Updated at: 09-12-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

For both physical and emotional well-being, obtaining enough sleep is a need, according to experts. Optimizing your bedroom surroundings and bedding might help you get a good night’s sleep. Maintaining your pillow and replacing it when necessary ensures that it always offers you with the correct level of support.

There are numerous reasons why it is important to pay attention to the quality and hygiene of your pillow while you sleep. If you don’t swap out your pillows periodically, you could end up with allergies, acne, and neck pain because of it. We’ll talk about how to take care of your pillow and when to replace it.

How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?

Pillows should be replaced every one to two years, according to most experts. Make sure your pillows are firm, clean, and free of allergies by following these simple steps. To make sure your pillows last as long as possible, make sure you take good care of them.

Your pillows will usually warn you when it’s time for a new one to arrive. If your neck hurts in the morning or you can’t get into a good sleeping position, it’s possible that your pillow isn’t giving you the support you require. Pillows should be replaced when they begin to sag or develop lumps, much like a mattress. If you detect excessive yellowing or if your allergies are acting up at night, it may be time to invest in new pillows.

How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows? │ Sleep Foundation

Pillows made of certain materials are more durable than others. A polyester pillow, for example, may only last one year while a latex pillow may last up to three. The quality and density of the foams, as well as the type of material used, can all have an impact. In general, you won’t have to buy a new pillow as often if you choose a high-quality one.

Pillowcases should be washed on a regular basis to keep them in good condition and extend the life of the pillow. Every time you wash your sheets, you should wash your pillowcases, and many pillows can be machine washed and dried.

Why it’s Important to Replace Pillows

Pillows that are past their prime can cause allergic responses, acne breakouts, and tight muscles. Replacing pillows on a regular basis may seem like an inconvenience.

There are a number of allergies that can build up in an old pillow such dust mites and pet dander. Itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, and itchy skin are all possible side effects of sleeping near some allergens. Pillow-related allergies can be avoided by changing your pillows frequently or purchasing a pillow that is antimicrobial and ventilatable.

Sweat, drool, and other bodily fluids can seep through your pillowcases and leave yellow stains on your pillows. People with sensitive skin may get breakouts of acne or rashes as a result of these substances clogging their pores. Pillowcases and pillows should be washed on a regular basis using a mild detergent to prevent buildup, and pillows should be replaced on a regular basis to provide a fresh start without irritating skin.

Most importantly, pillows are designed to alleviate muscle tension and promote proper spinal alignment as you sleep. Using a pillow that has sagged or flattened over time may leave you feeling sore or unrefreshed in the morning. A flattened pillow can also cause aching shoulders for those who sleep on their sides. If your pillow no longer provides the support it used to, it’s time to get a new one. It’s only a matter of time before you run out of ideas.

Pillow Care and Replacement Guidelines

Pillows need to be cleaned and cared for regularly if they are to last as long as possible. Care instructions and longevity can be affected by the materials used in a pillow, therefore it is critical that you pay attention to the type of pillow you purchase and follow the care recommendations provided by the manufacturer.

Why you should replace your pillow

1. Promotes hygiene

Each night, your pillow is filled with a smorgasbord of body oils, sweat, saliva, hair, and skin. You can shed about 8 pounds of skin each year, according to study. You’ve got a horrible mess on your hands when you combine it with the body oils, hair, and saliva. It’s fantastic to have pillowcases, but they aren’t enough protection.

Mold and mildew can grow on your pillow, which is a wonderful breeding ground for allergens. Isn’t it time to clean your pillow? Is that all right? Cleanliness may not always guarantee complete elimination of allergies.

2. May be why you have acne

Acne is caused by rubbing your face against filthy objects. Acne that doesn’t originate from the inside of the body is harmful. In addition to your phone and football helmet, your pillowcase is most likely to be the source of a dirty surface.

Although pillows are washed, they retain some allergens and this dirt accumulates over time. Your pillowcases and pillow may be at blame if you wake up with zits even after washing them.

