The Best Sit-Up Pillow of 2020 – Comfortable and Supportive

After a long day at work, there’s nothing better than taking the weight off the feet and settling down in bed. While some people switch off with the TV, others like to read. Although this can be a much-needed respite for the mind, it can also cause havoc with the back, neck, and shoulders if you’re not maintaining the right posture.

Sadly, too many people enjoy their relaxed time without considering the spine and the positions they sit in. When slouched, comfort is hard to come by because there’s no support. For this reason, we highly recommend looking into sit-up pillows.

You might think you’re covered with a standard cushion, but the problem here is that most of them aren’t made for sitting up. When reading, we need support in the back and head, and most cushions fail in this regard. In comparison, sit-up pillows are usually much more rigid than sleeping pillows and offer better back support. 

Even if you spend a couple of hours relaxing, you should be comfortable for the duration. With some products, you’ll even get armrests, so holding up your book is easier than ever before! Elsewhere, there’s a growing number of manufacturers choosing to add a handle so your backrest can be moved easily between rooms.

If you want a comfortable partner for your long Netflix sessions in bed, it’s important to choose a pillow that provides support (and this doesn’t come from decoration cushions). Today, we’re going to review the best products in the market, the various materials, important features, and some tips for maintaining the pillow. By the end, you’ll know just as much as we do!

The Best Sit-Up Pillows of 2020

MALOUF Z Foam Filled Reading Pillow

Firstly, we have the MALOUF Z Foam Filled Reading Pillow, and it provides ample support for the arms, back, and shoulders with back- and armrests. One of our favorite features of this traditional sit-up pillow is the shredded memory foam; when combined with the polyurethane foam, this allows you to mold the whole pillow to your own needs.

Made from polyester and rayon from bamboo, the stretchy velour cover is also a big positive. Not only does it feel soft, it’s also breathable. Both on the inside and out, the materials allow for air circulation and body temperature regulation. With this, you shouldn’t overheat during a long period of reading or watching TV.

For those interested in design, the MALOUF Z Foam Filled Reading Pillow comes in a neutral dark grey and is spot-clean only. If something happens to go wrong, you’ll have a three-year warranty from the manufacturer.

HusbandPillow Bed Rest Pillow

Compared to other sit-up pillows, it’s fair to say that the HusbandPillow Bed Rest Pillow is more advanced in providing support. Larger than the rest, it has a full backrest and a sturdy nature that ensures that the whole upper body has support. While the inside boasts a premium shredded memory foam, the outside has a smooth micro plush cover. Even if you choose to read, lounge, or even nap, we think you’ll find comfort in this high-quality backrest pillow. 

For us, it’s the little features that make this product so special. For example, you’ll never lose the TV remote or your phone again thanks to the small pocket on the side. Also, you’ll find maximum comfort with the detachable neck roll pillow. Inside, the loft is adjustable; just add or remove foam depending on what you find comfortable. And, despite all these features and the extreme support, this pillow is still lightweight and easy to move around with its handy built-in handle at the top. 

We love the protection from the manufacturers too since they offer a three-year warranty and a 100-night home trial. In terms of design, the HusbandPillow Bed Rest Pillow is also available in a choice of colors. 

Milliard Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam

Not everybody has the money to spend close to $100, and this is why we’ve gone to Milliard for affordability. Most pillows of this type will start at $50, but we love the Milliard Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam, which comes in at just $20 for the “Petite.” Available in four sizes, they all have comfortable armrests and backrests.

At first, we were worried about support because this sit-up pillow feels quite floppy when in the hands. However, we propped it against the headboard and couldn’t believe how firm it felt. The arms are a little short, but the shredded foam was enough to keep us comfortable. What’s more, Milliard are actually happy to send extra filling to those who need it.

If you didn’t already know, the advantage of choosing shredded foam over standard foam is that it can be molded to the user. Furthermore, you can wash the polyester velour cover in the machine. If ever you spill liquid on the pillow, just throw the cover in the machine, and it will be fresh in no time.

The Milliard Pillow With Shredded Memory Foam is cheaper than most others, but this doesn’t mean it should be ignored. It’s good for the lower back and middle back muscles, and the extra-large option will even work for those who are taller than the rest.

