What is a Wedge Pillow and Who Should Get One?

What is a Wedge Pillow?

wedge pillow

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 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
  • 1 YEAR WARRANTY | Made in the USA with domestic and imported sewn textiles. For any issues regarding your order or item, please contact Avana customer service. Item is returnable within 30 days. DIMENSIONS: 35L x 24W x 8H

Last update on 2023-05-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

SaleBestseller No. 1
Kӧlbs Bed Wedge Pillow with Memory Foam Top | Stylish Chic Jacquard Cover | Wedge Pillow for Sleeping and Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and GERD Pillow – Snoring Pillow
  • SUPER COMFORTABLE BED WEDGE PILLOW, SNORING PILLOW: Available in 2 height options – 7.5 inch and 12 inch height. (24 x 24 x 7.5 or 25 x 25 x 12) This is the 7.5 inch option. Wedge Pillow
  • LUXURIOUS AND STYLISH JACQUARD PILLOW CASE: Hey it’s your bedroom, not a hospital room, give it some style. The Kӧlbs 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 triangle pillow core. Husband pillow for reading
  • MEMORY FOAM TOP LAYER: The upper layer of the pillow wedge features a 1.5” plush memory foam for a comfortable and relaxing night’s sleep. A high density medical grade foam wedge core supports the memory foam top to ensure just the right firmness and proper support.
  • IDEAL FOR GERD, HEARTBURN, ACID REFLUX AND OTHER MEDICAL CONDITIONS: Makes conditions more comfortable that often robs you of a good night’s sleep. Includes: snoring, neck and back pain and post-surgery ailments. The best wedge pillow for sleeping.
  • ELEVATED PILLOWS FOR SLEEPING: Ideal for head, foot or leg elevation. Great pillow for snoring. Sleep apnea pillow. Wedge pillow for sleeping comfort. 1 wedge pillow per pack.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Sleepnitez 8" Bed Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux, Luxurious 3.25" Memory Foam Top Layer, Wedge Pillow for Sleeping, Anti Snoring, GERD, After Surgery in a Tencel Bamboo Washable Cover
  • 3.25” OF SOFTER, GENTLER LUXURIOUS MEMORY FOAM - While other bed wedge pillows have only 1“of memory foam, we offer the ONLY wedge pillow with 3.25” of a soft, yet resilient memory foam layer on top. Why does this matter? While other wedge pillows for sleeping feel hard and uncomfortable, the depth of our memory foam allows the pillow to truly meld to your body, providing the support you need, and preventing sore shoulders, backs and necks in the morning.
  • FEEL BETTER, SLEEP BETTER – Do you suffer from heartburn, acid reflux, Gerd, Digestion issues, snoring, back or neck pain? Are you recovering from surgery or suffer from Sciatica, Post Nasal Drip, Hiatal Hernia, Coughing Respiratory Difficulty or experiencing pregnancy? Our bed wedge pillow can offer the support and comfort you need to get a good night’s sleep.
  • SUPPORT WHERE NEEDED – Other bed wedge pillows end suddenly with a noticeable drop to the bed, or they are hard and the thin end digs into your side or back. At Sleepnitez we are committed to fixing your problems without causing you new ones. The thin edge of our sleeping wedge is just 0.2" and super soft. This means it melts into the bed and provides support that prevents you waking up in the morning with a side or back ache.
  • AND IT'S SO MUCH MORE – Looking for a bed wedge pillow for sleeping? Or wedge pillows for after surgery? Our wedge pillow has to be the choice. It will successfully keep your upper body elevated, keep your spine properly aligned and REDUCE PRESSURE POINTS, provide STOMACH RELIEF, PROMOTE BLOOD CIRCULATION and ENHANCE BREATHING. The Tencel bamboo pillow cover is silky soft and improves air circulation to keep you cool.
  • GET THIS WEDGE PILLOW FOR SLEEPING SOUNDLY: Our memory foam wedge pillow comes with a 3-year warranty, which can be extended to a LIFETIME warranty upon registration. Details come with the wedge pillow. Our patented pillow wedge for sleeping is vacuum packed for easy shipping. We care about your comfort, so we also provide videos showing you how to use the wedge pillow. Be sure to watch them! They can make a huge difference to your comfort! Get our wedge pillow today for no more sleepless nights!