3. A breeding place for dust mites

To humans, all of that dirt may pose a health risk, but to dust mites, it’s a feast. Eight-legged suckers, which aren’t visible to the human eye, feed on the flakes of skin that accumulate on your body. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, even if you just shed 0.001 to 0.003 ounces of skin an hour, your daily excretion is enough to feed a million dust mites.

Top 7 Signs That You Should Replace Your Pillow | Saatva

There is a correlation between dust mites and allergic reactions and asthma. So it’s understandable that you’re unable to sleep at night without sneezing and coughing. The hypoallergenic features of memory foam pillows don’t always keep these critters at bay.

4. Prevents pain

To preserve your spine in its neutral position, memory foam pillows must be used with your mattress. Pillows are designed to support the weight of your head, which averages roughly 5 kilograms (11 pounds). Memory foam pillows lose their firmness over time, resulting in neck and back pain as a result of the lack of support they provide.

Other reasons include:

  • Mold and mildew might grow on your pillow if it is infested.
  • If a pillow’s smell persists despite being washed, it should be discarded.
  • It’s a sign that your pillow is deteriorating.
  • Pet pee, blood, alcohol, or body and hair fluids leave permanent stains.

How to tell your pillow needs replacing

The following are some telltale signs:

  • It occurs to you that there are some lumps in your foam.
  • To provide the best possible support for your head, your pillow requires regular fluffing.
  • There are permanent stains on the pillow from sweat and oil.
  • This item does not revert to its original shape after being folded in half.
  • You wake up frequently with pain in your neck and shoulders.
  • Allergies have gotten worse if you have any. Allergic symptoms will begin if this is not the case.
  • The search for a comfortable sleeping posture causes you toss and turn frequently at night.
  • Every now and then, you may awaken feeling lethargic and afflicted by an itching headache.

What to consider when replacing your memory foam pillow

1. The size

Memory foam pillows come in regular, king, and queen sizes. 20 by 26 inches for the ordinary pillow; 20 by 36 inches for the king-size. Twenty-by-thirty-inch pillows fit the bill for a queen’s bed. The size of your pillow is entirely up to you, however keep in mind that the vast majority of pillowcases on the market are either king or standard in size, depending on your personal preferences. Don’t let this deter you from purchasing a few queen-sized pillowcases.

2. Pillow firmness

Memory foam pillows come in a variety of hardness levels. Those who want a firm cushion with no elasticity can opt for down memory foam, while those who want adaptability should opt for a foam wedge pillow. When you’re reading, your back, neck, head, and even your legs benefit from the support provided by wedge memory foam pillows. It’s preferable to use a down memory foam pillow if you sleep in a variety of positions.

3. Sleeping positions

When purchasing or replacing a pillow, you should put your sleeping position at the top of your list. When it comes to choosing a pillow, there are a number of factors to consider. If you’re a side sleeper, for example, a firm elevated pillow is preferable. A flutter pillow, on the other hand, is great for back sleepers. If you’re a stomach sleeper, avoid using memory foam pillows.

4. Pillow fill

Filling your memory foam pillow affects both your comfort and the cushion’s lifespan. In the majority of cases, pillows are made using either down or foam as the primary filling material. Those who like a firmer pillow and/or who sleep on their sides will benefit most from down fill, while those who sleep on their backs will benefit from both down and foam fill.

Make sure the cushion doesn’t slump or lose its elasticity, no matter what you decide. It should also have a two to three-year warranty.

How to care for your pillow, so it lasts longer

  1. Use a pillowcase to prevent your pillow from absorbing all of your sweat, oils, saliva, and hair.
  2. Use a pillow protector to keep your pillow free of dead skin, oils, and sweat.
  3. You should wash your pillowcase, protector, and cover on a regular basis. A pillow’s cover or protector can be washed as often as once a week or even more frequently.
  4. The best way to maintain your pillow smelling fresh and clean is to air it out every few days.
  5. Memory foam cells degrade and break down in the presence of heat, so keep your pillow out of direct sunlight. You can also use a fan to help speed up the drying process.

