Brad, Owner, 40+ years of experience: "We have been helping Brantford families sleep better since 1997. Every customer gets personal attention, honest advice, and the kind of follow-up service you just do not get from big box stores."
If you spend any time sitting up in bed to read, work on a laptop, watch TV, or scroll your phone, you know the problem: regular sleeping pillows do not provide back support when you are upright. You end up stacking two or three pillows against the headboard, they slide around, and your lower back aches within 20 minutes.
A reading pillow solves this by acting like a portable chair back for your bed. This guide covers what to look for, who uses them, and which options are available in Canada.
What Is a Reading Pillow?
A reading pillow is a large, firm, upright cushion designed to support your back, neck, and arms while sitting up in bed. Most designs feature:
- A large, firm back panel (18-24 inches tall) that rests against a headboard or wall
- Padded armrests on either side, creating a chair-like experience
- Filled with shredded memory foam or high-density foam for firm support
- A removable, washable cover
The term "husband pillow" comes from the idea that the pillow serves as a supportive stand-in when you need something to lean against. It is the same product as a reading pillow or backrest pillow; the names are interchangeable.
Features to Look For
Armrests
The defining feature of a reading pillow. Armrests create a chair-like experience and support your arms while reading, using a tablet, or eating in bed. Look for padded armrests with adequate height (10-14 inches) and width. Armrests that are too thin feel flimsy; too wide and they push your arms out awkwardly.
Adjustable Fill
The best reading pillows have a zippered inner shell that lets you add or remove shredded memory foam. This allows you to customize the firmness: add more foam for a firmer, more upright support, or remove some for a softer, more relaxed lean. Adjustable fill also means the pillow does not go flat over time because you can top it up.
Removable, Washable Cover
Essential for hygiene and longevity. Reading pillows accumulate crumbs, spilled drinks, body oils, and pet hair. A machine-washable cover that zips off easily makes maintenance practical. Look for breathable materials: microplush, microsuede, cotton, or microfibre.
Pockets
Side pockets hold your phone, remote, glasses, and small essentials within arm's reach. Some models also have a back pocket for books, magazines, or a tablet. Pockets sound like a minor feature, but they are surprisingly useful when you are settled in and do not want to move.
Neck Roll
A detachable neck roll sits at the top of the backrest and provides cervical support when leaning back. It can also be removed and used as a knee bolster or small travel pillow. Adjustable or removable is preferred over built-in.
Size Options
Most brands offer Standard, Medium, and XXL sizes. Standard fits most adults. XXL is wider for broader shoulders or for those who want extra room to spread out. Medium works for smaller frames or tight spaces.
Who Uses Reading Pillows?
- Avid readers who enjoy bedtime reading sessions
- Work-from-home professionals who sometimes use a laptop in bed
- People with acid reflux (GERD) who need an elevated position after eating
- Post-surgical recovery patients who need to rest in an upright position
- People with respiratory issues who breathe easier when elevated
- Elderly individuals who spend extended time in bed
- Students studying in dorm rooms or small apartments
- Parents who feed babies in bed and need back support
Best Reading Pillows in Canada 2026
| Pillow | Price (CAD) | Fill | Key Features | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husband Pillow (Brand) | $80-$130 | Shredded memory foam, adjustable | Detachable neck roll, side + back pockets, microplush cover, Standard/Medium/XXL sizes | Amazon.ca, husbandpillow.com |
| ComfortSpa Reading Pillow | $60-$90 | Memory foam | Large size, GERD-friendly design, washable cover | Amazon.ca |
| Clara Clark Reading Pillows | $40-$70 | Polyester and foam blend | Various sizes and colours, budget-friendly | claraclarkcanada.com, Amazon.ca |
| Budget options (various brands) | $30-$50 | Polyester fill | Basic armrests, minimal features | Amazon.ca, Walmart.ca |
8 min read
Reading Pillow Price Guide (CAD)
| Category | Price Range (CAD) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $30-$50 | Basic polyester fill, minimal features, may flatten quickly |
| Mid-range | $50-$90 | Memory foam, removable cover, basic armrests |
| Premium | $90-$150+ | Shredded memory foam, adjustable fill, neck roll, multiple pockets, XXL sizing |
How to Care for a Reading Pillow
- Wash the cover monthly: Remove the cover and machine-wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Tumble dry on low or air dry.
- Fluff the fill regularly: Shredded memory foam can clump over time. Knead and fluff the pillow every week to redistribute the fill evenly.
- Spot clean the inner pillow: If the inner foam gets stained, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not submerge memory foam in water.
- Add fill as needed: If your adjustable reading pillow starts to feel flat, add more shredded foam through the zipper. Most brands sell replacement fill on Amazon.ca.