SaleBestseller No. 3
Healthex Bed Wedge Pillow Cooling Memory Foam Top – Elevated Support Cushion for Lower Back Pain, Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Allergies, Snoring – Ultra Soft Removable Cover
  • HEALTHEX BED WEDGE PILLOW – If you are dealing with troubled sleep, snoring or waking up with puffy eyes, switch to our well-crafted bed wedge pillow with advanced memory foam technology & ultra soft cover for comfortable good night’s sleep while also elevating your head – unlike other designs, there is no heating up
  • MEMORY FOAM – We know how annoying it could be to end up with a flat pillow just after a few days of use – that’s why we have designed our wedge-shaped pillow with a 1.5 inch soft breathable high-density memory foam that springs back to its shape after each use – hard enough to offer necessary inclination but soft enough to embrace body shape.
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN – Thoughtfully designed for your optimal comfort, our 8-inch (Size: 22 x 22 x 10 Inches) foam wedge for bed with a 30° desirable inclination enhances your sleep posture drastically, alleviating back & neck pain, acid reflux, sciatica pain, etc., makes breathing easier, and helps reduce snoring
  • COMFORTABLE & LONG LASTING – Wedge pillow’s thinnest edge does not feel like an uncomfortable bump near lower back which is a common problem with wedge pillows – moreover, the removable, machine washable cover can be cleaned & reused effortlessly!
  • MULTIFACETED DESIGN – Apart from treating sleep disorders or as an acid reflux pillow, this memory foam wedge pillow can be used to comfortably sit upright on the bed while watching TV, working on your laptop, reading a book, or as a leg wedge pillow for improved circulation.
SaleBestseller No. 4
Bed Wedge Pillow Cooling Memory Foam Top –8" 24" 24" Elevated Support Cushion, Wedge Pillows for Sleeping, Lower Back Pain, Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Allergies, Snoring, Legs –Removable Washable Cover
  • HEALTHEX BED WEDGE PILLOW – If you are dealing with troubled sleep, snoring or waking up with puffy eyes, switch to our well-crafted bed wedge pillow with advanced memory foam technology & ultra soft cover for comfortable good night’s sleep while also elevating your head – unlike other designs, there is no heating up
  • MEMORY FOAM – We know how annoying it could be to end up with a flat pillow just after a few days of use – that’s why we have designed our wedge-shaped pillow with a 1.5 inch soft breathable high-density memory foam that springs back to its shape after each use – hard enough to offer necessary inclination but soft enough to embrace body shape.
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN – Thoughtfully designed for your optimal comfort, our 8-inch (Size: 24 x 24 x 8 Inches) foam wedge for bed with a 30° desirable inclination enhances your sleep posture drastically, alleviating back & neck pain, acid reflux, sciatica pain, etc., makes breathing easier, and helps reduce snoring
  • COMFORTABLE & LONG LASTING – Wedge pillow’s thinnest edge does not feel like an uncomfortable bump near lower back which is a common problem with wedge pillows – moreover, the removable, machine washable cover can be cleaned & reused effortlessly!
  • MULTIFACETED DESIGN – Apart from treating sleep disorders or as an acid reflux pillow, this memory foam wedge pillow can be used to comfortably sit upright on the bed while watching TV, working on your laptop, reading a book, or as a leg wedge pillow for improved circulation.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Wedge Pillow for Sleeping, 12 Inch Height Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow for After Surgery, 30 Degree Triangle Wedge Pillow for Side Sleeping, Snoring -Removable Knitted Breathable Cover
  • 【💕30° ERGONOMIC DESIGN】Adopted a scientific and desirable 30° inclined design to provide moderate support with 12 inch height, the triangle pillow wedge can always follow body curve while keeping the spine and coccyx aligned, improving circulation. Have been tested by more than 500 volunteers, our bed wedge pillow can not only be used in daily sleeping positions such as side sleep, but also relieve most body pain and pressure after surgery such as neck, shoulders, legs pain etc.
  • 【💕25D+40D Memory Foam, Soft also Support】25D high-quality foam base, which achieves 50% support and 50% softness, increasing the durability of the wedge pillow while providing ample support. Upper layers are made of high resilience 40D slow-rebound memory foam, which can achieve 3-5 seconds of rebound according to temperature, so as to release body pressure easily .
  • 【💕Detachable and Washable Knitted Cover】The knitted cover of the pillow wedge featured with breathability, made of 100% microfiber and unique perforation technology, allowing to freely enjoy refreshing and cooling during sleeping; Unzip the zipper, feel free to toss this detachable cover into washing machine. (NOTE: The FOAM inside can NOT be machine washed)
  • 【💕Anti-slip Bottom, High-density Side Fluffy 】The bottom of the foam wedge pillow is made of environmentally friendly highly non-slip cloth, during the support process, durable and not easy to be smoothed. The side fluffy of the sleeping wedge pillow for adults is made of up to 75% gray nylon fluff, which can effectively prevent static electricity while creating a luxurious atmosphere.
