4 Best Pillow for Ear Pain Relief: Reviewed By Experts (2023)

Ear pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including ear infections, allergies, sinus infections, and barotrauma (ear pain caused by changes in air pressure). Ear pain can also be caused by more serious conditions, such as tumors and Meniere’s disease.

If you’re experiencing ear pain, there are a number of things you can do to relieve it, including over-the-counter pain relievers, ear drops, and warm compresses. But did you know that your pillow can also play a role in relieving ear pain?

Here’s why:

When you sleep on your side, your ear canal can become blocked by your pillow. This can put pressure on your eardrum and cause pain. A good pillow can help to keep your ear canal open and reduce pressure on your eardrum.

In fact, a study has found that people who slept on a special pillow designed to keep the ear canal open reported a significant reduction in ear pain.

So if you’re struggling with ear pain, it’s worth considering investing in a good pillow.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best pillows for ear pain, and provide tips on how to choose the right pillow for your individual needs.

Best Pillow for Ear Pain Relief- Our Top Picks 2023

We chose these pillows for ear pain relief based on their unique design, soft and supportive materials, variety of firmness levels, and affordable price.

We read thousands of customer’s reviews to make an informed decision and we have chose these 5 pillows as best pillows for ear pain relief

Here are our Top recommendations for Best Pillow for ear pain relief in 2023:

1. Blissbury Ear Pillow with Ear Hole: Overall Best Pillow for Ear Cartilage Pain
2. The Original Ear Pillow with a Hole -Best pillow for side sleepers with Ear Pain
3. Best Donut Ear Pillow for Ultimate Ear Pain Relief
4. Best Pillow for Ear and Neck Pain

Let’s talk about each of these ear pain prevention pillow in details:

1. Blissbury Ear Pillow with Ear Hole: Overall Best Pillow for Ear Cartilage Pain

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Are you tired of restless nights due to ear discomfort? The Blissbury Ear Pillow is here to put an end to your sleepless struggles. This is best EAR PILLOW FOR SLEEPING with ear pain.

This innovative pillow is a game-changer for those dealing with ear conditions, injuries, or piercings. It’s the ultimate solution for side sleepers, offering a comfortable and pain-free slumber.

Main Features

These features make this Pillow best ear pillow for pain relief:

Ear-Focused Design

The Blissbury Ear Pillow is meticulously designed to prioritize your ear’s comfort. It features two strategically placed 3.2-inch earholes, ensuring that your ear doesn’t bear the brunt of your slumber. Say goodbye to crushing your ear piercings or aggravating ear conditions.

Ideal for Side Sleepers

Side sleepers, rejoice! This pillow is your ticket to a good night’s sleep with proper neck alignment. The height is adjustable, ranging from 5 inches to 4 inches, allowing you to find your ideal sleeping position effortlessly.

Cooling Memory Foam

The secret sauce behind this pillow’s comfort is its cooling memory foam. Certified by CertiPUR-US, this gel-infused memory foam cradles your head, supports your neck, and keeps you cool and comfortable throughout the night. No more waking up sweaty and uncomfortable.

Clean and Relaxing

The Blissbury Ear Pillow doesn’t just stop at providing ear relief; it’s also committed to maintaining a clean and relaxing sleep environment. Its soft, double-weave, bamboo polyester pillowcase is hypoallergenic, absorbs excess moisture, minimizes odors, and is even machine-washable for easy maintenance.

And don’t worry about giving up your creature comforts. Whether you want to fall asleep to music with earbuds or headphones or need earplugs to drown out a snoring partner, this pillow has you covered.

What Customers Say about Blissbury ear pillow

Users hail this pillow as a life-changer. It’s especially popular among those who’ve undergone multiple ear piercings.

The dual earholes make it a breeze to switch sides during the night without adjusting the pillow. Customers with sensitive or protruding ears have found their perfect match in this pillow, as it provides a soothing, pain-free sleep experience.

Some users recommend removing the additional padding to achieve the ideal height.

However, for those with smaller ears, the default configuration works like a dream. It’s a pillow that has transformed decades of ear cartilage pain into peaceful nights of sleep.

While many customers adore the Blissbury Ear Pillow, a few have noted minor inconveniences. The pillow’s zipper on the pillowcase can scratch against headboards, creating an annoying noise.

