What is a Wedge Pillow and Who Should Get One?

What is a Wedge Pillow?

wedge pillow

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A wedge pillow is a triangular-shaped pillow that comes in different sizes and has a variety of uses. Wedge pillows are most commonly used by people to lay or sleep on an incline with their heads elevated. Others may use these pillows for support as they sit up in bed. These pillows can also be used to elevate and support the user’s legs when they are laying down.

What is a Wedge Pillow Made Out Of?

Wedge pillows are typically made using foam or memory foam. Making wedge pillows out of foam or memory foam allows the pillow to maintain its triangular shape, which is the key to its usefulness. Some wedge pillows use other materials for fill but still have a triangular shape.

Wedge pillows come in different sizes. So each person should be able to find one to suit their specific needs.

What Are Wedge Pillows Used For? Who Should Get One?

Wedge pillows have a variety of uses.

Some people use larger wedge pillows to help them better sit upright in bed. Other people will use them to recline as they lie in bed watching television, reading, or sleep. Their foam or memory foam construction offers great support, which makes this type of pillow a great choice for many back sleepers.

As stated earlier, wedge pillows come in different sizes. For sleeping, some people will prefer a smaller pillow that has an incline that is not so steep.

Benefits of Wedge Pillows Include Help with Certain Medical Conditions

Since they elevate your head and upper body, wedge pillows can help to alleviate symptoms for a variety of medical conditions. Many people who suffer from the following conditions have used wedge pillows with good results:

  • acid reflux
  • hiatal hernia
  • gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – The Mayo Clinic reports that using a wedge pillow to elevate your body 6 to 9 inches from the waist up while sleeping can help reduce the frequency of heartburn.
  • glaucoma – A study was done showing that sleeping on a wedge pillow that raised a person’s head 20 degrees decreased nocturnal intraocular pressure (IOP) compared with lying flat in people with and without glaucoma. Having a reduced IOP might help control or reduce the risk of glaucoma.
  • sinus congestion – By elevating your head and upper body with a wedge pillow you can let gravity work for you by relieving pressure on your sinuses and allowing them to drain. This is true if you are battling cold or flu symptoms or any other sinus-related problem.
  • surgery recovery – If you or a loved one is recovering from a surgery that requires long periods of rest and lying down a wedge pillow is an excellent option.

There are even specialty wedge pillows that are used for leg support.

Can Side Sleepers Use Wedge Pillows?

What can you do if you are a side sleeper and need to sleep with your head elevated? Can you use a wedge pillow? If you look at most wedge pillows you might not think that that it is possible to use a wedge pillow without contorting and hurting your back. While that is a valid point, you should know that they make wedge pillows that are specifically for side sleepers.

These pillows are usually longer and many will also be contoured to specifically be more comfortable for side sleepers.

Here is a great example of a highly rated wedge pillow that is made specifically for side sleepers.

Avana Contoured Bed Wedge 24" Support Pillow with Gel-Infused Memory Foam and Cooling Tencel Cover
  • Designed For Side Sleepers - Contoured and ergonomically designed bed wedge pillow with Tencel Lyocell topped cover for relief of acid reflux, heart burn, GERD and snoring
  • Cooling Tencel Cover And Foam - Stunningly soft and smooth Tencel Lyocell is a sustainable fiber derived from eucalyptus and birch. Known to be 70% more absorbent than cotton, softer than silk, and cooler than linen, Lyocell is ideal for sensitive skin and temperature-sensitive sleepers
  • Comfort With Gel-INFUSED COOLING MEMORY FOAM - Base of polyurethane foam with high density gel-infused cooling memory foam on top provides the perfect combination of comfort and support
  • Machine washable - Breathable Tencel Lyocell topped cover is both removable and Machine washable. Machine wash on cold, tumble dry on low/delicate. Flip cover inside out then flip back over the foam to help re-dress the product
  • Manufacturer guarantee - Made in the USA with domestic and imported sewn textiles. DIMENSIONS: 35L x 24W x 8H

Last update on 2026-04-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Finally, here are some of the top-selling wedge pillows on Amazon:

