The best mattress for a side sleeper in Australia needs to walk a fine line between soft cushioning and firm support. You're looking for something that cradles your hips and shoulders while keeping your spine straight. Generally, a medium to medium-firm mattress, especially a well-made hybrid or memory foam model, gets this balance just right.
Why Side Sleepers Have Unique Mattress Needs
Sleeping on your side is easily the most popular position, but it creates a real challenge for your mattress. All your weight gets concentrated on two key areas: your shoulders and your hips. If your mattress is too hard, it feels like sleeping on the floor—you'll wake up with sore spots and that dreaded pins-and-needles feeling.
Think of your spine as a perfectly straight line when you're standing. The whole point of a good mattress is to maintain that neutral line all night long. For a side sleeper, this means the mattress has to be soft enough to let your shoulder and hip sink in just the right amount. At the same time, it needs to be firm enough to hold up your waist, preventing your spine from sagging into an unhealthy curve.
A generic, overly firm mattress just doesn't work. It leaves a gap under your waist and forces your spine out of alignment, which is a surefire recipe for a bad back.
The Two Keys to a Great Night's Sleep
When you're searching for the best mattress for side sleepers in Australia, it all boils down to two things that work hand-in-hand:
- Pressure Relief: This is all about how well the mattress contours to your body, spreading your weight out instead of letting it concentrate in one spot. For side sleepers, it's non-negotiable. You need that cushioning for your hips and shoulders to avoid pain and keep your blood flowing properly.
- Spinal Alignment: A mattress with the right support will maintain your spine's natural curve. It stops your midsection from sinking too far or being pushed up too high—both common culprits behind lower back pain.
A great mattress is like a custom-built cradle. It moulds perfectly to your unique shape while providing a solid, stable foundation underneath. It's not about choosing 'soft' or 'hard'; it's about finding that sweet spot that supports you just right.
Premium Comfort, Without the Hefty Price Tag
It wasn't long ago that mattresses with this kind of advanced support were only found at high-end retailers like Snooze or Nick Scali, often with a shocking price tag. At DLB Furniture, we believe everyone deserves a great night's sleep. We've sourced a collection that gives you that luxurious feel and targeted support without the premium cost, making better sleep a reality for Australian families.
The truth is, more and more people are realising the importance of a quality mattress. As Australia's population gets older and back problems become more common, the demand for well-designed, therapeutic mattresses has soared. You can learn more about these trends in the Australian mattress market to see why investing in quality is more important than ever.
Instead of taking a chance online, why not feel the difference for yourself? Come and visit our Bankstown showroom to lie down on a few different models. Our friendly team can walk you through the options, helping you find the perfect fit for your sleep style. We offer convenient delivery across Greater Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane.
Comparing Mattress Types for Australian Side Sleepers
Stepping into the world of mattresses can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you're a side sleeper. Your needs are specific. The good news is, the choice usually boils down to a few key players that are perfectly suited to the job. For Aussies, the main contenders are memory foam, latex, and hybrid models, and each brings something different to the bedroom.
The goal is simple: find a mattress that perfectly cushions your shoulders and hips—the bits that dig in the most—without letting your spine dip into an unhealthy curve. Think of it as a custom support system that moulds to your body. This kind of tech used to be the domain of high-end retailers like Amart or Snooze, but now, that incredible comfort is well within reach, delivering a luxury look with affordable pricing.
The infographic below really nails the three most important things a side sleeper’s mattress has to get right.
As you can see, it's all about targeted support for those pressure points. Get that right, and you'll maintain a natural spinal alignment and finally experience what true contoured comfort feels like.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam is famous for one thing: its signature "hug." This material, made from viscoelastic polyurethane, cleverly uses your own body heat and pressure to soften and mould to your unique shape. The result is an incredible level of pressure relief, which is a game-changer for side sleepers tired of waking up with sore shoulders and hips.
The foam lets these high-pressure areas sink in just enough, spreading your weight evenly across the mattress and getting rid of those painful pinch points. This deep contouring also works wonders for your back by filling in the gap under your waist to keep your spine straight.
The Bottom Line: Memory foam is the master of pressure relief, contouring precisely to your body. This makes it an amazing choice for side sleepers who need serious cushioning for their shoulders and hips to keep the spine happy.
