Choosing the right pillow is just as important as choosing the right mattress. In fact, many people who suffer from neck pain, shoulder tension, headaches, or restless sleep are using the wrong pillow, even if their mattress is perfectly fine.

At The Sleep Shop, we carry out pillow fittings every day for customers who are amazed by the difference the correct pillow makes. This guide explains how to choose the right pillow for your sleep position, body shape, and mattress — with expert advice tailored specifically for Irish sleepers.

Why Your Pillow Matters More Than You Think

Your pillow’s primary job is to:

• Keep your head and neck in neutral alignment

• Support the natural curve of your spine

• Prevent strain on the neck, shoulders, and upper back

If your pillow is too high, too low, or lacking support, it can undo the benefits of even the best mattress.

👉 If you’re upgrading your sleep setup, this guide works hand-in-hand with our mattress advice:
Best Mattress to Buy in Ireland in 2025 – Expert Advice from The Sleep Shop Athlone

The Best Pillow for Each Sleep Position

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers need the most support, as the distance between the mattress and the head is greatest.

What to look for:

• Medium to firm support

• A pillow that fills the shoulder gap

• A filling that holds its shape overnight

Natural options such as sheep wool are particularly popular due to their breathability and resilience.

👉 View suitable side-sleeper options here:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows

👉 A customer favourite:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows/products/sheeps-wool-x2

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the neck without forcing the head forward.

What to look for:

• Medium support

• Gentle contouring under the neck

• Consistent shape and pressure relief

Memory foam pillows work exceptionally well for back sleepers, as they cradle the head while supporting the natural curve of the neck.

👉 Our Memory Foam Pillow is one of our most popular choices for back sleepers looking for reliable support and comfort:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows/products/memory-foam-pillow

Front (Stomach) Sleepers

Front sleepers require very low loft pillows to avoid neck strain.

What to look for:

• Soft or low-profile pillows

• Lightweight fillings

• Excellent airflow

A pillow that is too high or firm can cause long-term neck discomfort for front sleepers.

👉 Browse softer pillow options here:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows

Pillow Filling Types – What’s Best for Irish Sleepers?

Natural Fillings (Wool & Bamboo)

Natural pillows are extremely popular in Ireland due to their ability to regulate temperature and manage moisture.

Benefits:

• Naturally breathable

• Stay fresher for longer

• Ideal for warm sleepers or well-insulated homes

https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows/products/sheeps-wool-x2

Synthetic Pillows

Synthetic pillows are a great-value option and are ideal for:

• Guest rooms

• Children’s bedrooms

• Spare beds

They are lightweight, easy to maintain, and practical for occasional use.

👉 View affordable pillow options here:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows

Matching Your Pillow to Your Mattress

This is one of the most common mistakes we see.

• A firmer mattress usually requires a slightly lower pillow

• A softer mattress often needs a higher pillow

• Side sleepers on pocket sprung mattresses generally need more pillow height

👉 If you’re choosing both, start with your mattress:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/mattresses

Why Pillow Fitting Makes a Real Difference

Buying a pillow online without guidance can be hit-or-miss. That’s why we offer a free in-store pillow fitting service at The Sleep Shop Athlone.

During a fitting, we:

• Assess your sleep position

• Match pillow height to mattress firmness

• Allow you to try before you buy

This personalised approach is why customers travel from across the Midlands and beyond for advice they trust.

Our Expert Pillow Advice for Better Sleep

Based on years of real customer fittings, our top recommendations are:

• ✔️ Replace your pillow every 18–24 months

• ✔️ Choose support and breathability over softness alone

• ✔️ Match pillow height to mattress firmness

• ✔️ Don’t assume one pillow suits everyone

👉 Explore our full pillow range here:
https://thesleepshop.ie/collections/pillows

Visit The Sleep Shop Athlone for Expert Advice

If you’re unsure which pillow is right for you, expert guidance makes all the difference.

📍 The Sleep Shop
Ankers Bower, Dublin Road
Athlone, Co. Westmeath
N37 E762

🛏️ Free pillow fitting
🚚 Nationwide delivery
🧠 Honest, expert advice

Better sleep starts with the right pillow — properly chosen and properly supported.