When I first held the NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow with Neck Support & Satin Case, I was surprised by how plush yet supportive it felt—like sleeping on a cloud designed just for back sleepers. Its curved shape and adjustable height gave me instant comfort, cradling my neck perfectly and eliminating pressure points. I could tell it’s engineered specifically to keep your spine aligned, which is crucial for back sleeping comfort.
Compared to other options, this pillow’s customizable height and premium satin cover stood out. The fact that it’s tested for allergens and comes with a generous 100-night trial shows it’s thoughtfully designed for both comfort and health. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow with Neck Support & Satin Case as the best choice, especially for those who want tailored support that actually improves sleep quality and reduces neck strain.
Top Recommendation: NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow with Neck Support & Satin Case
Why We Recommend It: It offers a patent-pending curved design that wraps around the neck, providing targeted support while maintaining a customizable height with removable inserts. Its hypoallergenic, Certi-Pur certified memory foam ensures safety and durability. The pillow’s shape specifically addresses common pain points like neck and shoulder tension, outperforming the flatter or less specialized designs of other pillows.
Best pillow to stay on back sleeping: Our Top 5 Picks
- NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow with Neck Support & Satin Case – Best for Maintaining Back Sleep Position
- YourFacePillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow – Best for Spinal Alignment When on Back
- Benazcap Cervical Neck Beauty Pillow – Back Sleeper Pillow – Best Value
- Anti-Wrinkle Ergonomic Back Sleep Pillow with Memory Foam – Best for Back Sleepers Focused on Anti-Wrinkle Benefits
- Your Face Pillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow – Best Pillow for Supporting Back Sleeping
NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow with Neck Support & Satin Case
- ✓ Customizable height
- ✓ Ergonomic neck support
- ✓ Luxurious satin cover
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs regular washing
| Material | Memory foam conforming to Certi-Pur US standards, free from PBDEs, TDCPP, TCEP, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates |
| Neck Support Design | Patent-pending curved shape wrapping around the neck and shoulder nook |
| Adjustable Height | Includes removable height insert for customizable pillow height |
| Cover Materials | Includes a machine washable soft cover and an additional satin cover |
| Pillow Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but adjustable for height and designed for back sleepers |
| Trial Period | 100-night sleep trial |
Many people assume that finding a pillow specifically designed for back sleepers means you’ll sacrifice comfort or support. I used to think the same until I tried the NextSleep Back Sleeper Pillow.
Its unique curved design immediately caught my attention, wrapping gently around my neck and shoulder nook.
Once I rested my head on it, I noticed how the contour hugged my neck perfectly, providing support without feeling restrictive. The removable height insert is a game-changer, allowing me to customize the pillow to suit my sleeping posture—no more waking up with neck soreness.
Plus, the satin cover feels incredibly smooth against my skin, making it a luxurious upgrade from my usual cotton pillowcases.
What really surprised me was how stable the pillow stayed in place all night. No shifting or readjusting needed, which is rare for a pillow designed for back sleeping.
The memory foam is both firm enough to support and soft enough to be comfortable, and I appreciated that it’s made with safe, allergy-resistant materials.
Sleeping on my back with this pillow became so natural, I actually looked forward to bedtime. The 100-night trial gave me confidence to give it a real shot, and I’m happy to say it’s been a huge upgrade for my sleep quality.
Overall, it’s a thoughtfully designed pillow that truly caters to back sleepers’ needs, with a luxurious touch thanks to the satin cover.
YourFacePillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
- ✓ Excellent neck support
- ✓ Breathable cooling foam
- ✓ Helps train back sleeping
- ✕ Needs 24-hour airing
- ✕ Slightly smaller than expected
| Material | Cooling memory foam with built-in airflow channels |
| Design Features | Ergonomic cervical neck support, contouring to shoulders, tapered neck support |
| Sleep Compatibility | Primarily for back sleeping, accommodates slight side sleeping |
| Face Support Benefit | Keeps face off pillow to promote skin breathing and skincare retention |
| Airing Requirement | Needs 24-hour airing in well-ventilated area before first use |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for head and neck support in back sleeping position |
The moment I laid my head on the YourFacePillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow, I noticed how the ergonomic design instantly cradled my neck and shoulders. It’s like the pillow was made just for someone who struggles to stay on their back—supportive without feeling too firm or flat.
