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Mattress for back sleepers with proper spinal support
Updated January 2026

Best Mattress for Back Sleepers Ireland (2026)

Back sleeping is the healthiest position for spinal alignment — but only with the right mattress. We've researched the best options for Irish back sleepers, from medium-firm hybrids to chiropractor-endorsed orthopaedic designs.

Jump to our picks

Sleeping on your back distributes weight evenly across your body and keeps your spine in its natural alignment — when properly supported. The key challenge for back sleepers is finding a mattress that supports the lumbar region without creating pressure points or allowing the hips to sink too deeply. Too soft, and your lower back arches unnaturally; too firm, and you'll feel pressure on your shoulders and tailbone. The ideal mattress for back sleepers in Ireland typically falls in the medium-firm range (6-7 out of 10) with targeted lumbar support. We've evaluated mattresses from Irish manufacturers, international brands with Irish delivery, and chiropractor-endorsed options specifically designed for spinal health. Every mattress featured delivers to Irish addresses with verified trial periods and warranties.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page. This doesn't affect our picks or editorial independence.

What Back Sleepers Need in a Mattress

Back sleeping is considered the healthiest position — but only with proper support. See our firmness guide for recommendations.

Lumbar Support Is Critical

The lower back naturally curves inward (lordosis), and your mattress must fill this gap without creating excessive lift. Look for mattresses with zoned support — firmer in the centre third where your hips and lower back rest, softer at the shoulders. Without proper lumbar support, back sleepers often wake with stiffness or aching that worsens throughout the day.

Medium-Firm Is Usually Best

Most sleep experts recommend a firmness of 6-7 out of 10 for back sleepers. This provides enough pushback to keep your spine aligned while allowing slight contouring at pressure points. Lighter back sleepers (under 70kg) may prefer medium (5-6), while heavier sleepers (over 100kg) often need firm (7-8) to prevent excessive sinking.

Consider Zoned Construction

The best mattresses for back sleepers feature different firmness zones. Your shoulders need softer support to prevent pressure, while your hips and lower back require firmer support to prevent sagging. Zoned pocket springs or multi-density foam layers create this targeted support automatically.

Material Type Matters

Hybrid mattresses (springs + foam) typically offer the best combination of support and comfort for back sleepers. The springs provide responsive support and keep hips elevated, while foam layers contour to your body shape. All-foam mattresses can work but may allow too much sinking for heavier back sleepers.

Why Back Sleeping Is Considered Healthiest

Sleep researchers and physiotherapists consistently rank back sleeping as the optimal position for spinal health. When lying on your back with proper support, your spine maintains its natural S-curve, weight distributes evenly across the widest surface area, and there's no asymmetric pressure on joints or muscles. This position also minimises facial contact with pillows, reducing skin irritation and wrinkles.

However, back sleeping isn't suitable for everyone. It can worsen sleep apnoea and snoring in some individuals, and pregnant women are generally advised to avoid it in later trimesters. If back sleeping works for you, investing in a properly supportive mattress will maximise the health benefits.

The mattresses we recommend below have been specifically evaluated for their ability to support back sleepers. If you experience back pain, see our dedicated guide for pain-relief options. Our best mattresses in Ireland features models with excellent lumbar support.

Our 2026 Picks for Back Sleepers in Ireland

Independently researched — the best mattresses for back sleepers with proper lumbar support, from chiropractor-endorsed options to premium hybrids.

Select up to 3 mattresses to compare side-by-side

Emma Hybrid PremiumBest Overall for Back Sleepers

Emma Hybrid Premium

Emma's flagship hybrid delivers the ideal balance for back sleepers — 7-zone pocket springs provide targeted lumbar support while Halo Memory Foam contours gently without excessive sinking. The medium-firm feel keeps your spine aligned throughout the night.

Why We Like It

  • 7-zone pocket spring system with reinforced lumbar region
  • Medium-firm feel (6-7/10) ideal for back sleeping
  • Halo Memory Foam provides gentle contouring without deep sinkage
  • 200-night trial lets you properly test lumbar support
  • Free delivery across Ireland within 5-7 working days

Best For

  • Back sleepers of all weights
  • Those wanting zoned lumbar support
  • Couples (excellent motion isolation)

Not Ideal For

  • Those preferring very soft feel
  • Side sleepers needing extra cushioning

Key Specs

Firmness:Medium-Firm (6-7/10)
Type:Hybrid (7-Zone Springs + Foam)
Lumbar:Zoned (reinforced centre)
Sizes:Single to Super King
Trial:200 nights
Price:€€€
See Price at Emma Sleep
King Koil Spinal GuardBest Irish-Made for Back Sleepers

King Koil Spinal Guard

Developed with the International Chiropractors Association and made in Kildare, the Spinal Guard features Chiro-Span posturisation — steel bands in the centre third that provide extra support exactly where back sleepers need it most.