Additionally, over time, the pillow fabric may break down into fibers, shedding and potentially compromising the pillow’s integrity.

In some rare cases, users have received pillows with a less-than-desirable appearance, including being dingy, dirty, and carrying odors. Quality control issues like these can detract from an otherwise exceptional product.

Pros

• Soothes ear pain and discomfort.
• Dual ear holes for side-switching
• Height customization.
• Hypoallergenic pillowcase.

Cons

• Noisy pillow zipper.
• Fabric breakdown over time.

2. The Original Ear Pillow with a Hole -Best Ear pillow for side sleepers

The Original Pillow with a Hole (P.W.A.H) by The Original P.W.A.H brand is a revolutionary solution designed to alleviate ear-related discomfort, making it the perfect companion for a peaceful night’s sleep. Crafted in England with meticulous attention to detail, this unique pillow has gained worldwide recognition for its effectiveness.

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Main Features:

• Adjustable Firmness: The firmness of the pillow can be easily customized by adding or removing stuffing, thanks to the high-quality “YKK” brand zip.
• Optimal Size: Slightly smaller than traditional pillows, it sits comfortably on your own pillow for enhanced support.
• 100% Cotton: The crisp, clean, and cool outer pillowcase is made from 100% cotton, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience.
• Multiple Applications: Ideal for various uses, including ear pain, ear pressure sore relief (CNH), sleeping with ear piercings, earplugs, earphones, and headphones, as well as offering tinnitus relief and aiding in post-operative healing.

What customers say about this ear pain relief pillow

Customers praise the Original P.W.A.H. for its unparalleled effectiveness in reducing ear pain and discomfort. Many note the pillow’s perfect hole placement and the ability to comfortably use earplugs and other sleep aids.

While some mention minor issues with replacement pillowcases, the overall quality and relief provided by this pillow make it a highly recommended choice. Customers appreciate the product’s commitment to quality and excellent customer service, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of ear-related pain relief.

Pros

• Effective ear pain relief.
• Perfect hole placement.
• Highly adjustable
• Hypoallergenic and odourless polyester coil-fibre.
• Best For Ear pain for side sleepers
• Machine washable

Cons

• Replacement pillowcases may be too small.

3. Best Donut Ear Pillow for Ultimate Ear Pain Relief

The Piercing Pillow by Heal n Hope is your ultimate donut ear pillow for relieving ear cartilage pain. Whether you have cartilage piercings, ear sensitivity, pressure sores, or simply need a comfy solution for side sleeping, this supportive pillow with an ear hole has got you covered.

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Main Features:

• Sore Ear Relief: Designed to ease ear pain and discomfort caused by irritation, surgery, or prolonged side sleeping.
• Enhanced Sleep: The ear guard cushion eliminates pressure on sore ears, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest.
• Versatile Comfort: Perfect for CNH, pressure sores, ear pain, or sleeping with earbuds. The donut shape supports your head, while the central hole prevents pressure and rubbing.
• Adjustable and Durable: Super soft and cushiony with high-quality minky dot fabric. Features a side zipper for adjusting firmness and measures 9″ with a 3.5″ hole.

What customers say:

Users appreciate this pillow for its comfort and suitability for multiple ear piercings. It’s considered a good size and can even accommodate drinks when watching TV in bed. Customers highlight its effectiveness in preventing ear discomfort and its attractive low cost. Overall, it’s recommended as a practical solution for ear-related issues.

Pros

• Affordable
• Durable
• Money-back guarantee for customer satisfaction.
• Versatile and suitable for various ear-related issues.
• Made of soft hypoallergic material

Cons

• Hole maybe tinyfor some people

4. Best Pillow for Ear and Neck Pain- Cervical Memory Foam Pillow

Are you tired of sleepless nights and nagging neck pain? Look no further than the CHxxy Cervical Pillow, the best solution for your neck and ear pain. This ergonomic pillow, with its patented design, offers substantial neck contour, an improved hollow center, and a neck massage point, making it your ultimate choice for relief.

