24/7 Customer Support
Free returns
Same-day & Next-day Delivery
Quality Guaranteed
Unlock Your Welcome Offers: FREE Delivery | Up to 80% OFF | Free 30-day JoyPlus trial
Download the APP
Trying to get comfortable in bed with a book or a laptop can feel like a constant battle. You prop up a precarious stack of pillows, only for them to shift and slide, leaving you with an aching neck and a sore lower back. If this sounds familiar, a dedicated reading cushion for bed could be the simple solution you need for proper comfort and support.
These purpose-built cushions are designed to provide stable, ergonomic support, transforming your bed into a comfortable spot for reading, working or watching television. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to consider when choosing one and share some of our top recommendations to help you find the right fit for your space.
Choosing the right cushion involves more than just picking a colour. To ensure you get the support you need, consider these key features.
The shape and size of the cushion determine the type of support it offers. A wedge cushion provides a gradual incline, which is excellent for elevating your upper body and promoting better posture. For more comprehensive support, a large backrest pillow offers a taller, wider surface area that can comfortably support your entire back, neck and shoulders. Some larger models are even wide enough to serve as a soft wall cushion headboard, providing a comfortable buffer between you and the wall for two people.
Since you’ll be leaning against it for extended periods, the material is crucial. Look for durable and breathable fabrics like polyester that feel pleasant against the skin and can withstand regular use. The most practical feature to look for is a removable, machine-washable cover. This makes cleaning simple and helps maintain a fresh and hygienic relaxation space.
The filling inside the cushion dictates its firmness and longevity. High-density padding is often used in quality back support pillows as it provides firm, reliable support that won't flatten or lose its shape quickly. This type of filling is essential for maintaining proper alignment and preventing the slouching that often leads to discomfort.
Here are a few options that stand out for their design, materials and practical features.
Why It Stands Out: With its generous 150 cm width, this cushion is large enough to span a double or king-size bed, providing ample back support for two people. It’s crafted from a durable polyester fabric and filled with high-density padding, offering a firm yet comfortable backrest. Its versatility allows it to be used as a sofa back cushion or a soft headboard against a wall.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a wide, supportive cushion to share or to create a plush, full-width backrest on their bed.
Why It Stands Out: This back support pillow for bed is perfectly sized for individual use. At 80 cm wide, it offers substantial support for one person without overwhelming a smaller bed. Like its larger counterpart, it features high-density polyester filling designed to promote correct posture and relieve back strain. The breathable fabric and practical side pocket make it a highly functional choice for solo reading or work sessions.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for students, avid readers or anyone who wants a personal, portable backrest for their bed, armchair, or sofa.
Why It Stands Out: While not a traditional reading cushion, this ottoman offers a different kind of comfort and utility. Its primary function is providing discreet storage, helping you keep your bedroom tidy. The thickly padded lid also serves as a comfortable seat or footrest, contributing to an overall relaxing environment. Placed at the end of the bed, it’s a perfect perch for putting on shoes or a handy surface for laying out clothes.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for those who value multi-functional furniture that combines comfort with practicality, helping to create an organised and relaxing living space.
If the options above aren't quite what you had in mind, there are many other ways to enhance your comfort at home. From plush sofa cushions to supportive seat pads, finding the right accessory can make all the difference.
For more options, feel free to browse our full collection of sofa seat cushions.
What is the main benefit of a reading cushion over standard pillows? A reading cushion is specifically engineered to provide stable, ergonomic support for sitting upright. Unlike standard pillows that compress and shift, a wedge cushion or large backrest pillow maintains its shape to promote better posture and reduce strain on your back and neck during prolonged periods of sitting.
How do I choose the right size for my bed? Consider your bed size and how you plan to use the cushion. An 80 cm cushion is generally sufficient for one person on a single or double bed. For a double, king or super-king bed, a 150 cm or wider cushion provides ample space for two people or can act as a comfortable, full-width headboard.
Can I wash my reading cushion? Most high-quality reading cushions come with a removable cover that is machine washable. This is a key feature for hygiene and easy maintenance. Always check the product’s care instructions. The inner filling is typically not washable and should only be spot-cleaned if necessary.