Bestseller No. 1
Bedluxe Wedge Pillow Headboard, 3PCS Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillows Set for After Surgery, Adjustable Pillow Wedge for Acid Reflux&Back Pain Relief, Sleeping, Back Pillow for Bed Sitting Up, White/Grey
  • Adjustable 10-in-1 Design: Bedluxe's bed wedge pillow set offers a dynamic 10-in-1 adjustable design. Its ergonomic design supports various uses – from elevated back support for sleeping, reading or working, to a gentle slope for sleep, easing snoring, post-surgery discomfort, acid reflux, and improving blood circulation as a leg elevation pillow.
  • Enhanced Health Support: Designed for improved blood flow, breathing, and reduced snoring, the ergonomic wedge pillow system aid recovery post-surgery, alleviate knee, back and leg pain.
  • Premium Memory Foam: Our dual-layer design combines breathable memory foam atop a supportive base, ensuring a customized, pressure-relieving sleep that outperforms other wedges. The post-surgery wedge pillows conform to your body's curves, providing superior comfort and pressure relief, while maintaining its shape and support over time.
  • Easy Care and Portability: Benefit from a foldable design (including connected cushions that flip compactly) for hassle-free storage and travel, along with a machine-washable cover that maintains its softness and aesthetics.
  • Multi-Functional Design: Elevate sleep with a 3-piece system: Independent head/neck bolster + Connected base cushions (2 triangle support cushions). The innovative linked design allows seamless flipping between shapes—use the triangle pad for lumbar/knee support or flip it into a half-moon bolster for ankle/elevation—enabling customized setups without shifting.
Bestseller No. 2
Kolbs Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleep Apnea, FSA Eligible Acid Reflux, and Back Pain Relief, with Chic Jacquard Cover - Headboard Wedges for Sleeping (Standard Width 7.5" Height)
  • FSA Eligible. Experience unparalleled comfort with our sleep apnea pillow, designed to elevate your upper body and improve breathing, making it an essential addition to your sleep apnea devices collection. Kolbs wedge pillow for acid reflux relief.
  • Perfect headboard wedge pillow for sitting up in bed. Use it as a supportive headboard wedge while reading, watching TV, or working on your laptop in bed. The firm yet comfortable incline helps you sit upright without straining your neck or back.
  • Luxurious and stylish jacquard pillow case Hey it’s your bedroom, not a hospital room, give it some style. The Kolbs Wedge features a classic yet contemporary design. The removable jacquard pillow case protects the incline pillow from stains while promoting a comfortable night’s sleep. Cover is machine washable and can be removed from the wedge cushion core.
  • The upper layer of the triangle pillow bed wedge features plush memory foam for a comfortable and relaxing night's sleep. A high density core layer supports the memory foam top to ensure just the right firmness and proper support.
  • A good day starts with a great night’s sleep. Back pain, knee pain, restless leg syndrome, post surgery, and other medical conditions can often rob you of the sleep your body needs. The Kolbs wedge pillow offers optimal positioning for a comfortable and relaxing slumber. Use this triangle wedge to build your Kolbs wedge pillow set for after surgery.
Bestseller No. 3
COLDHUNTER Wedge Pillow for Sleeping, 7.5" Bed Wedge After Surgery, Back Pain Relief, Memory Foam Pillow Triangle Incline Wedge for Back Support, Leg Elevation
  • Optimized Nighttime Incline: Our wedge pillow is engineered with a scientific angle to keep your upper body comfortably elevated. This posture uses natural gravity to support digestive comfort and promotes clearer, more effortless breathing by keeping your airways optimally positioned, far outperforming standard flat pillows
  • Ergonomic Alignment & Pressure Relief: This bed wedge pillow perfect for adults of all ages, this pillow is designed to support the head, neck, and shoulders. The precision-cut slope helps maintain a neutral spinal position, offering relief for those who experience tension or discomfort from sleeping too flat, making it the perfect restorative rest solution
  • Dual-Layer Premium Foam: COLDHUNTER wedge pillow features a 1.2-inch layer of breathable memory foam atop a high-resilience, supportive base. This hybrid construction ensures the pillow maintains its structural integrity all night long, providing firm, contouring support that won't flatten over time
  • Skin-Friendly & Breathable Fabric: The cover features specialized high-airflow mesh side panels that facilitate constant ventilation. This breathable design helps dissipate body heat, ensuring a cool, refreshing surface and preventing that "stuffy" feeling throughout the night
