Skip to content
Manta Sleep Manta Sleep
Log in Cart

    Collections

    • Sleep Masks
    • Mask Accessories
    • Sleep Aids
    • Bundles
    • Compare All Masks
    Shop All Products >

    Popular products

    SOUND Mask

    PRO Mask

    SILK Mask

    Original Mask

    WEIGHTED Mask

    COOL Mask

    Get 10% off
Manta Sleep Manta Sleep
Log in Cart
Your Cart

Your cart is currently empty.

Continue Shopping
Join 510,304 people who have improved their sleep
order total: $0 USD
View Cart Checkout
Join 510,304 people who have improved their sleep

why shop manta sleep

Try risk free for 60 days

USA shipping (free)

International shipping

  • SHOP
      sleep masks mask accessories other sleep aids bundles
      Manta SLEEP mask SOUND Manta SLEEP mask PRO Manta SLEEP mask SILK Manta SLEEP mask Manta WEIGHTED mask Manta COOL mask Manta STEAM mask Manta SLEEP mask GLOW Manta SLEEP mask KIDS
      ORIGINAL eye cups COOL eye cups STEAM eye cups SILK eye cups ORIGINAL head strap WEIGHTED head strap SILK head strap AROMA sachet refills AROMA dots variety AROMA dots bergamot AROMA dots eucalyptus AROMA dots lavender
      travel pillow blue light glasses blackout sticker earplugs nose vents nap arc
      the bestseller bundle SOUND+ deep sleep bundle soothing therapeutic bundle
      the most comfortable Bluetooth® sleep mask in existence
      RAZOR-THIN HEADPHONES
      MAXIMUM AIRFLOW
      20HR+ BATTERY LIFE
      SIDE-SLEEP COMFORT
      the world's most advanced sleep mask
      ENGINEERED FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
      ADVANCED MATERIAL SCIENCE
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      TRUE 100% BLACKOUT
      same as the original mask - but with anti-aging silk
      PREVENTS WRINKLES & FINE LINES
      LUSTROUS 22 MOMME SILK
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE FIT
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      the original Manta Mask - 100% blackout & zero pressure
      TRUE 100% BLACKOUT
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE
      COMFY & DURABLE
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      calming & gentle pressure on your face
      EVENLY-DISTRIBUTED WEIGHT
      100% BLACKOUT
      STREAMLINED DESIGN
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      cold therapy for migraines & allergies
      MINIMAL EYE PRESSURE
      NEAR-BLACKOUT DESIGN
      SOFT, GENTLE, MOLDABLE MATERIALS
      EVENLY-DISTRIBUTED COOLING
      steamy heat to soothe sinuses & dry eyes
      MINIMAL EYE PRESSURE
      NEAR-BLACKOUT DESIGN
      RELIEF IN JUST 3-5 MINUTES
      POWERED BY 100% NATURAL STEAM
      the comfiest, 100% blackout sleep mask that’s easy to find in the dark
      EASY TO FIND IN THE DARK
      100% BLACKOUT
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE
      SOFT, DURABLE MATERIALS
      the world’s comfiest sleep mask for kids
      FOR KIDS AGED 6+
      100% BLACKOUT
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE
      SOFT, DURABLE MATERIALS
      made for any Manta Mask
      100% BLACKOUT
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      SOFT, TAPERED FOAM
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE FIT
      migraines & allergies & puffy eyes
      SOOTHES EYES AND SINUSES
      MINIMAL EYE PRESSURE
      SOFT, GENTLE, MOLDABLE MATERIALS
      NEAR-BLACKOUT DESIGN
      dry/irritated eyes & sinus pressure & eye strain
      ALLEVIATES STRESS AND DRY EYES
      MINIMAL EYE PRESSURE
      RELIEF IN JUST 3-5 MINUTES
      NEAR-BLACKOUT DESIGN
      fine lines/wrinkles & refreshing skin cells
      PREVENTS WRINKLES & FINE LINES
      LUSTROUS 22 MOMME SILK
      TRUE 100% BLACKOUT
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE FIT
      made for any Manta Mask
      ANTI-STRETCH ELASTICS
      COMFY & BREATHABLE