And don't worry about memory foam’s old reputation for sleeping hot. Modern mattresses have sorted that out. We use advanced materials like graphene-infused foam, which actively pulls heat away from your body. It’s a brilliant feature that ensures you stay cool and comfortable, even on those sticky Sydney nights.
Latex Mattresses
If you prefer a bit more bounce, a latex mattress might be for you. Often made from the sap of rubber trees, latex offers a completely different feel. Instead of that slow, sinking sensation you get with memory foam, latex gives you a more responsive, almost buoyant, support. It still contours to your body, but it springs back into shape much faster.
For side sleepers, this means you get fantastic pressure relief without ever feeling "stuck." It’s also naturally hypoallergenic and incredibly durable, making it a smart long-term investment. Plus, its open-cell structure lets air flow freely, helping you sleep cooler. This blend of gentle cushioning and responsive lift is perfect for anyone who tends to shift around at night but still spends most of their time on their side.
Hybrid Mattresses
Why settle for one when you can have the best of both worlds? That's the idea behind a hybrid mattress. These models combine a sturdy innerspring coil system at the base with plush comfort layers of memory foam, latex, or both on top. This smart construction delivers a beautifully balanced sleep experience that heaps of Australian side sleepers absolutely love.
The pocket spring core provides robust, targeted support that keeps your spine perfectly aligned, while the foam layers above deliver that all-important contouring for your joints. The really high-quality hybrids, like the ones in our collection, often feature multi-zoned pocket spring systems. This is clever engineering where the coils are firmer under your hips (where you need more support) and softer around your shoulders for gentle cushioning. It's the kind of sophisticated design you might see at stores like Focus on Furniture, but we bring it to you with a focus on incredible value.
Making The Right Choice For You
The Aussie mattress market has really embraced these advanced materials. Foam mattresses, particularly memory and gel-infused foams, have become a go-to for side sleepers thanks to their contouring magic. At the same time, hybrids are quickly gaining ground, growing at a rate of 4.24% CAGR through 2030 by offering that perfect blend of support and comfort. You can dive deeper into these market trends on Grand View Research.
This shift shows that we’re all looking for more than just a soft place to land. We want smart solutions that actively support our health while we sleep.
To help you get a clearer picture of how these materials stack up, we've put together a quick comparison table.
Mattress Type Comparison for Side Sleepers
| Mattress Type | Pressure Relief | Spinal Alignment Support | Best For... | Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Foam | Excellent | Very Good | Side sleepers who want deep contouring and a 'hugging' feel to relieve sharp pressure points. | Can feel 'stuck' for some; look for cooling infusions. |
| Latex | Good | Good | Those who prefer a more responsive, 'on-the-mattress' feel with natural cooling and hypoallergenic properties. | Bouncier feel isn't for everyone. |
| Hybrid | Very Good | Excellent | Anyone seeking a balance of contouring foam and the sturdy, breathable support of innersprings. | Can be heavier and often priced higher. |
Of course, the best way to really know what works for you is to test it out in person. We'd love for you to visit our Bankstown showroom to lie down and feel the difference for yourself. Our expert team is always on hand to help you compare models and find the perfect match for your body and budget.
And with easy delivery available across Greater Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane, a truly luxurious night's sleep is closer than you think.
How to Choose Your Ideal Firmness Level
When it comes to finding the best mattress for a side sleeper in Australia, one thing matters more than anything else: firmness. But here's the thing – it's incredibly personal. Think of it like a good pair of running shoes; what's a perfect fit for one person can be a nightmare for another. The real goal is to find that 'just right' sweet spot where your body feels completely supported and cradled all night long.
Most mattresses are rated on a scale from soft to firm, but for side sleepers, the magic usually happens somewhere in the middle. If you go too soft, your hips will sink down way too far, throwing your spine out of alignment like a sagging hammock. Go too firm, and the mattress will push aggressively against your shoulder and hip, creating nasty pressure points and leaving your waist with zero support.
Why Your Body Weight Matters Most
The biggest factor in figuring out your ideal firmness is your body weight. It directly affects how much you'll sink into the mattress, which in turn determines whether your spine stays straight or gets bent out of shape. Nailing this is the key to waking up refreshed instead of sore.
