How Often Should You Change Your Pillows?

Pillows are more than just a place to rest your head. They’re an essential part of your bedding, providing comfort and support to help you drift off each night. Plus, they’re perfect for adding a touch of cosiness and relaxation to your space. 

Knowing how often to replace pillows and how to care for them is an important part of keeping them in good condition. After all - there’s nothing worse than a lumpy, uncomfortable pillow! 

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about replacing your pillows, including signs they need changing and how long the average pillow lasts. Let’s cue the pillow talk! 

How often should you replace your pillows?

So, how long does a pillow last? The average pillow will need replacing every one to two years to keep them clean, free of allergens and make sure they’re providing the right support. 

Some pillows can last longer than others depending on their material type, the density of materials and whether you use a pillow protector. For example, memory foam pillows are known for their ability to retain their shape, while Alpaca is known for being naturally durable. 

How to properly care for your pillows

So how exactly do you care for your pillows? With a little TLC and regular care, you can help keep them clean and in their proper shape. Let’s take a closer look. 

1. Air them out 

Looking after your pillows starts when you first receive it. When you first unpack your new pillow, you might find that it comes with a ‘new pillow smell’ that may not be pleasing to some.  This is because your new pillow has been sealed in a plastic bag and hasn’t had the chance to air yet. 

With this in mind, the first thing you should do when you get a new pillow is air it out. Avoid putting any pillowcases or protectors on it for a short time, while it airs.

2. Protect them

Once you’ve aired out your pillow, it’s important to protect it. A waterproof pillow protector can help guard your pillow from moisture, bacteria, allergies and dust mites. Plus, it can help with unexpected spills and stains, increasing its lifespan. Pillow protectors can also help reduce odour that can come with regular use. 

3. Use a pillowcase

Pillowcases are an important part of your bedding for both functionality and comfort. Helping to protect against dust and dirt, pillowcases create a soft layer between your head and your pillow. Plus, they come in a range of different colours and styles that you can mix or match with other pieces of linen like your sheets and quilt cover.

4. Read the manufacturer's guide

Remember that not all pillows are made the same. You should always read the manufacturer's instructions for the best tips on caring for your pillow. 

How do you know when to replace your pillows?

So, how often should you change pillows? A sure sign it’s time to replace your pillows is their age. If your pillows are more than two years old, it’s likely time to invest in a new one.

While regular care is important, you should also keep an eye on the condition of your pillows. Are you waking up with a sore neck? Or perhaps your pillow has a smell to it. It’s important to keep an eye on the overall condition of your pillow so that you know when it’s time to invest in a new one. 

Aside from their age, if you’re waking up with a sore neck or you can’t get comfortable at night, then your pillow might not be providing the support it once did. You should also keep an eye out for lumps, sagging or even changes to the colour of the pillow (like yellowing). 

What happens if you don't change your pillow?

Like all parts of your bedding, not changing a pillow can impact your overall comfort, quality of sleep and health in some cases. Over time, you may find that your pillow starts to lose its shape, flattening out and losing its mass which can impact your sleep. After all, there’s nothing worse than tossing and turning, trying to get a lumpy pillow to stay in shape. 

Aside from the comfort and support of your pillow, not changing your pillow regularly can also lead to a buildup of dust, bacteria and dead skin cells, even with regular washing. 

After a new pillow to fall in love with? Check out our extensive range of pillows at Snooze to find your ideal pillow to get a better night’s snooze. Need a little extra help? Head in-store and use our Snooze Profiler Technology to find the right profile and fit for your sleep needs. 

References

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/best-pillows/how-often-should-you-replace-your-pillows