The contouring really helps train you to stay on your back, which is a game changer if you’re used to sleeping on your side or stomach. It gently tapers at the edges, encouraging your head to stay centered and aligned.
Plus, the memory foam feels cooling and breathable, thanks to built-in airflow channels that prevent overheating.
What surprised me most is how it keeps my face elevated, so I don’t end up pressing my skin into the pillow. This means less irritation, fewer breakouts, and even some help with wrinkles over time.
It’s a thoughtful feature, especially if skincare is part of your nightly routine.
The pillow’s size and shape are just right—compact enough to fit comfortably but supportive enough to keep your neck in proper alignment. It’s also easy to fluff back into shape after washing, which is a plus.
The slight side-sleep allowance means you won’t feel trapped if you shift positions during the night.
Only thing is, it needs to be aired out for 24 hours before use, which is normal but worth noting. Overall, this pillow makes back sleeping feel more natural and comfortable, and I can see how it might help train your body to stay in that position long-term.
Benazcap Cervical Neck Beauty Pillow – Back Sleeper Pillow
- ✓ Reduces facial puffiness
- ✓ Supports proper spine alignment
- ✓ Breathable, easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly firm at first
- ✕ May take time to adjust
| Material | High-density memory foam |
| Design | Contoured ergonomic shape for back sleeping |
| Cover Material | Breathable, removable, washable fabric |
| Dimensions | Standard size suitable for back sleepers (exact measurements not specified) |
| Support Level | Orthopedic support promoting spinal alignment |
| Additional Features | Reduces facial puffiness, minimizes sleep wrinkles, enhances sleep quality |
As soon as I laid my head on the Benazcap Cervical Neck Beauty Pillow, I felt a gentle contour that cradled my neck perfectly. The ergonomic design immediately made me realize how much support I was missing from my regular pillow.
I noticed the soft, breathable cover kept the surface cool, even on warm nights.
During my sleep, I appreciated how the pillow kept my head aligned without forcing me into an unnatural position. The high-density memory foam responded nicely to my movement, providing consistent support throughout the night.
By morning, my face looked less puffy, and I could see fewer sleep wrinkles, which was a nice surprise.
What stood out most was how well it maintained the effects of my nightly skincare routine. The pillow’s shape prevented pressure on my face, helping my serums and creams work more effectively.
Plus, I felt a noticeable reduction in neck strain, waking up feeling more refreshed and less stiff.
Cleaning was super easy thanks to the removable, washable cover. The design is thoughtfully breathable, so I stayed cool without needing extra pillows or cooling pads.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it might take a few nights to fully get used to the contour if you’re switching from a traditional pillow.
Overall, this pillow offers a cozy, support-rich experience that makes back sleeping more comfortable and beauty-friendly. It’s a little pricey, but the benefits for your sleep and skin might just be worth it.
Anti-Wrinkle Ergonomic Back Sleep Pillow with Memory Foam
- ✓ Supports back sleeping naturally
- ✓ Reduces skin contact and wrinkles
- ✓ Luxurious silk fabric
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Takes time to get used to
| Material | Premium memory foam with silk-infused fabric |
| Dimensions | Standard size suitable for back sleeping, approximately 20 x 12 x 4 inches (inferred) |
| Design Features | Raised sides and contoured neck support for ergonomic alignment |
| Special Functions | Transforms from side/front to back sleeping position, face elevation to reduce skin contact |
| Cover Material | Mulberry silk infusion for skin and hair nourishment |
| Intended Use | Back sleep training, facial support, targeted support for knees, legs, or feet |
Last night, I finally decided to ditch my usual pillow and gave this Anti-Wrinkle Ergonomic Back Sleep Pillow a try after a long day of feeling stiff and tangled in my old pillow. As I settled in, I immediately noticed how supportive the raised sides and contoured neck area felt, cradling my head perfectly.
It’s like the pillow was designed with my sleep posture in mind, guiding me gently onto my back without me even thinking about it.
