As a bibliophile, I was always having trouble trying to get into a comfortable position when I have a book in bed. However, once I invested in the best reading pillow, I felt ugh cozier and can enjoy my books without having to shift positions constantly.
Wondering what kind of pillow to get for reading? I show you the ultimate purchasing guide!
Product Comparison Table
Top 5 Bed Lounger Reviews 2019
Based on my research, tests, and overall customer reviews, these are the five best bed rest pillow to invest:
I believe that the Brentwood Originals Brushed Twill Bedrest is one of the best because it's got all the features of a reading pillow!
For starters, it's the traditional bed support pillow, specially designed for better posture as you sit up. The armrests are measured adequately so I can prop my elbows on it comfortably while the book still meets eye level. Moreover, its support is excellent, I noticed less pain around my back when I read now (which I do every night).
There's more to this pillow I appreciate other than its support and comfort level. It's also very easy to clean since you just need to spot clean it (not machine-washable). Also, since it's made of durable material, I feel like it can last for a year or so with proper care and maintenance.
Another thing I like is that it has a handle on top, so I can bring it anywhere without lugging it between my arms. All in all, it's definitely worth the price!
- Firm enough and offers excellent support and comfort
- Has gripping material to avoid elbows sliding
- Comes with a bag and handle for easy transport
- Doesn’t have any pockets
- The pillowcase isn’t removable
What I love most about the Husband Pillow is that the cover is SO soft! When I first began using it, I would always take a few minutes to rub my hands and back against the pillow cover, because it felt so warm and cozy.
Another feature I appreciate about the pillow is that it's higher and wider, which is perfect for larger frames or for those who want to feel enveloped in someone's arms (like the name, it's like your partner hugging you but in a pillow version!).
Not only is it comfortable, but it's also pretty versatile. There's a zipper to the inner shell so I can open it up and either add or remove some stuffing or shift the foam around for support in better places (my neck).
From its adjustability to its soft fabric cover, I'm in love and would use it when reading and resting!
- Can adjust the foam to your liking
- Extremely soft fabric cover for better comfort
- You can choose from a variety of colors
- Arms and back sometimes slide from the fabric
- It’s a bit too firm on the head area
For those who are looking for a more affordable reading pillow, then I highly suggest the LINENSPA Shredded Foam Pillow. While it may come at a lower price, LINENSPA doesn't scrimp on the quality of this product, as it's made of shredded foam for support and comfort.
I like how the shredded foam isn't only supportive of my back, but that it's cooling as well. It keeps my back breathing and well-ventilated, so I don't sweat even when I'm not using the A/C in the room. The foam also conforms to my shape, which relieves pressure excellently. It comes back to shape and is great whenever I shift positions as I read!
Overall, this is an excellent choice for those on a budget and offers the firm yet soft feel to have you sit up without a problem.
- Comes at an affordable price with value
- Made of shredded foam for breathability
- Conforms to your body shape well
- Not as durable as other reading pillows
- It’s a bit on the heavy side
You might think that the Avana Kind bed Support Pillow Comfort System may be a bit too expensive. That's the first thing that came into my mind as well! Comparing the prices, it was just too much. However, once I tested it myself, I was hooked.
This comes in a complete set to offer the complete support, as there are four pieces of cushions. There's a headrest, knee rest, back scoop, and a scoop cradle you can adjust to. So regardless of your position, you're able to lounge or sleep comfortably, which is perfect as I read or sleep!
I can't stop gushing about how comfortable and supportive it is. It's totally worth the price because it doesn't just relieve my back and neck pain while I read, but also as I sleep and lounge regardless of the position I take.
- Complete pillow system to reduce whole body pain
- Adjustable and suitable for all types of sitting and sleeping positions
- Soft and quality cover, built to last for a long time
- Comes at an expensive price compared to other pillows
- Some complaints of it feeling too warm
Last but not least, the ComfySure Bedrest Reading Pillow is a product for just about anyone! It has the multipurpose feel so it's suitable not just for avid readers, but for pregnant women, for lumbar support, or just for resting as you sit up.
It's made of shredded memory foam, so not only does it conform to my body well, but it's breathable, too! The cover is just as breathable, so there's no worry about sweating or having to stand up from the heat while I read.
Furthermore, the pillow is very easy to clean and maintain, as it's machine-washable and doesn't collect dust as easily as other reading pillows I've tried.
It's large enough and does the simple job of relieving pain as you sit up. I have no major complaints and am impressed!
- Breathable shredded memory foam and cover
- Comfortable to use whenever and wherever
- Easy to clean, machine-washable
- Not the best for those with larger frames
- Doesn’t hold its form as efficiently after a year
The Dangers of Reading Books Without the Right Pillow
Books are extremely beneficial for our brains, but have you ever thought about what happens when you don't have enough support while reading in bed?
When using the wrong pillow (or none at all), it would cause you to stay in an improper posture for a long period. As a result, you're always shifting and can't focus on the book itself. Not only that, but it will cause pain in the long run, particularly on your back!
