Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up toward the throat. If it keeps happening, it can be called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD or GORD.[1] Symptoms are often worse after eating, when lying down and when bending over.[1]
That is why bedtime is a problem, and why doctors suggest raising your upper body. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) says a doctor may recommend elevating your head during sleep with a foam wedge or extra pillows under your head and upper back, so that your head sits 6 to 8 inches above the bed.[2] This guide explains the advice, how a wedge differs from stacked pillows, and nine wedges that are in stock on the web US.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not medical advice. Heartburn most days, trouble swallowing, frequent vomiting or unexplained weight loss need a doctor. A wedge does not replace the medicine or treatment your doctor prescribes.
Wedge pillow and acid reflux basics
- The NHS says raising the head of your bed by around 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8 inches), so your chest and head are above your waist, may help relieve symptoms by stopping stomach acid travelling up toward the throat.[1]
- The NHS says not to use extra pillows to get the same effect, because they can increase pressure on your belly and make symptoms worse.[1] NIDDK mentions a foam wedge or extra pillows under the head and upper back.[2] A wedge lifts your whole upper body in one slope, which is why it is the better choice.
- Do not eat within 3 or 4 hours before bed.[1] NIDDK suggests at least 3 hours.[3]
- Other changes the NHS lists are eating smaller, more frequent meals, losing weight if you are overweight, avoiding trigger foods and drinks, and not smoking.[1]
- See a GP if lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping, you have heartburn most days, or you also have food getting stuck in your throat, frequent vomiting or weight loss for no reason.[1]
Key Specs
| No. | Product | Type | Fill / material | Cover | Sizes | Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MedCline Reflux Relief System | Wedge pillow system | – | Removable, washable | 30 x 50 x 8 in, for 6'0" and taller | Removable cover |
| 2 | Kölbs Standard Wedge | Wedge pillow | High-density foam core with a 1.5 in memory foam top | Removable jacquard | 24 x 24 x 7.5 in | Removable cover |
| 3 | DMI Bed Wedge | Wedge pillow | High-density foam | Zippered, removable | 24 x 24 x 12 in | Machine washable cover |
| 4 | Drive Medical Compressed Wedge | Wedge pillow | Foam | – | 24 x 20 x 8.5 in | – |
| 5 | AllSett Health Adjustable 7-in-1 | Wedge pillow | High-density foam with a memory foam top | Removable | Adjusts to 7 positions | Machine washable cover |
| 7 | Ruqmuis Classic Wedge | Wedge pillow | High-density foam | Removable jacquard | 24 x 24 x 10 in | Machine washable cover |
| 8 | Bedluxe Gel Wedge | Wedge pillow | Cooling gel-infused memory foam over a high-density foam base | Breathable, removable | 24 x 24 x 10 in | Machine washable cover |
| 9 | Coop Home Goods Adjustable Wedge | Adjustable wedge pillow | Memory foam and microfiber top over foam inserts | Breathable, dual-zipper | 28 x 26 in, up to 12 in high | Machine washable cover |
| 10 | Wgakced 3-Piece Set | Adjustable wedge pillow | Memory foam head pillow, high-density foam bases | Removable pillowcase | 22 x 22 in, 5.5 to 12 in high | – |
– = not stated by the maker. Specs as stated by the maker, not tested by us.
Causes and Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The main symptoms of acid reflux are heartburn, a burning sensation in the middle of your chest, and an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth. You may also have a cough or hiccups that keep coming back, a hoarse voice, bad breath, bloating and feeling sick.[1]
Lots of people get heartburn from time to time, often with no obvious reason. The NHS lists coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods, being overweight, smoking, pregnancy, stress, some medicines such as ibuprofen, a hiatus hernia and a stomach ulcer as things that can cause or worsen it.[1] NIDDK lists acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate, coffee, high-fat foods, mint and spicy foods.[3]
How Sleeping on an Incline Helps with Acid Reflux
Sleeping with your upper body raised keeps your chest and head above your waist, which the NHS says helps stop stomach acid travelling up toward your throat.[1] The NHS suggests raising the head of the bed itself with wood, bricks or books, by around 10 to 20 cm.[1] A wedge pillow is the option for people who cannot raise the bed.
A wedge differs from extra pillows. Stacked pillows lift your head and bend your waist, and the NHS says that can increase pressure on your belly.[1] A wedge is one even slope from your hips to your head, so your whole upper body stays raised.
Snoring is a separate problem. The NHS lists sleeping on your side, using a special pillow or bed wedge to keep you there, among the lifestyle changes that can reduce snoring.[4]
Features of a Good Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux
- Height – The NHS says 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8 inches) at the head of the bed, and NIDDK says 6 to 8 inches.[1][2] The wedges here run from 7.5 to 12 inches high at the top, and the adjustable sets let you set the height. A steeper wedge is not automatically better, so start near the range your doctor suggests.
