The Ultimate Guide to Firm Pillow in Australia - Must Read

SEP 23, 2025

651 views, 4 mins read

If you’ve ever woken up with a sore neck or stiff shoulders, chances are your pillow isn’t doing its job. While mattresses often get all the attention, pillows play an equally important role in sleep quality. Firm pillows, in particular, are recommended for side and back sleepers who need more support.

The right level of firmness can keep your head, neck, and spine in alignment, reducing pressure and discomfort.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a firm pillow, how firm it should be for your sleep style, our top recommendations, and answers to common questions.

In this article

1. What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Firm Pillow? 2. 3 Best Firm Pillows for Better Sleep 3. FAQs about Firm Pillow

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Firm Pillow?

When shopping for a firm pillow, it’s not just about picking the hardest option available. Comfort and support need to go hand in hand. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

1. Sleeping Position

Side sleepers: Usually need high and firm pillows to fill the gap between their shoulder and head.
Back sleepers: Benefit from a medium firm pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck.
Stomach sleepers: Often prefer softer pillows, but a firm low pillow may help if they shift positions at night.

2. Loft (Height)

The loft determines how high your head is elevated. High loft works better for side sleepers, while low loft options are ideal for stomach sleepers. Adjustable pillows, such as the Newentor Adjustable Pillow, are versatile since you can add or remove foam layers.

3. Material

Memory foam: Contours closely to your head and neck, offering pressure relief.
Latex: Naturally firm, bouncy, and durable, with good breathability.
Down alternatives: Generally softer, but some versions are firmer for better support.

4. Firmness Preference

Even within the “firm” category, there’s variation. Some people want an almost hard pillow, while others prefer firm with a little give. Your comfort tolerance should guide your choice.

5. Durability

Firm pillows made from memory foam or latex usually last longer (about 2–3 years) compared to polyester or cheaper fillings that flatten quickly.

3 Best Firm Pillows for Better Sleep

2.1 Newentor Adjustable Pillow

The Newentor adjustable pillow stands out for its customizability. It comes with removable foam layers, so you can adjust both loft and firmness. Whether you need a high and firm pillow for side sleeping or a medium firm pillow for back sleeping, this pillow adapts to you. It’s CertiPUR-US® certified, hypoallergenic, and breathable—great for sensitive sleepers.

2.2 Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

Designed with ergonomics in mind, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow uses Tempur’s signature memory foam to provide firm, contoured support. It’s a true hard memory foam pillow that follows the natural curve of your head and neck. Ideal for people with chronic neck pain, it offers therapeutic relief and lasting durability.

Best for: Sleepers with consistent neck or upper back pain.

2.3 Saatva Memory Foam Pillow

The Saatva Memory Foam Pillow combines shredded memory foam and a firmer supportive core. While not as rigid as the Tempur-Pedic, it still provides excellent firmness for side and back sleepers. Its breathable organic cotton cover makes it cooler than many dense memory foam options.

Best for: Back and side sleepers who need support but also want breathability.

FAQs about Firm Pillow

1. Which is better—firm or soft pillows?

It depends on your sleep style. Firm pillows are better for back and side sleepers, while soft pillows suit stomach sleepers. You can check this article for more details: Pillow Firmness Guide: Soft Pillow vs Firm Pillow, Which to Choose?

Do firm pillows get softer over time?

Yes, most firm pillows do soften gradually with use. Materials like memory foam, latex, or high-density polyfoam will adapt to your body heat and pressure, becoming slightly more pliable over weeks or months.
Natural wear from nightly use, plus moisture and weight, also breaks them in. However, high-quality firm pillows—especially those made with durable foams—tend to maintain their structure far longer than cheap alternatives.

Can a firm pillow cause headaches?

A firm pillow can sometimes contribute to headaches, but usually only if it’s not the right height or firmness for your sleep position. For example, if your pillow is too high or too low, it may strain your neck and misalign your spine, leading to tension headaches.
The key is finding the right balance—firm enough to support your head and neck, but not so hard that it creates pressure points. Adjustable or contour-style firm pillows can help reduce this issue by letting you customize the loft.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a firm pillow?

Firm pillows have several benefits. They provide excellent support, especially for side sleepers who need to keep their head and neck aligned with their spine. They’re also ideal for heavier individuals, as they resist flattening and maintain shape better than soft pillows.
For people who snore or have mild sleep apnea, a firmer pillow can sometimes help by keeping the airway more open.

On the flip side, firm pillows aren’t for everyone. Stomach sleepers often find them too high and uncomfortable, which can lead to neck strain. Some people also find firm pillows less “plush” and cozy, which may take time to get used to. Additionally, very hard pillows may exacerbate pressure on sensitive areas, especially if you toss and turn a lot at night.

Botton Lines

Firm pillows can truly transform your sleep quality by supporting spinal alignment, easing neck pain, and helping you feel more refreshed in the morning. If you’re searching for a dependable option, the Newentor Adjustable Pillow is a standout choice.

With its customizable loft and supportive memory foam design, it adapts to both back and side sleepers. What sets it apart is the peace of mind it offers—you get a 120-night trial to make sure it’s the right fit, plus a 10-year warranty that guarantees lasting comfort and durability.

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