Relax Home Wedge Pillow

While on the topic of unique designs, we couldn’t ignore the fantastic Relax Home Wedge Pillow. In the US, the market seems to have an abundance of poor-quality wedge pillows. Therefore, finding the Relax Home was a relief for us. Some people use the wedge design to reduce back pain, but others need it for health issues such as poor blood circulation, acid reflux, snoring, migraines, and breathing-related problems.

As we listed in the key features above, the support comes through the firm base foam. Meanwhile, there are 1.5 inches of memory foam top layer that molds and aligns to any sleep position. Even paired with a shredded memory foam pillow, you’ll have a perfect setup regardless of whether you sleep on your stomach, side, or back.

If you choose to use the pillow for sleep, the bamboo viscose cover is breathable and therefore, will keep you cool. Also, it’s easy to remove and is dust mite resistant, hypoallergenic, and machine washable. The Relax Home Wedge Pillow comes with a LIFETIME warranty (impressive!).

Linenspa Back Support Shredded Foam Pillow

During testing, we loved the Linenspa Back Support Shredded Foam Pillow, and we know that most customers do too. Some sit-up pillows tend to feel too firm with their support, but Linenspa have created a pillow that manages to feel plush yet supportive; this is helped by the amazing CertiPUR-certified shredded foam.

Today, we’re referring mostly to the extra-large size because this is the one that we tried, and the back support was nothing short of amazing. The armrests are 10 inches wide and 15 inches long, and you’ll struggle to find anything that can compete with that. Whether you choose the stone gray or deep blue, the stitching is strong, and the thick fabric should ensure durability. With the clever handle, it’s easy to carry the pillow from room to room; and, once you sit upright using this backrest pillow, you will never want to leave.

Having tried the Linenspa Back Support Shredded Foam Pillow in bed and on the sofa, we decided to sit on the floor with it. As long as you can lean the pillow against something, we think you’ll love sitting in this position. When you have lots of friends or family over during the festive season, sitting on the floor no longer needs to be the dreaded position.

Looking on Amazon, you’ll see some people complaining of a dye odor, but we didn’t experience this (or off-gassing) ourselves. For those with health problems or who are older, we recommend choosing the standard size since this will be easier to move around. Although only time will prove us right or wrong, we also believe this sit-up pillow will provide good support for a long time.

WOWMAX Triangular Reading Pillow

Next up, we have something slightly different, and the WOWMAX Triangular Reading Pillow generates many questions when customers first see the design. As a seated backrest, it doubles as a supportive sleeping pillow or an elevated wedge pillow. Since we’re focusing on sit-up pillows today, this will be our priority, and it supports the neck and back nicely while reading or relaxing.

Why choose this design? Well, when sitting upright, your back will have maximum support. If you need to sleep with your head elevated a little, its gradual upward slope also provides a strong choice. Finally, some even put it under their stomachs to read on their front without getting the usual aching arms.

This soft and supportive pillow is filled with a dense polyurethane fill. The cover is made of pure polyester with a corduroy pattern, and it actually comes in 10 different color options. At the same time, you can also choose between four sizes: California King, queen, full, and twin.

The WOWMAX Triangular Reading Pillow has buttons that add to the style and allow the cover to be removed and washed. Finally, the manufacturer also sells different replacement covers for when you want to change the style and make the pillow look new.

Xtra-Comfort Bed Wedge Pillow

You may want a backrest pillow for different positions and occasions, and we have it with the Xtra-Comfort Bed Wedge Pillow. With the adjustable incline, position the pillow with elevated legs, for sitting, or for lying down. Suddenly, you have a versatile sit-up pillow that can also be used as a desk-like surface for a computer or book. It’s actually the clever folding wedge design that allows for all these different functions, and it can support the back, head, or legs.

There’s a high-density memory foam inside, which should offer durability, and the pillow holds its shape over prolonged periods of time. In terms of the cover, it’s machine washable and breathable for the warmer months of the year. As a natural beige color, the pillow is 12 inches deep and 22 inches wide, and this should be a good enough size to fit any bed. Whether you sleep or sit on this pillow, you’ll get the additional support and comfort you need.

