Best Body Pillows: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

1. Zoma Body Pillow

Zoma focuses on maximizing recovery and restorative rest with their numerous sleep products. The Zoma Body Pillow is one such product and our top recommendation when it comes to secondary pillows. Zoma notes it’s designed to help side sleepers, hot sleepers, snorers, and pregnant people.

The pillow is 6 inches thick with a flexible fill of MicroCushions. These adaptable MicroCushions helps the pillow conform to the body, regardless of its shape. The pillow cover is made with a stretchy, breathable cover.

Zoma notes the pillow has passed California’s standards for low VOC emissions and that’s produced in the USA without ozone depleters, flame retardants, and other materials. The shredded memory foam core has also been certified by CertiPUR-US®.

The Zoma Body Pillow ships free and a 10-year warranty.

2. Coop Home Goods

The Coop Home Goods body pillow is filled with CertiPUR-US® Certified shredded gel-infused memory foam. The gel absorbs heat and provides cooling to the sleeper through better air circulation. The breathable polyester/rayon pillowcase keeps sleepers cool by wicking away moisture

By way of a zipper, the customer can adjust the loft of the pillow by adding or removing filling What’s not used can be stored in an airtight container.

On top of the adjustable loft, the pillow is also machine washable.

As one of our heavier body pillows, it weighs almost 7 lbs. at a size of 20″x54″. This body pillow is ideal for side, stomach, and back sleepers, and expectant mothers.

3. Snuggle-Pedic

The Snuggle-Pedic body pillow is made from a blend of CertiPUR-US® Certified foam and hypoallergenic Biogreen memory foam. Both foams are shredded for better airflow and moldability.

The non-removable cover includes Kool-Flow® technology for additional cooling— breathable, micro-vented fabric easily wicks away moisture and provides excellent airflow. The cover is made of 56.4% polyester, 43% viscose bamboo, and .06% Lycra®, making is soft and snuggle-worthy.

Like other memory foam pillows, the Snuggle-Pedic body pillow conforms to the body. The shredded memory foam adjusts for maximum comfort.

By providing extra knee and hip support, this body pillow is ideal for side and stomach sleepers, and expectant mothers.

Interested in memory foam? Read our guide on finding the best memory foam mattress to upgrade your night’s sleep.

4. Moonlight Slumber Comfort-U

The Moonlight Slumber Comfort-U body pillow is filled with a hypoallergenic synthetic down called “Fusion Fiber.” This extended polymer material won’t shift or flatten. It provides better airflow in the interior for consistent cooling during the night. A breathable cotton cover is included for additional cooling.

The U-shape of this body pillow gives sleepers the feeling of being cuddled. Covering both sides, it supports the abdomen and back at the same time, while cradling the neck and aligning the spine. The body pillow is also a good way to switch to the side sleeping position if pregnant or wanting a healthier sleep position.

As a great option to help relieve back pain and aching joints, the Moonlight Slumber Comfort-U body pillow is machine-washable. It weighs roughly 10 lbs., with each “leg” measuring 64″x10.5″— large for a body pillow. Some customers use the pillow to sit or recline in bed. This body pillow is a good option for all types of sleepers and expectant mothers.

5. Leachco Snoogle

The Leachco Snoogle body pillow is filled with a polyester fiber-fill to support the belly, legs, and head without the help of additional pillows. Its long structure enables for full-body support.  It measures 60″x24.8″ and weighs 5.5 lbs. It includes a removable, sham-style, poly-cotton blend cover.

This body pillow offers sleepers, especially pregnant women, full-body support. It keeps pregnant women in a healthy, stationary side position. The C-shaped construction cultivates excellent head and neck support while the long body and curved end reinforce stability for the tummy and back and knees.

The Leachco Snoogle body pillow comes in four different colors— ivory, grey, brown, and mauve. It also comes with a user manual to showcase six different pillow alignments. While the cover is machine-washable, the pillow is not. Customers will need to spot-clean the pillow using a soapy cloth for cleaning. Ideal for expectant mothers, side sleepers, and those with respiratory issues.

6. PharMeDoc Full Body Pregnancy

The PharMeDoc Full Body Pregnancy Pillow is filled with a breathable polyfill blend for good support. It measures 57″x30″ at 7-inches thick, weighing under 5 lbs. This loft of the pillow fosters plush support to properly align the spine.