- Length – A short wedge raises your head and shoulders but may leave your waist bent. Choose a wedge long enough to support your upper back.
- Firmness – Firm foam holds its slope under your weight. A memory foam top adds comfort over a firm core.
- Side Sleeping – A wedge with an arm pocket and body pillow, like the MedCline, keeps you on your side at an incline.
- Cover – A removable, machine-washable cover is easier to keep clean.
See our guide to the best wedge pillows for other uses.
How We Chose These Pillows
These picks come from research. We compared the makers’ specifications, the The web product pages and buyer feedback, and we checked that every pick is in stock on the web US. We did not test the pillows ourselves.
We looked at these factors:
- Height and Angle – Whether the wedge falls near the 4 to 8 inch range the NHS and NIDDK give, and whether you can adjust it.
- Length and Width – Whether the wedge supports your upper back, and whether it fits your bed.
- Foam and Cover – Foam firmness, certifications and whether the cover is removable and washable.
- Stock – Whether the wedge is in stock on the web US at the time we checked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wedge Pillows for Acid Reflux
- Do wedge pillows help with acid reflux?
The NHS says raising the head of your bed by around 10 to 20 cm may help relieve symptoms, and NIDDK says a doctor may recommend elevating your head with a foam wedge or extra pillows.[1][2] A wedge raises the upper body in one slope. A wedge does not replace medicine, and you should see a GP if symptoms continue. - Is a wedge better than extra pillows?
The NHS says not to use additional pillows to raise your head, because they can increase pressure on your belly and make symptoms worse.[1] NIDDK includes extra pillows under the head and upper back.[2] A wedge gives one even slope, so it fits that description better than a stack. - Can a wedge help with snoring?
The NHS lists sleeping on your side, with a special pillow or bed wedge to keep you there, among the lifestyle changes that can reduce snoring.[4] - Is a wedge pillow safe for babies?
No. Do not use a wedge pillow for a baby. Ask your pediatrician about reflux and safe sleep.
Our Picks: Wedge Pillow for Acid Reflux
Here are nine wedges and wedge systems that are in stock on the web US.
We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. This does not change your price.
1
MedCline® Reflux Relief System Wedge and Body Pillow Set with Arm Pocket
Currently unavailable
The MedCline Reflux Relief System is a wedge with an arm pocket and a therapeutic body pillow, made for side sleeping at an incline.
- The set includes the wedge, the body pillow, small inserts and removable washable covers. This is the large size, for people 6’0″ and taller.
- The wedge is 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 8 inches high, so it takes up about half of a queen bed.
- You slide your lower arm into the pocket, and the body pillow holds you in position on either your left or right side.
2
Kölbs® Standard Wedge 7.5-Inch Memory Foam Bed Wedge
Currently unavailable
The Kölbs Standard Wedge is a 7.5 inch bed wedge with a 1.5 inch memory foam top layer over a high-density foam core.
- It measures 24 x 24 x 7.5 inches, and a 12 inch version is also sold.
- The removable jacquard pillowcase protects the foam from stains.
- It comes from K2 Health Products, which makes medical positioning products.
3
DMI® Bed Wedge 24 x 24 x 12 Inch Foam Wedge Pillow
Currently unavailable
The DMI Bed Wedge is a 12 inch foam wedge with a 30-degree angle, sold in blue and in white.
- The high-density foam is firm enough to keep its shape.
- The zippered cover is removable and machine washable.
- It measures 24 x 24 x 12 inches and weighs 1 pound, and it also works as a leg or knee support.
4
Drive Medical® Compressed Wedge Expanding Foam Bed Wedge Cushion
Currently unavailable
The Drive Medical Compressed Wedge is a foam wedge cushion that ships compressed and expands to full size when you unpack it.
- It measures 24 x 20 x 8.5 inches and weighs 2.8 pounds.
- Drive Medical describes it as comfortable and durable foam, and says it suits sleeping with acid reflux or heartburn.
5
AllSett Health® Adjustable 7-in-1 Adjustable Memory Foam Wedge System
Currently unavailable
The AllSett Adjustable 7-in-1 is a wedge system that you set up in seven positions to raise your head, legs or whole upper body.
- High-density foam gives it structure, and a memory foam top layer contours to your body.
- A non-slip bottom keeps it in place, and the cover is removable and machine washable.
- It is sold for snoring, sleep apnea, heartburn and acid reflux.
7
Ruqmuis® Classic Wedge 10-Inch Wedge Pillow with Pockets
Currently unavailable
The Ruqmuis Classic Wedge is a 10 inch wedge of high-density foam with two pockets and a carrying handle.