There are a couple of extra reasons to choose the Xtra-Comfort Bed Wedge Pillow, and the first is a brilliant carry handle. Secondly, you get a 60-day guarantee and very good customer service (which is actually based in the US). 

Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Pillow

To bring this list to a close, we have the Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Pillow. If you’re looking for a comfortable solution for your sofa, this could be the one because the four significant subsystems work in tandem for a great experience. Utilizing therapeutic cushions as you sit up in the bed, you simply make adjustments and get the support you crave. This includes:

Scoop Cradle - This works alongside the back scoop in order to fit your body and provide a unique experience.
Knee Rest - This will keep you lifted and in a good position for joint relief.
Headrest - Of course, this cradles the neck, preventing any unfortunate kinks.
Back Scoop - Perfect lumbar support, which is adjustable to fit your body.

With all four systems complementing one another, you get an experience you won’t forget in a hurry. Made of polyurethane, the pieces are comfortable, and the extra memory foam layer molds to the shape of the body. The supremely soft covers have lush rayon made from bamboo top that is antimicrobial. Not only this, but you also get microsuede on each side for luxurious relaxation.

Whenever the Avana Kind Bed Orthopedic Support Pillow needs freshening, take the covers off and put them in the machine. The manufacturer operates in the United States, and they provide all customers with a one-year warranty on their backrest.

What to Look for in a Sit-Up Pillow

To help you narrow down your decision, we’ve outlined key considerations below.

Size

We’ve covered lots of topics in detail in this guide so far, but the size of a sit-up pillow has avoided our grip. However, it forms one of the three important considerations we mentioned at the beginning of our guide. With the wrong size, you won’t have the right support, and your investment will go to waste. Essentially, a sitting pillow needs to be the length of your back if you want to support in both the upper and lower back. When you sit down, the pillow should finish at the base of the neck. 

When talking size, many customers forget the width of a backrest pillow when this has just as much importance. For adults, you should be looking for at least 20 inches. You might be attracted to something very wide, but the downfall of this is that you can’t utilize the armrests, and you don’t get the cozy feeling of being held compared to a product that almost wraps around you. 

Back Support 

As well as everything else we’ve discussed, you also need the right support (this is particularly important if you’re restricted to your bed for some time!). From reading or watching TV for a few minutes before bed to sitting up in bed for hours on end, a sit-up pillow must suit your needs with regards to adequate support. 

Accessories and Helpful Features 

Once you’ve decided on the most important aspects of your backrest pillow, it’s time to have some fun. That’s right, there are some accessories or luxury features that won’t make or break the experience but will make you more comfortable (and prevent you from looking through the sheets and duvet covers to find the TV remote every few minutes!). 

• ​Adjustable Loft - For sit-up pillows designed with shredded memory foam, you can normally add/remove foam depending on what level of support you need. Within seconds, you’ll have a completely different pillow in terms of firmness and shape. While some companies include extra filling in the packaging, others will have some available to order. 
• ​Removable Cover - For cleaning purposes, it’s also helpful to have a cover that comes off easily. If you have a removable cover, you can buy a replacement when the original ages.
• ​Headrest - For prolonged sessions of sitting down, you need a neck roll or headrest for extra comfort. If you want the freedom to choose, why not select a sit-up pillow with a detachable headrest?
• ​Cup Holder - When a sit-up pillow has armrests, this provides manufacturers with an opportunity to add a cup holder so you can enjoy a beverage while relaxing. 
• ​Armrests - We’ve seen the mistake of not choosing a high enough pillow, but another common mistake is armrests that are too short. Stubby armrests are unlikely to reach the elbows, and this will quickly feel uncomfortable. For readers, in particular, we recommend longer armrests so that you don’t need to keep the arms lifted (or hanging off the edge!). 
• ​Pockets - Never lose your phone or TV remote ever again with side and/or back pockets; some are even large enough to hold books, headphones, and more. 
• ​Handle - If you plan on taking your bed rest pillow between homes or to different locations, make sure it has a carry handle. Today, there are some bulky pillows around, so this carry handle will make everything a little bit easier.