Why We Like It

  • ICA-endorsed design specifically for spinal health
  • Chiro-Span posturisation targets lumbar and back support
  • Heavy-duty 12.5g spring system for exceptional support
  • Made in Ireland (Kilcullen, Co. Kildare) since 1982
  • Available through multiple Irish retailers nationwide

Best For

  • Back sleepers with lower back concerns
  • Those wanting chiropractor-endorsed support
  • Supporting Irish manufacturing

Not Ideal For

  • Those wanting plush comfort feel
  • Side sleepers preferring soft cushioning

Key Specs

Firmness:Firm (7-8/10)
Type:Open Coil with Posturisation
Lumbar:Chiro-Span (steel bands)
Sizes:Single to Super King
Trial:Varies by retailer
Price:€€
See Price at McGinleys
OTTY Original HybridBest Medium-Firm Hybrid

OTTY Original Hybrid

The OTTY Original delivers exceptional lumbar support through 2000 encapsulated pocket springs with a medium-firm feel rated 7/10 — precisely what most back sleepers need. Cooling blue foam prevents heat buildup that can disrupt sleep.

Why We Like It

  • 2000 encapsulated pocket springs for responsive support
  • Medium-firm feel (7/10) rated ideal for back sleepers
  • Cooling blue foam layer regulates temperature
  • 100-night trial with free collection if not satisfied
  • White-glove delivery available with old mattress removal

Best For

  • Back sleepers wanting firm support
  • Hot sleepers (cooling technology)
  • Those wanting old mattress removed

Not Ideal For

  • Those preferring softer feel
  • Side sleepers under 70kg

Key Specs

Firmness:Medium-Firm (7/10)
Type:Hybrid (2000 Springs + Foam)
Lumbar:Even spring distribution
Sizes:Single to Emperor
Trial:100 nights
Price:€€€
See Price at OTTY
Respa Extreme SupportBest Orthopaedic Option

Respa Extreme Support

Respa's firmest mattress delivers the orthopaedic-level support that back sleepers with spinal concerns often need. The RespaTech 12.5g spring system is their strongest, with edge-to-edge support preventing roll-off and maintaining alignment.

Why We Like It

  • Firmest mattress in Respa's orthopaedic collection
  • RespaTech 12.5g spring system — strongest available
  • Edge-to-edge support frame prevents sinking at edges
  • 100% Irish handmade in Oldcastle, Co. Meath since 1947
  • Sleepfresh technology for cool, dry sleeping

Best For

  • Back sleepers needing firm support
  • Those with existing back issues
  • Heavier back sleepers (100kg+)

Not Ideal For

  • Those preferring softer comfort
  • Lighter sleepers (under 70kg)

Key Specs

Firmness:Firm (8/10)
Type:Orthopaedic Spring
Lumbar:Full orthopaedic support
Sizes:Single to Super King
Trial:Contact retailer
Price:€€
See Price at Dublin Outlet
TEMPUR Pro SmartcoolBest Premium Option

TEMPUR Pro Smartcool

TEMPUR's NASA-developed material adapts precisely to your body contours while maintaining the support back sleepers need. The medium-firm option provides excellent lumbar support with the premium pressure relief TEMPUR is known for.

Why We Like It

  • NASA-developed TEMPUR material adapts to body shape
  • SmartCool cover absorbs excess heat for temperature regulation
  • Medium-firm option available specifically for back support
  • 100-night trial and 10-year guarantee
  • Available at Dreams Ireland — Ireland's No.1 TEMPUR retailer

Best For

  • Back sleepers wanting premium comfort
  • Hot sleepers needing cooling
  • Those investing in long-term quality

Not Ideal For

  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Those preferring traditional spring feel

Key Specs

Firmness:Medium-Firm (6/10)
Type:TEMPUR Foam
Lumbar:Adaptive contouring
Sizes:Single to Super King
Trial:100 nights
Price:€€€€
See Price at Dreams Ireland
Emma Hybrid OriginalBest Value for Back Sleepers

Emma Hybrid Original

Emma's entry-level hybrid offers the same zoned pocket spring technology as their premium range at a more accessible price. The medium-firm feel and lumbar-supportive construction make it excellent value for back sleepers on a budget.

Why We Like It

  • Zoned pocket spring base provides lumbar support
  • Medium-firm feel (6/10) suitable for most back sleepers
  • Same 200-night trial as premium Emma mattresses
  • Klarna payment options (3 instalments at 0% APR)
  • Free delivery and returns across Ireland

Best For

  • Budget-conscious back sleepers
  • First-time mattress buyers
  • Those wanting branded quality at lower price

Not Ideal For

  • Those wanting firmest support
  • Heavy sleepers (120kg+)

Key Specs

Firmness:Medium-Firm (6/10)
Type:Hybrid (Foam + Springs)
Lumbar:Zoned spring support
Sizes:Single to Super King
Trial:200 nights
Price:€
See Price at Emma Sleep

Understanding Mattresses for Back Sleepers

Why back sleeping requires specific support, what to look for, and how to optimise your sleep setup.

The Science of Back Sleeping

When you sleep on your back, your spine should maintain its natural S-curve — a gentle inward curve at the neck (cervical lordosis), outward curve at the upper back (thoracic kyphosis), and inward curve at the lower back (lumbar lordosis). The challenge is that your hips are the heaviest part of your body and naturally want to sink, which can flatten or reverse the lumbar curve if your mattress doesn't provide adequate support.