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Main Features:

• Customizable Support: Adjust the pillow’s height to your preference with two different thicknesses and a removable insert.
• Pressure Relief: This pillow reduces body pressure and muscle tension, ensuring good blood flow to the head and a relaxed state.
• Premium Material: Made of Ice Silk fabric, it offers comfort, heat dissipation, and is gentle on your skin. The pillowcases are removable and machine washable.
• Scientific Design: Supports and aligns your head, neck, shoulder, and back, allowing you to fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep.
• Hassle-Free Support: Backed by excellent customer service and a money-back guarantee.

What customers say:

Customers praise this pillow for its ability to extend sleep duration and alleviate neck pain. They highlight the unique neck support and appreciate the customizable thickness options. The Ice Silk fabric’s comfort and breathability also receive positive feedback.

While some mention the need for minor adjustments and a short adaptation period, the overall improvement in sleep quality makes it a highly recommended choice.

Pros

• Provides unique neck support, improving sleep quality.
• Breathable Ice Silk fabric.
• Customizable support.
• Money-back guarantee.

Cons

• Firmer than expected for a few users.
• Initial corner adjustments.
• Has bad initial smell

Why do my ears hurt from my pillow?

Your ears can hurt from your pillow if the pillow is too firm or too soft, or if it doesn’t support your head and neck properly. When you sleep on your side, your ear canal can become blocked by the pillow. This can put pressure on your eardrum and cause pain.

Here are some specific reasons why your ears might hurt from your pillow:

• Too firm pillow: A too firm pillow can push your ear against the pillowcase, which can cause friction and irritation.
• Too soft pillow: A too soft pillow can collapse under your head, causing your ear to fold over. This can also put pressure on your eardrum.
• Pillow doesn’t support your head and neck properly: If your pillow doesn’t keep your head and neck in alignment, your ear canal can become blocked. This can put pressure on your eardrum and cause pain.

If you’re experiencing ear pain from your pillow, you may want to try using a different pillow, such as a pillow with an ear hole or a pillow that is specifically designed to support side sleepers. You may also want to try adjusting your sleeping position. For example, you may want to sleep on your back or stomach instead of your side.

Features to consider when choosing a pillow for ear pain

Before choosing a pillow for ear pain, consider these factors:

Firmness:

The firmness of your pillow is important for ear pain relief. A pillow that is too firm can push your ear against the pillowcase, which can cause friction and irritation. A pillow that is too soft can collapse under your head, causing your ear to fold over. This can also put pressure on your eardrum.

A pillow that is medium-firm is ideal for ear pain relief. It will provide enough support to keep your head and neck in alignment, without putting too much pressure on your ears.

Height:

The height of your pillow is also important for ear pain relief. Side sleepers typically need a thicker pillow than back or stomach sleepers. This is because side sleepers need to tilt their head slightly forward to keep their airways open.

A pillow that is too low can cause your head to tilt back, which can put pressure on your eardrum. A pillow that is too high can cause your head to tilt forward too much, which can also put pressure on your eardrum.

A pillow that is the right height for you will keep your head and neck in alignment without putting any pressure on your ears.

Material:

The material of your pillow is also important for ear pain relief. Some materials, such as memory foam and buckwheat, are better for ear pain relief than others.

Memory foam pillows conform to the shape of your head and neck, which can help to keep your ear canal open. Buckwheat pillows are also good for ear pain relief because they are breathable and supportive.

Down and feather pillows can be too soft and fluffy for ear pain relief. They can also trap heat, which can make ear pain worse.

Shape:

The shape of your pillow can also affect ear pain relief. Pillows with ear holes or raised sides can help to keep your ear canal open.

Pillows with ear holes are especially good for people who sleep on their side. The ear hole allows your ear to breathe and prevents it from being blocked by the pillow.

Pillows with raised sides can also help to keep your ear canal open. The raised sides support your head and neck, which helps to keep your ear canal in alignment.

Breathability:

A breathable pillow is important for ear pain relief. A pillow that is not breathable can trap heat and moisture, which can make ear pain worse.

Pillows made from materials such as memory foam, buckwheat, and latex are generally more breathable than pillows made from down and feather.

Noise reduction:

If you’re a light sleeper, you may want to consider a pillow that reduces noise. This can help you to sleep more soundly and reduce the risk of ear pain caused by noise exposure.

Pillows made from memory foam and buckwheat are generally good at reducing noise. They absorb sound waves and prevent them from reflecting off the pillow.

