16 Best Sit-Up Pillows To Buy In 2024, As Per Expert
Specialty: Interior designingExperience: 20 yearsChrista O’Leary is an interior designer with nearly 20 years of experience. She manages her own design firm Home in Harmony Lifestyle, which, as the name suggests, focuses on the client’s comfort in harmony with their well-being. The green-living expert has several media appearances to her credit, on CBS, NBC and Dr.
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wedetso chirhah shreya vishwanathan Shreya is a gold medalist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology from SGT University, Gurugram. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in applied psychology from Amity University, Gwalior. Her interest in human behavior and extensive years of learning and training in psychology has instilled in her the skills to understand the consumer psyche to optimize the reader's experience.
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In This Article
If you experience back and neck pain caused by uncomfortable sitting positions, here’s our list of the best sit-up pillows to help you choose the right one. With a sit-up pillow, you can easily find a comfortable and relaxing position while reading a book, working on a laptop, or watching TV. These pillows are designed to provide optimal back support to prevent muscle cramps or pains. They help keep your posture correct and are soft to ensure comfort. Upright pillows are necessary for people who spend long hours sitting on the bed or couch. A wrong sitting or sleeping position can cause pain in the neck, back, or shoulders. Using specifically designed pillows can support and correct your posture when you sit on the bed to read or watch TV.
Christa O’Leary, an interior designer and founder and CEO of Home in Harmony Designs, says,“It is more important to ensure that you have furniture, pillows, and props that are ergonomically beneficial for the body. Sit-up pillows are necessary for people who spend long hours sitting on the bed or couch. Wrong sitting or sleeping postures can cause pain in the neck, back, or shoulders. Using specifically designed pillows can support and improve your posture when you sit on the bed to read or watch TV.”
So, check out the various tried-and-tested options to choose one that fits your requirements.
Top Picks
16 Best Sit-Up Pillows To Buy In 2024
1. Best For Back Muscles: Milliard Reading Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 2,971 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
MMilliard offers a plush foam pillow to sit up, curl up in bed or on the couch, or sit on the floor without hurting your back muscles. The CertiPUR-certified memory foam pillow measures 18×15 inches, and its petite and extra-large sizes fit short and tall individuals. The back pillow has arms for added comfort. Watch this video for more information about the shredded foam pillow.
Pros
- Has shredded memory foam filling for comfort
- Comes with a handle for carrying
- Has an easy-to-remove and washable zippered cover
- Works well for conditions related to acid reflux or nasal congestion
- Makes a soft seating
Cons
- Made of highly flammable foam
"Despite a slight lack of filling, I enjoy using this pillow while breastfeeding or watching movies due to its soft and comfy material. I recommend it for comfortable lounging with adequate support if you are not too tall."
2. Best Versatile: Yogibo Support Reading Pillow
Yogibo’s unique U-shaped reading pillow measures 30 x 37 x 12 inches and is filled with special microbeads that adjust according to the shape of your body. Its outer cover is a blend of breathable soft natural cotton and spandex to make it flexible. Available in nine shades, this versatile reading pillow can be placed on the floor, bed, couch, or recliner to support your back while reading, playing video games, or relaxing.
Pros
- Has a removable and machine-washable outer cover
- Shrink-proof cover
- Double-layered fabric
- Suitable for all body types
Cons
- Might have a peculiar smell at first
- Some might find the material hard
"The oversized design comfortably supports my husband and me while alleviating minor back and neck pain. I wish it had a customizable stuffing option for the preferred choice of comfort. Regardless, it's a worthy purchase."
3. Best To Relieve Pressure: Relax Home Life 7.5i Bed Wedge Pillow
A good night’s sleep is often interrupted by discomfort and pain caused by heartburn and acid reflux. The Relax wedge pillows for sitting up relieves pressure on sensitive areas of your body. Made of 40% bamboo and 60% polyester, the sit up bed pillow is designed to keep your upper body elevated and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. With the top layer made of 1.5in memory foam, the triangle-shaped pillow helps your breathing while providing additional support to your back.
