Best Body Pillows & Cases in Canada 2026

9 min read

A body pillow is an elongated pillow, usually 48 to 60 inches long, designed to support your whole body rather than just your head and neck. The point of one is alignment: tucked between the knees for a side sleeper, or wrapped around the torso during pregnancy, it keeps the spine, hips, and shoulders in a neutral line through the night. At Mattress Miracle, the family-owned shop on West Street in Brantford, sleep specialist Talia Grose and the team have fitted body pillows for side sleepers, pregnant customers, and post-surgery recovery for years, and the same questions come up every week: which shape, how firm, and will it fit the bed.

Side sleeping is why most people end up shopping for a body pillow in the first place. An accelerometer study published in Nature and Science of Sleep (Skarpsno et al., 2017) found adults spend roughly 54% of their time in bed on their side, the single most common sleep position. That position is healthy, but it pulls the top knee forward and rotates the pelvis, which is the exact problem a firm pillow between the knees solves.

Answer capsule: A straight (I-shaped) body pillow is a single rectangular pillow, roughly 20 inches wide by 48 to 54 inches long, used by side sleepers to keep the knees and ankles stacked. A pregnancy body pillow is usually C-shaped or U-shaped so it supports the belly and the back at the same time. Both rely on firmness, not loft, to hold the hips level.

The Bottom Line: Shop the Symbia 50" Body Pillow →

What Is a Body Pillow?

A body pillow is an elongated pillow designed to support your entire body while you sleep. Unlike standard pillows that only support your head and neck, body pillows typically measure between 48 to 54 inches in length (some extending to 60 inches), providing support from head to toe. These versatile sleep accessories help maintain proper spinal alignment, reduce pressure points, and offer comfort in various sleeping positions.

Body pillows come in different shapes, materials, and firmness levels to accommodate diverse sleep preferences and specific needs. They have gained particular popularity among pregnant women, side sleepers, people with chronic pain conditions, and anyone seeking to improve their sleep quality through better body support.

Which Body Pillow Is Best for You?

Most body pillow guides hand you a list of products and let you sort it out. We do this a different way in the showroom: we ask three questions, and the answers point to a shape and a firmness almost every time. Use the same framework at home before you spend a dollar.

Cross those three answers and you land on one shape. A side sleeper with hip pain who shares a queen bed gets a firm straight pillow, every time. A third-trimester pregnant customer who sleeps alone on a king can enjoy a full U-shape. The Symbia 50" Body Pillow is our default for the first case because its adjustable fill lets a side sleeper dial in real firmness, and its 50-inch length fits a queen without crowding a partner.

Types of Body Pillows Available in Canada

Straight Body Pillows

The most common and versatile type, straight body pillows are rectangular and typically measure 20 inches wide by 48-54 inches long. These pillows are ideal for side sleepers who want to hug the pillow while placing it between their knees to maintain hip and spine alignment. Straight body pillows are also the most affordable option and the easiest to find pillowcases for, as they use standard body pillow dimensions.

Canadian retailers often stock straight body pillows in various fill materials, from memory foam to down alternative, with prices ranging from $40 to $150 CAD depending on quality and materials.

C-Shaped Body Pillows

C-shaped body pillows curve gently to cradle your body, providing support for your head, back, hips, and knees simultaneously. These pillows are particularly popular among pregnant women because they eliminate the need for multiple pillows and provide comprehensive support without requiring repositioning throughout the night.

The C-shape design typically measures about 56-60 inches in total length along the curve, making them slightly larger than straight pillows. When shopping for a pillowcase for body pillow in this shape, ensure you purchase one specifically designed for C-shaped pillows, as standard cases will not fit properly.

U-Shaped Body Pillows

U-shaped body pillows are the most comprehensive support option, wrapping around your entire body to provide support on both sides. This design is excellent for those who frequently change positions during sleep, as you will have support whether you roll to your left or right side. U-shaped pillows are favored by pregnant women in their third trimester and people recovering from surgery who need support from all angles.

These pillows are the largest option, typically measuring 60 inches on each side of the U, which means they require more bed space and a larger body pillow case. Prices in Canada generally range from $60 to $200 CAD for quality options.

