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How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?

March 10, 2024   By JM Carpiso
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If your pillows have stains or start to smell, then it means that they need to be replaced already. 

If your pillows are getting old and starting to sag a lot, then a new one is due. The answer to the question of how often you should replace your pillows is generally one to two years. 

Why is this so? Replacing your pillows every one to two years is good for your overall hygiene and health. Dirty pillows can cause skin infections on your head and scalp. Also, bacteria that can cause pimples and other facial problems can live in old pillows. 

But of course, other factors may dictate when you need to replace your pillows. Let’s look at these factors that determine how often you should replace your pillows. 

Your Pillow’s Lifecycle: A Guide to Replacement

Have you ever wondered when it’s best to replace your pillow? Together, we will investigate your sleeping partner’s lifespan and determine when a change is warranted.

1. Pillow Life: One to Two Years

Similar to everything else, your pillow has an expiration date. It is usually advised to change it every one to two years. After this period, your pillow might no longer have the same allure and stop providing the support and comfort you require for a restful night’s sleep. 

Also, bodily fluids, dirt, and sweat may have already accumulated on your pillow at this point. Changing it can ward off unwanted skin irritations and infections. 

2. Allergens and Dust Mites

Did you realise that allergies and dust mites are among the invisible guests your pillow hosts? Replace your pillow every one to two years to maintain a clean sleeping environment. This contributes to keeping these unseen invaders at bay and guarantees a more allergy-free, healthier haven for your nocturnal sleep.

3. Fluffiness Counts

The more time goes by, the less fluffy your pillow gets. Its support progressively wanes. You can keep your pillow at its ideal fluff level and provide your head and neck with the support they require after a demanding day by replacing it every one to two years.

By ensuring that your pillow retains its fluffiness and loft, you can ensure that you can ward off against neck and shoulder pain as you sleep. 

4. Stains and Smells

Even if your pillow is only a year or two old, you may still need to replace it right away if you find something smelly on it. Stains are also a good sign that you may need to retire your pillow already. 

Of course you can wash your pillow in a washing machine should its care instructions allow it. However, your pillow may really need replacing should the stain or the smell does not go away after it has been washed already. 

4. When to Give Up

Your pillow will give you signs, but it won’t explicitly say that it’s time to retire. A new one can be necessary if there are lumps, bumps, and a lack of resilience. Following these cues will help you get a dependable ally for your sleep regimen and guarantee that your nightly sleep is free from discomfort.

Essentially, knowing when to say goodbye to your reliable pillow is the secret to restful, long-lasting sleep. Pay attention to the time, and greet a new, plump replacement when it’s ready. Your nights will appreciate it with restorative sleep and an ongoing state of peaceful contentment.

Choosing the Perfect Replacement

Now that you know how often to replace your pillows, let’s go on discussing how to choose the best pillow to replace your old one. 

A woman with pillows

1. Selecting the Right Pillow: Discover Your Comfort Zone

Think about what you need and want as well as your sleeping patterns. Do you sleep on your side, back, or stomach? Different demands are met by different pillows. For example, feather pillows feel softer, but memory foam pillows give superior support. Determine your comfort level to help you make a wise choice.

Those who sleep on their tummies may need to have a softer, plusher pillow to cradle their faces. Side sleepers would benefit from firm pillows to support their head, neck and spine. This would allow their spines not to sag which causes pain. Now if you lie on your back as you sleep, then a medium pillow is a must. This can support their necks and back well without feeling too hard. 

2. Determine The Types of Fillers That You Need

Explore the variety of materials for pillow fill. Every fill material offers benefits of its own, be it memory foam, latex, down, or synthetic. While down offers an opulent softness, memory foamconforms to your body shape. This material reacts to body heat, providing a personalised, cradling feeling. It’s great for easing pressure areas, making it a great solution for anyone looking for support that conforms to their own shape.

Latex pillows are known for their natural durability. They give constant support while returning to their previous shape. Latex is also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and other allergens, making it an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies.

Down pillows are the ultimate in luxury. They’re often made from the soft plumes under duck or goose feathers and provide a cloud-like feel. They’re light and fluffy, with a velvety surface, for a luxurious sleep experience.

Synthetic fillings are an excellent choice for individuals looking for a low-cost yet comfortable solution. These pillows, made of polyester fibres, provide a good blend of support and price. They’re also hypoallergenic, making them a good option for allergy sufferers.

3. Consider Allergies and Hygiene

A woman sleeping

If allergies are an issue, use hypoallergenic pillows. These are intended to be allergen-resistant and to provide a healthier sleeping environment. Check whether the pillow is machine washable or has a removable, washable cover. Hygiene is essential for a long-lasting, comfortable sleeping partnership.

4. Do Some Trial and Error

Sometimes trial and error is the best way to locate the right pillow. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different alternatives. Many stores have trial periods, allowing you to try out the pillow before purchasing it. Remember that your dream pillow is out there, ready to cuddle you into a realm of peaceful rest.

To summarise, replacing your pillow is more than simply a routine activity; it’s an opportunity to improve your sleep quality. You’re now ready to embark on a pillow-shopping excursion, knowing when to replace and how to choose. With the right, personalised pillow by your side, your nights are about to become even more restful. Sweet dreams are in store!

Looking for a great pillow? Check out Ecosa now.


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