Pros
- Curated for back, stomach, or side sleepers
- Comes with a cover made of bamboo viscose
- Soft and luxurious cover
- Easy to remove and machine-washable cover
- Aids in treating various medical conditions
Cons
- May not be comfortable
Quick factMilliard Reading Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam Best For Back Muscles | Yogibo Support Reading Pillow Best Versatile | Relax Home Life 7.5i Bed Wedge Pillow Best To Relieve Pressure | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2 Kilograms | 7 Pounds | 3.29 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 11.02 x 17.72 inches | 30 x 37 x 12 inches | 26 x 25 x 7.5 inches. |
| Material | Velour, Memory Foam | Spandex, Cotton | - |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam | Cotton | - |
| Color | Grey | Blue | - |
| Shape | - | Semicircular | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,971 | 155 | 1,935 |
| Price | $37.99 | $87.2 | $43.97 |
4. Best For Orthopedic Issues: Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow
If you are looking for a pillow that works as a recliner on your bed, Cushy Form Wedge Pillow can be a perfect choice. The cushioned sit up bed pillow measures 25 x 24 x 12 inches and offers adequate back support while you relax on your bed. The top layer is cushioned with 1.5 inches of memory foam to support you while reading, resting, or sleeping. The bed rest pillow can be adjusted as per your needs. This video helps you know more about the resting pillow.
Pros
- Offers relief from different orthopedic issues
- Foam contoured sit-up pillow with a comfortable slope
- Firm wedge design that does not collapse
- Comes with a washable and breathable cover
- Offers money-back guarantee
Cons
- May not be comfortable for people who toss and turn while sleeping
5. Best With Memory Foam: Husband Pillow Adult Reading Pillow
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 5,415 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100- certified, the Husband Pillow’s premium shredded memory foam-filled pillow has a microplush cover and can be used as an ultimate bed or chair backrest. This versatile memory foam sit up pillow measures 8.5 x 15 x 31.5 inches and can support your entire upper body. It also has a detachable memory foam neck roll, a built-in side pocket to keep your necessities, and an additional back pocket.
Pros
- Oversized sit up pillow
- Adjustable to small or medium loft
- Has a removable cover
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- May not be true to size
- Zippers might be slightly flimsy
"This pillow is firm and supportive, offering good neck and back support when reading. The removable cover makes it easy to maintain. Overall, it's a practical option that meets all my expectations."
Quick tip6. Best Multipurpose: Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow
The wedge-shaped pillow from Brentwood Home is designed to help alleviate acid reflux, snoring, poor circulation, back or neck pain, and more. It has a soft stretch knit bamboo cover and a therapeutic foam base that provides enhanced comfort. Moreover, you can also use this multi-purpose sit up pillow to elevate your legs and increase blood circulation.
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Has a sloped design
- Washable outer bamboo cover
- Available in a variety of sizes
Cons
- Might not be comfortable for side sleepers
- May not be slip-proof
7. Best For Post-Surgery Comfort: Lunix LX6 Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow
Lunix’s LX6 orthopedic wedge pillow is crafted for people who have undergone shoulder, hip, or rotator cuff surgery. The durable sit-up pillow has a hypoallergenic organic bamboo cover and is made of premium 45D memory foam that adjusts to one’s body shape. It also has a detachable head pillow with Velcro straps for added support. Moreover, this versatile pillow has been tested post-surgery by 500 volunteers and can be placed on all kinds of beds, couches, and floors.
Pros
- Washable outer cover
- Breathable sit up pillow
- Includes a travel bag
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Some might find the material hard
- Velcro may not have soft edges
"My mother has started using this pillow and is quite impressed with its support and comfort. The bonus is the gel pack that enhances its therapeutic value. As it tends to retain heat, I'd recommend taking a break occasionally. All in all, it is a worthy purchase for quality comfort."
Quick tip8. Best For Lumbar Support: Zoemo Bed Rest Reading Pillow
Zoemo’s polyester ball-filled pillow has a tall and cushioned backrest to offer lumbar support. It also has a highly resilient cushion fabric filling and a skin-friendly velour cover for enhanced comfort. Moreover, the lounger pillow’s fluffy surface, neck roll, and zipper mechanism to adjust its filling quantity make it a suitable option for reading, lounging, or watching TV.
Pros
- Has a side pocket to keep essentials
- Has a hand ring for easy carry
- Hypoallergenic material
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- Arms might be a bit short for some people
- Might have a peculiar smell when new
"Though not as plush as expected, the pillow is incredibly soft and supportive. My children often use it for lounging or reading. I'd recommend it for its compatibility with different body sizes."
