Our number one choice is the Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow from Brentwood Home, a perfectly angled CertiPUR-US certified foam slab with a washable bamboo cover. Scroll down for the best wedge pillows currently on the market. Measuring 24 x 24 inches, the Zuma is comfortably large without taking up too much space on your bed. To accommodate all types of sleepers and uses, it comes in three heights: 7, 10, and 12 inches. Though this wedge pillow isn’t adjustable, we appreciate the different sizing options. You can use it for gentle elevation while sleeping or flip it to an upright position when you want to sit up and read or watch TV. It also works as a handy laptop stand or lower-body support when you want to elevate your legs or feet. This pillow is made of extra-firm foam. Though it’s not CertiPUR-US certified and may be too stiff for some people, the high-density material is designed to conform to the curves of your body and resist flattening over time. We also like that the zippered microfiber cover is removable and machine-washable. We also like that this wedge pillow has a removable, machine-washable cover for easy cleaning. At 22 inches wide and 12 inches high, it fits on any bed, no matter your preferred position. You can also fold it into a 9-inch height when you want a little less incline. This portable pillow is made of medium-firm, gel-infused memory foam to keep you cool while providing ample support in any position. The super-stretchy ribbed cover zips off and can be tossed in the washer for easy cleaning. Though it may not be as breathable as cotton and other natural textiles, the fabric is treated with antimicrobial protection to keep sweat-causing odors at bay. There’s also a handle on the side for effortless transport. This conveniently compact pillow is 14 x 12 x 4 inches and features a firm foam core with a unique curved edge. Though it might be too stiff for some, the shape, density, and subtle incline are thoughtfully designed to provide just the right amount of support while fitting comfortably under your belly. We also appreciate that the soft jersey-knit cover is removable and machine-washable. Featuring a firm foam base with a layer of gel-infused memory foam, this pillow promises ample support while keeping you at a comfy temperature as you doze. The velour cover is a soft blend of bamboo-derived rayon and polyester. Though the maker recommends spot cleaning, the cover is removable, so you might be able to wash it on a delicate cycle. Measuring 26 x 18 x 12 inches, the Danby is not too big but definitely not too small. You can place it behind your back while enjoying a page-turner or watching TV. Like other wedge pillows, it’s also great for propping up your legs, knees, and feet. This pillow measures 24 x 24 x 10 inches. According to the maker, the 10-inch height offers versatility and helps with various sleep issues, like snoring and heartburn. The machine-washable cover is an incredibly soft and stretchy rayon-poly blend. In the end, our only complaint about the Helix Wedge is that it’s kinda pricey. This pillow comes in two sizes, 20 x 15 x 8 inches or 36 x 18 x 12 inches, to accommodate different sleeping styles and uses. It doesn’t have a removable cover, but the insert itself is machine-washable. And while the price is pretty steep, you can count on quality with this brand. You’ll also find pillows made of regular polyurethane foam, as well as designs filled with down or down-alternative fibers. Consider the cover material, too. Breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo-derived rayon are ideal—even better if it’s washable.
Firmness
“Shoppers considering a wedge pillow should keep in mind how much elevation they are looking for to determine how firm of a pillow they need,” says Cushner. If you want a slightly steeper incline that doesn’t flatten during the night, go with a thicker option made of a firmer material like polyurethane foam or high-density memory foam. “For side sleepers, a contoured wedge pillow may be a better option because it can aid spine alignment,” Cushner adds. And if you want something a bit more plush for reading or just snuggling up, opt for a down or down-alternative fill.
Adjustability
If you’re not sure how much of an incline you want, an adjustable design might be your best bet. Some wedge pillows can be folded up and reconfigured into various shapes, elevations, and angles to accommodate different positions and needs.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance writer specializing in home goods, textiles, and lifestyle within the commerce space. To find the best picks for this article, she spoke with Keith Cushner, a product expert at SleepFoundation.org, compiling his insights into the best materials and various uses for wedge pillows. Next, she researched today’s top options, considering dozens of models from myriad brands and retailers. Ultimately, our final picks stand out in terms of versatility, maintenance requirements, and overall value. They can also be used to prop yourself up while reading or watching TV in bed. Regular bed pillows, on the other hand, are used primarily for sleeping. And since they’re rectangular and feature continuous thickness, they don’t provide the same incline as a wedge-shaped cushion. Theresa covers bedding, furniture, and cleaning products at The Spruce and has personally tested products from Brentwood Home, Boppy, Serta, and The Company Store.