55%

Body Weight

Concentrated in hip/pelvis area

6-7

Ideal Firmness

On a 10-point scale for most back sleepers

8%

Population

Naturally sleep on their back

Signs Your Mattress Isn't Supporting You Properly

Even if you've slept on your back for years, an unsuitable mattress can cause gradual problems. These warning signs indicate your current mattress may not be providing proper support.

Lower Back Pain on Waking

If your lower back aches when you first wake but improves after moving around, your mattress is likely too soft and allowing your hips to sink, straining the lumbar spine overnight.

Numbness or Tingling

Waking with numb arms or tingling in extremities suggests pressure points are restricting blood flow — often caused by a mattress that's too firm for your body weight.

Tossing and Turning

Frequently changing position or unconsciously rolling onto your side during the night often indicates your body is seeking relief from inadequate back support.

Hip or Tailbone Pressure

Feeling pressure on your tailbone or hips when lying on your back suggests the mattress is too firm and not contouring enough to distribute your weight evenly.

Firmness Guide by Body Weight

Your body weight significantly affects how firm your mattress should be. Heavier sleepers compress mattresses more and need firmer support to prevent excessive sinking; lighter sleepers need softer surfaces to allow any contouring at all.

Under 70kg (11 stone)

Recommended: Medium (5-6/10)

Lighter back sleepers don't compress mattresses as much and may find firm surfaces uncomfortable. A medium mattress allows slight contouring while still supporting the spine.

70-100kg (11-16 stone)

Recommended: Medium-Firm (6-7/10)

The most common weight range benefits from the classic medium-firm recommendation — enough support to maintain spinal alignment with adequate pressure relief.

Over 100kg (16+ stone)

Recommended: Firm (7-8/10)

Heavier back sleepers need firmer support to prevent hips sinking too deeply. Look for reinforced lumbar zones and high-density foams or strong spring systems.

Pillow Pairing for Back Sleepers

Your mattress is only half the equation — the wrong pillow can undo all the benefits of proper back support. Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck without tilting the head too far forward or back.

Generally, back sleepers need a medium-loft pillow (8-12cm) that fills the gap between the neck and mattress. Too high, and your chin tucks toward your chest; too low, and your head falls backward, straining the neck.

Pillow Recommendations:

  • • Loft: Medium (8-12cm)
  • • Fill: Memory foam or latex contour pillows work well
  • • Shape: Contoured pillows with neck support ideal
  • • Tip: A small pillow under the knees can reduce lower back strain
See our pillow recommendations →

Quick Answers

Can back sleepers use memory foam?

Yes, but choose high-density memory foam (50kg/m³+) or hybrid designs. Pure low-density foam may allow hips to sink too deeply. Hybrids with spring support underneath work best.

Is firm always better for back sleepers?

No — "firm" is often misunderstood. You need enough support to prevent sinking, but too firm creates pressure points. Medium-firm (6-7/10) suits most; firmness needs increase with body weight.

Should back sleepers consider zoned mattresses?

Zoned mattresses are excellent for back sleepers. The firmer centre zone supports the heavier hip/pelvis area while softer zones at head and feet allow natural contouring.

What if I switch positions during sleep?

If you move between back and side sleeping, a medium-firm mattress is your best compromise. Look for responsive materials that adapt quickly to position changes.

Related Guides

Explore our other resources to help with your mattress purchase:

Best Mattresses in Ireland (All Positions)Best Mattress for Side SleepersBest Mattress for Back PainBest Orthopaedic MattressesMattress Firmness GuideBest Pillows in Ireland

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about mattresses for back sleepers. Check our pillow guide for proper neck alignment.

How We Selected These Mattresses

Our back sleeper recommendations focus on mattresses that provide proper lumbar support, maintain spinal alignment, and prevent the hips from sinking excessively. We prioritise options with proven track records for back support, including chiropractor-endorsed designs and mattresses with zoned construction.

  • Firmness levels appropriate for back sleeping (medium-firm to firm)
  • Lumbar support features evaluated (zoning, posturisation, reinforcement)
  • Irish availability and delivery confirmed for all recommendations
  • Customer reviews from verified back sleepers analysed
  • Chiropractor and orthopaedic endorsements verified where claimed
  • Trial periods checked — essential for testing back support
  • Value-for-money assessed across price ranges
  • Updated regularly to reflect current availability and pricing

A Note on Back Sleeper Mattress Selection

Back sleeping is often recommended by physiotherapists and chiropractors as the optimal sleep position for spinal health — but this only holds true with proper mattress support. An unsuitable mattress can turn the healthiest sleep position into a source of pain.

We strongly recommend using the full trial period when testing any mattress for back sleeping. It takes 2-4 weeks for your body to adjust to a new sleep surface, and back support issues may not become apparent immediately. Pay attention to how your lower back feels on waking — any persistent stiffness or aching suggests the mattress may not be providing adequate lumbar support.

If you have existing back problems or spinal conditions, consider consulting a physiotherapist or chiropractor before choosing a mattress. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your specific needs.