How to Choose the Right Pillow for Your Mattress

A good mattress is important, but your pillow matters too.

Your pillow and mattress work together to help create your overall sleeping position. If one is not suited to you, the other may not feel as comfortable as it should.

When customers upgrade their mattress, it is often worth checking whether their pillow still suits their sleeping style.

Why pillow height matters

Pillow height can affect how comfortable you feel when lying down.

A pillow that is too high may lift your head too much. A pillow that is too low may not give enough support. A pillow that has become flat or uneven may no longer feel comfortable.

The right pillow height depends on your body, mattress feel and sleeping position.

Side sleepers

Side sleepers usually need more pillow height than back sleepers.

This is because there is more space between the head, neck and mattress when lying on your side.

If your pillow is too low, you may feel unsupported. If it is too high, it may feel awkward or uncomfortable.

Side sleepers often also need a mattress with enough pressure relief around the shoulders and hips.

Back sleepers

Back sleepers often prefer a medium-height pillow.

The goal is to feel supported without the head being pushed too far forward.

Back sleepers may also prefer a mattress that offers a balanced or firmer support feel, depending on personal preference.

Stomach sleepers

Stomach sleepers often prefer a lower pillow, or in some cases very little pillow height.

A high pillow may feel uncomfortable in this position.

Stomach sleepers may also prefer a firmer mattress feel to reduce the sensation of sinking too deeply into the mattress.

Your mattress feel can change what pillow suits

A softer mattress may allow your body to sink in slightly more, which can change the height you need from your pillow.

A firmer mattress keeps you more on top of the bed, which may mean a different pillow height feels better.

This is one reason your old pillow may not feel quite right after buying a new mattress.

When should you replace your pillow?

You may need a new pillow if:

• It feels flat or lumpy
• It no longer holds its shape
• You fold it to make it feel higher
• You wake up uncomfortable
• It is stained or no longer fresh
• It does not suit your new mattress

A fresh pillow can make your whole bed feel more comfortable.

Do couples need the same pillow?

Not necessarily.

Couples often choose the same mattress size, but they do not always need the same pillow.

Different body shapes, sleeping positions and comfort preferences can mean each person needs a different pillow.

This is similar to mattress comfort, where one person may prefer Medium and the other may prefer Firm.

Final thoughts

Your pillow is an important part of your sleep setup.

The right pillow should suit your sleeping position, body shape and mattress feel. If you are upgrading your mattress, it is worth reviewing your pillow at the same time.

At Luxury Orthopaedic Beds, we can help you choose a comfortable bed setup, including mattress, base and bedding accessories.

Visit our Hamilton showroom or contact our team for help choosing the right mattress and pillow combination.

FAQ section

Should I change my pillow when I buy a new mattress?
It can be a good idea, especially if your new mattress has a different feel from your old one.

What pillow is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers often prefer a higher pillow, but the right option depends on body shape and comfort preference.

Do partners need matching pillows?
No. Each person can choose the pillow that suits them best.

Can the wrong pillow make my mattress feel uncomfortable?
Yes, an unsuitable pillow can affect your overall comfort in bed.