-
Lighter Individuals (Under 60kg): If you're on the lighter side, you won't compress a mattress as much. A medium-soft to medium feel is often perfect, giving you enough contouring to cushion your joints without feeling like you're sleeping on a board. A firm mattress will likely feel way too hard.
-
Average Weight Individuals (60kg - 100kg): This is where most people fall, and the medium to medium-firm range is usually the sweet spot. It provides that beautiful balance between plush, pressure-relieving comfort and solid, unwavering support to keep your spine perfectly aligned.
-
Heavier Individuals (Over 100kg): For those with a heavier build, more support is essential to stop the mattress from bottoming out, especially around the hips. A medium-firm to firm option is typically the way to go, ensuring you sleep on top of the mattress, not in it.
Getting the firmness right for your body weight is the single best thing you can do to prevent those classic aches and pains that plague so many side sleepers. It ensures the mattress is working with your body, not against it.
The Unbeatable Value of an In-Store Test
While these guidelines are a fantastic starting point, nothing beats the real thing. You can read all the reviews in the world, but you'll only know for sure by trying a mattress in person. It completely takes the guesswork out of the equation.
This is why a visit to our Bankstown showroom is such a game-changer. It’s an experience you just can't replicate online. When you come in, you can actually lie down in your favourite side-sleeping position and feel the difference. We always recommend spending at least 10-15 minutes on any mattress you're seriously considering. Close your eyes, relax, and really tune in to how your body feels. Is your shoulder comfortable? Do your hips feel cushioned? Our team is on hand to offer genuine, personalised advice that no online quiz can match.
For a deeper dive, check out our guide on choosing the right mattress firmness for better sleep.
Coming in-store also lets you see firsthand how our mattresses offer that premium, luxurious feel you’d find at places like Koala Living or Nick Scali, but without the eye-watering price tag. You can then pair your perfect mattress with our stylish and affordable bed frames—from plush velvet upholstery to classic Tasmanian oak. While you're here, why not check out the matching modern wardrobes and TV units Bankstown locals absolutely love?
We make it easy, with convenient delivery across Greater Sydney and to other major cities like Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane.
What to Look for Beyond the Basics: Advanced Mattress Features
Okay, so you've nailed down the right material and you have a good idea of the firmness level you need. Now we get to the really good stuff—the details that take a mattress from just 'good' to truly life-changing. These advanced features are where modern sleep science really flexes its muscles, offering targeted solutions that can make a world of difference to your sleep quality.
For side sleepers, these aren't just fancy extras. They are critical for getting that perfect spinal alignment and deep, restorative rest we all crave. You'll often see high-end brands like Nick Scali and Snooze build their entire reputation on this kind of tech, but you don't need to spend a fortune to get it. We've made sure to bake these premium features into our own collection, so you can get that luxury feel at a price that actually makes sense.
Zoned Support Systems
Imagine a mattress that’s smart enough to know where your body needs a bit of a lift and where it needs to give way. That's the brilliance behind a zoned support system, and for a side sleeper, it’s an absolute game-changer.
Think about it: your body isn't one solid block, so why should your mattress be? Zoned systems are engineered with firmer support right in the middle third, directly under your hips and lower back. This is crucial because it stops your heaviest part from dipping too low—the number one culprit behind a misaligned spine for side sleepers. At the same time, the zones at the top and bottom are softer, letting your shoulders and legs sink in just enough to relieve pressure.
It’s a clever, targeted approach that delivers comfort exactly where your body is asking for it.
Robust Edge Support
Ever sat on the side of your bed to tie your shoes and felt like you were about to be launched onto the floor? That’s the classic sign of weak edge support. Good edge support simply means the perimeter of the mattress is reinforced, creating a solid, stable surface right to the very edge.
This feature is more important than you might think:
- It gives you more room to sleep. Strong edges maximise the usable surface area, which is a lifesaver if you share your bed. No more feeling like you're about to roll off if you drift too close to the side.
- It makes the mattress last longer. By preventing the sides from sagging and collapsing over time, it seriously extends the lifespan of your investment.
- Getting in and out of bed is easier. A firm edge provides a stable base to push off from, which is a big help for anyone with mobility issues.
Motion Isolation
If you share your bed with a partner, you know the struggle. One person's restless night can easily become everyone's restless night. Motion isolation is the magic feature that stops movement on one side of the bed from creating a tsunami on the other.
