Best Pillows for Acid Reflux & GERD

Looking for the best pillow for acid reflux or GERD? Our team has reviewed the top picks.

The top-recommended pillow to alleviate or altogether avoid acid reflux and/or GERD is often a wedge pillow that is designed to keep the torso elevated. Stomach acid is prevented from burning through the air passage or esophageal lining during sleep. The most effective acid reflux pillows for a good night's sleep are typically elevated between 30-45 degrees or 6-8 inches. 

See our team's tested & reviewed top picks for the best pillows for acid reflux and GERD below!

People who often experience acid reflux are prone to having it when lying on their backs on normal pillows. Remedy for this is easy; just try having something lodged on your back so that you don’t lie flat on your back. More often than not, acid reflux is solved through this, without the need for costly apparatuses and whatnot, which is what makes having one of the best pillows for acid reflux or GERD important.

A wedge pillow is better than using several pillows stacked together. The latter can be very uncomfortable and it can also flatten after several nights of sleeping with it. Wedge pillow effectively elevates the head, shoulders, and torso keeping the contents of the stomach where they are and not refluxing toward the esophagus.

Wedge pillows are recommended for both back and side sleepers, as it doesn’t cause tension around the shoulders and neck. You don’t have to worry about waking up feeling any stiffness. There are tons of effective wedge pillows sold on the market and you don’t have to get them from expensive medical supply stores.

Reviews For The Top 4 Wedge Pillows Made For Sleeping With Acid Reflux & GERD

While you can find good quality acid reflux pillows at Walmart, Target, or Bed, Bath & Beyond, we prefer Amazon, due to their extensive online inventory. See below for the top pillows that you can check out if you’re looking for the best wedge pillow to help acid reflux & GERD while sleeping:

4. Contour Standard Folding Wedge Pillow

This wedge foam is very affordable and comes in three sizes, depending on the angle and width you want. It comes in standard, 10-inch, and 12-inch high. The gradual incline support makes sure that the height is not that steep, so you’ll still enjoy the comfort of being reclined to sleep.

This pillow is recommended for people who experience difficulties in digestion. It also eases breathing and sinus pressure as well as soothes tension around the neck and shoulder muscles and keep them aligned with the spine. The pillow, although a bit bulky, can be folded for easy storage. It comes with a soft velour cover that can be unzipped for easy removal and is washable.

What users don’t like about this pillow is that the foam gradually decreases its firmness. It’s very comfortable and effective during the first few months but it loses its function because the foam becomes too soft to support the back. When the foam becomes too soft, users find themselves sliding down the wedge on their sleep. Consider this before buying this wedge pillow.

3. FitPlus Premium Bed Wedge Pillow

This wedge pillow is made of memory foam that effectively molds itself to the natural shape of your body. It is made of 100% high density ECO foam that is great for those who experience acid reflux, sleep apnea, snoring, and other pain reliefs.

This is a great pillow if you want a lasting one that will support your back for years to come. It is also ergonomically shaped, promotes a better sleep position, and can improve your posture. Owners said that they have been using this wedge pillow for years and it has perfectly retained its shape. Because it is a memory foam, it is also soft and comfortable to sleep on, despite being firm enough to give the right support.

The elevation of the pillow is just right; it will relieve those who experience difficulties in sleeping and at the same time make the sleeper much more comfortable. It is measured with the universally recommended size which is 24” long 28” wide and 7.5” high. This top-rated acid reflux pillow includes a washable removable zippered pillow case.

2. Medslant Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux (32"x24"x7")

This pillow is especially made for people who experience acid reflux, sleep apnea, and snoring. Because of its firmness, it effectively elevates the upper torso, using gravity to keep acid down and your airways open.

The foam is made of hypo-allergenic, eco-friendly soy/polyurethane that is firm enough to support the weight of your body but soft enough to be as comfortable as lying on your mattress. This pillow, although bulky, can be easily taken anywhere because it can be folded and placed in its accompanying eco-friendly PEVA carry case.