  • Versatile Bed & Sofa Companion: The pillow wedge transform your bed into a cozy lounge. The non-slip bottom keeps the pillow securely in place while reading, working on a laptop, meditating, relaxing, or watching TV. Features two side pockets for quick access to your phone, remote, or glasses, and a sturdy carry handle for easy transport during travel or on the go
Bestseller No. 4
WGAKCED 3Pcs Wedge Pillow Set for After Surgery,Acid Reflux Relief, Adjustable Bed Wedge Pillows for Sleeping,Anti Snore, Memory Foam Triangle Pillow for Back&Neck&Shoulder Pain Relief, White&Grey
  • Health Benefits: The WGAKCED wedge pillows help you recover from surgery and relieve acid reflux. The bed wedge pillow significantly improves your sleep quality while effectively improving breathing and preventing snoring. It also can provide relief for back, neck, head, shoulder, leg, and knee pain
  • Adjustable Height Design: Our adjustable incline pillow engineered with 3 modular components: 1 head pillow and 2 adjustable base pillow (5.5inch+6.5inch ). Which allows you to adjust the height from 12'' to 5.5''. Both wedge sides are equipped with Velcro straps, allowing you to adjust the height by separating or combining the components to meet your various needs
  • 10-in-1 Versatility: Our bed wedge pillow can be easily adjusted to your desired angle and height with Velcro straps, providing personalized solutions for sleep, work, or recovery. Beyond post-surgery support and sleep enhancement, this multi-position backrest wedge pillow is also an ideal companion for sitting, working on a laptop, gaming, meditating, reading, and more
  • High-quality Materials: The head pillow of our triangle pillow is made of memory foam, ensuring comfort and breathability, while the elevated base pillow is made of high-density foam, providing sturdy and durable support. The Velcro straps allow for adjustment and securing of the pillow's position, and the anti-slip bottom design ensures stability during use
  • Warm Tips: The pillowcase of our orthopedic bed wedge pillow is removable for easy cleaning, The side pockets of gerd pillow provide convenient storage for items like glasses, remote controls, or mobile phones. For optimal expansion, allow it to sit for 24-48 hours upon arrival, or use a low-temperature dryer to expedite the process
Bestseller No. 5
Bedluxe Wedge Pillow, 10 inch Bed Wedge Pillow for Headboard, Pillow Wedge for Acid Reflux Relief, Sleeping, Back Pain Relief, Snoring, Triangle Pillow Wedge, White/Grey
  • Versatile wedge pillow design provides superior comfort and support for sleeping, reading, sitting up in bed
  • Features cooling gel-infused memory foam top layer and high-density premium foam base for comfort and support
  • Breathable, removable and machine washable cover allows airflow and easy cleaning
  • Built-in pockets to store items; Portable handle for easy transport
  • Upgraded foam meets CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex standards for durability and safety
Bestseller No. 6
Ruqmuis Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux, Bed Wedge Pillow for Headboard 10", Pillow Wedge for Back Pain Relief, Post Surgery, Elevated Pillows for Sleeping, Snoring, Triangle Pillow with Cover, White
  • Elevated Support for Various Uses: Whether for head, foot, or leg elevation, our wedge pillow offers versatile support. Perfect for snoring, acid reflux, and general sleeping comfort, it's a multipurpose solution to enhance your sleep quality
  • SUPPORTIVE FOAM: Made of high-density foam that is soft yet supportive, the bed wedge conforms to the contours of your body for a good night's sleep. Whether you're reading, sleeping, or lounging, the wedge pillow provides optimal support. The high rebound properties allow the wedge to maintain its original shape, making it comfortable and durable
  • Versatile Design with Two Pockets: The wedge pillow for sleeping is designed with two special pockets and a handle for easy portability. The pockets are perfect for storing glasses, remote controls, or mobile phones, adding convenience to your sleep setup
  • Luxurious Jacquard Pillowcase: Featuring a classic yet stylish jacquard design, the removable pillowcase protects against stains and is machine washable, enhancing the overall cleanliness of your sleep environment
  • Multiple Size Options: Choose from our bed wedge pillows with heights of 7.5 inches, 10 inches, and 12 inches, catering to diverse preferences and sleep needs
Bestseller No. 7
DiffPacky Wedge Pillow, 8 inch Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleeping & Resting, Cooling Memory Foam Incline Pillow for Adults Seniors, Back Support and Leg Elevation, Ideal for Couch, Bedroom & Living Room