      SNAG-FREE MATERIALS
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE FIT
      anxiety & insomnia & tension headaches
      IMPROVES SLEEP AND MOOD
      EVENLY-DISTRIBUTED WEIGHT
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE
      aging skin & coarse/breakable hair & sensitive skin
      PROTECTS SKIN AND HAIR
      LUSTROUS 22 MOMME SILK
      OPTIMAL COMFORT & DURABILITY
      INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE FIT
      made for Manta AROMA
      100% PURE, AAA-GRADE LAVENDER
      NATURAL SCENT — NO ADDED OILS
      INDIVIDUALLY SEALED TO PRESERVE FRESHNESS
      INCLUDES 4 AROMA SACHETS (LASTS ~12 MONTHS)
      the deep sleep upgrade for any Manta mask
      ATTACHES TO ANY MANTA MASK
      HELPS RELAX & UNWIND
      MADE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS
      3 RELAXING SCENTS
      the deep sleep upgrade for any Manta mask
      ATTACHES TO ANY MANTA MASK
      CALMS YOU & CLEARS YOUR AIRWAYS
      MADE WITH BERGAMOT ESSENTIAL OIL
      PROMOTES EVEN DEEPER SLEEP
      the deep sleep upgrade for any Manta mask
      ATTACHES TO ANY MANTA MASK
      CLEARS SINUSES & EASES BREATHING
      MADE WITH EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL
      PROMOTES EVEN DEEPER SLEEP
      the deep sleep upgrade for any Manta mask
      ATTACHES TO ANY MANTA MASK
      HELPS RELAX AND UNWIND
      MADE WITH LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL
      PROMOTES EVEN DEEPER SLEEP
      4 RELAXING POSITIONS
      2-BREATH, FAST-INFLATE
      LUXURIOUS FEEL
      EASILY PORTABLE
      BLOCK HARMFUL BLUE LIGHT EMISSION FROM SCREENS
      COMFORTABLE, CUSTOMIZABLE FIT
      STYLISH DESIGN FOR ALL FACES
      ADJUSTABLE, SOFT NOSE PADS
      100% LIGHT BLOCKING
      REUSABLE APPLICATION
      NO INTERFERENCE
      100 PRE-CUT STICKERS
      ERGONOMIC DESIGN
      TOP-RATED NOISE BLOCKING
      SUPER SOFT FOAM
      MULTIPURPOSE EARPLUGS
      TWO CONVENIENT SIZES
      MEDICAL-GRADE MATERIALS
      REUSABLE
      TRAVEL-FRIENDLY
      MADE FOR POWER NAPS
      INTELLIGENT ARC DESIGN
      ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT
      PREMIUM, SOFT MATERIALS
      1 MASK FOR SIDE-SLEEPING
      1 MASK TO SOOTHE EYES AND SINUSES
      1 MASK FOR GENTLE, THERAPEUTIC PRESSURE
      GUARANTEED BETTER SLUMBER
      100% BLACKOUT
      RAZOR-THIN HEADPHONES
      SOOTHES EYES AND SINUSES
      HELPS RELAX & UNWIND
      HELPS YOU RELAX & UNWIND
      SOOTHES & MOISTURIZES EYES
      CLEARS SINUSES
      ZERO EYE PRESSURE
    Shop All Products > Compare All Masks >
  • Reviews
  • About
  • FAQ
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • Get 10% Off
Search
  • Sleep masks
  • Bundles
  • Other sleep aids

Left or Right: What’s the Best Side to Sleep on

A girl sitting on the bed thinking about what’s the best side to sleep on.

When it comes to well-being, side sleeping has its pros. Read this to find out what’s the best side to sleep on. Because in some cases, left or right matters.


Whatever the case, you also have to know how to sleep on your side to reap the benefits. Otherwise, you’ll end up with neck, shoulder and even back pain.

The Benefits of Side Sleeping

Sleeping on your back is the healthiest position, according to Healthline(1). But side sleeping (either side) is a runner-up when it comes to your wellness. Here are a few:


  • Aids with circulation while pregnant

  • Helps with acid reflux and GERD

  • Promotes better digestion

  • Reduces snoring by helping open your airways

  • Good for people who experience lower back pain

  • Helps your brain get rid of waste and toxins

  • Reduces snoring by helping open your airways


But there are some instances wherein sleeping on one side may be more beneficial than the other. In the next sections, we’ll explore which one is best for what.