Just like sleeping, it's crucial to ensure that you have the right pillows that maintain the correct posture. It will be good for both your body AND eyes, so you're able to enjoy the book without the physical side effects.
Why Invest in the Best Reading Pillows?
A pillow specially made for reading will be able to provide a ton of benefits, such as:
Better Comfort
Compared to lying down flat on my bed or using multiple pillows to sit up, the best pillow for sitting up in bed offers better comfort and support. That way, I can stay in one position without feeling squeamish or having numb arms or legs.
These kinds of pillows are soft yet have the firm feel to keep your neck and back in the right posture. After using them, I haven't had any more headaches and I read in peace now!
Back and Spine Support
When I used to lie flat on my back or sit up without pillows in bed, it only caused pain. My back was suffering from always leaning on the wall or my bed's headrest!
Once I began using a reading pillow, it provided the firm support my sleeping pillows couldn't offer (as they were made for the head and neck only). Because of this, the back pain lessened considerably and I have no issues with reading for long periods.
Comes With Arm Rests
I prefer the traditional bed support (which I'll be explaining and reviewing later) because of its armrest! With a pillow that comes with an armrest, it doesn't only keep my back and neck support, but my shoulders as well.
I don't have to bring up my arms uncomfortably as I read or prop it on my legs. I can just use the armrest to keep my elbows and shoulders at the optimum position.
Better Head and Neck Support
Best pillow for watching tv in bed has enough height to keep both my back and head cozy as I read. It provides the firmness to encourage proper posture, from a well-rested head to a straight neck. As a result, I'm able to read properly without the worry of headaches or next strains because of my position.
These types of pillows have encouraged better neck and head positioning because I can lean comfortably and start to focus on my book.
The Different Types of Reading Pillows
There are different types of these pillows to choose from:
Wedge Pillow
Traditional Bed Support
Plus, this isn't just for the bed. You can use this as a lumbar support cushion, or on the couch for extra comfort!
How to Choose the Best Reading Pillow?
A reading pillow is extremely advantageous, but only if you choose the one suitable for you! If you're still confused as to how the selection process goes, here are some important factors to consider:
1
The Softness and Its Material
While I appreciate a pillow that's very soft and plush, I also look for a reading pillow firm enough. This is to promote better posture and support so there's no need to worry about pain in the long run.
I recommend that you look for pillows that offer soft and cozy fabric covers for extra comfort. As for its filling, I highly suggest shredded or memory foam so it conforms to your shape while relieving pressure.
2
How Big Should It Be?
The size will have to depend on who's using it. Are you a small frame or purchasing the pillow for a child or teenager? Then you'll want to get something that fits them while still providing adequate support.
For those who have bigger frames or are taller, then you should measure the height and width to get a pillow at the right size for it to fit your body type.
3
What's Your Budget?
How much are you able to afford for the backrest pillow? The price can range between $40 to $150, but that doesn't mean you should scrimp and get the cheapest one. Nor should you overspend on a pillow if you aren't able to afford it.
Consider your budget, which can narrow down your choices and have you begin focusing on the other aspects of the reading pillow.
Extra Tips on How to Read Comfortably In Bed
Now that you're familiar with how to choose the best pillows, what are other things you should follow for better comfort and posture while you read?
This is an excellent video that shows you how to read in bed properly without damaging both your posture and eyes:
Wrapping it Up
For those who are in love with reading, it gets difficult propping yourself up with your usual pillows. However, with an awesome reading pillow for both support and comfort, you won't end up with neck aches or having to change positions all the time. Just focus on your book and keep reading until it's time for bed!
Of all the best products I've tried and tested, I believe that the Brentwood Originals Brushed Twill Bedrest deserves to be on the top of my list. Not only is it specially designed for sitting up in bed, but it's made with the quality material that makes me feel hugged and fully supported!
I haven't experienced neck or back pain for so long after I started using this when watching television or reading. Plus, I appreciate the fact that it's lightweight and easy to bring with its sturdy handle. All in all, a worthy purchase especially for those who travel or who like to move around the house when reading.
- EXCELLENT SUPPORT for your neck, back, and arms while watching TV, reading, or relaxing on your bed, couch, or even ground.
- SIMPLE TO TRANSPORT with the sturdy handle attached on the top of the bedrest to bring to your next lounging location.
- VERSATILE FOR ANY SITUATION whether it be at home in the living room, or hanging out in the dorm room, the Brentwood Originals bedrest will always be your comfortable companion.
- EASY TO CLEAN by spot cleaning with only a damp cloth
- Measures 26 inches long by 18 inches wide by 18 inches high. Covering - 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton
Hopefully, this article on the best reading pillow gave you an idea of what you should get when you just want to sit up anywhere with comfort. So don't wait any longer and look into any of these products now!
If you have any questions or want to share your experiences and reviews on reading pillows, do comment below. Your thoughts are much appreciated.