How often do you replace your pillow? For many people, they may not have even thought about it. Staying comfortable and healthy in your home is something that everyone cares about.
While everyone knows the benefits of a good mattress on a bed, the same couldn’t be said of a good pillow. So when to replace pillow? Here, we take a look at how often it should be replaced.
Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Pillow
The Lack of Support
Everything that you own gets worn down over time, and pillows are no different. Unfortunately with pillows, that process is gradual and not easily noticed. All of a sudden you may find yourself with a pillow that has lost its shape and is no longer offering the support that you need.
Foam pillows generally last longer and retain their shape. However, if you have a non-foam pillow, it should be able to spring back into its natural form if you fold it over. If it doesn’t spring back, that is a sure sign that your pillow has lost its support.
With foam pillows, the foam should remain consistent and non-lumpy and with feather and down pillows if you constantly have to re-fluff your pillows then it could be a sure sign for a change. If your pillow isn’t retaining its original shape, then it has lost the support that it was designed for.
The Cleanliness Issue
Your pillow might be looking in reasonable shape and retaining its form, but it could be hiding a lot of dirt and grime. Your body produces a lot of various substances that can seep into your pillow. One of the obvious ones is sweat which can turn your pillow into a yellowish color.
Apart from sweat and there is also other things that could be lurking in there, such as dead skin and body oils. This can be added to by dust mites, which are all over your home, but a build-up can make you unhealthy. This is especially important for those with allergies.
Polyester Pillows are The Worst
Probably the most common pillow, as they are cheap, polyester pillows are the ones that need changing the most often. They lose their form very quickly and absorb all of those body parts that you give off while also harboring dust mites. That’s why, buying a good pillow can be a long-term investment.
Key considerations
Before you throw your pillow away at the first opportunity, there are ways to make them last. “Some pillows can be washed like down or synthetic pillows, while others, such as memory foam pillows, require some extra steps. It’s important to put your pillow in a case and wash that regularly.
Types of pillows and its lifespan
Down pillow – Down are feathers but without the spine. That means they are soft, gentle and springy. They will last for around 18 months of regular use before needing replacement.
Latex pillow – Similar to memory foam, they react to your pressure, but instead have a fixed height. They are durable and won’t require changing for up to three years.
Memory foam pillow – Memory foam offers great support as they adjust to your shape. They allow your head and neck to rest in a natural position. They are a pillow that lasts, and can be used for three years.
Feather pillow – The feathers used in pillows are small and curled, ensuring your comfort. They act as a natural spring and can last longer than a polyester pillow, but are best replaced after 18 months.
Bamboo pillow – They are filled with shredded foam which offers great comfort and support. The soft bamboo material also is naturally hypoallergenic. Like with other foam pillows, you’ll get around three-year life.
Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Pillows
Protect with a Pillowcase: Using a pillowcase creates a barrier between your skin and the pillow, protecting it from sweat, oil, and other particles that can damage it. Remember to wash the pillowcase regularly to maintain hygiene.
Fluff it Up: Fluffing your pillow regularly helps to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming flat. Simply grab the corners of the pillow and give it a good shake.
Wash it Clean: Some pillows can be washed in the washing machine, while others require hand washing. Follow the care instructions on the label carefully. Washing your pillow can help to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can cause it to deteriorate.
Shield with a Pillow Protector: A pillow protector is a thin layer of material that goes over your pillowcase. It provides an additional layer of protection against sweat and other particles. Pillow protectors are usually machine washable, making them easy to clean.
Rotate Regularly: Rotating your pillow can help to distribute the weight evenly and prevent it from becoming misshapen. Uneven usage of the pillow can cause the filling to shift, resulting in an uncomfortable sleeping experience.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Old Pillows
Pillows are a household item that can serve a variety of purposes beyond their intended use for sleeping. Here are some creative ideas for repurposing old pillows:
Floor cushions: Cut open the pillows and remove the stuffing to create a flat cushion. Cover it with a durable fabric and use it as a comfortable seating option on the floor.
Pet beds: Stuff a pillowcase with the filling from an old pillow and sew it shut. Your furry friend will have a soft and cozy bed to rest on.
Draft stoppers: Cut a pillow in half and stuff the halves into fabric tubes. Place them at the bottom of doors and windows to prevent drafts and save on heating bills.
Stuffed toys: Use the stuffing from old pillows to create DIY stuffed animals and toys for kids. This is a fun and eco-friendly alternative to buying new toys.
Garden cushions: Use old pillows to create comfortable outdoor seating by covering them with weather-resistant fabric. This is a great option for garden benches or picnic blankets.
By repurposing old pillows, you can give them a new life and keep them out of landfills. Get creative and try out some of these ideas to give your pillows a second chance.
What to Do with an Old Pillow When You Can’t Repurpose It
If you are unable to repurpose your old pillows, it is important to dispose of them properly. Here are some steps you can take:
Check with your local waste management: Different areas have different regulations on how to dispose of old pillows. Check with your local waste management to find out the best way to dispose of them.
Do not throw them in the trash: Most pillows are not biodegradable and can take up a lot of space in landfills. Throwing them in the trash can also attract pests and rodents.
Consider donating them: Some charities and organizations may accept old pillows as donations. Be sure to check with them first and see if they have any specific requirements.
Look for recycling options: Some recycling facilities may accept old pillows, but again, check with them first to see if they have any specific requirements.
By taking these steps, you can dispose of your old pillows in an environmentally friendly way and potentially give them a second life through donation or repurposing.
Are there any health risks associated with an old pillow?
As we discussed, one of the key considerations with when it comes to renew your pillow is your health. Not only will an old pillow offer a lack of support your head and neck, but there can be a build-up of dust mites over time which can bring about allergies. Your pillows also retain a lot of sweat, saliva and dead skin.
When you should buy new pillow largely depends on the type of pillow that you have. Cheap ones should be changed every six months, whereas others can last up to three years. Feel free to comment if you have any questions on the subject.
To see if your pillow needs changing, take these simple steps:
- Check your pillow type
- Check the age of the pillow
- Check it still has its structure
