Bed reading pillows, specifically designed for bed readers, may offer unparalleled comfort and support. They come in various styles, such as wedge and backrest, catering to different preferences. These pillows have potential benefits for alleviating neck and back strain while ensuring a relaxed reading experience.
Their ergonomic design may promote proper posture, making prolonged reading sessions enjoyable. Choosing the right reading pillow may significantly enhance one's reading comfort.
In this article, we will review our 5 best reading pillows to ensure comfort when reading in bed or on a couch.
Best reading pillow for bed: product shortlist
- Husband Pillow — best pillow for sitting up in bed with back support
- HELIX — best wedge pillow
- The Futon Shop — best organic body pillow
- Cuddledown — best synthetic reading pillow
- Contour Living — best flip pillow
How we chose the best pillows for reading in bed in 2024
Choosing a bed pillow for sitting up can be challenging due to the variety of brands and products available.
We have considered different criteria to help you make an informed decision regardless of your preferences.
Price | Shelling materials | Fillings | Portability | Care |
$39.99–$308.00 | High-quality fibers | Safe and quality fillings | Can be used anywhere | Easy to maintain |
- Price. We evaluated and compared the prices of the different pillows regarding their quality and key features.
- Shelling materials. Materials play an important role in the comfort of a pillow. It is essential to choose high-quality fibers that are breathable, safe, and hypoallergenic.
- Fillings. It is advisable to review the fillings of the pillow to ensure they are safe and keep your body supported.
- Portability. Body pillows should be portable and easy to carry. We evaluated products with various size and weight options.
- Care. The maintenance of a pillow can determine if it is the right match for you. We evaluated the cleaning recommendations of each product.
Best reading pillows for bed: an overview
Reading in bed is usually the go-to option for most people. Therefore, making yourself comfortable is always important. We have compiled a list of different pillows tailored specifically for bed readers.
1. Husband Pillow — best backrest pillow for bed
Husband Pillow offers a luxurious faux fur pillow to sit up in bed with back support. It stands out for its unique two-tone pelt design, which is both double-sided and reversible.
According to the brand, the pillow is designed to be exceptionally comfortable, boasting a larger size than typical backrest pillows and featuring fluffy double-sided furs. It is also equipped with memory foam for added comfort and support.
The product is available in two sizes: medium (24” x 13”) and extra large (32” x 16”). Both size options weigh 8 lbs.
Additionally, the brand is committed to giving back to the community, as a portion of the purchase supports The Ocean Clean Up initiative. This product not only offers comfort and style but also contributes to a noble cause.
The extra large pillow is priced at $308.00 with a 27% discount, and the medium pillow is available at $282.00 with a 14% discount.
2. HELIX — best wedge pillow
HELIX wedge pillow is a meticulously designed product with a sloped supportive design that may provide users with a comfortable experience.
One of its standout features is the cooling gel memory foam layer, which contours to the body's curves and may provide superior comfort and pressure relief. According to the website, the pillow is versatile, suitable for various uses and positions, and tailored to individual needs. It may also be particularly beneficial for reducing back and neck pain.
HELIX wedge pillow is available in a single size of 24" x 24".
The product also comes with the assurance of free shipping, no-contact delivery, and financing options as low as 0%.
HELIX wedge pillow is priced at $87.20, down from its original price of $109.00, allowing customers to save $21.80 with a promotional code.
3. The Futon Shop — best organic body pillow
The Organic Body Pillow by The Futon Shop is a premium product crafted with organic cotton fabric and filled with USDA-certified organic cotton batting. This pillow is designed to provide optimal support and comfort for hips and spine, which might be beneficial for those with back pain, neck pain, and pregnancy-related discomforts
The pillow comes in three sizes:
- Mini (9" x 42")
- Standard (14" x 34")
- Large (17" x 53")
Weights range from 2 to 7 lbs based on the chosen size.