- The pockets hold glasses, a remote or a phone.
- The jacquard pillowcase is removable and machine washable.
- It is also sold in 7.5 and 12 inch heights.
8
Bedluxe® Gel Wedge 10-Inch Gel Memory Foam Wedge
Currently unavailable
The Bedluxe Gel Wedge is a 10 inch wedge with a cooling gel-infused memory foam top layer over a high-density foam base.
- The foam meets CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX standards.
- The breathable cover is removable and machine washable, and built-in pockets hold small items.
- It ships compressed, so allow 24 to 48 hours for it to expand.
9
Coop Home Goods® Adjustable Wedge Stackable Memory Foam Wedge Pillow
Currently unavailable
The Coop Home Goods Adjustable Wedge comes with three interchangeable foam inserts of 2, 3 and 5 inches that you stack to set the incline, up to 12 inches high.
- The removable top is filled with a blend of memory foam and microfiber.
- A dual-zipper cover makes it easy to change the layers, and it is machine washable.
- The foam is CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified.
10
Wgakced® 3-Piece Set Adjustable Foam Wedge Set with Straps
Currently unavailable
The Wgakced 3-Piece Set is an adjustable wedge made of a memory foam head pillow and two high-density foam base pillows of 5.5 and 6.5 inches.
- Velcro straps join the pieces, so you can set the height anywhere from 5.5 to 12 inches.
- The pillowcase is removable, and side pockets hold small items.
- It ships compressed, so allow 24 to 48 hours for it to expand.
Index Table: Wedge Pillows for Acid Reflux
| No. | Product | Image | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MedCline Reflux Relief System - Wedge and Body Pillow Set with Arm Pocket |  |
| MedCline |
| 2 | Kölbs Standard Wedge - 7.5-Inch Memory Foam Bed Wedge |  |
| Kölbs |
| 3 | DMI Bed Wedge - 24 x 24 x 12 Inch Foam Wedge Pillow |  |
| DMI |
| 4 | Drive Medical Compressed Wedge - Expanding Foam Bed Wedge Cushion |  |
| Drive Medical |
| 5 | AllSett Health Adjustable 7-in-1 - Adjustable Memory Foam Wedge System |  |
| AllSett Health |
| 7 | Ruqmuis Classic Wedge - 10-Inch Wedge Pillow with Pockets |  |
| Ruqmuis |
| 8 | Bedluxe Gel Wedge - 10-Inch Gel Memory Foam Wedge |  |
| Bedluxe |
| 9 | Coop Home Goods Adjustable Wedge - Stackable Memory Foam Wedge Pillow |  |
| Coop Home Goods |
| 10 | Wgakced 3-Piece Set - Adjustable Foam Wedge Set with Straps |  |
| Wgakced |
Sources
- National Health Service (NHS). Heartburn and acid reflux. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Treatment for GER & GERD. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for GER & GERD. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- National Health Service (NHS). Snoring. Accessed October 27, 2026.
Update History
- Oct 2026: Rewrote the article around NHS and NIDDK guidance on heartburn and acid reflux, removed the claims that wedges ‘remedy’ reflux and help babies with reflux, rewrote all nine product notes, removed the duplicate listing of the DMI wedge in white (same product as the blue one) and added a disclaimer, a takeaways box, How We Chose and an FAQ
- Oct 2026: Replaced the Sources with four reviewed pages
- Oct 2026: Replaced unavailable products: Intevision Standard Case with Kölbs Kolbs Pillow; Drive Medical Italian Pillow with Drive Medical Compressed Pillow; Relax Home Life Bed Pillow with Ruqmuis Classic Pillow; RECCI Memory Foam Pillow with Bedluxe Classic Pillow; Brentwood Home Zuma Pillow with Coop Home Goods Classic Pillow; Silverback 2 Inch Pillow with Wgakced Classic Pillow
- Oct 2026: Removed LuxeLift Therapy Pillow, Healthex cooling Pillow and Lofe Foam Pillow (unavailable)
- Oct 2026: Added a Key Specs comparison table and a Sources section
- Jan 2022: Added Kölbs Kolbs Pillow
- Aug 2020: Added AllSett Health Adjustable Pillow, Brentwood Home Zuma Pillow and Silverback 2 Inch Pillow
- Mar 2020: Added HealthSmart DMI Pillow, LuxeLift Therapy Pillow, Healthex cooling Pillow, Lofe Foam Pillow, Relax Home Life Bed Pillow and RECCI Memory Foam Pillow
- Aug 2019: Added MedCline Acid Reflux Relief Pillow
- May 2017: Published