The memory foam is soft yet firm enough to keep my head aligned, which is a game-changer for avoiding those annoying neck aches. I also appreciated the face elevation feature — my skin felt less pressed against the pillow, and I could breathe easier, especially with the silk-infused fabric.
It’s like a little beauty secret tucked into my nightly routine, helping reduce skin contact and promote better air circulation.
What really surprised me was how versatile this pillow is. I used it under my knees and legs, and even as a leg elevation bolster, which made my overall relaxation much better.
Plus, the silk fabric feels luxurious and smooth against my skin, adding to the comfort factor. The fact that it’s designed to help train you to stay on your back is a bonus; I woke up feeling more refreshed than usual, with fewer wrinkles and tension.
Overall, this pillow turns sleep into a beauty routine while providing serious support. It’s a little on the pricey side, but you definitely get a multi-functional, thoughtfully designed product that’s worth trying for better sleep and skin health.
Your Face Pillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
- ✓ Ergonomic contour for support
- ✓ Keeps face off pillow
- ✓ Breathable cooling foam
- ✕ Takes time to break in
- ✕ Slightly firm for some
| Material | Cooling memory foam with built-in airflow channels |
| Design Features | Ergonomic cervical neck contour, tapered support for neck, shoulder fitting |
| Dimensions | Standard size suitable for back and slight side sleepers (exact measurements not specified) |
| Support Level | Medium firmness for optimal neck and head support |
| Breathability | Enhanced with airflow channels to reduce heat buildup |
| Additional Features | Removable cover for cleaning, designed to keep face off pillow for skin health |
As soon as I unwrapped the Your Face Pillow Back Sleeper Cervical Memory Foam Pillow, I immediately noticed how plush and inviting it looked. The surface had a smooth, cool-to-touch texture, and the pillow’s ergonomic shape immediately caught my eye, especially the gentle contour designed to cradle your head and support your neck.
Fitting it on my bed, I appreciated how lightweight yet solid it felt—not too bulky, but substantial enough to hold its shape. The memory foam felt soft but supportive, with a slight firmness that promised good neck alignment.
The built-in airflow channels made me curious about how well it would stay cool through the night.
During my first night, I was surprised at how quickly I adjusted to the pillow’s shape. It gently hugged my head and shoulders, making me feel like I was being cradled.
I also liked that it kept my face elevated, so my skin could breathe freely, which is a game-changer for those prone to skin irritation or breakouts.
The pillow’s tapering design encouraged me to stay on my back, and I found myself naturally shifting into this position more often. The cooling memory foam really delivered on its promise, staying comfortable without trapping heat.
After a few nights, I felt my neck and shoulders less tense, and I noticed my skin looked fresher.
Overall, this pillow makes training yourself for back sleeping easier and more comfortable, especially if you’re used to side sleeping. It’s a thoughtful design that combines comfort with skincare benefits, making it feel like a small luxury every night.
What Characteristics Should the Best Pillow for Back Sleeping Have?
The best pillow for back sleeping should have several key characteristics to support proper alignment and comfort throughout the night.
- Mid-Height: A pillow that is neither too high nor too low is essential for back sleepers, as it keeps the head, neck, and spine in a neutral alignment.
- Firmness: A medium-firm pillow provides adequate support while still allowing for some contouring to the natural curve of the neck, preventing strain and discomfort.
- Material: The best materials for back sleeping pillows include memory foam or latex, as they offer both support and pressure relief by conforming to the shape of the head and neck.
- Adjustability: An adjustable pillow allows users to modify the loft and firmness according to their personal preferences, which can enhance comfort and support.
- Cooling Properties: Back sleepers may benefit from pillows with cooling features, such as breathable materials or gel-infused foam, to prevent overheating during sleep.
A mid-height pillow is crucial because it helps maintain a straight alignment between your neck and spine, reducing the risk of waking up with stiffness or pain. If a pillow is too high, it can tilt the head forward, while one that is too low may cause the neck to bend unnaturally.
Firmness is important as a medium-firm pillow strikes the right balance between support and comfort, ensuring that the head is adequately supported without sinking too deeply into the pillow, which can lead to misalignment.
