16 Best Sit-Up Pillows For Comfort In 2024, Recommended By Experts

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.

In This Article

16 Best Sit-Up Pillows To Buy In 2024

1. Best For Back Muscles: Milliard Reading Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam

4.3
Milliard Reading Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam Image: Milliard

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has earned its stripes, with over 2,971 reviews on Amazon.

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.

Item Weight: 4.4 pounds | Product Dimensions: 14.96 x 11.02 x 17.72 inches | Item Weight: 2 Kilograms | Material: Velour, Memory Foam | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Grey

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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

4.1
Yogibo Support Reading Pillow Image: Yogibo
Now 20% Off

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.

Item Weight: 7 pounds | Product Dimensions: 30 x 37 x 12 inches | Item Weight: 7 Pounds | Material: Spandex, Cotton | Shape: Semicircular | Fill Material: Cotton | Color: Blue

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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

4.3

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.

Item Weight: 3.29 pounds | Product Dimensions: 26 x 25 x 7.5 inches.

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

Our Reviewer's Experience

"This wedge pillow has become a staple to my sleeping routine, providing much-needed relief from my back pain. Since it tends to retain heat, I prefer using a cooling pillow at the lower back for added comfort. The washable bamboo cover contributes to my hygiene preference."


protip_icon Quick fact
Bamboo-based pillows have great absorption and moisture-wicking abilities and a cooling effect, making them ideal for folks who sweat a lot.

Milliard 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
Reviews2,9711551,935
Price$37.99$87.2$43.97

4. Best For Orthopedic Issues: Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow

4.3
Cushy Form Bed Wedge Pillow Image: Cushyform

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.

Item Weight: 6 pounds | Product Dimensions: 25 x 24 x 12 inches | Item Weight: 6 Pounds | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Wedge | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: White

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"The customizable design is what makes this pillow so popular in my family. We use it for sitting upright during work, angled resting, or as a knee or leg support based on our individual preferences. I love that it is also easy to clean and maintain"

5. Best With Memory Foam: Husband Pillow Adult Reading Pillow

4.3
Husband Pillow Adult Reading Pillow Image: Husbandpillow

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The 5,415 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.

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.

Product Dimensions: 15 x 8.2 x 31 inches | Item Weight: 9.1 Pounds | Material: Memory foam | Shape: L-shape | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Dark Grey

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

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Quick tip
Angled pillows can also be used to raise the legs — an ideal way to promote better blood circulation and reduce the symptoms of varicose veins.

6. Best Multipurpose: Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow

4.3
Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow Image: Brentwoodhome

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.

Product Dimensions: 15 x 8.2 x 31 inches | Item Weight: 9.1 Pounds | Material: Memory foam | Shape: L-shape | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Dark Grey

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

4.4
Lunix LX6 Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillow Image: Lunix

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.

Item Weight: 6.69 pounds | Product Dimensions: 12 x 22 x 22 inches | Item Weight: 6.69 Pounds | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Wedge | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Brown

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

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Quick tip
If the pillows have a peculiar smell upon arrival, sun dry them for a day or two or sprinkle baking soda on them and let them sit for at least 12 hours before removing them with a vacuum cleaner.

8. Best For Lumbar Support: Zoemo Bed Rest Reading Pillow

4.3
Zoemo Bed Rest Reading Pillow Image: Zoemolife

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.

Item Weight: 5 pounds | Product Dimensions: 33 x 18 x 26.5 inches | Item Weight: 5 Pounds | Material: Linen | Shape: L-shape | Color: A-grey

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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

4.4
Casper Sleep Backrest Pillow Image: Casper

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.

Item Weight: 9 pounds | Product Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 0.1 inches | Item Weight: 9 Pounds | Material: Polyester | Shape: Wedge | Fill Material: Polyester | Color: Gray

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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.

Item Weight: 3.87 pounds | Product Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 7 inches | Material: Polyester | Shape: Wedge | Fill Material: Foam, Memory Foam | Color: Grey/White

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"Sleeping with this extra-large wedge pillow is truly comforting. It not only offers support but also offers ample room for easy movement. My daughter also uses it as a comfy backrest for reading."

11. Best For Spine Health: Nestl Shredded Memory Foam Reading Pillow

4.2
Nestl Shredded Memory Foam Reading Pillow Image: Nestl

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.

Item Weight: 1 pounds | Product Dimensions: 14 x 13 x 14 inches | Item Weight: 1 Pounds | Material: Microfiber/Memory Foam | Shape: Novelty | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Grey

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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.

Item Weight: 1 pounds | Product Dimensions: 14 x 13 x 14 inches | Item Weight: 1 Pounds | Material: Microfiber/Memory Foam | Shape: Novelty | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Grey

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.

Item Weight: 3.75 pounds | Product Dimensions: 24.8 x 19.6 x 13 inches | Item Weight: 3.75 Pounds | Material: Polyester | Shape: Wedge | Fill Material: Foam | Color: Black

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"Despite the off-putting smell at first, I've found comfort in using this wedge pillow. All it takes is a slight adjustment, and the support it offers is unmatched. It has also improved my sleep quality."

14. Best Stable Structure: Deluxe Comfort Purpose Microsuede Bed Rest Reading Pillow

4.1

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.

Item Weight: 3 pounds | Product Dimensions: 15 x 8 x 26 inches | Item Weight: 3 Pounds | Shape: L-shape | Color: Light Purple

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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

3.4

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.

Item Weight: 10.6 ounces | Product Dimensions: 11.02 x 3.94 x 0.04 inches | Item Weight: 0.3 Kilograms | Material: Super Soft PVC Inflatable Reading Pillow | Shape: L-shape | Color: Grey 1

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
My Personal Experience

"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

*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

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.

Item Weight: 5.89 pounds | Number of Items: 1 | Cover Material: Faux Fur | Shape: Novelty | Color: Ivory.

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
My Personal Experience

"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.

  1. Size: Make sure the supportive pillow is of the right size for you to sit on it comfortably.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Safety: Buy sit-up pillows that do not have any harmful materials or are hypoallergenic.
  5. Design and built: It is important to choose a sit-up pillow that offers support to your back, neck, and shoulders.
  6. 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.

Factors To Look For When Choosing A Sit-Up Pillow (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version


References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. 10 Ways to Rest Better With a Cold
    https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-colds-nighttime
  2. 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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