A bolster pillow is a long, usually cylindrical cushion that can make side sleeping feel more comfortable. You can hug it in front of your body or place it between your knees to support a relaxed sleeping position. Unlike your regular pillow, a bolster is usually an extra support pillow, not a replacement for the one beneath your head.
If you're wondering what a bolster pillow is used for, how to position one, or whether it suits your sleeping habits, this guide explains the essentials without promising medical results.
What Is a Bolster Pillow?
A bolster pillow is a long, narrow cushion used for cuddling, positioning or supporting parts of the body while resting. Traditionally cylindrical, bolsters are available in different lengths, diameters and fillings. Some are designed mainly for bedroom styling; others are made for sleeping or lounging.
For side sleepers, a sleeping bolster is often most useful in front of the chest or between the legs. Its role is different from a conventional head pillow, which fills the space between your head and the mattress.
Bolster Pillow Benefits for Side Sleepers
A comfortable pillow to hug
If you naturally sleep with your arms wrapped around a spare pillow, a long bolster can give you something comfortable to hold. Supporting your upper arm in front of your body may feel more relaxed than letting it hang unsupported. Comfort is personal, so the best position is the one that doesn't strain your shoulder or neck.
Gentle support between the knees
Placing a suitably sized bolster between your knees can stop the upper leg from dropping across the lower leg. This may help you keep your hips in a more comfortable position while lying on your side. NHS physiotherapy guidance also suggests using a pillow between the legs when side sleeping.
A bolster should be thick enough to feel supportive but not so bulky that it forces your knees apart. If you prefer a smaller cushion, a regular pillow or dedicated knee pillow may be a better fit. For more on this position, see our guide to sleeping with a pillow between your legs.
Flexible comfort beyond bedtime
A bolster can also make reading in bed or relaxing on the sofa more comfortable, depending on its size and firmness. Not every decorative bolster is designed for nightly sleeping, so check the product's intended use before choosing one.
How to Use a Bolster Pillow for Sleeping on Your Side
- Start with a suitable head pillow. Your regular pillow should comfortably support the gap between your head and mattress. A bolster in your arms does not do this job.
- Lie on your preferred side. Let your shoulders relax rather than curling tightly around the bolster.
- Hug the bolster in front of you. Rest your upper arm on it and adjust how close it sits to your chest.
- Try it between your knees or legs. If the bolster's length and thickness suit you, position it so your upper leg feels supported without being pushed too high.
- Adjust or remove it if uncomfortable. You should not have to twist your neck, shoulder, hip or knees to accommodate the pillow.
Quick tip: A shorter bolster may work well between the knees, while a longer model can be easier to hug. The ideal size depends on your height, sleep habits and the shape of the cushion.
Bolster Pillow vs Regular Pillow vs Body Pillow
|
Pillow type |
Main purpose |
Side-sleeper consideration |
|
Regular sleeping pillow |
Supports the head and neck |
Essential to get the right height and firmness for your shoulders |
|
Bolster pillow |
Extra support for hugging, arms or knees |
Versatile, compact compared with many full-length body pillows |
|
Body pillow |
Longer support along the torso and legs |
May suit sleepers who want to hug one cushion and support more of the body |
A bolster is not automatically the best pillow for every side sleeper. If your main concern is the pillow beneath your head, start with that. The Australian consumer organisation CHOICE provides a useful guide to choosing pillows for different sleeping positions.
DuuDuu's natural latex pillow is a separate head-and-neck pillow option; the bolster is intended as an additional comfort accessory. You can also read our guide to the best pillows in Australia for a broader comparison.
How to Choose a Bolster Pillow in Australia
Before purchasing a bolster pillow, compare the features that will actually affect how you use it:
- Length and diameter: Decide whether you want a bolster mainly to hug, to place between your knees or to use while lounging. A bulky bolster may not feel comfortable between the legs.
- Firmness: Look for enough support to maintain a comfortable position without a hard or overstuffed feel.
- Filling: Common options include fibre fill, latex, foam, down and other materials. Each feels different; don't assume that a particular filling will deliver medical benefits.
- Cover and care: Check whether the cover is removable, the washing instructions and any material sensitivities.
- Product specifications: Confirm dimensions, materials and current availability on the retailer's product page.
The DuuDuu Bolster is described by DuuDuu as soft yet supportive, breathable and designed for side-sleeping comfort. Check its live product page for specifications and stock status; availability can change.
Can You Use a Bolster Pillow During Pregnancy?
Some pregnant sleepers find an extra pillow in front of the body or between the knees comfortable. The ideal arrangement depends on the stage of pregnancy and any individual discomfort. A bolster is not a substitute for personalised advice from your midwife or doctor, especially if you have pelvic pain or are recovering from surgery.
Important safety note: Bolster pillows are not suitable for use in an infant's sleep space. Australia's Red Nose safe-sleep guidance advises keeping pillows and other soft bedding out of cots. A bolster also does not treat snoring or obstructive sleep apnoea; seek medical advice if breathing problems are affecting sleep.
Build a More Comfortable Side-Sleeping Setup
Comfortable side sleeping involves more than one cushion. Start with a head pillow that suits your shoulder width, then decide whether extra support in front of your body or between your legs would help. A suitable mattress and room to move also matter. Our sleeping positions guide covers the differences between side, back and front sleeping.
For more options, browse DuuDuu's pillows collection, which includes standard head-pillow and bolster options. Choose the combination that feels comfortable for you, rather than assuming every side sleeper needs the same setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bolster Pillows
What is a bolster pillow used for?
A bolster pillow is used for extra comfort and positioning while sleeping, resting or lounging. Side sleepers may hug it or place it between their knees, while some bolsters are intended mainly as decorative cushions.
Is a bolster pillow good for side sleepers?
A bolster pillow can be useful for side sleepers who like hugging a cushion or need comfortable support between their knees. It is optional, not essential, and should not replace a suitable head pillow.
How do you use a bolster pillow when sleeping?
Lie on your side with a regular pillow beneath your head, then hold the bolster in front of your chest or place it between your knees if its size is suitable. Adjust it until your shoulders, hips and legs feel relaxed.
Can a bolster pillow go between your knees?
Yes. A bolster can be placed between your knees if it keeps your legs comfortably separated without forcing them apart. A smaller pillow may work better when a long bolster feels too bulky.
What is the difference between a bolster pillow and a body pillow?
A bolster is usually a relatively narrow, often cylindrical cushion used for targeted support or cuddling. A body pillow is generally longer and designed to support more of the torso and legs at once, although sizes and shapes vary by brand.
Can I use a bolster instead of a normal pillow?
Usually, a bolster is better treated as an extra pillow rather than a replacement for your head pillow. Side sleepers still need comfortable head-and-neck support, and the bolster's shape may not provide the right height beneath the head.
Which bolster pillow filling is best for sleeping?
There is no single best filling for everyone. Fibre-filled cushions can feel plush, while latex or foam versions may feel more resilient or firm. Compare softness, shape, care instructions and any sensitivities before choosing.
Does a bolster pillow help with back or hip pain?
A bolster may make certain resting positions more comfortable, particularly when placed between the knees, but it is not a proven treatment for back or hip conditions. Persistent pain should be assessed by an appropriate health professional.
Find Your Preferred Pillow Setup with DuuDuu
The right bolster is one that feels comfortable with your regular pillow and sleeping position. Visit DuuDuu Australia for mattresses and sleep essentials, browse our pillows collection, or view the DuuDuu Bolster for current details and availability.