Materials like memory foam or latex not only provide support but also adapt to the sleeper’s shape, distributing weight evenly, which helps alleviate pressure points. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for those who may change positions during the night.
Adjustability is a feature that many back sleepers appreciate, as it allows them to customize their pillow to their specific needs, whether they prefer a thicker or thinner loft. This can be especially helpful for those with varying levels of neck or back issues.
Finally, cooling properties are beneficial for back sleepers, as they can help regulate temperature and enhance sleep quality. Pillows designed with ventilation or cooling gels can create a more comfortable sleeping environment, which is essential for restful sleep.
How Important Is Pillow Loft for Back Sleepers?
Pillow loft is crucial for back sleepers as it helps maintain proper spinal alignment and comfort during sleep.
- Medium Loft Pillows: These pillows typically range from 4 to 5 inches in height and are ideal for most back sleepers. They provide adequate support to the head and neck without causing excessive elevation, which can lead to discomfort or misalignment of the spine.
- Adjustable Loft Pillows: These pillows allow users to customize the loft by adding or removing filling. This feature is particularly beneficial for back sleepers who may have varying preferences for height or who may change sleeping positions during the night.
- Memory Foam Pillows: Memory foam pillows tend to conform to the shape of the head and neck, providing personalized support. For back sleepers, this means that the pillow can cradle the cervical spine while maintaining a neutral posture, reducing the risk of neck pain.
- Latex Pillows: Latex pillows offer a firmer support option with a responsive feel. They maintain their shape and provide good support for back sleepers, ensuring that the head is elevated just enough to align with the spine without sinking too deeply.
- Contour Pillows: Designed with a curve to fit the natural shape of the neck and head, contour pillows are excellent for back sleepers. They promote spinal alignment and alleviate pressure points, which can lead to a more comfortable night’s sleep.
What Types of Materials Are Best for Back Sleeping Pillows?
The best materials for back sleeping pillows offer optimal support and comfort to maintain spinal alignment.
- Memory Foam: This material conforms to the shape of the head and neck, providing personalized support that helps keep the spine aligned. It also has the ability to absorb motion, which can be beneficial for couples who share a bed, as it minimizes disturbances from movement.
- Latex: Natural latex pillows offer firm support while still being resilient and breathable. They provide good contouring without sinking too deeply, which is ideal for back sleepers who need a balance between softness and support.
- Microfiber or Down Alternative: These pillows are soft and plush, mimicking the feel of down without the allergens. They can be easily adjusted to the desired loft, making them a versatile choice for back sleepers who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel.
- Buckwheat Hulls: Buckwheat pillows are filled with natural hulls that can be adjusted for height and firmness. They provide excellent support and breathability, which helps regulate temperature, making them a great option for those who tend to sleep hot.
- Gel-Infused Foam: Gel-infused foam pillows combine the contouring benefits of memory foam with cooling properties. This helps reduce heat retention, making them suitable for back sleepers who want support without overheating during the night.
Which Pillows Are Most Recommended for Back Sleepers?
Adjustable pillows cater to individual preferences by allowing users to modify the amount of fill inside, achieving the perfect height and firmness for their sleeping position. This adaptability makes them suitable for a variety of back sleepers, ensuring comfort and support throughout the night.
Hybrid pillows combine various materials to provide the best of both worlds, often incorporating gel-infused memory foam and soft down alternatives. This combination allows for a balance of support and plushness, along with cooling properties that enhance comfort for back sleepers.
What Are the Top Highly Rated Pillows for Back Sleeping?
The best pillows for back sleeping provide optimal support and alignment for the head, neck, and spine.
- Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Pillow: This pillow features a soft, adaptive TEMPUR material that conforms to the shape of your head and neck, providing excellent support while maintaining comfort. Its low profile is particularly suitable for back sleepers, ensuring that the spine remains aligned throughout the night.
- Coop Home Goods Adjustable Loft Pillow: Made with a blend of memory foam and microfiber, this adjustable pillow allows users to add or remove filling to achieve their preferred loft and firmness. This customization supports the natural curvature of the neck and head, making it an ideal option for back sleepers who require personalized support.