According to the website, the product is free from chemicals and fire retardants, providing a safe and healthy sleep environment. Handmade in San Francisco, this pillow emphasizes health and sustainability, making it a potential choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Pricing varies with size, starting from $59.98 for the mini and going up to $99.98 for the large.shop
4. Cuddledown — best synthetic reading pillow
The Synthetic Reading Pillow by Cuddledown is designed to provide optimal comfort for reading enthusiasts.
According to the website, this pillow is made in the USA and boasts a hypoallergenic synthetic fill providing a soft yet supportive experience. Encased in a 100% cotton shell, the pillow may offer durability and a gentle touch against the skin.
The size dimensions of the pillow are 21" x 17", making it an ideal size for various reading positions.
The product is certified by Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, ensuring that the materials used are safe and free from harmful substances.
Priced at $124.00, the Synthetic Reading Pillow may provide comfort and quality, allowing readers to indulge in their favorite books without compromising comfort.
5. Contour Living — best flip pillow
The Flip Pillow by Contour Living is a versatile bed and lounge pillow designed for various positioning needs, including reading.
According to the provider, with its unique flip design, this pillow may be used as an elevation pillow, a bed pillow, a knee and leg wedge, or as an extra body support. It offers 10 different support positions, providing optimal comfort and alignment for the neck, shoulder, and lumbar region.
The pillow is available in two sizes: standard (20" x 29”) and king (30" x 29).
It is filled with a soft hypo-allergenic fiber fill that may provide a comfortable and allergy-free experience. Additionally, custom-fit pillowcases in various colors are available for purchase separately.
The Flip Pillow is priced at $39.99, down from its original price of $59.99, giving customers the option to save $20.01.
Comparison of the best reading pillows
Product | Price | Materials | Care | Certificates | Size |
Husband Pillow | $308.00 | Memory foam, alternative fiber | Easy | N/A | Up to 32” x 16” |
HELIX | $87.20 | Memory foam | Easy | N/A | 24" x 24" |
The Futon Shop | $59.98 | Cotton | Difficult | USDA | Up to 17" x 53" |
Cuddledown | $124.00 | Cotton, hypoallergenic synthetic fill | Difficult | Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 | 21" x 17" |
Contour Living | $39.99 | Cotton, hypoallergenic fiber | Difficult | N/A | Up to 30" x 29 |
Points to take into account before buying the best pillow for reading in bed
Choosing the right pillow for reading in bed can significantly enhance your comfort and overall reading experience. It's essential to consider various factors to ensure you get the best support and durability. Here are some additional points to consider:
- Certifications. Selecting a certified pillow will guarantee it's free from harmful chemicals and is environmentally friendly.
- Quality. A good reading pillow will reduce upper back and neck strain, so it’s best to choose one of high quality with optimal support.
- Adaptability. The pillow should adapt to various reading positions and provide consistent support.
- Temperature regulation. Materials like wool, cotton, and bamboo are beneficial for temperature regulation, especially if you're prone to sweating.
What is a pillow for reading in bed?
A bed reading pillow is a specially designed cushion that provides support and comfort for individuals while reading in bed or lounging. These pillows typically have a unique shape, often resembling a backrest with arms, ensuring that the user maintains a proper posture and reduces strain on the neck and back.
The materials used may vary, but they often include memory foam or other soft fillings for optimal comfort. Some reading pillows come with additional features like pockets for storing books or remotes. They can be found in various sizes, catering to different individual needs. Reading pillows are not only functional but also enhance the overall reading experience by providing the necessary support and comfort.
Types of reading pillows for bed and their features
Reading pillows to sit up in bed come in various shapes and sizes, tailored to meet different needs and preferences while providing optimal support and comfort. Here are some of the most common types:
- Armchair-shaped pillow. Resembling a mini armchair, this pillow provides support to the back and arms. It may be used for sitting up in bed and offers a cozy reading experience.