When You Should Sleep on Your Left Side

A woman sleeping on her left side.

We’re not going to beat around the bush, sleeping on your left side has more benefits than the right. That is if you’re counting. That said, sleeping on the right also has its benefits. And they’re as important. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s take the left, first.

Pregnancy

Let’s face it. Stomach sleeping becomes impossible (and risky) in the second and third trimesters.


Meanwhile, back sleeping increases pressure on the inferior vena cava and aorta. (The biggest vein and artery, respectively.) That’s a problem because it lowers blood circulation for the baby. So, sleeping on either side is your best bet.


So, what’s the best side to sleep on when you’re pregnant? In this case, it's the left. Grow by WebMD says sleeping on this side allows for optimal blood flow from the heart to the placenta(2). (And, Baby says yay!).

Acid Reflux

Sleeping on the left side is best for those with acid reflux and GERD. Using a wedge pillow to elevate the head and torso makes this position even more effective.


According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, sleeping on the left side down helps(3). It reduces the backflow of stomach acids to the esophagus. This causes symptoms of acid reflux or GERD, including heartburn.

Constipation

So what’s the best side to sleep on for digestion problems like constipation? Sleeping on your left side is your best bet. It’s all about gravity.


Healthline says that sleeping on your left side helps waste exit your body. It travels from the ascending colon to the transverse colon to the descending colon(4). In short, you’ll likely increase your chances of heading to the bathroom the next day.

Sleep Apnea and Snoring

So what’s the best side to sleep on when you snore? Actually, either does the job better than sleeping on your back or stomach. This position helps keep your airways open.


But sleeping on the left reduces sleep apnea more. This position helps keep your airways open. Another study from the National Library of Medicine found it reduced the severity of sleep apnea episodes(5).

When to Sleep on Your Right Side

A sleeping man lying down on his right side.

Your heart is between your lungs and slightly to the left of the sternum. It's why people with heart conditions benefit more from sleeping on the right side.


A study from the National Library of Medicine revealed that those with congestive heart failure “spontaneously” choose their right side to sleep on(6). And Healthline says more recent studies show that sleeping on the left puts more pressure on the heart(7).


Bear in mind there isn't enough research to determine what the best sleep position is for heart health overall. That’s why if you do have a condition, it's best to clear it with your doctor first.

How to Sleep Comfortably on Either Side

A man on a bed sleeping on his side with a body pillow.

The trick to side sleeping is making sure your spine maintains its natural curve. It also means your head, neck and hips should have adequate support. Or, you’ll feel aches and pains when you wake up.


There are sleep accessories that help make this happen. The right pillow, mattress, and the best sleep mask for side sleepers can do wonders for comfort.

Sleep Mask for Side Sleepers

Why not try Manta Sleep Mask PRO? We engineered it for advanced breathability and side sleeping comfort. And of course, it gives you the complete darkness necessary for deeper and more restful sleep.

Here are its features:

A blue mesh sleep mask with eye cups for side sleeping.
OWN THE PRO
  • 100% blackout

  • Adjustable C-shaped eye cups that flatten near the temples—no extra bulk

  • 3-layer infinitely-adjustable head strap that sits above the ears

  • Breathable Tactel® interior that’s softer and faster-drying than most fabrics

  • Anti-slip gel so it stays on when you’re shifting sides

And what people have to say:

It’s a keeper!

"I’ve had problems with the insomnia for a while and a sleep mask has always been on my radar. I saw Manta Sleep masks from one of my favorite YouTube channels MxRPlays and I was intrigued. I checked out the site and the Pro was interesting, but seemed excessive. I WAS SOO WRONG! I got a hold of mine and I use it every night. 100% blackout, lightweight, I can sleep on my side comfortably, AND I can sleep in hot/humid weather. This was a blessing in disguise. I got my mom one and she loves hers too."

— Lawrence W.