While this body pillow might seem only for pregnant women, it’s not— it’s an ideal option for anyone, especially those recovering from an injury or post-surgery. It can be molded into different positions for maximum comfort while cushioning the head, back, legs, and hips. Unlike the U-shape body pillow, a C-shape allows more space to move around in.

The PharMeDoc body pillow cover comes in five different colors— mint, blue, gray, pink, and light pink. While the soft, removable jersey knit cover is machine-washable, the pillow is spot-clean only with a mild detergent. The pillow includes a lifetime warranty, further assurance from the company the PharMeDoc pillow is a good buy.

7. AllerEase Cotton Zippered

The AllerEase Cotton Zippered body pillow comes filled with hypoallergenic polyester filling and encased in a 100% cotton cover.  It measures at 20″x52″ and weighs under 5 lbs.

Sold as a machine-washable product, this body pillow is designed for those with allergies. The polyester filling wicks away moisture and protects against dust mites, pollen, and other allergens. It’s also moldable, so sleepers can adjust the pillow to suit their needs.

The AllerEase body pillow is a great budget option — it offers full allergy protection, breathable materials, and comforting support, all under $30. This body pillow is also ideal for back and stomach sleepers because of its soft material needed for targeted support. Plus, it includes a 3-year warranty.

8. Microbead Body by Squishy Deluxe

Our favorite part of the Microbead Body pillow is its filling, which is a high-quality microbead. These tiny, round segments offer a surprising amount of support to the sleeper. It allows better airflow than other pillow materials and can be molded into any shape.

Measuring 47″x7″, it weighs 2.5 lbs. It has a circular shape instead of a traditional square, allowing for easy bending and twisting. For added comfort, the pillow is encased in a removable nylon/spandex cover for a silky smooth feel.

The Microbead Body pillow is machine washable. Reinforced seams prevent the beaded filling from leaking. Its targeted support makes it a good choice for pregnant women and those recovering from surgery.

It comes in five colors— black, navy blue, cream, sky blue, and violet— and comes with a six month 100% refund guarantee.

8. Milliard Ultra-Luxury

The Milliard Ultra-Luxury body pillow is made of shredded CertiPUR-US® Certified foam and VOC Biogreen memory foam; it won’t contain any harmful chemicals. This hypoallergenic foam helps to align the spine.

Upon arrival, the pillow comes encased in a removable cover using Kool-Flow® technology. The cover has micro-vents for air circulation and is a blend of viscose bamboo, polyester, and lycra.

This body pillow measures at 20″x54″, and weighs under 8 lbs. The excellent air circulation from both the shredded foam filling and bamboo cover provides continual cooling to the sleeper during the night, plus it won’t flatten. As a nice perk, this pillow is machine-washable.

The Milliard Ultra-Luxury body pillow is ideal for any sleep position and helps elevate the back, legs, and arms. It’s an ideal choice for any sleeper and those with respiratory issues. It comes with a 120-night money-back guarantee.

10. Leachco Back N’ Belly

The Leachco Back N’ Belly pregnancy body pillow is filled with polyester filling and a sham-style polyester/cotton cover. It measures 55″x33″ and weighs over 8 lbs.

This is a special contouring pillow specifically designed for pregnant women. As an expectant mother’s belly grows, it becomes harder to find a comfortable sleep position at night. That’s where the Leachco Back N’ Belly pillow comes in. The inner curve serves to support back and belly. Pregnant women don’t need to reposition this pillow at night for a more comfortable position since it moves with the body’s natural curves.

This U-shaped pillow’s inner curve lends support to the neck, shoulder, abdomen, and back. Not only is it an ideal option for expectant mothers, it’s also a good pillow for side sleepers and those who suffer from back pain. The Leachco Back N’ Belly body pillow comes in three different styles— chic, chic supreme, and original, and three colors— ivory, rose blush, and alabaster.

11. Meiz U-Shaped

The Meiz U-shaped body pillow is a versatile pillow option. It’s filled with a special polyester blend to retain loft without odor and encased in a 100% cotton cover for a soft and luxurious feel. Double-stitched seams provide extra durability.

This body pillow can be used for sleeping, reading, and lounging. The U-shaped center acts as a backrest, while the ends can be used to prop a book or electronic device at a comfortable reading level. It can also be ideal for other activities, like crafting during rest or recuperation.