Mattresses with top-notch motion isolation, especially those with pocketed spring coils or dense memory foam, are designed to absorb movement right where it happens. This means when your partner tosses and turns or gets up for a midnight snack, you're far less likely to be disturbed. It’s an absolute must-have for light sleepers and the secret ingredient for a peaceful night together.
Advanced Cooling Technologies
One of the oldest complaints about foam mattresses was that they slept hot. Thankfully, technology has come a long way, and those sweaty nights are a thing of the past—which is great news for those of us enduring hot Aussie summers.
The key to sleeping cool isn't just the material itself, but the technology infused within it. Features like graphene infusions actively work to regulate your temperature, ensuring you get the pressure relief of foam without the heat.
Our premium mattresses, for instance, feature graphene-infused memory foam. Graphene is a pretty incredible material known for its ability to conduct heat. It actively pulls warmth away from your body and disperses it throughout the mattress, keeping your sleep surface cool and comfortable all night long. You get all the deep, body-hugging comfort of foam, without ever feeling like you’re overheating.
To build out your perfect bedroom sanctuary, think about pairing one of our advanced mattresses with a stylish and affordable bed frame. For the complete package, check out our collection of modern wardrobes, designed to bring both luxury and smart storage to your space. You can see it all for yourself at our Bankstown showroom and we can organise easy delivery right across Greater Sydney.
Choosing Your Mattress Size and Arranging Delivery
You’ve done the hard part—researching materials and firmness levels. Now for the final, practical steps: picking the right size and getting it home. It might seem like a simple choice, but getting the size right is crucial for your long-term comfort. After all, you want your new bed to be a sanctuary, not an obstacle course in your bedroom.
It’s no secret that the mattress market in Australia is booming. With more homes being built and a growing appreciation for just how important sleep is for our health, people are putting more thought into their mattresses. This just underscores how important it is to make a smart choice from the get-go.
Australian Mattress Sizes Explained
Getting the dimensions spot-on means avoiding a cramped bedroom or, worse, a bed that feels way too small. Here are the standard Aussie sizes you'll come across, all great options for side sleepers who need a bit of room to find that perfect spot.
- Double (138cm x 188cm): A fantastic choice for solo sleepers, teenagers, or the guest room. It gives you more space than a single without completely taking over a smaller room. You can learn more in our guide to a double mattress in a box.
- Queen (153cm x 203cm): This is Australia's favourite for a reason. A Queen is just right for most couples or for single sleepers who love to stretch out. It offers plenty of room for two adults without needing a huge master bedroom.
- King (183cm x 203cm): If you've got the space, a King bed is pure luxury. It's perfect for couples who like their own sleeping zone or for families whose little ones love to pile in for a Saturday morning snuggle.
Pro Tip: Grab a tape measure before you commit. Measure your bedroom and your current bed frame (if you're keeping it). You’ll want to leave at least 75cm of walking space around the bed to keep the room feeling open and to make sure you can still get to your wardrobe without sidestepping.
Our Personalised Delivery Service
Once you've settled on the perfect size, the next puzzle piece is delivery. Mattresses are big, bulky items, so it’s worth looking into cheap big parcel delivery in Australia to get a sense of the logistics. This is where a local service like ours really makes a difference.
We're not some faceless national chain. Based right here in Bankstown, we offer a hands-on, personal delivery service across Greater Sydney. Our own team will make sure your new mattress—and maybe even one of our affordable bed frames—arrives safely and when you expect it.
And we don't just stop at Sydney. We also make regular trips to customers in Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane. It's our way of making sure everyone can get access to our mix of great style and fair prices. Plus, with easy payment options like AfterPay and ZipPay, that fantastic night's sleep you've been dreaming of is more achievable than ever.
Looking After Your New Mattress: Final Checks and Our Promise to You
Choosing the right mattress is a big decision, and it’s one that directly impacts your quality of life. Once you’ve made that choice, a few simple steps can protect your investment and ensure you enjoy years of incredible sleep. Think of it as safeguarding your well-being.
A well-made mattress is designed for the long haul, but how you care for it makes all the difference. Regular, simple maintenance stops premature wear and tear in its tracks, preserving those crucial support and comfort layers that side sleepers rely on.