- Store upright: When not in use, store the pillow upright to maintain its shape. Laying it flat under heavy items can compress the foam permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a husband pillow?
A husband pillow is a large upright cushion with armrests designed for sitting up in bed. It is the same product as a reading pillow or backrest pillow. The name comes from the idea that the pillow provides the supportive lean-back experience of having something solid to rest against. Prices range from $30-$150 CAD depending on fill quality and features.
Are reading pillows good for your back?
Reading pillows provide better back support than stacking regular pillows against a headboard, but they are not a substitute for a proper chair. They support the upper and mid-back well. For lower back support, place an additional small lumbar pillow behind your lower back. If you spend more than an hour sitting up in bed, consider a reading pillow with firm, adjustable foam rather than soft polyester fill.
Can I use a reading pillow for acid reflux?
Yes. A reading pillow or wedge pillow that elevates your upper body at a 30-45 degree angle can help reduce acid reflux symptoms when sitting up after eating. Some reading pillows are specifically designed for GERD support. For sleeping with reflux, a bed wedge (placed under the mattress or upper body) is more practical than a reading pillow.
What is the best reading pillow on Amazon.ca?
The Husband Pillow brand consistently ranks as the best-selling reading pillow on Amazon.ca. Its shredded memory foam fill is adjustable, it includes a detachable neck roll and multiple pockets, and the microplush cover is removable and machine-washable. It comes in Standard, Medium, and XXL sizes to fit different body frames.
How do I keep a reading pillow from sliding down?
Place the reading pillow against a solid headboard rather than a wall (headboards provide more friction). If the pillow still slides, place a non-slip mat or grip pad between the pillow and the headboard. Some users also place the pillow at a slight angle in the corner where the mattress meets the headboard for a natural anchor point.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
Our team has 38 years of experience helping customers find the right sleep solution. Call ahead or walk in any day of the week.
Sources
- Gordon SJ, Grimmer-Somers K, Trott P. Pillow use: the behaviour of cervical pain, sleep quality, and pillow comfort in side sleepers. Manual Therapy. 2009;14(6):671-678. DOI: 10.1016/j.math.2009.02.006
- Lei JX, Yang PF, Yang AL, et al. Ergonomic Consideration in Pillow Height Determinants and Evaluation. Healthcare. 2021;9(10):1333. DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101333
- Gordon SJ, Grimmer-Somers KA, Trott PH. Pillow use: the behaviour of cervical stiffness, headache and scapular/arm pain. J Pain Res. 2010;3:137-145. DOI: 10.2147/JPR.S11074
- Persson L, Moritz U. Neck support pillows: a comparative study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1998;21(4):237-240. PMID: 9608379
Reading pillows, also called husband pillows or backrest pillows, use a high back and armrests to support upright posture in bed, but they are not designed for sleeping. Mattress Miracle at 441½ West Street in Brantford notes that reading in bed is common but can disrupt sleep if the reading position causes neck strain that carries into the night. Brad recommends a reading pillow for pre-sleep relaxation and a proper sleep pillow for the night. Call (519) 770-0001 for pillow pairing advice.
Shop: Pillows at Mattress Miracle
Shop This Topic at Mattress Miracle
Popular pillows at Mattress Miracle:
- Somnia 3.0 posture pillow
- Symbia Orthopedic Wedge Pillow
- Talalay Latex Pillow (Dreamcloud)
- Cool Ice Pillow (Cooling Gel)
Or our full pillow range in our Brantford showroom.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
What is a husband pillow?
A husband pillow is a large upright cushion with armrests designed for sitting up in bed. It is the same as a reading pillow or backrest pillow. Prices range from $30-$150 CAD.
Are reading pillows good for your back?
Reading pillows provide better back support than stacking regular pillows. For lower back support, add a small lumbar pillow. Choose firm, adjustable foam over soft polyester fill.
Can I use a reading pillow for acid reflux?
Yes. Elevating your upper body at a 30-45 degree angle can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Some reading pillows are specifically designed for GERD support.
What is the best reading pillow on Amazon.ca?
The Husband Pillow brand consistently ranks as the best-selling. It features adjustable shredded memory foam, detachable neck roll, multiple pockets, and Standard/Medium/XXL sizes.
How do I keep a reading pillow from sliding down?
Place it against a solid headboard for friction. If it still slides, use a non-slip mat between the pillow and headboard, or angle it in the corner where the mattress meets the headboard.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441 1/2 West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle -- 441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, ON -- (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10am-6pm, Thursday-Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm.
Come in and let our team help you find the right mattress for your needs. No pressure, no commission.