The Meiz U-shaped body pillow is a great option for those looking for extra support, recovering from an injury, or pregnant— it’s an all-in-one comfort and support system to replace the use of multiple pillows. It’s also known to improve blood circulation and relieve pressure points in the body. It comes in two sizes— 31″x55″ or 31″x65″ and weighs under 7 lbs. This pillow includes a 30-day refund or exchange guarantee.

12. Aloe Vera Bamboo

The Aloe Vera Bamboo body pillow is made of gel-infused, shredded memory foam with a non-removable aloe vera and bamboo-infused cover. The foam contours to the body to relieve pressure points and allow for healthy spine alignment.

The hypoallergenic memory foam protects against dust mites, pollen, and other allergens. This pillow may help reduce asthma symptoms and snoring. The shredded foam provides better air circulation, while the gel-infusion absorbs body heat to help prevent overheating.

As another budget-friendly option, the Aloe Vera Bamboo body pillow is ideal for any sleep position. Once opened, customers need to allow a few hours for the pillow to fully decompress. It measures 46″x17″ and weighs 5.5 lbs. An additional perk is the pillow is machine-washable.

13. Malouf Z Gel Microfiber

The Malouf Z Gel Microfiber body pillow comes filled with gel-infused polyester microfiber, with a non-removable, cotton-percale cover. The pillow feels like a traditional down pillow, without the danger of allergens and the risk of overheating.

The pillow’s exceptional cooling comes from the gel-infusion— it absorbs body heat, so an individual can sleep cool without overheating. Plus the 250 thread count cover allows good airflow. Over time, the Malouf Z Gel Microfiber body pillow kept its shape, despite continuous molding. Further, it rarely clumps.

The Malouf Z Gel Microfiber body pillow is an ideal choice for any sleeper, pregnant women, and taller individuals. It measures 54″x20″ and weighs 6.5 lbs. Unfortunately, it’s not machine-washable. It requires spot-cleaning with a mild detergent.

What is a Body Pillow?

A body pillow is essentially an extra long pillow. They measure 48-inches or longer to match the length of an adult body. Body pillows provide extra support for your neck and back, so you’re not stuck sleeping with multiple pillows under your head.

It’s available in four different shapes.

I-Shape

One of the most common body pillows. The I-shape allows sleepers to rest their head and neck on the pillow, while the bottom end tucks between the knees. Helps to align the spine and relieve pressure points.

C-Shape

Supports head, abdomen, back, and legs. The top of the C is used as a neck pillow while the bottom curve supports the legs. The back supports and relieves pressure on the spine.

J-Shape

This shape offers full-body support that may help relieve headaches, nasal congestion, and heartburn. The base curve supports the legs and may help relieve sciatica and leg pain.

U-Shape

The U-shape cuddles the entire body, providing support to the back and front. It prevents sleepers from rolling onto their back at night and relieves pressure in hips and knees.

Body pillows will come at a higher price tag due to its large size and amount of material. While some may balk at the cost, many feel the money is well worth it.

What to Look for in a Body Pillow

When on the hunt for the best and most comfortable pillow, there are specific features to look for. Establishing what you want in a body pillow can help you make the right purchase and improve your sleep. An ideal body pillow will relieve pressure points and provide comfort without overheating. It should adjust to match your comfort level for a good night.

Material

The material and filling of a body pillow helps determine comfort, support, and possible heat retention. Breathable material and filling with good air circulation will prevent overheating and sleep disruptions. The following are common materials found in body pillows:

Memory Foam

Contours to the body, cushioning muscles and relieving pressure points. For a body pillow, shredded memory foam is a better option than solid foam. It sleeps cooler and is easier to mold to your desired shape.

Polyester

As the least expensive option, polyester or synthetic fill is easier to maintain. It has a nice balance between soft and firm. Although, it does have the potential to overheat.

Microbeads

Filled with thousands of tiny beads, it provides enhanced support to the body. Microbeads are meant to mimic buckwheat— provides good air circulation and molds to the preferred shape. Body pillows filled with microbeads are lighter in weight. Pillow easily molds to the desired shape.

Price

Body pillows are more expensive due to their size. Have a set budget before shopping, and expect to pay between $20 to over $100— depending on the material. Cheaper options will use synthetic materials, like polyester, while pricey options will use organic materials like down.