Simple Steps for a Long-Lasting Mattress
It doesn’t take much to dramatically extend the life of your mattress. The single most effective thing you can do is use a waterproof cover. It’s your first line of defence against spills, stains, and allergens that can ruin your mattress over time. We go into more detail on why this is an absolute must-have in our guide on whether you should buy a mattress protector.
Another easy win is to rotate your mattress head-to-toe every three to six months. This simple habit helps it wear evenly and prevents those annoying dips and sags from developing in your favourite sleeping spot. For an extra touch of comfort, considering the benefits of natural linen for bedding can also create a healthier, more luxurious sleep environment.
Our Commitment: Quality You Can Feel
We’re confident in the craftsmanship of our mattresses, and we back that up with a comprehensive warranty. This isn't just a document; it's our promise that you're getting quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with big names like Amart or Nick Scali, but without the hefty price tag. Our warranty covers manufacturing defects, so you can rest easy knowing your investment is protected.
We know the best way to find your perfect mattress is to actually sleep on it. That's why our sleep trial lets you properly test it out at home, making sure it’s the right match for your body and your side-sleeping style.
Of course, sometimes you just need to try before you buy. We always welcome you to visit our Bankstown showroom to feel the difference for yourself. Come in, lie down, and experience the pressure relief and support firsthand. Our team is there to help, and you can see how our mattresses look with our collections of affordable bed frames and modern wardrobes to complete your bedroom setup.
If you’re not in Sydney, don’t worry. Our online store is ready when you are, offering fast and reliable delivery to Greater Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane. A better night’s sleep is just a few clicks away.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Choosing the right mattress can feel like a huge decision, especially when you’re a side sleeper. We get it. Here are some straight answers to the questions we hear most often from our customers in Sydney and right across Australia.
What’s the Best Firmness for a Side Sleeper with Sore Hips?
If you're dealing with hip or shoulder pain, you’ll want to look at a medium to medium-firm mattress. This is really the sweet spot for most side sleepers.
Think of it like this: if your mattress is too soft, your hips will sink too far, throwing your spine out of alignment. But if it’s rock-hard, you’ll just create painful pressure points on those exact spots. You need something that gives a little to cradle your curves but has a solid core to keep you supported.
Honestly, the best way to know for sure is to try one out. That’s why we always suggest popping into our Bankstown showroom to lie down on a few different options. You'll know the right one when you feel it.
Don’t Foam Mattresses Sleep Hot, Especially in Australia?
That used to be a real problem with the old-school memory foams, but mattress tech has come a long way since then. The advanced foams we use today are specifically designed to keep you cool, even through a sweltering Aussie summer.
The trick is to look for materials with built-in cooling properties. Gel infusions are a great start, but for the ultimate in temperature regulation, our premium graphene-infused foam is a game-changer. It actively draws heat away from your body, so you get all the pressure-relieving benefits of foam without any of the overheating.
How Much Does My Bed Frame Really Matter?
A lot more than most people think! Your bed frame is the foundation for your mattress, and it’s absolutely crucial for both support and longevity. A solid base, whether it's a platform style or one with sturdy slats, ensures your mattress can do its job properly.
Putting a brand-new mattress on an old, sagging base is a recipe for disaster. It can ruin your mattress and might even void the warranty. We always recommend matching your new mattress with one of our high-quality, affordable bed frames. From plush velvet to classic Tasmanian oak, a good frame provides the support you need and pulls the whole look of your bedroom together.
Why Should I Visit Your Bankstown Showroom Instead of Just Buying Online?
Shopping online is easy, but nothing beats the real thing. When you come into our Bankstown showroom, you can actually lie down, feel the difference between materials, and get one-on-one advice from someone who knows their stuff. It takes all the guesswork out of the equation and helps you make a confident choice.
Plus, you can see how our mattresses look and feel with the rest of our collection. We've got plenty of luxury furniture Sydney locals love, from modern TV units to stylish wardrobes and a wide range of coffee tables Australia-wide. It’s the perfect way to plan your entire bedroom and living room setup and organise quick delivery anywhere in Greater Sydney.
At DLB Furniture, our goal is simple: to offer you incredible style and comfort without the eye-watering price tag. Take a look at our full range of mattresses and bedroom furniture online and start creating the sleep sanctuary you deserve.