Now you don’t have to worry about uncomfortable nights during your travels as you can take this pillow anywhere. The pillow is enclosed in a sheet cover made from poly-cotton so holds it's shape and fits perfectly even after several washes. The manufacturer, MedSlant also has great customer service for when you run into difficulties.

1. MedCline - Complete Acid Reflux Relief System

The sleeping system is totally different from the simple wedge pillows that have been reviewed here as it comes with an entire set that can be used in more ways than one. If you’re not happy with your purchase or feel like this system is not for you, the manufacturer has a 30-day money back guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some of the most common questions we get related to pillows for acid reflux and GERD, as well as the difference between the two, answered below. Enjoy!

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a common condition that features a burning pain, known as heartburn, in the lower chest area. It happens when stomach acid flows back up into the food pipe. Acid reflux is also known as heartburn, acid indigestion, or pyrosis, and it happens when some of the acidic stomach contents go back up into the esophagus.

What Is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, is diagnosed when acid reflux occurs more than twice a week. Exact figures vary, but diseases resulting from acid reflux are the most common gut complaint seen by hospital departments in the United States. The American College of Gastroenterology says that over 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month, and at least 15 million as often as daily. GERD is most common in Western countries, affecting an estimated 20 to 30 percent of the population.

How does an inclined or wedge pillow work for acid reflux?

Inclined or wedge pillows elevate the upper body at an angle, which helps keep stomach acid in the stomach and reduces the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms. This elevated position also promotes better digestion.

Are all inclined pillows the same?

Inclined pillows come in various sizes and angles. Some are full-length pillows, while others are wedge-shaped. Choosing the right one depends on your personal comfort and the severity of your acid reflux symptoms.

Can I use multiple regular pillows instead of an inclined pillow?

While using multiple regular pillows might provide some elevation, they can often shift during sleep and fail to maintain a consistent angle. It's recommended to use a specialized inclined or wedge pillow for more reliable support.

How steep should the angle of the inclined pillow be?

The angle of the inclined pillow varies, but most recommendations suggest an elevation of around 30 to 45 degrees. This angle is generally considered effective in preventing acid reflux without causing discomfort.

Are there any concerns with using inclined pillows?

Some people might find it uncomfortable to sleep at an elevated angle, especially if they're not used to it. It's advisable to gradually adjust to the new sleeping position to ensure a more comfortable experience.

Can an inclined pillow replace lifestyle changes for managing acid reflux?

An inclined pillow can be a helpful addition to your acid reflux management plan, but it's not a substitute for lifestyle changes. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and avoiding late-night eating are also important aspects of managing acid reflux.

Can I use an inclined pillow if I have other medical conditions?

If you have other medical conditions or concerns, it's best to consult your healthcare provider before using an inclined pillow. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health.

How long should I use an inclined pillow for acid reflux or GERD relief?

The duration varies depending on the severity of your acid reflux symptoms. Some individuals find relief quickly, while others may need to use an inclined pillow long-term. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine what's best for you.

Some Common Causes of Acid Reflux

• Stomach abnormalities
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Acid Reflux Foods & Drinks (Alcohol, Soda, Chocolate, Spicy Foods)
• Being Overweight
• Snacking Close To Bedtime
• Taking Aspirin or Ibuprofen

Enjoy Your New Pillow For Acid Reflux or GERD

We hope you enjoyed this guide on how to choose the best pillows for acid reflux & GERD.

You don’t have to endure acid reflux or heartburn during your sleep as merely just improving the way you sleep can solve it. The best pillows that help alleviate acid reflux, GERD, and heartburn worth checking out are wedge pillows that elevate your body to keep acid right in your stomach.

These top-rated wedge pillows are engineered for this purpose so you won’t have to worry about it being too high or uncomfortable. Our top pick would have to be the MedCline Complete Acid Reflux Relief System, however if you are more on a budget when looking for a good quality acid reflux pillow, the under $100 MedSlant Wedge Pillow For Acid Reflux is a good option as well.

We also recommend you check out the video below by eHow with Dr. David Hill on some professional tips for sleeping better with acid reflux.