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What people are saying
5 | 87% | |
4 | 8% | |
3 | 2% | |
2 | 1% | |
1 | 2% |
Bought online, after 9 days of having no notice about shipping I emailed them and only then they sent the package. It's been two weeks and I still haven't been delivered.
A
Easy to order quick delivery and very happy with product.
A
Item deliverd fast
L
Excellent product, excellent customer service and very fast delivery. I will say, however, that I find the headhand too hot at the moment. This can't really be helped. But if you tend to run hot or get hot flushes, consider this.
We couldn't believe how fast the electric blankets got here from Sydney. Just 3 days by Australia post to Toowoomba. The products have all the features we wanted as well.
M
They were very helpful when placing an NDIS order and fast.
K
Found the website easy to use and order what I needed Delivery was very quick Will be ordering again
A
Was very keen to try this but so hard to as hubby not like it. Tried with earplugs but the cable was annoying
Backrest Pillows: A Quick Guide
How to choose the right backrest pillow for reading, working, or watching TV in bed - and the difference between armed backrests, V-shape, and U-shape pillows.
What Is a Backrest Pillow?
A backrest pillow is designed for sitting upright in bed rather than sleeping. Where regular pillows collapse and slide when you stack them behind your back, a backrest pillow holds its shape and keeps your spine supported in a seated position. They're used for reading, watching TV, working on a laptop, scrolling on a tablet, recovering from surgery, or simply sitting up comfortably when flat isn't an option.
There are three main shapes, each suited to different activities and needs.
Three Types of Backrest Pillow
Each shape addresses a different set of needs. Select a type below to learn more, or scroll through all three.
Backrest
V-Shape (Boomerang)
Wedge Pillow
Backrest
A tall, structured pillow with padded armrests on each side - like a portable chair back. The arms give your forearms somewhere to rest while reading or using a device, reducing shoulder and neck strain. The most supportive option for extended sitting in bed.
The Easyrest Sitting Bed Backrest uses premium hollow polyester fill for a medium-firm, supportive feel that doesn't compress under body weight. Available in Charcoal, Navy, Oatmeal, and Faux Fur.
In our range: Easyrest Sitting Bed Backrest
Reading in bed
Laptop and tablet work
Post-surgery recovery
V-Shape (Boomerang)
A V- or U-shaped pillow that wraps around you, supporting the back and both sides of the upper body. More versatile than an armed backrest - it can also be used for side sleeping, nursing, or as pregnancy support. Softer, more enveloping feel.
If you want something you can also use for sleeping or nursing, the V-shape boomerang is the most versatile option. The Bambi Sensitiva includes a cotton pillowcase and is the plushest in our range.
In our range: Bambi Sensitiva V Shape, Easyrest Cloud Support U Shape
Back and upper body support
Pregnancy support
Breastfeeding and nursing
Side sleeping and reading
Wedge Pillow
A triangular foam block that elevates the upper body at a gentle angle. Not technically a "backrest" but used for many of the same purposes. Better for semi-reclined positions than fully upright sitting.
A wedge pillow is the better choice if you need elevation while reclining rather than structured upright support. It also helps with acid reflux, snoring, and sinus congestion - making it a practical addition to the bedroom even if you already have a backrest pillow.
In our range: Browse wedge pillow options
Semi-reclined reading
Acid reflux relief
Post-surgery elevation
Snoring and sinus congestion
Which shape is right for you?
If you sit fully upright to read or work, the armed backrest gives the most structured support. If you want something you can also use for sleeping or nursing, the V-shape boomerang is more versatile. If you need gentle elevation while reclining, a wedge pillow is your best option.
Popular Uses for Backrest Pillows
A backrest pillow isn't just for reading - it's useful in any situation where you need comfortable, supported upright seating in bed.
1 Reading in Bed
Padded arms reduce neck and shoulder strain during longer reading sessions.