J-Shaped Body Pillows

J-shaped body pillows offer a middle ground between C-shaped and straight pillows. They provide head and neck support with the curved top portion while extending down the body for full-length support. This design is versatile for various sleeping positions and takes up less space than U-shaped options while still offering more support than straight pillows.

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Body Pillow Fill Materials

Memory Foam

Memory foam body pillows conform to your body's contours, providing customized support that helps maintain proper spinal alignment. Shredded memory foam is particularly popular as it allows for adjustability, you can add or remove foam to achieve your desired firmness level. Memory foam pillows tend to retain heat, so look for gel-infused or ventilated options if you are a warm sleeper.

In Canada, quality memory foam body pillows typically range from $70 to $180 CAD. These pillows are durable and maintain their shape well over time.

Polyester Fiberfill

Polyester fiberfill (also called down alternative) is the most common and affordable fill material. These pillows are soft, lightweight, and hypoallergenic, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. They are also machine washable, which is a significant advantage for maintenance. However, fiberfill pillows tend to flatten more quickly than other materials and may require fluffing to maintain loft.

Budget-conscious Canadians can find quality polyester fiberfill body pillows starting around $40 CAD, with premium options reaching $100 CAD.

Microfiber

Microfiber fill consists of extremely fine synthetic fibers that create a soft, down-like feel without the allergens or ethical concerns of real down. Microfiber body pillows offer excellent loft and comfort while remaining affordable and easy to maintain. They are breathable and suitable for year-round use in Canada's varying climate.

Natural and Organic Materials

For environmentally conscious Canadians, body pillows filled with organic cotton, buckwheat hulls, or kapok are available, though they are less common and more expensive. These options appeal to those seeking sustainable, chemical-free sleep products. Organic and natural fill body pillows typically start around $150 CAD and can exceed $300 CAD for premium options.

The Importance of Quality Body Pillow Cases

While the body pillow itself provides the structure and support, the pillowcase for body pillow you choose significantly impacts your comfort, hygiene, and the pillow's longevity. A quality body pillow case serves multiple purposes: it protects your pillow from body oils, sweat, and stains; provides a comfortable surface against your skin; and contributes to temperature regulation throughout the night.

Standard Body Pillow Case Sizes

Body pillow cases in Canada typically come in these standard dimensions:

• 20" x 48" - Most common size for straight body pillows
• 20" x 54" - Extended length for taller individuals or longer pillows
• 20" x 60" - Extra-long option for maximum coverage
• Custom sizes - Required for C-shaped, U-shaped, and J-shaped pillows

When purchasing a body pillow case, measure your pillow first to ensure a proper fit. A case that is too small will be difficult to put on and may tear, while one that is too large will bunch up and create uncomfortable wrinkles. For a deeper look at fabrics, fit, and styling, see our body pillow cases guide.

Body Pillow Case Materials

Cotton

Cotton is the most popular material for body pillow cases due to its breathability, softness, and ease of care. Egyptian cotton and Pima cotton are premium options that offer exceptional softness and durability. Cotton pillowcases are suitable for all seasons and are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for sensitive skin.

In Canada, cotton body pillow cases range from $15 to $60 CAD depending on thread count and cotton quality. Look for a thread count between 300 and 600 for the best balance of softness and durability.

Bamboo and Bamboo Blends

Bamboo fabric has gained popularity for its sustainability, softness, and moisture-wicking properties. Bamboo pillowcases are naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, making them excellent for people with allergies or sensitive skin. They are also thermoregulating, staying cool in summer and warm in winter, which suits Canada's climate extremes.

Quality bamboo body pillow cases typically cost between $25 and $70 CAD.

Microfiber

Microfiber pillowcases are budget-friendly, wrinkle-resistant, and durable. While not as breathable as natural fibers, they are soft and easy to maintain. Microfiber cases are a sensible choice for children's body pillows or guest bedrooms.

Expect to pay $12 to $30 CAD for microfiber body pillow cases.

Jersey Knit

Jersey knit fabric (similar to t-shirt material) creates soft, stretchy pillowcases that are comfortable and easy to put on your body pillow. These cases are particularly popular for pregnancy body pillows due to their gentle stretch and cozy feel. Jersey knit is breathable and becomes softer with each wash.

