The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow is marketed as an ergonomic, latex-and-polyester-blend pillow specifically designed for side sleepers. Its distinctive U-shape is meant to contour around the shoulder, reduce pressure on the neck, and provide a cooler, healthier sleep environment. But does it live up to the hype?
While it may look like a sleek, high-performance option in product photos, verified customer feedback tells a more mixed story—particularly regarding comfort, consistency, and product quality at the premium price point.
Not as Supportive as It Appears
One of the primary disappointments reported by customers is the pillow’s lack of loft and support. While the online images suggest a thick, plush pillow that can cradle the head and neck comfortably, the actual product often arrives flatter and firmer than expected.
Several users found the loft insufficient for side sleeping, with one reviewer estimating that the pillow stood only about 2 inches high, making it difficult to maintain proper alignment—especially for users with broader shoulders. Others noted the pillow felt unusually hard or compressed easily, leading to discomfort and even increased neck or shoulder pain after use.
And while the pillow’s fill is advertised as adjustable, many buyers found that the pillow arrived with noticeably less fill than needed, and the recommended solution—purchasing extra fill—was made even more frustrating by frequent “out of stock” notices on Eli & Elm’s own site. For a pillow at this price, the lack of adequate fill from the start feels like a cut corner that shouldn’t exist.
Quality and Consistency Issues
Another issue that came up repeatedly is inconsistency between batches. Some buyers who loved the original version of this pillow found that their second purchase—supposedly the same model—arrived with noticeably less support or a different feel altogether. Whether this is due to a change in materials or manufacturing processes isn’t entirely clear, but for returning customers, the drop in quality can feel like a bait-and-switch.
Additionally, a number of users mentioned that the pillow arrived looking used or poorly packaged. Compression for shipping is expected, but in some cases, the pillows appeared dirty, misshapen, or gave the impression of having been returned previously. This lack of quality control can be especially frustrating given the premium branding and price tag.
Strong Odor and Off-Gassing
A particularly common complaint is the smell. The Eli & Elm pillow includes natural latex in its fill—a material known for having a noticeable odor when new. However, many buyers reported that the smell was overwhelming, persistent, and difficult to eliminate, even after airing the pillow out or drying it as recommended.
Some compared the odor to rubber or balloons, and noted that it lingered far longer than expected, interfering with their ability to enjoy the pillow (or even sleep near it) for the first several days or weeks. If you’re sensitive to chemical or rubbery smells, this is something to keep in mind.
Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow
Customer Service
Finally, the customer experience isn’t always smooth. While the product listing claims “free returns,” multiple customers noted unexpected return costs when trying to send the pillow back—particularly having to provide their own packaging. This subtle inconvenience can lead to frustration, especially if you’re already disappointed with the product performance.
All things considered, while the Sidney Sleep Pillow may offer temporary comfort for some sleepers, its long-term value is questionable. Between the inconsistent support, strong odor, zipper issues, and unclear return policy, this pillow feels more like a gamble than a guaranteed solution—especially when compared to other premium pillows on the market.
Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow $115.99
Overall
79%-
• Comfort & Support - 82%
82%
-
• Materials & Odor Control - 68%
68%
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• Adjustability & Design - 83%
83%
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• Durability & Longevity - 78%
78%
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• Value for Money - 71%
71%
Pros
- Unique U-shape design helps contour around the shoulder for some side sleepers.
- Natural latex and polyester fill may appeal to eco-conscious users.
- Outer cover is breathable, hypoallergenic, and washable.
- Adjustable fill concept offers some customization—when available.
- Initially supportive for certain body types.
Cons
- Often arrives flatter and harder than advertised.
- Fill amount may be inadequate for side sleepers.
- Strong, unpleasant odor from latex component.
- Inconsistent product quality between batches.
- Overpriced relative to long-term comfort and performance.