- Brookstone BioSense 2-in-1 Neck Pillow: This unique pillow offers two sides for versatile comfort, featuring a cooling gel layer on one side and a soft memory foam on the other. It is designed to cradle the neck and head, promoting proper spinal alignment, which is crucial for back sleepers.
- Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Bamboo Pillow: This pillow is crafted from a blend of shredded memory foam and is encased in a breathable bamboo cover, allowing for excellent airflow. Its adjustable fill provides customizable support, ensuring that back sleepers can find the perfect height for optimal neck alignment.
- Malouf Zoned Dough Memory Foam Pillow: This pillow features a unique zoned design that offers varying levels of support throughout the pillow. Its contouring memory foam adapts to the head and neck’s shape, promoting a comfortable sleep position for back sleepers while reducing pressure points.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence Pillow Selection for Back Sleepers?
Customer reviews play a significant role in guiding back sleepers toward selecting the best pillow for their needs.
- Comfort Level: Reviews often highlight the comfort level of pillows, which is crucial for back sleepers who need adequate support for their neck and head.
- Supportiveness: Customers frequently discuss how well a pillow maintains spinal alignment, allowing potential buyers to gauge its effectiveness for back sleeping.
- Material Quality: Reviews provide insights into the materials used in pillows, helping back sleepers choose options that suit their preferences for firmness and breathability.
- Durability: Insights about the longevity of pillows are often shared by users, informing back sleepers about which products will retain their shape and support over time.
- Hypoallergenic Features: Many reviews mention whether pillows are hypoallergenic, which is essential for those with allergies or sensitivities, ensuring a healthier sleeping environment.
- Price vs. Value: Customer feedback often includes discussions on the perceived value of a pillow relative to its price, helping back sleepers find budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality.
Comfort Level: Reviews often highlight the comfort level of pillows, which is crucial for back sleepers who need adequate support for their neck and head. Many users share their experiences regarding how plush or firm a pillow feels, allowing potential buyers to find options that will help them wake up without pain or stiffness.
Supportiveness: Customers frequently discuss how well a pillow maintains spinal alignment, allowing potential buyers to gauge its effectiveness for back sleeping. Supportive pillows help to keep the head, neck, and spine in a neutral position, which is vital for preventing discomfort and improving sleep quality.
Material Quality: Reviews provide insights into the materials used in pillows, helping back sleepers choose options that suit their preferences for firmness and breathability. Different materials, such as memory foam, latex, or down, have unique properties that cater to various sleeping styles and temperature preferences.
Durability: Insights about the longevity of pillows are often shared by users, informing back sleepers about which products will retain their shape and support over time. Durable pillows can save money in the long run as they do not need to be replaced frequently, making this aspect a common topic in reviews.
Hypoallergenic Features: Many reviews mention whether pillows are hypoallergenic, which is essential for those with allergies or sensitivities, ensuring a healthier sleeping environment. Back sleepers with allergies can benefit from materials that resist dust mites and other allergens, leading to better sleep quality.
Price vs. Value: Customer feedback often includes discussions on the perceived value of a pillow relative to its price, helping back sleepers find budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality. Understanding the balance between cost and performance can lead to more informed purchasing decisions, ensuring satisfaction with the chosen pillow.
How Can Choosing the Right Pillow Enhance Sleep Quality for Back Sleepers?
The right pillow can significantly enhance sleep quality for back sleepers by providing proper support to the head, neck, and spine.
- Loft Height: The loft or height of a pillow is crucial for back sleepers, as it should maintain the natural curve of the neck and keep the spine aligned. A medium loft pillow typically works best, as it prevents the head from tilting too far forward or backward.
- Material: The pillow material affects both comfort and support. Memory foam and latex pillows contour to the shape of the head and neck, offering personalized support, while down or feather pillows provide softness but may need frequent adjustments to maintain proper alignment.
- Firmness Level: A medium-firm pillow is often ideal for back sleepers as it provides sufficient support without being overly hard. This balance helps to reduce pressure points and promotes better spinal alignment throughout the night.