Manta keeps getting better

"As soon as I thought there couldn't be a better sleep mask, Manta comes out with a handful of ones that are even better. The Manta Sleep Mask PRO is light and cool to wear. I am a side sleeper, and there isn't another mask on the market that works like my new PRO. It stays put all night even though I tend to roll around quite a bit. 10/10!"

— Joshua E.

The best sleep mask so far!

"I’ve tried on lots of different masks and some of the manta masks. I love them all but the manta sleep mask pro is by far the best one! It’s super-light, breathable and perfect for when I sleep on the side. Thanks!"

— Johan M.

"Can confirm this thing is a monster at blocking light comfortably. Side sleeping with this is perfection. As someone with a 63 cm head, I appreciate that this fits me. That’s a bit under 25 inches — thank you for having this still work for we monster heads."

— Paul B.

Pillows and Mattress for Side Sleeping

It’s important to choose a mattress that’ll give you the best support. For side sleeping, one made from memory foam is ideal because it hugs your contours.


When it comes to pillows, there are a few that work for side sleeping. A body pillow is one of them. They give added support to other parts of your body. This is especially important if you’re pregnant or injured.


Consider a knee pillow, too. Place it between your knees to maintain the natural curve of your spine when sleeping on your side.


Also, a contoured head pillow with an adjustable loft provides support for your neck.

Side Sleeping Don’ts

All we’ve been talking about is what’s the best side to sleep on. Let’s not forget it’s important to know what to avoid when side sleeping.


If you have problems with your joints, don’t sleep on the affected side. It can make your condition worse. Side sleeping puts pressure on your shoulder, knee, elbow, wrist and hand.


As we mentioned before, sleeping on your left side may pose a problem if you have a heart condition. Again, ask your healthcare provider what sleep position they recommend.


If you have glaucoma or dry eye syndrome, avoid sleeping on your side. Glaucoma is an eye pressure-related disease. So it's a no-brainer that you shouldn’t add even more pressure by side sleeping.


A study in the National Library of Medicine suggests sleeping on the side increased the risk of dry eye(8).


So, are you still wondering what’s the best side to sleep on? The answer depends on you. People without health issues won’t have a problem regardless of their side sleeping positions. But if you have certain conditions, take these into consideration.


There is no end-all-be-all best side to sleep on. But there is such thing as the best side to sleep on for YOU. Got any tips for other side sleepers? Drop a comment below.

Sources:

(1) Best Sleeping Positions for a Good Night’s Sleep.” Healthline, www.healthline.com/health/best-sleeping-position. Accessed 14 December 2022.

(2) “Positioning While Sleeping.” Grow by WebMD, www.webmd.com/baby/positioning-while-sleeping Accessed 14 December 2022.

(3) “A Novel Sleep Positioning Device Reduces Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26053170/. Accessed 14 December 2022.

(4) “How These 3 Sleep Positions Affect Your Gut Health.” Healthline, www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/sleep-effects-digestion. Accessed 15 December 2022.

(5) “Influence of the right- versus left-sided sleeping position on the apnea-hypopnea index in patients with sleep apnea.” National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21678115/. Accessed 15 December 2022.

(6) “Avoidance of the left lateral decubitus position during sleep in patients with heart failure: relationship to cardiac size and function.” Healthline, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535814/. Accessed 15 December 2022.

(7) “The Best Heart Health Sleeping Positions.” Healthline, www.healthline.com/health/sleeping-on-left-side-bad-for-heart. Accessed 15 December 2022.

(8) “Effect of Sleep Position on the Ocular Surface.” National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28257381/. Accessed 15 December 2022


Disclaimer:  The information contained in this website or provided through our blog, e-mails, or programs is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment that can be provided by your healthcare professionals.

Main Menu

  • Home
  • SHOP
  • About
  • Faq
  • Reviews
  • Contact

Products

  • Sleep Masks
  • Eye Cups & Head Straps
  • Other Sleep Aids
  • Bundles

Other Info

  • Shipping
  • Return & Warranty
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Affiliate Program
  • Accessibility Menu

become a manta-holic & get 10% off your first order!

JOIN MANTA CLUB

© Manta Sleep . All Rights Reserved.

Close