Silk and Satin

Silk and satin pillowcases offer luxury and practical benefits, including reduced friction that can help prevent hair breakage and facial wrinkles. These materials are naturally temperature-regulating and hypoallergenic. However, they require more delicate care and are the most expensive option, typically ranging from $50 to $150 CAD for a body pillow case.

Body Pillows for Pregnancy

Pregnancy body pillows are specifically designed to support the changing body during pregnancy, helping to alleviate common discomforts such as back pain, hip pressure, and difficulty finding comfortable sleeping positions. As pregnancy progresses, especially into the second and third trimesters, many women find that a body pillow becomes essential for quality sleep. Many customers tell us the need kicks in somewhere between weeks 12 and 20, once the belly starts to grow, though hip or back pain can bring it on sooner.

Why Pregnant Women Need Body Pillows

During pregnancy, healthcare providers typically recommend sleeping on your left side to optimize blood flow to the baby. However, this position can strain your hips, back, and shoulders without proper support. A body pillow helps by:

• Supporting the belly to reduce strain on the lower back
• Cushioning between the knees to maintain proper hip alignment
• Supporting the back to prevent rolling onto the back during sleep
• Elevating the upper leg to improve circulation
• Providing neck and head support in side-sleeping positions

Best Body Pillow Shapes for Pregnancy

U-shaped body pillows are often considered the gold standard for pregnancy support, as they provide comprehensive support on both sides, eliminating the need to reposition the pillow when changing sides during the night. C-shaped pillows are also excellent, offering support along the back and front of the body while taking up less bed space, an important consideration if you are sharing a bed with a partner. Our pregnancy body pillow guide goes deeper on trimester-by-trimester needs.

When selecting a pillowcase for body pillow during pregnancy, consider materials that are easy to wash and hypoallergenic, as pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity. Cotton and bamboo are excellent choices.

Body Pillows for Side Sleepers

Side sleeping is the most common sleep position. An accelerometer study in Nature and Science of Sleep (Skarpsno et al., 2017) found adults spend about 54% of their time in bed on their side. While this position has health benefits, including reduced snoring and better digestion, it can create pressure points at the shoulders and hips without proper support.

A body pillow helps side sleepers by filling the space between the knees and ankles, which maintains proper spinal alignment and reduces hip pressure. Hugging a body pillow also prevents shoulder strain by providing support for the top arm, reducing the tendency to curl forward.

For side sleepers, straight body pillows or J-shaped pillows are typically the best choices, offering flexibility and support without taking up excessive bed space. Look for a medium-firm fill that will not compress completely under your leg weight but remains comfortable to hug. Our in-store recommendation is the Symbia 50" Body Pillow, which features adjustable fill so you can dial in exactly the right firmness. For a shape-by-shape breakdown, our best body pillows guide walks through each option.

Body Pillows for Pain Relief and Recovery

Beyond pregnancy and general comfort, body pillows serve therapeutic purposes for people dealing with various pain conditions or recovering from surgery or injury.

Back Pain Relief

Body pillows can significantly reduce lower back pain by promoting proper spinal alignment during sleep. Placing a body pillow between your knees when side sleeping prevents the top leg from pulling your spine out of alignment. Some people also find relief by sleeping with a body pillow along their back, which prevents rolling onto the back and maintains side-sleeping position throughout the night. That said, if the ache is coming from a worn mattress rather than your position, a pillow will not fix it, and our mattress collection is the better starting point.

Hip and Knee Pain

For those with hip arthritis or knee pain, the cushioning provided by a body pillow between the legs reduces pressure on these joints. Memory foam body pillows are particularly effective for this purpose, as they conform to your body and distribute weight evenly.

Post-Surgery Recovery

After surgeries, particularly abdominal, hip, or back procedures, body pillows can provide essential support and positioning assistance. They help patients maintain recommended sleeping positions and reduce the risk of inadvertently rolling into positions that could compromise healing.

Body Pillows for Hip Pain

Side sleepers with hip pain often misdiagnose the cause. The pillow is not the issue. The issue is usually that the top knee falls forward across the body, which rotates the pelvis and torques the hip joint all night. A firm body pillow placed between the knees, ankle to ankle, keeps the pelvis level and stops the rotation.