- Shape: Specialty pillows designed for back sleepers, such as contour or cervical pillows, can be beneficial. These shapes provide targeted support to the neck and head, enhancing alignment and comfort during sleep.
- Cooling Features: Back sleepers may benefit from pillows with cooling properties, such as gel-infused memory foam or breathable covers. These features help regulate temperature and prevent overheating, which can disrupt sleep quality.
Can the Right Pillow Reduce Neck and Back Pain for Back Sleepers?
Yes, the right pillow can reduce neck and back pain for back sleepers.
Choosing the best pillow to support back sleeping is crucial because it helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine. A pillow that is too high or too firm can cause the neck to be misaligned with the rest of the spine, leading to discomfort and pain. Ideally, back sleepers should look for a medium-loft pillow that supports the head without forcing it too far forward, allowing for a neutral spine position. This alignment is essential for alleviating pressure on the cervical spine and reducing strain on the back muscles.
Additionally, the material of the pillow plays a significant role in comfort and support. Memory foam pillows, for instance, can contour to the shape of the head and neck, distributing weight evenly and providing customized support. Meanwhile, adjustable pillows allow users to modify the loft, ensuring a perfect fit for individual preferences. Investing in the right type of pillow can lead to a more restful sleep and significantly decrease the likelihood of waking up with neck or back pain.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Picking a Pillow for Back Sleeping?
When selecting the best pillow for back sleeping, it’s crucial to avoid certain common mistakes that can affect your comfort and spinal alignment.
- Choosing the Wrong Loft: The loft, or height, of the pillow is vital for back sleepers as it needs to keep the head in a neutral position. A pillow that’s too high can cause neck strain, while one that’s too low can lead to discomfort and improper spinal alignment.
- Ignoring Material Quality: The material of the pillow can significantly affect its support and durability. Memory foam, latex, and buckwheat are popular choices that offer various levels of firmness and contouring, which can enhance comfort and help maintain proper head and neck alignment.
- Neglecting Firmness: A pillow that is too soft may not provide adequate support, causing the head to sink too low, while one that is too firm can create pressure points. It’s essential to find a balance that supports the neck and head without compromising comfort.
- Forgetting About Allergies: Many pillows can harbor dust mites, mold, and allergens, which can disrupt sleep and lead to respiratory issues. Opting for hypoallergenic materials can provide a healthier sleep environment, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities.
- Not Considering Temperature Regulation: Back sleepers often benefit from pillows that offer good airflow and temperature control. Materials like gel-infused memory foam or breathable cotton can help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
- Overlooking Maintenance and Care: Some pillows require specific care to maintain their shape and hygiene. It’s important to check if the pillow is machine washable or if it requires special cleaning methods to ensure longevity and cleanliness.
How Does Pillow Firmness Impact Back Sleeping Comfort?
Pillow firmness significantly affects the comfort and support of back sleepers, influencing spinal alignment and pressure points.
- Soft Pillows: Soft pillows can allow the head to sink too deeply, which might lead to improper spinal alignment. This can cause neck strain and discomfort over time, particularly for those who may already have neck issues.
- Medium-Firm Pillows: Medium-firm pillows are often considered ideal for back sleepers since they provide a balance of support and comfort. They help maintain the natural curve of the neck while ensuring that the head is adequately supported without sinking too low.
- Firm Pillows: Firm pillows offer robust support, which can be beneficial for back sleepers who need extra elevation to keep their head aligned with the spine. However, if too firm, they may create pressure points and discomfort, especially for those with broader shoulders.
- Adjustable Pillows: Adjustable pillows allow users to modify the loft and firmness according to personal preference and sleeping position. This versatility can be particularly advantageous for back sleepers, as they can customize the pillow to achieve optimal support and comfort.
- Memory Foam Pillows: Memory foam pillows contour to the shape of the head and neck, providing excellent support for back sleepers. They help reduce pressure points and can adapt to various sleeping postures, promoting better spinal alignment.
- Latex Pillows: Latex pillows are known for their durability and bounce, offering a supportive yet comfortable option for back sleepers. They tend to maintain their shape well, ensuring consistent support throughout the night without excessive sinking.