A woman sleeping on an anti-snoring pillow.

Do Anti-Snoring Pillows Work?

Written by: Ed Salazar

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Time to read 7 min

You’re waking up exhausted. Your partner’s nudging you at 2 a.m. You’ve tried nose strips, side sleeping, maybe even mouth tape… but snoring still wins.


We get it — snoring is frustrating, and finding a fix that actually works can feel impossible. But here’s something simple that might surprise you: an anti-snore pillow.


This low-effort, high-reward option is designed to support your head and neck in a way that keeps your airway open. This can mean less snoring and better sleep for you and your partner.


Let’s take a closer look at how anti-snoring pillows work and how to find one that fits your sleep style.

What Is an Anti-Snore Pillow?

An anti-snore pillow is a specially designed pillow that helps reduce or prevent snoring by promoting better head, neck, and airway alignment while you sleep. It’s not just about comfort — it’s about positioning.


Snoring often happens when your airway gets partially blocked during sleep. That blockage is usually caused by how your tongue, jaw, and throat tissues shift when you’re lying down (especially if you sleep on your back).


A snoring pillow counteracts this by encouraging better posture and keeping you in the best sleep position for snoring — your side. This keeps your airway more open and reduces the vibrations that cause snoring in the first place.

How Do Anti-Snore Pillows Work?

Not all snoring is created equal, and neither are the solutions.


The way an anti-snore pillow works depends on how it’s designed and what kind of snorer you are. But at their core, most anti-snore pillows use a few key strategies to help keep your airway open and reduce the chance of snoring.

1. Elevating The Head To Open Your Airways

Raising your head slightly can help prevent your airway from collapsing while you sleep. This mild incline reduces pressure around the throat and encourages smoother airflow, which often means less snoring.

2. Encouraging Side Sleeping

Back sleeping is notorious for making snoring worse. Many anti-snore pillows are contoured or shaped to gently nudge you onto your side, which can reduce airway blockage caused by the tongue or soft tissues falling back into the throat.

3. Supporting Proper Spinal Alignment

When your neck and spine are aligned, your airway stays more stable. That’s why good support, and not just softness, matters. An anti-snoring pillow aims to cradle your neck at just the right angle to promote healthy breathing and overall sleep posture.

4. Discouraging Back Sleeping

Some pillows have wedge designs or built-in contours that make it uncomfortable or awkward to roll onto your back, which can be a game-changer for positional snorers — as back sleeping has been linked as a cause of snoring.

5. Bonus Benefit: Helping With Nighttime Acid Reflux

Some people experience reflux-related snoring. Slight head elevation, like that from a wedge pillow, can reduce acid reflux symptoms during the night, which also helps keep breathing clearer.


No two bodies, or sleep habits, are exactly alike, which is why the best anti-snore pillow for one person might not work for another. But understanding how they work is a solid first step toward finding your fit.

Types of Anti-Snore Pillows: Pros & Cons

Like sleep itself, the world of anti-snore pillows is deeply personal. What works wonders for one person might not make a difference for someone else, which is why understanding the different types out there can help you avoid wasting time (and money) on the wrong fit.


Some pillows are designed to elevate, some to contour, and others to train your body to stay in a side-sleeping position. Each style has its strengths and its weaknesses.


Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of anti-snore pillows, with their pros and cons to help you compare. Choosing the right type often comes down to how you sleep, what kind of support your body responds to, and whether your snoring is tied to posture, congestion, reflux, or something else entirely.

Type

How It Works

Best For

Considerations

Memory Foam Contour

Cradles head + neck for alignment

Side/back sleepers

Can retain heat

Wedge Pillow

Elevates upper body to reduce airway collapse

Back sleepers, acid reflux

Bulky, not travel-friendly

Adjustable Anti-Snore Pillows

Customizable height/support

People needing tailored support

Usually pricier

Positional Pillows

Encourage side sleeping

Positional snorers

May take getting used to


How to Choose the Best Anti-Snore Pillow for You

Not all anti-snore pillows are created equal, and picking the right one can make all the difference in your sleep quality.


Here are a few things to consider as you shop:

Your Sleep Position Matters

Are you a back, side, or stomach sleeper? Different pillows cater to different positions. For example, wedge pillows work well for back sleepers who need head elevation, while contour pillows are great for side sleepers who want extra neck support.