What to look for if hip pain is the primary reason you are shopping for a body pillow:

• Firmness: Medium-firm to firm. A soft pillow compresses under the top knee and the hip rotates anyway.
• Length: Long enough to support knees and ankles together. A 50 to 54 inch pillow is the sweet spot.
• Fill: Latex or shredded memory foam holds shape better than polyester for this use.
• Shape: Straight rectangular (I-shape) is more effective for hip alignment than U or C shapes.

The Symbia 50 inch Body Pillow ($160 CAD) is what we typically recommend for this exact use case. Firm support, mid-length, holds shape over time.

From Our Brantford Showroom: When a Body Pillow Helps and When It Does Not

Most articles about body pillows are written by retailers selling them. We sell them too, but we also see customers come back saying it was the wrong fit. Here is the honest list.

Caring for Your Body Pillow and Pillowcase

Washing Body Pillow Cases

Regular washing of your body pillow case is essential for hygiene and longevity. Most cotton, bamboo, and microfiber cases can be machine washed in cold or warm water with mild detergent. Wash your pillowcase weekly or bi-weekly, just as you would your regular pillowcases.

For different materials:

• Cotton and bamboo: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low or line dry
• Microfiber: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low (avoid fabric softener, which reduces moisture-wicking properties)
• Silk and satin: Hand wash or machine wash on delicate cycle in cold water, air dry
• Jersey knit: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Cleaning Your Body Pillow

The care instructions for the pillow itself depend on the fill material:

Polyester fiberfill: Many are machine washable. Use a large-capacity washer or visit a laundromat with oversized machines. Wash on gentle cycle with mild detergent, then tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls to restore loft.

Memory foam: Do not machine wash. Spot clean stains with mild soap and water, then air dry completely. To freshen, sprinkle with baking soda, let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum.

Microfiber: Usually machine washable, follow the manufacturer's care label instructions.

Using a quality pillowcase for body pillow not only enhances comfort but also protects your pillow, reducing how often you need to clean the pillow itself.

Where to Buy Body Pillows and Body Pillow Cases in Canada

Canadians have numerous options for purchasing body pillows and pillowcases, from local retailers to online marketplaces:

Local Mattress and Sleep Stores

Visiting a local sleep specialty store like Mattress Miracle in Brantford offers significant advantages. You can physically test different pillows, receive personalized recommendations from knowledgeable staff, and often find quality products that are not available through large online retailers. Supporting local businesses also strengthens your community and often provides better after-purchase support.

Canadian Online Retailers

Major Canadian retailers like Amazon.ca, Walmart.ca, and The Bay offer wide selections of body pillows and pillowcases with the convenience of home delivery. When shopping online, pay close attention to product dimensions, fill materials, and customer reviews to ensure you are getting a quality product.

Specialty Pregnancy Stores

Stores specializing in maternity products often carry pregnancy-specific body pillows designed with input from healthcare providers. These retailers can offer valuable guidance on using body pillows throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

Price Guide: What to Expect in Canada

Understanding typical price ranges helps you budget appropriately and identify good value:

Body Pillows:

• Budget options (polyester fill, straight): $30-50 CAD
• Mid-range (quality fiberfill or shredded memory foam): $60-100 CAD
• Premium (high-density memory foam, specialty shapes): $100-200 CAD
• Luxury (organic materials, therapeutic designs): $200-350 CAD

Body Pillow Cases:

• Budget (microfiber, basic cotton): $12-25 CAD
• Mid-range (quality cotton, bamboo blends): $25-50 CAD
• Premium (high-thread-count cotton, pure bamboo): $50-80 CAD
• Luxury (silk, organic materials): $80-150 CAD

Remember that investing in a quality body pillow and pillowcase can improve your sleep for years, making them worthwhile investments in your health and well-being.

Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Body Pillow

Consider Your Primary Use

Identify your main reason for wanting a body pillow: pregnancy support, side sleeping comfort, pain relief, or general comfort enhancement. This will guide you toward the best shape and firmness level.

Think About Bed Size

If you share your bed with a partner, consider how much space a body pillow will occupy. U-shaped pillows require the most space, while straight pillows are the most compact. Some couples find that each partner needs their own body pillow, which may require upgrading to a larger bed.

Test Firmness Levels

Whenever possible, test body pillows in person before purchasing. What feels comfortable for a few minutes in a store may feel different after a full night's sleep. If buying online, choose retailers with generous return policies.