  • 【💕Package Includes 1 Triangular Wedge Pillow】To keep the product intact, this wedge pillows for sitting in bed is packed in carton while 40% compression to achieve the best shipping. So once received this angled pillow wedge,please wait it usually 24-48 hours to return to its original shape. And don't worry, it's a normal use procedure.
Bestseller No. 6
Bed Wedge Pillow with Memory Foam Top for Sleeping, 8 Inch Elevated Support Triangle Pillow for Reading and Rest, Bed Pillow for Legs and Back Support with Washable Cover
  • Ergonomic Memory Foam Wedge Pillow: the multi-functional triangle wedge pillow can be placed lying down, to support your back or for use as a knee wedge pillow. If you struggle with posture, place it standing up for use as a back support wedge pillow.
  • Supportive Breathable Memory Foam: Constructed with high-density memory foam, the bed wedge is soft, yet supportive, contouring to the body to provide optimal support. The comfortable foam retains its original shape for extensive usability. It can also be used with your regular pillows.
  • Multi-Purpose: Rest up in comfort with the pillow as a body positioner, with many different ways of use. The wedge pillow keep you comfortable while reading, working on a laptop, or watching tv in bed. It's also ideal for elevating the legs for increased circulation and varicose vein relief.
  • Great for Sleeping: Our bed wedge pillow can provide a gradual or steep slope that allows your head to elevate to get just the right amount of pressure. perfect for those who sleep on their back or side, this pillow helps keep your spine aligned for a comfortable and undisturbed night's sleep.
  • Breathable & Washable Cover: In addition to its comfortable memory foam layer, the bed wedge pillow has a soft and breathable cover. Not only does it help it maintain a comfortable temperature, but it's also easily removable and machine washable.
SaleBestseller No. 7
Bed Wedge Pillow - Adjustable 9&12 Inch Folding Memory Foam Incline Cushion System for Legs and Back Support Pillow - Acid Reflux, Anti Snoring, Heartburn, Reading – Machine Washable
  • MULTI PURPOSE 7 IN 1 DESIGN: Our Foldable Memory Foam Wedge Pillow features a foldable design technology which can support usage for the head, back, or as the perfect leg wedge pillow. Measuring 22” wide and 12” deep, the wedge easily fits on any bed, providing additional comfort and support while sitting or sleeping. In order to provide you with effortless versatility, simply fold the wedge for a 9” deep sleep.
  • COMFORT FIRST: Everyone has a different neck, or back position preference while falling asleep. Our versatile bed wedge pillow can provide a 30° or 60° degree angle that supports a gradual, or steep slope which allows any head to get the right amount of pressure. An excellent choice for side sleepers.
  • MADE WITH YOUR HEALTH IN MIND: Laying down, sitting up, or sleeping with a wedge pillow can help increase blood flow, promote breathing, reduce snoring and heartburn. Can reduce the effects of knee pain, back pain, varicose veins, edema etc. The perfect wedge pillow for sleeping.
  • STORE AND CLEAN WITH EASE: You are going to love this wedge pillow so much you won’t be able to go anywhere without it. Use the carry handle for traveling the compact, folding sleep wedge. Easily removable, the zippered cover is made with a soft, breathable polyester material. Machine washable, the cover comes in a beautiful plush grey.
  • ODOR FREE: Most bed wedges or sleep wedges, usually have a strong smell of foam. With our extensive experience and knowledge in foam manufacturing our wedges are odor-free.
SaleBestseller No. 8
Lunix LX5 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set, Post Surgery Memory Foam for Back, Leg Pain Relief, Sitting Pillow, Comfortable and Adjustable Pillows Acid Reflux and GERD for Sleeping Navy for Kids
  • While other bed wedge pillows are too firm and uncomfortable, fail to relieve post-surgery pain or slide down making it impossible to fall asleep or relax in a pain-free position, the Lunix LX5 4pcs Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set is made of premium 45D memory foam to quickly conform to your body shape and height. The head pillow's unique Velcro strap prevents slipping and provides hours of comfort. Kids can enjoy it as well!