Benefits of using a pillow for ear pain

Using a pillow for ear pain can offer a number of benefits, including:

Improved sleep quality:

When you’re in pain, it can be difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. A pillow that helps to relieve ear pain can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. This is because you’re not constantly being woken up by pain.

A good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to manage stress, cope with pain, and function at your best.

Reduced ear pain:

A pillow that keeps your head and neck in alignment can help to reduce pressure on your eardrum and relieve ear pain. This is because a misaligned head and neck can put pressure on the Eustachian tubes, which are responsible for equalizing pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment.

When the Eustachian tubes are not working properly, pressure can build up in the middle ear, which can cause pain. A pillow that helps to keep your head and neck in alignment can help to open up the Eustachian tubes and equalize pressure, which can relieve ear pain.

Increased comfort:

A soft and supportive pillow can make you feel more comfortable when you’re sleeping. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can also contribute to ear pain.

When you’re comfortable, you’re more likely to relax and get a good night’s sleep. This can help to reduce ear pain and improve your overall quality of life.

Reduced stress and anxiety:

When you’re not in pain and you’re sleeping well, you’re less likely to feel stressed and anxious. This is because stress and anxiety can trigger the release of hormones that can worsen ear pain.

A pillow that helps to relieve ear pain and improve sleep quality can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can also help to relieve ear pain.

Specific examples of how a pillow can help to relieve ear pain:

• Pillow with an ear hole: A pillow with an ear hole can help to keep your ear canal open and reduce pressure on your eardrum. This is especially beneficial for people who sleep on their side.
• Pillow that elevates your head slightly: A pillow that elevates your head slightly can help to drain the earwax and reduce pressure on your eardrum. This is beneficial for people who have a lot of earwax buildup or who are prone to ear infections.
• Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant pillow: A hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant pillow can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in your ears. This is beneficial for people who have allergies or who are sensitive to dust mites.
• Pillow that helps to keep your head and neck in alignment: A pillow that helps to keep your head and neck in alignment can help to equalize the pressure in your ears and relieve pain. This is beneficial for people who have barotrauma, which is ear pain caused by changes in air pressure.

If you’re experiencing ear pain, using a pillow that is specifically designed for ear pain relief can be a helpful way to manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

How to use a pillow for ear pain

To use a pillow for ear pain, follow these steps:

Choose the right pillow.

As discussed above, there are a number of different types of pillows available for ear pain relief. Choose a pillow that is medium-firm, the right height, and made from a breathable material. Pillows with ear holes or raised sides can also be helpful.

Position your pillow correctly.

If you sleep on your side, place the pillow so that your ear canal is aligned with the hole in the pillow. If you sleep on your back, place the pillow so that your head is slightly elevated.

Adjust your sleeping position as needed.

If you find that your ear pain is worse in a particular sleeping position, try adjusting your position. For example, if you sleep on your side and your ear pain is worse on your left side, try sleeping on your right side instead.

Use a travel pillow.

If you travel frequently, you may want to use a travel pillow to help relieve ear pain. Travel pillows are designed to keep your head and neck in alignment, which can help to reduce pressure on your eardrum and relieve pain.

What Causes Ear Pain?

Ear pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Ear infections: Ear infections are the most common cause of ear pain, especially in children. They can be caused by bacteria or viruses, and can affect the middle ear (otitis media) or the outer ear (otitis externa).
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: The eustachian tubes are small tubes that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. They help to equalize pressure between the middle ear and the outside world. Eustachian tube dysfunction can occur when the tubes become blocked, which can lead to ear pain, pressure, and hearing loss.
• Earwax buildup: Earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect the ear canal. However, too much earwax can build up and block the ear canal, which can lead to ear pain, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
• Foreign objects in the ear: Children are especially prone to putting foreign objects in their ears, such as beads, pebbles, and beans. This can cause ear pain, hearing loss, and damage to the eardrum.
• Barotrauma: Barotrauma is ear pain caused by changes in air pressure. It can occur when flying in an airplane, scuba diving, or driving in the mountains.
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome: TMJ syndrome is a condition that affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It can cause pain in the ears, jaw, and face.
• Toothaches: Toothaches can sometimes radiate to the ears, causing ear pain.
• Sinus infections: Sinus infections can also cause ear pain, especially if the infection spreads to the eustachian tubes.
• Headaches: Headaches can sometimes cause ear pain, especially if the headache is caused by sinus pressure or inflammation.