9. Best Body Support: Casper Sleep Backrest Pillow
If you want a pillow that can provide plush support, the Casper sleep backrest pillow might be a suitable choice. Unlike traditional pillows designed for your head and neck, this pillow supports the whole body. The tried-and-tested pillow aligns with your back for proper posture and provides lumbar support. With breathable knit fabric, this lumbar support sit-up pillow helps avoid sweat by increasing airflow. The combination of a firm inner foam layer and a soft fiber outer layer provides a balance of comfort and support.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic sit-up pillow
- Easy to clean
- Can be used while sitting, sleeping, or lounging
Cons
- Pillow cover may be slightly flimsy
- Some may find it firmer than expected
"Soft yet well-structured, this one has found a cozy place on our couch for elevated comfort and in bed for better back and neck support. Though I could do with more color options, it seems trivial compared to the level of comfort it offers."
10. Best For Head And Leg Elevation: Kolbs Bed Wedge Pillow With Memory Foam Top
If you suffer from snoring, back pain, acid reflux, or heartburn, the Kolbs wedge pillow can be a perfect choice. The classy and luxurious pillow comes with a removable jacquard cover to protect it from any stains or dirt. The top layer is filled with 1.5 inches of memory foam filling to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Pros
- Machine-washable cover
- Has medical-grade foam wedge and tested against 1000+ chemicals
- Ideal for head and leg elevation
- Comes in extra wide size as well
- Offers room to turn and toss
Cons
- May squish down
11. Best For Spine Health: Nestl Shredded Memory Foam Reading Pillow
The Nestl Reading Pillow offers adequate support to your back and helps correct your posture. This luxurious, plush sit-up pillow is made of shredded foam. It is Oeko-Tex Standard 100-certified and aligns with your body and provides relaxation. It has a carrying handle that helps you easily move it from one room to another. You may adjust the height of the neck roll pillow up to ten inches using the bungee cord provided in the package or remove it entirely to use it for lumbar support.
Pros
- Includes three pockets for storage
- Comes in various colors
- Machine-washable covers
- Adjustable filling
Cons
- May emit an unpleasant odor initially
- Zipper may get stuck at times
"My new sit-up pillow offers excellent support and comfort, making it ideal for relaxing gaming time in bed. It's customizable with preferred fillings for my personalized comfort, and its practicality with a storage pocket and easy-to-clean cover make it worth purchasing."
12. Best For Spine Health: Cascadia Essential Shredded Memory Foam Reading Pillow
The medium-sized body pillow with arms helps improve posture and offers excellent support to your back. Made from shredded foam, the ultra-soft pillow for sitting up comes with two holders that give added convenience of storing electronic devices like mobile phones or soft drink pet bottles.
Pros
- Can be used by men, women, and children
- Improve the health of the spine
- Has removable cup holders
- Made of soft fabric
- Cup holder can fit any normal cup
Cons
- Stitches may not be durable
13. Best For Blood Circulation: AngQi Supportive Foam Bed Wedge Pillow
This is a perfect bed wedge pillow made of soft and supportive foam that provides the right elevation to the upper body for better comfort. As per reviews, the pillow’s unique construction may help alleviate symptoms of snoring, nasal congestion, and acid reflux. The bed pillow is designed with proper pressure points for better and healthier sleep.
Pros
- Promises correct alignment while sleeping
- Knee pillow promotes circulation of blood
- Makes a great pick for side sleepers
- Does not flatten with time
- Conforms to the share of the body
- Has dust-resistant outer cover
Cons
- May be hard for sleeping
14. Best Stable Structure: Deluxe Comfort Purpose Microsuede Bed Rest Reading Pillow
Made of 100% micro-suede fabric, the large-sized pillow offers enough space to sit comfortably while you read or relax. The long and thick arms add to the overall sitting experience. Available in multiple colors, the neck support sit up pillow offers firm support to the upper body.
Pros
- Has a stable structure
- Comes with supportive arms
- Includes a posh outer cover
- Easy to clean
- Relieves pain in back and neck
Cons
- Size may be small
"What I admire the most about this pillow is its thoughtful design featuring side pockets and a handle, enhancing its practical use in our daily lives. It is best used propped against the wall. Overall, it's worth recommending for its lightweight yet sturdy build."
15. Best Durable: Homca Reading Pillow
Made of soft PVC flocking, the pillow’s easy-to-compress, eco-friendly design can alleviate back pain and keeps your feet in an elevated posture. The inflatable arm pillow can be used while reading or relaxing. The supportive pillow is easy to carry while camping or backpacking.
Pros
- Durable and strong
- Easy to wash
- Lightweight and portable sit-up pillow
- Quick to inflate and deflate
- Offers lumbar back support
Cons
- May be difficult to inflate
"Its quick-inflating design is handy whenever I need additional support for reading or lounging. Also, it fits in my luggage effortlessly. Hence, it's been an excellent, portable option for me during travel."