  • You deserve painless and relaxing days! If you want to recover quicker after shoulder, hip or, rotator cuff surgery, get rid of lower back pain, muscle spasms, or snoring, and reduce acid reflux or GERD, Lunix has designed the most effective orthopedic wedge pillows! No matter if you want to sleep, read or just watch TV more comfortably, you will feel the wonders of a natural upright spine alignment on your tight neck, lower back, or hips.
  • Our mission is to improve your health! The LX5 premium recliner wedge pillows have been tested post-surgery by over 500 volunteers to ensure a comfortable reclined position. Our thinned head pillow (2.9”) releases neck pressure and the higher knee rest allows for full-body relaxation. Forget about arthritis pain instantly: “These pillows are addicting!”
  • The perfect gift for a loved one! If you are looking for a great gift that has a life-improving factor, then you would love our memory foam sit-up pillow for bed. The 100% adjustable design is suitable for women & men of any height and the organic bamboo washable cover is very smooth on your skin. You can use it in bed, on the couch, and on the floor without sliding down. We include 2 vacuum bags to make storing hassle-free.
  • You deserve only the best quality! We are a family-owned business based in CA and we pride ourselves on providing only tested & premium products with one year warranty and amazing U.S.-based customer support for our community of hardworking Americans. We designed the bed back support with attention to detail to bring pain relief & relaxation into your daily life.
SaleBestseller No. 9
Adjustable Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Set, Reading Pillow & Back Support Wedge Pillow for Sleeping, Memory Foam Wedge for Lower Back, Knee and Leg Pain, Acid Reflux, Snoring, Post Surgery Recovery
  • FULL BODY SUPPORT. The Lenora wedge pillow set consists of 5 different components that can be used in a variety of positions. The pillows can be used under your head, lower back, or to elevate your legs, providing the ultimate in comfort and support. You can position yourself to relieve shoulder, lower back or leg pain after surgery. The wedge pillow system can also help alleviate acid reflux, GERD, or reduce snoring. It makes an ideal post-surgery recovery gift for your loved one!
  • IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH. The Lenora orthopedic bed wedge pillow set allows you to rest your head, shoulders, torso, or legs and knees in an elevated position that promotes more oxygen and healthy blood flow to your whole body, allowing the body to function properly and efficiently. Proper use can relieve pressure points in your most sensitive areas, and keep muscles and other tissues in optimal condition.
  • EASY TO ADJUST. Unlike most wedge pillows, which have only one or two fixed positions, the Lenora bed wedge set can be adjusted to any angle you need, so it’s easy to customize your level of comfort. The head pillow, lumbar support pillow, and leg support wedge can be positioned to any place you feel comfortable. The non-skid fabric on the bottom of each component keeps them from slipping and sliding out of place.
  • PREMIUM MATERIAL. Each memory foam wedge pillow set features high-density memory foam on top, and a firm foam base to provide good support and comfort. The cover is made of organic natural bamboo viscose fiber, which is very comfortable and breathable. The machine washable cover has a zipper so it can easily be removed and replaced after laundering.
  • ZERO-RISK PURCHASE. We're so confident that the Lenora wedge pillow set is the very best bed wedge pillow at any price, we guarantee your satisfaction. If you do not like the product, if it does not meet your expectations, or if you simply change your mind, just return it for a full refund.
SaleBestseller No. 10
InteVision Foam Bed Wedge Pillow (25 x 24 x 12 inches) and Headrest Pillow in One Package - Helps Relief from Acid Reflux, Post Surgery, Snoring - 2 inches Memory Foam Top
  • Two Layer Design plus an adjustable Cooling Gel memory foam headrest pillow in one package: This latest version is made of 2-INCH Cooling Gel memory foam layer on top of a firm base foam, also adding a height-adjustable Cooling Gel memory foam headrest to provide better support for your neck and head. The end result is the most comfortable wedge pillow system on the market. U.S. Patented
  • Designed to help patients with acid reflux, snoring, allergies, or any other condition which breathing may be impaired in supine position
  • It can also be used when you are recommeded by a health professional to sleep in an elevated position after surgery. It helps reduce back pain, providing a healthy, more comfortable night's sleep.
  • Comes with a machine-washable, high quality cover (Size: 25" x 24" x 12"). Note: based on the number of people who want to purchase extra pillowcases for this wedge pillow, we have released an optional 400 thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton pillowcase on Amazon (sold separately and available on Amazon).
  • Note: this wedge pillow is placed in a vacuum sealed package. It will regain its intended shape after opening the package. You can return the product in 30 days if it does not meet your expectaions (If you need help, please email us via your Amazon account and we will be happy to assist you for refund).

Last update on 2023-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API