How to Sleep on Both Sides of the Serene Island Pillow
Most pillows have one “correct” side. The Serene Island Pillow is different. It’s designed so you can sleep on either side, depending on how you sleep that night and what kind of support feels best.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to tell the front side from the back side
- What each side is best for (side sleeping and back sleeping)
- Simple setup tips so the pillow feels right from the first night
Quick Answer: Which Side Should You Use Tonight?
If you want a fast starting point, use this:
Choose the front side if you want:
- Contoured neck support
- Perfect head rest
- Ergonomic shoulder support for side sleepers
- Better airflow
- Support that may help some back sleepers reduce snoring (everyone’s different)
Choose the back side if you want:
- More flexible head movement
- A higher armrest position for side-sleeping comfort
- Firmer neck support
Alt text: Front side vs back side of the Serene Island pillow
Step 1: Understand the Two Sides
Think of the pillow as two feels in one.
The Front Side (Contoured Side)
This side is shaped to help your head and neck settle into a comfortable position. Many people describe it as feeling more “guided” and stable.
The Back Side (Support Side)
This side feels firmer and gives you a slightly different posture, especially for side sleeping. It can also feel easier for combination sleepers who move around.
The Front Side: When You Want Contour, Airflow, and Shoulder Comfort
Front Side Benefits
- Contoured neck support
- Perfect head rest
- Ergonomic shoulder support for side sleepers
- Promotes better airflow
- Reduce snoring for some back sleepers (while for others, snoring can be caused by more complex reasons)
How to Sleep on the Front Side (Side Sleepers)
- Place the pillow so the contour supports your neck, not just the back of your head.
- Let your shoulder stay on the mattress, not jammed up into the pillow.
- Keep your ear and shoulder in a comfortable line (your head shouldn’t tip sharply up or down).
- If you hug a pillow at night, keep it close to your chest so your top shoulder stays relaxed.
How to Sleep on the Front Side (Back Sleepers)
- Center your head on the head rest area, then let the neck contour support the curve of your neck.
- Keep your chin neutral (not tilted high).
- If your head feels too far forward, slide the pillow a little lower so your neck is supported without pushing you up.
The Back Side: When You Want Firmer Support and Easier Movement
Back Side Benefits
- More flexible head movement
- Higher armrest position for side-sleeping comfort
- Firmer neck support
How to Sleep on the Back Side (Side Sleepers)
- Set the pillow so your neck feels supported, but not “pushed”.
- Use the higher armrest position to keep your top arm comfortable (especially if you fold your arm in front).
- Quick check: your shoulders should feel relaxed, not lifted toward your ears.
How to Sleep on the Back Side (Combination Sleepers)
If you change positions during the night, the back side can feel less restrictive.
- Try it on a night when you know you’ll roll between side and back
- Notice whether turning feels smoother and whether your neck still feels supported
Which Side Is Best for Your Sleep Style?
If You’re Mostly a Side Sleeper
- Start with the front side if you want a contoured, “cradled” feel and ergonomic shoulder support
- Switch to the back side if you like a firmer neck feel or want the higher armrest position
If You’re Mostly a Back Sleeper
- Start with the front side for airflow and contoured neck support
- Try the back side if you prefer a firmer feel or don’t like a deeper contour
If You’re a Combination Sleeper
- Many combination sleepers like the back side first because it allows more natural movement
- Keep the front side in mind for nights you want a steadier, more “set” position
Common Setup Mistakes (And Quick Fixes)
“My neck feels too high.”
- Try the other side first (it often changes the feel immediately)
- Slide the pillow slightly lower so the contour supports your neck without lifting your chin
“My shoulder feels cramped.”
- Pull the pillow down a touch so your shoulder stays on the mattress
- Try the front side for the ergonomic shoulder support shape
“It feels different from my old pillow.”
That’s normal. A contoured pillow changes how your head and neck sit. Give it a couple of nights and try both sides before deciding which you prefer.
“I’m not sure which side I used last night.”
Take a quick photo after you make the bed, or keep the pillow oriented the same way for 3 nights while you test.
A Simple 3-Night “Try Both Sides” Routine
- Night 1: Front side (notice your neck and shoulder comfort)
- Night 2: Back side (notice movement and firmer support)
- Night 3: Choose your favourite, or alternate based on sleep position
FAQs
Can I sleep on both sides of the Serene Island Pillow?
Yes. It’s made to be comfortable on either side, so you can choose the feel that suits your sleep style.
Which side is better for side sleepers?
Many side sleepers start with the front side for ergonomic shoulder support. Some prefer the back side for the higher armrest position and firmer neck support.
Which side is better for back sleepers?
Many back sleepers like the front side for contoured neck support and airflow. If you prefer a firmer feel, the back side is worth trying.
Will it stop snoring?
No pillow can promise that. Some people find the front side feels more supportive for back sleeping and breathing comfort, but results vary.
How long does it take to get used to a contour pillow?
Usually a few nights. The quickest way is to test both sides and keep your shoulder on the mattress rather than pushing it into the pillow.
Final Tip: Treat It Like Two Pillows in One
The best way to use the Serene Island Pillow is simple: flip it to match the night you’re having. Some nights you’ll want the contoured, settled feel of the front side. Other nights you’ll want the firmer support and easier movement of the back side.
Want to go one step further? Try both sides over three nights, then stick with the one that makes you wake up feeling the most comfortable.