Material And Breathability

Look for materials that suit your needs. Breathable foam helps keep you cool, while hypoallergenic fabrics are a must if you’re prone to allergies or sensitive skin.

Portability (If You Travel Often)

If you’re on the go, a pillow that’s lightweight and easy to pack can be a game-changer. Travel-friendly anti-snore pillows keep your sleep routine consistent no matter where you are.

Adjustable Features And Design

Some pillows come with adjustable lofts or customizable firmness to fit your unique comfort level. Others are designed specifically to encourage side sleeping or head elevation.

Try Before You Commit

Buying an anti-snore pillow is an investment in your sleep and your health. Look for options that offer a trial period, so you can test the pillow risk-free and see if it actually helps with your snoring.


By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to find the best anti-snore pillow that suits your body, sleep habits, and budget.

What Else to Pair with an Anti-Snore Pillow

An anti-snore pillow can make a big difference — but sometimes, combining it with other strategies amps up the results.


Here are a few ideas to boost your chances of quieter nights:


  • Use anti-snore mandibular advancement devices (MADs) for extra airflow. These tools help keep your jaw positioned to reduce airway obstruction.

  • If a clogged nose or deviated septum worsens your snoring, consider trying a nasal dilator. It opens your nose from the inside out, improving airflow.

  • Optimize your sleep hygiene. Keep your bedroom cool, avoid heavy meals and alcohol close to bedtime, and stick to a consistent sleep schedule to help your body rest better.

  • Talk to a sleep specialist if your snoring is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like daytime fatigue or pauses in breathing. Sometimes snoring can signal sleep apnea, which needs professional evaluation.


Pairing your anti-snore pillow with these habits can make a real impact, giving you and your partner the restful nights you deserve.

A comparison table of anti-snoring pillows

Remember: To Sleep Easier, You Must Breathe Better

Snoring can feel overwhelming, but an anti-snore pillow offers a simple, non-invasive way to start tackling it. By supporting better head and neck alignment, these pillows help keep your airway open and your breathing smooth, night after night.


Remember, not every pillow works for everyone. That’s why it’s so important to find one that fits your sleep style — and why trying it risk-free can make all the difference.


At SnoreLessNow, we believe in making this easy for you. That’s why our Posiform Pillow comes with a 120-night return policy, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the snoring.


The Posiform Pillow has been proven to significantly reduce snoring. For more details, read our blog post explaining the Posiform study.


Ready to finally catch some uninterrupted Z’s? Give the Posiform Pillow a try and see what better sleep feels like.

Medical Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice or concerns about snoring, sleep disorders, or related health issues.

Ed Salazar, SnoreLessNow Co-Founder and CEO

Ed Salazar, Sleep Consultant and CEO of SnorelessNow

With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, Ed Salazar is a trusted sleep consultant and co-founder of SnoreLessNow. Let Ed Salazar guide you on a transformative journey to restful nights and rejuvenation. 

Dr. Andres Salazar, MD, CMD

Dr. Andres Salazar, MD, CMD

Medically reviewed by Dr. Andres Salazar, a board-certified Family Physician, Geriatrician, and Certified Medical Director, leading a dedicated team of sleep consultants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an anti-snore pillow?

An anti-snore pillow is designed to improve head, neck, and airway alignment during sleep. By positioning you in a way that keeps your airway open, it helps reduce the vibrations that cause snoring.

How soon can I expect results after using an anti-snore pillow?

Many people notice a difference right away, especially if their snoring is positional (like when sleeping on their back). However, results can vary based on individual factors and pillow type, so give it a few nights to see how it works for you.

Can an anti-snore pillow help with sleep apnea?

Anti-snore pillows can help mild cases of positional sleep apnea by encouraging side sleeping and better airway alignment. But they are not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment if you have moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Are all anti-snore pillows the same?

No, there are different types designed for various sleeping positions and needs, like wedge pillows, contour pillows, and adjustable loft pillows. Choosing the right one depends on your sleep style and what causes your snoring.

What if the pillow doesn’t work for me?

That’s why it's so important to try a pillow with a generous return policy — like our Posiform pillow, which comes with a 120-night guarantee—if it doesn't help. If it doesn’t, you can return it hassle-free and explore other options.