16. Best Convenient: Better Homes And Gardens Faux Fur Backrest Pillow
Bring home style and comfort with this super-soft backrest pillow that matches perfectly with different interiors and decors. Binge watch or read for hours resting on this decorative sit up pillow on a bed or a couch.
Pros
- Soft and comfortable
- Has a sophisticated appeal
- Comes with a handle for carrying around
- Ideal for kids and adults
Cons
- May not come with a cover
"Thanks to the soft faux cover, this pillow feels cozy and comfortable whenever I sit in bed for reading or lounging, especially during winter. It has also added a modern touch to my newly decorated room."
How To Choose The Right Sit Up Pillow?
Factor in these essential features before buying a sit-up pillow.
- Size: Make sure the supportive pillow is of the right size for you to sit on it comfortably.
- Comfort: A good sit-up pillow is one that is soft and firm. It should hold your weight when you lean on it and offer you the desired comfort.
- Durability: Always choose pillows that last longer. Delicate designs that lose their shape over time make a bad pick. Therefore, go through the reviews to know the durability.
- Safety: Buy sit-up pillows that do not have any harmful materials or are hypoallergenic.
- Design and built: It is important to choose a sit-up pillow that offers support to your back, neck, and shoulders.
- Ease of cleaning: Pillows that are easy to clean or come with washable covers are a wise pick as they are easy to maintain.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do sit-up pillows work?
Sit-up pillows do work by providing optimum support to the neck, back, and shoulders. However, the effectiveness varies with each product, and the one that provides complete back support for some may not be enough for others. Make sure the firm sit up-pillow you choose is dense enough to support your weight and comfortable enough to lean back.
2. Who needs a sit-up pillow?
If you spend a lot of time in bed or on the couch either watching TV, gaming, reading a book, or working on your laptop, you might need a sit-up pillow. A sit-up pillow allows you to sit upright by providing support to the middle and lower back muscles, neck, and shoulders.
3. How does a sit-up pillow help when I have a cold?
Creating a natural incline in the upper body helps to decongest the nose and drain the sinuses more easily. This helps you sleep better as you can breathe better, but propping the pillows might leave you with a sore and stiff neck in the morning. Using a wedge-shaped sit-up pillow provides a natural incline to the upper body and helps you sleep better when you have a cold (1).
4. Can a sit-up pillow help with snoring?
For those sleeping on their back, a wedge-shaped sit-up pillow made of memory foam helps to reduce snoring with a better sleep position. This is because these pillows prop up the upper body and help control snoring caused by relaxed airways (2).
5. How do I arrange a sit up pillow for lower back pain?
Use a wedge-shaped sit-up pillow to relax and support your back, neck, and head. Now place a small pillow under the knees to provide additional support and to maintain the natural curve of the spine as you sleep and relax. If you are reading or working, a reading sit-up pillow is ideal for lower back pain.
6. Are sit-up pillows washable?
Most sit-up pillows come with a removable outer cover that is safe to wash and easy to maintain.
7. Are sit-up pillows helpful in bed while nursing a baby?
Sit-up pillows are not ideal for breastfeeding when compared to standard size feeding pillows. However, they can help you relax and provide the back support you need while you sit back and feed your baby.
The Bottom Line
Sit-up pillows help manage back and neck pain, especially when your work involves sitting in front of your computer for long hours. So, whether you’re relaxing and watching your favorite show or working from your bed, give your back some rest by using a sit-up pillow. When you invest in a comfortable and durable sit-up pillow, you receive good back support and improve your posture, preventing chronic backache. If wedge-style, contoured pillows are your preference, consider the Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow. For portability and customizable comfort, the Milliard Reading Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam is a suitable choice. However, if you need an oversized option, choose the Husband Pillow Adult Reading Pillow with a detachable neck roll.
Infographic: What To Consider When Choosing A Sit-Up Pillow?
Whether working on your laptop or reading a book, a sit-up pillow can provide the necessary support to prevent you from slouching. However, consider the key factors mentioned in the infographics below to choose the right one. Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
References
- 10 Ways to Rest Better With a Cold
https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-colds-nighttime - Best Pillows for Snoring
https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/best-pillows-snoring
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah covers furniture, kitchenware, home requirements, and more. He recommends high-quality products, keeping your safety and convenience in mind. Wedetso has considered your requirements, the necessary quality parameters, additional features, reviewers’ experiences as well as undertaken in-depth research to bring you this list of the best sit-up pillows. These pillows offer comfort and might help relieve muscle pain and other discomfort you may experience while sitting or working.
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