Invest in Multiple Pillowcases

Having at least two pillowcases for your body pillow allows you to always have a clean case available while one is in the wash. This simple investment significantly improves hygiene and extends your pillow's life.

Read Reviews from Canadian Buyers

When shopping online, prioritize reviews from other Canadian customers who can speak to durability, comfort in our climate, and whether the product matches its description.

Body Pillows in Quebec (Oreiller Corporel / Oreiller de Grossesse)

Quebec retailers list body pillows as "oreiller corporel". Pregnancy and maternity pillows are "oreiller de grossesse" or "oreiller de maternité". U-shaped designs are sometimes called "coussin corporel en forme de U". Materials, sizes, and shapes are identical to the rest of Canada. Quebec-made options include Plume (Montreal) for pregnancy pillows and Jolly Jumper Mama Sleep EZE.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Body Pillows

Choosing the Wrong Size

One of the most common mistakes is buying a body pillow that is too short or too long for your body or bed. Measure your bed and consider your height before purchasing. A pillow that is too short will not provide full-body support, while one that is too long may not fit comfortably on your bed.

Neglecting the Pillowcase

Some buyers focus entirely on the pillow itself and forget to purchase a quality pillowcase for body pillow. This oversight leads to faster wear and tear on the pillow and can significantly impact comfort. Always budget for at least one, ideally two, quality pillowcases when purchasing a body pillow.

Choosing Firmness Based on Regular Pillow Preferences

Your preference for regular pillow firmness may not translate to body pillows. Body pillows need to support much more weight and surface area, so they often need to be firmer than you might initially expect. A body pillow that is too soft will compress completely, eliminating its support benefits.

Expecting Immediate Comfort

As mentioned earlier, many body pillows require a break-in period. Do not give up on a pillow after just one or two nights, give it at least one to two weeks for your body to adjust and for the pillow materials to conform to your sleeping habits.

Not Considering Bed Partner Needs

If you share your bed, discuss body pillow options with your partner before purchasing, especially if considering larger shapes like U-shaped or C-shaped pillows. What seems reasonable in theory may create space or comfort issues in practice.

The Health Benefits of Body Pillows

Beyond comfort, body pillows offer benefits that line up with sleep research and the advice of medical professionals:

Improved Spinal Alignment

Proper spinal alignment during sleep reduces pressure on nerves and helps prevent chronic back pain. Body pillows facilitate neutral spine positioning, particularly for side sleepers, by filling the space between the knees and preventing pelvic rotation.

Reduced Snoring and Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Body pillows encourage side sleeping, which can reduce snoring and mild sleep apnea symptoms. Back sleeping often causes the tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of the throat, obstructing airways, a problem reduced by side sleeping with body pillow support.

Better Circulation

Proper positioning with a body pillow can improve circulation, particularly important during pregnancy and for people with circulatory issues. Elevating the legs slightly with a body pillow between the knees promotes blood flow and can reduce swelling in the legs and feet.

Stress and Anxiety Relief

The act of hugging a body pillow can provide psychological comfort, potentially reducing stress and anxiety. This benefit is particularly notable for people who sleep alone, as the pillow can provide a sense of comfort and security that promotes relaxation and easier sleep onset.

Improved Sleep Quality

By reducing pain, improving positioning, and increasing comfort, body pillows can improve overall sleep quality. Better sleep translates to improved mood, cognitive function, immune system health, and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Word on Body Pillows

Choosing the right body pillow and body pillow case is an investment in your health, comfort, and quality of life. Whether you are seeking pregnancy support, relief from chronic pain, improved side sleeping comfort, or simply a better night's rest, the right body pillow can make a real difference.

Remember these key points when shopping:

• Choose a pillow shape that matches your primary needs and available bed space
• Select fill materials based on your firmness preferences and maintenance willingness
• Invest in at least two quality pillowcases for hygiene and convenience
• Consider your sleeping temperature when selecting pillowcase materials
• Allow for a break-in period before making final judgments
• Measure both your pillow and bed to ensure proper fit

For Canadians in the Brantford area and beyond, Mattress Miracle is glad to help you work through these choices with honest guidance, quality products, and the personalized service that a family-owned business can provide. Better sleep starts with the right support, and we would be glad to help you find it.

Sweet dreams, and sleep well.