Shape

As previously stated, body pillows come in four sizes— I, C, J,  and U. The C-, U-, and J-shaped pillows are extra-large due to their body-encompassing structure. It may not be a good option if you have a bed smaller than a queen or a sleep partner. However, a specific shape could help bring relief for certain medical conditions, like sciatica and pregnancy.

Purpose

A body pillow has several uses. It could be for an expectant mother looking for a comfortable maternity pillow, or someone looking for targeted lower back support for pain relief. Deciding first on what you want before shopping can steer you towards the best pillow.

Remember, if you need support to sleep, a body pillow isn’t your only option. While body pillows can offer extra support, they can’t match the benefits of a high-quality adjustable bed frame when it comes to helping you get comfortable, deep sleep. You can read our guide to learn more.

Switch to Side Sleeping

Body pillows are a great way to switch to side sleeping. By offering support against the back and abdomen, body pillows keep a sleeper in the side position and prevents tossing and turning. You may even improve your health by switching to side sleeping— it opens airways and aligns the spine.

Pregnancy

As a woman gets further along into her pregnancy, it may be harder to find a comfortable sleep position. Body pillows, especially U-shaped, lends support to the back and growing belly. Both sides of the pillow help prevent stomach and back sleeping — positions that could hurt the baby. They also serve comforting support and eliminate the need to reposition the pillow.

Pain Relief

Body pillows can reduce and eliminate pain by soothing muscles, improve blood circulation, reduce pressure points, and align the spine in a neutral position. Most body pillows can be easily molded for targeted support.

Recovery and Recuperation

After an accident or surgical procedure, a body pillow is a great option to help improve recovery. A body pillow can be used to elevate parts of the body to prevent swelling and reduce pain. It can also soothe tense muscles, and allow the body to relax. This ensures better sleep which is key to any recovery process.

Cooling Features

At night, the body is pressed against the body pillow, trapping heat. Overheating can cause sleep disruptions and night sweats— not a very comfortable situation. When looking for the best body pillow, see if any potential choices use cooling technology such as gel-infused foam, or cotton or bamboo with a low thread count. Choose a body pillow filling that promotes air circulation and a cover made from breathable materials.

Sleep Trial, Return Policy, and Warranty

Before committing to a purchase, find out if a body pillow comes with some type of sleep trial/return policy and includes a warranty. Chances are slim a pillow includes a sleep trial. The return policy should allow customers sufficient time to try out a pillow before deciding and then return the purchase if not satisfied

Some manufacturers even offer warranties, which can range between 1 to 20 years. Always read the fine print of any warranty. This will make you aware of what to expect from a company and to protect your rights. Since body pillows are more expensive, this may be worth looking into.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a body pillow?

When you’re looking at body pillows, you will want to compare their materials, shape, price, and cooling features. You should also ask yourself why you want a body pillow. Do you want a pillow for better side sleeping, or do you want a pillow that will help you wake up pain-free in the morning? Picture sleeping with a prospective pillow before you buy it to help you make the right decision.

What is the best body pillow for back pain?

Body pillows with a U-shape are some of the best tools for relieving back pain. The design supports both your front and back, and also eases pressure in your hips and knees. A moldable body pillow can also provide targeted support.

Why are body pillows so expensive?

Body pillows carry a higher price tag because of the materials that go into making such a large pillow. The average body pillow is at least twice the size of a standard pillow, and can be even bigger depending on its design. Not everyone needs a body pillow to sleep well at night, but those that do often find the cost is worth getting a better night’s rest.

Why do I hug my pillow at night?

You might hug your pillow simply because hugs help us feel good. Hugs can calm us down and make us feel happy, so hugging a pillow can help you fall asleep. If you’re a side sleeper, hugging a pillow can also help you position your arms comfortably.

Which is better, a U-shaped or C-shaped pregnancy pillow?

The answer depends on what support you need. A C-shape pillow keeps your head, abdomen, back, and legs supported, with the top meeting your neck while the bottom lifts your legs. A U-shaped body pillow provides more coverage, supporting the same areas as a C-shape pillow along your front and back.

Have You Found Your Body Pillow Yet?

Body pillows can help anyone find a comfortable sleeping position. Their extra-long shape and moldable structure enable customers to receive needed support. While at a higher price-point, we at SleepJunkie feel a body pillow is worth it.

If you’d prefer not to purchase a body pillow, but want to know how many pillows are too much, check out this article to learn more.