2 Laptop & Tablet
Keeps you upright so you're not hunched over a screen while working or browsing.
3 Recovery
Post-surgery support for those who need to stay comfortably upright in bed.
4 Nursing & Pregnancy
V-shape wraps around for feeding support, side sleeping, and upper body comfort.
Backrest Pillow Shapes at a Glance
Use this comparison to quickly identify which shape suits your primary use case and budget.
| Shape | Support Style | Best For | Also Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backrest | Structured, upright with armrests | Reading, laptop work, recovery | Watching TV |
| V-Shape / Boomerang | Wrap-around, enveloping | Back support, pregnancy, nursing | Side sleeping, reading in bed |
| Wedge | Angled elevation, semi-reclined | Reflux relief, post-surgery | Semi-reclined reading, snoring |
What to Look For
Four key factors to consider when choosing a backrest pillow.
Size & Dimensions
Armed backrests can look larger in photos than in person. Check the listed height carefully - if you're tall and need full upper-back coverage, a V-shape boomerang pillow may give better coverage than a compact armed backrest.
Tip: If you're tall, the Bambi Sensitiva V Shape typically offers more height coverage than a compact armed backrest.
Firmness & Fill
A backrest that's too soft will compress under your weight and defeat the purpose. Look for medium to firm fill - the Easyrest Backrest uses premium hollow polyester for a supportive feel. For a softer, enveloping feel, the Bambi Sensitiva V Shape is the plushest option.
Tip: The Easyrest Sitting Bed Backrest with hollow polyester fill is our top pick for firm, no-nonsense upright support.
Versatility
If you only need upright support, an armed backrest does the job well. But if you also want a pillow for sleeping, nursing, or pregnancy, the V-shape boomerang is the more versatile investment.
Tip: For maximum versatility on a budget, the Easyrest Cloud Support U Shape works for sitting, sleeping, and nursing.
Easy Care
Most backrest pillows are too large for a standard washing machine. Look for removable, machine-washable covers and choose a pillow you can spot clean and air regularly.
Tip: The Bambi Sensitiva V Shape includes a cotton pillowcase that can be washed separately, making it the easiest to keep clean.
How to Care for Your Backrest Pillow
Keep your backrest pillow fresh and supportive with these simple care practices.
Spot Clean
Wipe the outer cover with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid soaking the fill - it takes a long time to dry and can develop odour.
Machine Wash Covers
Where the cover is removable, machine wash it separately on a gentle cycle. Check the care label for temperature guidance.
Air Regularly
Air your pillow in a well-ventilated room regularly to keep it fresh. Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade certain fills over time.
Find the Right Backrest Pillow
Browse our complete range of backrest and reading pillows with customer reviews and dimensions for every product. Not sure which shape is right for you? Our Australian-based sleep experts are here to help.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
Sleep Solutions is a registered NDIS provider
Sleep Solutions is registered as a provider with the NDIS
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a backrest pillow and a boomerang pillow?
An armed backrest has a flat back panel with short padded armrests - it's designed specifically for sitting upright. A boomerang (V-shape or U-shape) pillow wraps around your body and is more versatile: it works for sitting up, side sleeping, nursing, and pregnancy support.
Can I use a backrest pillow for sleeping?
Armed backrest pillows aren't designed for sleeping - they're shaped for sitting. However, V-shape boomerang pillows work well for both sitting and sleeping, particularly side sleeping or as pregnancy support. For elevated sleeping, a wedge pillow is usually the better choice.
How do I wash a backrest pillow?
Most backrest pillows are too large for a standard washing machine. Spot clean the outer cover with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Where the cover is removable, machine wash it separately. Air the pillow in a ventilated room regularly.
Are backrest pillows suitable for post-surgery recovery?
Yes - they're one of the most popular uses. An armed backrest keeps you comfortably upright without stacking regular pillows, which tend to slip and compress. Many customers purchase them specifically for recovery after shoulder, back, or abdominal surgery.