  • Sleeping Wedge Pillow for Adults: This bed wedge pillow comes in three sizes to accommodate various support needs, ensuring optimal comfort and support. Perfect for those who want to elevate their head, neck, back or legs! You can also flip the bed wedge vertically to read, listen to music, play games, watch videos, or just relax in the most comfortable position on your bed, couch, or floor.
  • Superior Ergonomic Support: Designed with upgraded ergonomics, the wedge pillow features 26D high-density foam base for adaptive support, topped with 40D slow-rebound memory foam that molds to your body’s pressure, perfectly conforming to the curves of your head, neck and spine for personalized, long-lasting support. Resistant to sagging or deformation, it maintains its shape and performance over time, ensuring restful comfort for you and your family.
  • Breathable & Comfortable: The wedge pillowcase is crafted from ice silk knit fabric(PES, Bamboo as shell/backing fabric), offering a silky-soft touch and exceptional breathability. The unique ice silk material provides a refreshing coolness, keeps skin dry, minimizing discomfort from sweat buildup for a more comfortable sleep environment. Its ultra-soft texture is gentle on sensitive skin, making it ideal for those with sensitivities.
  • Eco-Friendly & Certified Safety: Certified by CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Standard 100, our wedge pillow adheres to strict quality benchmarks, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Refined stitching and a sleek design, wear-resistant, durable for long-term use.(After receiving your wedge pillow, please allow 24-48 hours for full expansion and ventilation. This helps dissipate any new product odor and ensures optimal comfort.)
  • Practical Design: The recline pillow is equipped with a pocket on each side, which can store small items such as phones, glasses and remote controls; the handheld design makes it easy to pick up and move around at any time in home, office, travel and other scenarios; the non-slip fabric on the bottom ensures stability in use and provides a quiet sleeping environment. The pillowcase is removable and machine washable with a quality zipper at the bottom for convenience and durability.
Bestseller No. 8
Yojoker Wedge Pillow for Sleeping - 12 Inch Bed Wedge for Headboard Triangle Pillow, Memory Foam Wedges for Acid Reflux, GERD, Snoring, Post Surgery Back Pain Relief, Leg Elevation, Washable Cover
  • ERGONOMIC INCLINE SUPPORT: This 30° angled pillows supports elevated sleeping comfort. Doubles as a backrest for sitting up in bed, knee elevation aid, or wedge for shoulder or heart support gifts for post-surgery comfort, recommended by cancer care
  • DUAL-FOAM COMFORT SYSTEM: High-density and memory foam layers support lumpectomy recovery, knee replacement, function as a gaming support, or corner bedrest cushion for men. Also works as a husband or part of a leg pillow set designed for therapy wedge
  • BREATHABLE, REMOVABLE CASE: Soft, washable airflow cover offers cooling comfort. Great as an arm slot cushion, lounger support, or boyfriend rest aid. Pairs with orthopedic supports, lumbar and sofa back cushions, and nursing backrests for daily relief
  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL TRIANGLE SHAPE: Flip or layer this sit up pillow for use as a bedrest cushion with arms, corner back support, or wedge for headboard gap. Great for reading, bed chairs for sitting up, and nursing backrest for recovery or upright support
  • CONVENIENT FEATURES: Designed with a non-slip base and side storage pocket, it functions as a leg bolster, anti-snore aid, or mattress wedge riser. Supports use with physical therapy wedges, comfort accessories, and pillows for elevated back support
Bestseller No. 9
Cozymaker 7.5" Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleeping After Surgery, Back Support, Leg Elevation, Gerd Acid Reflux, Neck Pain, Snoring, Cooling Memory Foam Triangle Incline Wedge, Removable Washable Cover
  • 【CERTIFIED BY AUTHORITIES】: Cozymaker Wedge Pillow is certified by CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex Standard 100, proving the quality of the product is guaranteed. Very comfortable bed wedge pillow for you and your family to get a good night's sleep!
  • 【UPGRADED ERGONOMIC DESIGN】: Cozymaker wedge pillow combined with upgraded ergonomic design, using 1.2-inch aviation-grade memory foam top and 6.3-inch high-density grade foam core made of the pillow's overall softness and height are very moderate, can relieve pressure on the whole body, can ensure better comfort and suitable support, so that you and your family in the use of it long sleep Not tired.
