired in 2020 and no longer offers features we loved, like a trial period and warranty. Recent customer reviews indicate a decline in the pillow's quality, many mentioned reduced fullness and changes in warranty terms. Personally, I also noticed a disparity between the original version we tested in 2020 and a new one that we re-tested, leading us to replace it in our guide. 
• Twilla body pillow: The little pods, or "mini pillows" of Twilla caught our eye and are pretty unique, but we're unsure how well they'll hold up over time.   Some reported that the pods might make the pillow clumpy. Personally, I loved the exterior of the pillow, it is super soft and comfortable. However, the overall flatness persists even with all of the FIFTEEN pods inserted. Not sure if dropping $35 on a six-pod pack or more is worth it until I reach my desired loft and firmness. I also noticed that on Amazon, reviews are all from people who got the pillow for free.
• Leahco Snoogle Pillow: The leachco Snoogle pillow is a nice affordable option, though its cover texture is not very soft, and it's difficult to wash. It's firmer than some might prefer and takes up quite a bit of space in bed. However, it offers good support for reading, working your laptop, or lounging, and you can always upgrade to softer covers from Leachco.
• Oubonun Body Pillow: The Oubonun features a hidden zipper to adjust its hypoallergenic polyester fiber fill. It's softer than most but provides sufficient support and won't take up much space in your bed. One side is quilted, which is a nice detail. It even includes a pillowcase as a bonus. I recommend this body pillow if you're on a budget; it's a good value for the money.

What to look for in a body pillow

There are dozens of options on the market for body pillows. Choosing the right one depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors as you search for the perfect body pillow.

Purpose

Identify why you need a body pillow—whether for back pain relief, pregnancy support, or overall comfort. Select a pillow designed with your specific needs in mind.

Shape and size

Assess your bed space and choose a body pillow size that complements it. Dr. Karen suggests considering the pillow size based on your bed dimensions and ensuring it provides sufficient coverage for your entire body. Larger pillows like the Coop Home may be suitable, but for shared beds, consider smaller options like the Zoma. Adjustability, weight, and body size will also influence your selection. Additionally, factor in your preferred sleeping position and needs when selecting your ideal pillow shape:

• I-Shape: The I-shape takes the form of your standard rectangular pillow, but longer. A common length is 54", and they can range from four to six feet. They're ideal for people who want a body pillow and don't have a specific need that needs to be addressed.
• U-shape: The U-shape is characterized by its ability to offer support on either side, keep you from rolling, and make it easy to switch positions without having to reposition the pillow, making it an optimal choice for pregnancy. The most common way to sleep is to keep the open part at your feet, cuddle whichever side you prefer, and rest your head on the bend, but you can get creative about how you lounge and sleep with this shape.
• C-Shape: The C-shape is typically pretty customizable with a bend on each end and can be contorted and bent in varying shapes. It's a little smaller than the U-shape.
• J-Shape: The J-Shape follows the I shape with the addition of being able to position your head at the curve, wrap your body around the straight portion, or place the hook under the knees and position your back against the straight side. It's a popular choice for side sleepers to curl up with.

Fill and Firmness

Determine your preferred firmness level, balancing proper spinal alignment with comfort. Factors such as weight, height, and sleeping position influence this choice. Most of the body pillows we've examined have a memory foam or down-alternative fill, but body pillows are available in all the typical fillings of pillows including down, wool, and latex as well. Memory foam pillows are firmer and offer more support, while down-alternative and polyfill will sleep more plush.  Opt for hypoallergenic options, and for foam fill, ensure it's CertiPUR-US certified. Always check if the materials are safe and certified for a worry-free sleeping experience.

Ease of cleaning

Consider the ease of cleaning, with some body pillows featuring removable, washable covers (e.g., Coop Home and Tempur-Pedic). Even those without removable covers, like the Snuggle-Pedic and Zoma, can be machine-washed. A pillowcase is recommended for regular washing, though washing larger pillows may be time-consuming. As body pillows increase in popularity, more bedding brands offer body pillow covers; just be sure to match the dimensions of your pillow. 

Temperature regulation

If you sleep hot, opt for a breathable pillow designed to regulate temperature. Some, like the Snuggle-Pedic, use materials to dissipate body heat effectively. Breathability is crucial, as overheating can disrupt sleep quality. 

Medina emphasizes, "You don't want to become overheated on the body pillow, as an increased body temperature can provoke a wake response." A good body pillow enhances support, comfort, and breathability for improved sleep.

Return policy/Trial Period

Prioritize pillows with a flexible return policy and trial period. Since side sleepers may need time to find the perfect fit, allowing at least a week to adjust is essential. Ensure you can exchange or return the pillow if it doesn't meet your expectations.

How we test body pillows

I managed a sleep laboratory for over two years and have conducted a vast amount of research on sleep. I've tested products for SleepScore labs and presented my work at the Eastern Psychological Association.

To find the best body pillows, I did hands-on testing with nine different models; relied on my background in sleep research; and interviewed sleep expert Zeke Medina, PharmD, and physical therapist Karen Litzy, DPT.

As a sleep researcher and certified sleep science consultant, it's important for me to review items that truly improve quality sleep. I paid close attention to how well I slept with each pillow, including how comfortable, breathable, and supportive they were. Here's how I evaluated each pillow:

Setup: First, I wanted to know whether the body pillows emitted any chemical odors as soon as I opened the package. If there was an odor, I evaluated how long it took for any smells to dissipate. I also noted if the pillows were adjustable and if they included a removable and washable cover. 

Specs and components: I recorded each body pillow's length, weight, firmness, and quality of materials. I also noted if they were hypoallergenic and researched if the pillows' fills were CertiPUR-US certified or made without toxic materials. 

Sleeping: I slept with each body pillow for seven consecutive nights, taking note of how well I was able to fall asleep, how well I stayed asleep, and how I felt in the morning. I evaluated how comfortable and soft the materials were, whether I slept cool or hot, and how much support and tension relief I felt throughout the night and in the morning. 

Return policy: I looked at the return policy and warranty of each pillow. This is important, in case individuals are unsure it's the right fit. "No single pillow is the answer for everybody," says Medina, so it's best to try out body pillows to figure out what works for you.  

Long-term use: Since original testing, I've continued to use our top picks regularly and will report back about their durability over time.

Body pillow FAQs

What are body pillows used for?

The benefits you get from a body pillow will depend on your individual needs and preferences, but they can relieve muscle tension, help with blood circulation, can be used post-surgery and during pregnancy, and may reduce snoring. They're also beneficial for side sleepers to "hug" throughout the night as a way to promote healthy spinal alignment, as well as the psychological benefits provided from cuddling with a body pillow. 

How to use a body pillow

"You can throw your leg over it to take the stress off your shoulder, hip, and knees," said sleep expert Zeke Medina. "You can also place the pillow between your legs to alleviate the pressure between the knees."

Can you wash a body pillow?

In many cases, you can treat a body pillow like a regular pillow. Get a good body pillow protector so you have to clean the pillow itself less frequently. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and only use a large-capacity washer and dryer so you don't damage your machine.

What is the best body pillow fill?

Most of our topic picks are filled with memory foam, which offers a good balance of support and firmness. However, our pick for a pregnancy pillow contains synthetic down. The right fill will depend on your preferences and sleep style.