If you are experiencing ear pain, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Why does ear pain feel worse at night?

There are a few reasons why ear pain may feel worse at night.

• Lack of gravity: When you are lying down, there is less gravity to help drain fluid from your middle ear. This can lead to increased pressure in the ear, which can cause pain.
• Sleeping position: Sleeping on your side can put pressure on your ear canal and make pain worse.
• Reduced airflow: When you are sleeping, your airflow is reduced. This can make it harder for your ears to equalize pressure, which can also lead to pain.
• Stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can worsen ear pain. At night, when you are more relaxed, you may be more aware of your pain.

How can I stop my ears from hurting when I sleep?

Using a pillow for ear pain relief:

Pillows that are specifically designed for ear pain relief typically have an ear hole or raised sides to help keep your ear canal open and reduce pressure on your eardrum.

Adjusting your sleeping position:

Sleeping on your side with your ear in the hole of a pillow is ideal for ear pain relief. This helps to keep your ear canal open and reduces pressure on your eardrum.

If you sleep on your back, you can elevate your head slightly with an extra pillow. This will also help to reduce pressure on your eardrum.

Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended for people with ear pain. This is because it can put pressure on your ear canal and worsen the pain.

Avoiding noisy environments:

Loud noises can irritate your ears and cause pain. If you must sleep in a noisy environment, try using earplugs or a white noise machine to block out the noise.

Getting regular ear cleanings:

Earwax buildup can block your ear canal and cause pain. Talk to your doctor about getting regular ear cleanings to prevent this.

Treating any underlying medical conditions:

If you have an ear infection, allergies, or another medical condition that is causing your ear pain, treat the underlying condition to help relieve the pain.

Conclusion: Best Pillow for Ear Pain Relief

If you are looking for a pillow to help relieve your ear pain, I recommend the Blissbury Ear Pillow with Ear Hole It is a overall great all-around pillow for ear pain relief, with a unique design and soft and supportive memory foam.

If you are looking for a pillow that is specifically designed for ear and neck pain, the Best Pillow for Ear and Neck Pain- Cervical Memory Foam Pillow is a good option. It has a raised side that supports your neck and head, and a hole in the center that helps to keep your ear canal open.

If you are a side sleeper with ear pain, the The Original Ear Pillow with a Hole is a good choice. It has a soft and supportive memory foam core with an ear hole and raised side.

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FAQS

What is the best pillow for ear pain?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best pillow for ear pain will vary depending on the individual’s needs. However, some pillows that are specifically designed for ear pain relief include:

• Pillows with ear holes: These pillows have a hole in the center of the pillow that can help to keep your ear canal open and reduce pressure on your eardrum.
• Pillows with raised sides: These pillows have raised sides that can help to keep your head and neck in alignment, which can also help to reduce pressure on your eardrum.
• Pillows with memory foam: Memory foam pillows can conform to the shape of your head and neck, which can help to provide support and reduce pressure points.
• Pillows with buckwheat hulls: Buckwheat hulls are a natural material that is known for its supportive and breathable properties.

How do I use a pillow for ear pain relief?

To use a pillow for ear pain relief, simply place your head on the pillow in a comfortable position. If you are using a pillow with an ear hole, place your ear in the hole. If you are using a pillow with raised sides, place your head so that your ear is in the center of the raised side.

How long does it take for a pillow to start relieving ear pain?

The amount of time it takes for a pillow to start relieving ear pain will vary depending on the individual and the severity of their ear pain. However, most people find that they start to experience relief within a few days of using a pillow specifically designed for ear pain relief.

What if my ear pain is not relieved by a pillow?

If your ear pain is not relieved by a pillow, you should see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Can I use a pillow for ear pain relief if I have allergies?

If you have allergies, you should choose a pillow that is made from a hypoallergenic material. Buckwheat hull pillows are a good option for people with allergies, as they are naturally dust mite-resistant.

Can I use a pillow for ear pain relief if I am pregnant?

Yes, you can use a pillow for ear pain relief if you are pregnant. However, it is important to choose a pillow that is specifically designed for pregnant women. These pillows are typically wider and longer than regular pillows, and they provide more support for your head and neck.