  • 【APPLICABLE PEOPLE & MULTI-PURPOSE】:Cozymaker Sleep Wedge Pillow is perfect for head/back/knee/leg/foot elevation! Ideal for snoring, after-surgery, GERD, heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, migraines, congestion, swollen legs or neck & back pain, and other, the Cozymaker Wedge Pillow helps these once and for all. Flip the sleep wedge pillow vertically to read, listen to music, watch videos, play games in a comfortable seated position on the bed, couch or floor, or even take these cushions outside to relax. So it is also suitable for many scenarios in which you can make your life more comfortable and better.
  • 【SOFT & SKIN-FRIENDLY COVER】:Cozymaker wedge pillow surface is made of soft and skin-friendly fabric, which can quickly absorb body heat and immediately reduce skin temperature by 2 to 5°C. The 3D breathable mesh fabric on the side of allows heat to escape and fresh air to circulate in. So you can enjoy a cool, dry and comfortable sleep without feeling sweaty; it also features 2 special pockets on each side with different opening directions to easily fit items such as glasses, remote controls or cell phones. The bottom and back feature non-slip spots to make you sleep more comfortably and securely. Its cover is removable and washable, its insert (memory foam + foam) is not washable.
  • 【 CUSTOMER SERVICE & IMPORTANT NOTE】: We offer 30 days return/exchange service for 100% satisfaction, contact our customer service through Amazon when needed. If you encounter a small probability event and receive a defective wedge pillow, contact us promptly, we are willing to send you a new one for free without sending the old one back. Note: We use in the product packaging in line with international standards compression ratio of it compression, open the box in the air exposure for 48 hours the product can be restored intact, there will not be a long time still can not be restored, if you unpacked feel the product did not recover, be sure to wait for it 48 hours, it will surprise you.
Bestseller No. 10
Vimoli Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleeping & Resting, 8 inch Incline Pillow Wedge for Adults Seniors, Back Support and Leg Elevation, Cooling Memory Foam Top, Ideal for Couch, Bedroom & Living Room
  • Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleeping: This wedge pillow is especially suitable for those who want to elevate their head, neck, back, or legs! The ideal wedge pillow allows you to read, watch TV, or relax in the most comfortable position while sitting up in bed. Featuring a stylish jacquard design, it blends seamlessly into your room, creating a warm, cozy & tasteful living atmosphere.
  • Dual-Layer Premium Comfort Foam: The top layer uses 40D slow-rebound memory foam that precisely conforms to your body's pressure distribution, ensuring just the right firmness and support. The 26D high-density premium foam base provides stable support and durability, resisting deformation and damage. It maintains its shape and performance well even with long-term use, offering extra comfort and support for adults, pregnant women, office workers and seniors.
  • Breathable & Washable Pillowcase: The wedge pillow cover is made of ice silk knitted fabric, offering excellent breathability. The unique ice silk material provides a cooling sensation, keeping you fresh and ensuring a more comfortable sleep experience. The ultra-soft texture is gentle on sensitive skin, making it ideal for sensitive individuals. With a high-quality zipper design, the cover can be easily removed and machine-washed, maintaining hygiene and cleanliness.
  • Suitable for Various Scenarios: The portable design makes it easy to pick up and move around for use at home, in the office, and other settings. Both sides of the incline pillow are equipped with pockets to store small items like phones and remote controls. The non-slip fabric on the bottom ensures stability during use and provides a quiet sleep environment. It's not only a great companion for the bed but also suitable for sofas, floors, or recliners.
  • A Stylish and Thoughtful Gift: Our wedge pillow is certified by CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Standard 100, meeting strict quality standards, making it a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Three sizes are available to meet different support needs. We recommend choosing the appropriate size and height based on your body type and sleep habits. (After receiving the wedge pillow, please allow 24-48 hours for full expansion and ventilation, which helps ensure optimal comfort.)

Last update on 2026-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API