- Longer, larger cushion. These are elongated pillows that support the entire length of the back. They may be ideal for those who like to sit straight while reading.
- Wedge pillow. Shaped like a triangle, wedge pillows elevate the upper body and may be beneficial for reducing back pain.
- Multi-piece sets. These sets come with multiple pillows or cushions, allowing users to customize their support. They can include a backrest, detachable armrests, and even leg support.
Why should you use a bed pillow for reading?
Using a bed pillow specifically designed for reading may offer various benefits. Firstly, it may provide proper support to the back, neck, and shoulders and set up a comfortable posture while reducing the risk of strain or discomfort. This is essential for extended reading sessions, as maintaining a poor posture can lead to back pain over time.
Additionally, reading pillows are designed to adapt to various sitting positions, offering flexibility and keeping the spine aligned.
Furthermore, these pillows often come with added features like armrests or pockets, enhancing the reading experience by providing a place to rest the arms or store a book.
In essence, a reading pillow may not only enhance comfort but also promote better health and well-being by encouraging proper posture during reading sessions.
Maintenance and care for the best bed pillows for reading
Maintaining and cleaning bed pillows for reading is essential for their longevity and hygiene. Before cleaning, always check the care label for specific instructions. Most reading pillows come with removable covers, which can be machine-washed using a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
For the pillow itself, spot cleaning is recommended. Use a cloth dampened with a mixture of water and mild soap to gently clean any stains or dirt. Avoid soaking the pillow, as excessive moisture can damage the filling. After cleaning, allow the pillow to air dry completely to prevent mold or mildew growth. Regularly fluffing the pillow helps maintain its shape and comfort.
For those with allergies, consider using a pillow protector to keep dust mites and allergens at bay. Proper care ensures a comfortable and clean reading experience.
Best pillow for reading in bed: conclusion
Pillows designed for reading in bed are more than just a luxury; they can be a great addition for avid readers. These pillows may provide the necessary support and comfort, making the reading sessions enjoyable and ergonomically sound.
With various designs and features available, from armchair-shaped to backrest styles, there's a perfect reading pillow for everyone. Investing in one may not only enhance your reading experience but also promote better posture and overall well-being.
Other products that may offer relaxing benefits
Best latex pillows to experience a viable alternative to memory foam pillows
Best weighted blankets may help with mild sleeping problems, stress, or anxiety
Best sleep mask may be effective for improving sleep duration and quality
Best body pillow may naturally adjust to your body and provide ultimate comfort
Best organic pillows are free from harmful materials to ensure a restful sleep
Best wedge pillow for acid reflux might help reduce the discomfort and alleviate the symptoms
FAQ
What is the best pillow for reading in bed?
The best pillow for reading in bed is a wedge-shaped or sloped design, offering optimal support to reduce upper back and neck strain. Specific brands and models may vary based on individual preferences and needs.
Are reading pillows worth it?
Yes. Reading pillows may be a great tool for avid readers, providing enhanced comfort and reducing neck and back strain during prolonged reading sessions. They may offer support and improve posture, making your reading experience in bed more enjoyable.
Is a reading pillow the same as a sleeping pillow?
It depends. A reading pillow is designed to support the back and arms during reading, while a sleeping pillow is primarily dedicated to head and neck support during sleep. However, it is important to mention that reading pillows may provide support for the head and neck as well.
Are neck pillows good for reading?
Not exactly. Neck pillows are primarily designed for neck support during travel. For reading, specialized reading pillows that support the back and arms are more suitable and comfortable for this particular use case.
3 resources
- Journal of Physical Therapy Science. Effectiveness of a back care pillow as an adjuvant physical therapy for chronic non-specific low back pain treatment: a randomized controlled trial.
- Journal of Pain Research Pillow use: the behavior of cervical stiffness, headache and scapular/arm pain.
- The Journal of Physical Therapy Science. Changes in neck pain and somatic symptoms before and after the adjustment of the pillow height.
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