Memory foam pillows can last between two and three years, but the quality of your pillow and how often you use it affects their lifespan. Before buying a new one, check out internet reviews of the best memory foam pillows on the market. Listening to other people’s opinions will help you determine if the cushion is right for you.

Australian Standards for Replacing Pillows on Your Bed

Just like anything in life, if you invest more money into your pillow, you will likely get longer use out of it. Polyester pillows are the most common and cheap, therefore they wear out the quickest. However, memory foam, latex and down pillows can last up to four years.

When purchasing a pillow, as with anything else, the more money you spend, the longer you are likely to get out of it. Due to their low price point, polyester pillows wear out the fastest. However, pillows made of memory foam, latex, or down can endure for up to four years before needing to be replaced.

  1. Even if you spend less money, you’ll get a longer lifespan from your pillow than if you spend more. Polyester pillows are the most common and inexpensive, hence they wear out the fastest. Memory foam, latex, and down pillows, on the other hand, can last for up to four years.
  2. Every 18 months to 2 years, down alternative and synthetic pillows should be replaced. Your down-alternative or synthetic pillow may need to be replaced if you keep punching or fluffing it.
  3. Pillows made of feathers should be replaced every three to four years, depending on use. While you sleep, feather pillows mold to your head, neck, and shoulders, providing both support and comfort.
  4. If you have a pillow made of memory foam, it is recommended that you replace it every three to four years. Memory foam pillows have a well-deserved reputation for long-term use. In the event that you desire a pillow that lasts longer, this could be a viable solution. Also, this is a terrific alternative if you prefer a cushion that conforms to the shape of your head and neck.
  5. Pillows made of latex need to be replaced every three to four years on average. When latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees, it is used to produce mattresses. Even though latex is one of the most lasting pillow options, it’s more expensive than memory foam.
  6. Three to four years is the recommended interval for replacing the down in down pillows. A down pillow may be the perfect option if you desire a pillow that is both soft and warm. Despite their high price, down pillows are the most comfortable and opulent option for a good night’s sleep.

Signs your Pillow Should be Replaced

This could be a clue that it’s time to get a new pillow if yours is continually shifting. It’s also a good idea to check out new pillow options if you encounter any of the following while sleeping:

  • Neck ache that persists even after you’ve slept
  • Chronic headaches that keep you awake at night
  • Your cushion is stuffed with lumps
  • In order to make the pillow smaller, you simply fold it in half.
  • After a good night’s sleep, your neck and shoulders feel strained.
  • Despite my best efforts, stains form on the cushion.
  • While snoozing, allergy symptoms begin to manifest.
  • You’re always groggy when you first get out of bed.

How to Make a Pillow Last Longer

The most important thing you can do to keep your pillow clean is to cover it with a pillowcase. In addition to protecting your pillow from drool and natural body oils, this will help protect it from allergies. At least once a month, wash your pillowcase to keep it clean.

How Often Should You Replace Pillows? | Casper

At the very least, you should wash your pillow once a year; most people do it every three months or so. See if there are any special recommendations for your pillow’s material; some pillows, such as shredded memory foam, may require an additional dryer spin to ensure that the pillow is fully dried.

Depending on the type of pillow, you may be advised not to wash it. When this happens, either use an air-only setting on the dryer or a vacuum attachment to remove the pillow. Spot clean the cushion with soap and water if it gets dirty.

Summary

Every two years is a good time to update your pillows. That being said, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the quality of your pillow on a frequent basis.

To help you choose the right pillows, check out our Australian pillow guide for recommendations on the top brands and pillows to choose from.

For now, make sure to wash your pillowcases and the pillow itself often, as well. To ensure that your pillow’s structural integrity is maintained for as long as possible, you should take these steps.