As simple as it may sound, one of the best things you can do for both your mental and physical health is to have a good night's sleep. For this reason, it's imperative your bedding (pillows especially) is conducive to a restful slumber. The only question is, how often should you replace pillows? Keep reading to learn exactly how to tell when it’s time for a pillow refresh.

How Often Should You Replace Pillows?

Most pillows will last an average of one to two years (although this can also depend on external factors listed below). Since pillows are designed to support your neck and head while you sleep, it makes sense that a flattened or sagging cushion won't be up to the task. Here are a few signs that indicate it's time to get new pillows:

• You find yourself waking up with a sore neck or shoulder pain – this can happen when your pillow is not providing enough support.
• You are sleeping poorly and struggling to find a good sleeping position – your pillow is probably deflated and is starting to sag or develop lumps.
• Your pillow is stained and smells bad – Sweat, face and hair oils can eventually seep into the material over time, causing staining and a bad smell. A buildup of oil on your pillow can also lead to blocked pores and breakouts.
• Your allergies are acting up, especially at night – allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mold, and fungus can become trapped in the pillow and cause a reaction.

Tip!

Pillow protectors are covers designed to help your pillows last longer by safeguarding them from stains, dander, and dust mites.

Pillow Maintenance

Depending on the material they are made from, some pillows are more durable than others – therefore they’ll last longer before needing to be replaced. Read Pillow Types for a Good Night's Sleepto learn more about the types of pillows to choose from and to pick the best one for you. To further prolong your pillows’ lifespan, it's also a good idea to regularly clean them to ensure they are as sanitary as possible.

Below are the recommended cleaning and replacement instructions for different types of bed pillows.

Tip!

Always check the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning details.

How Often to Wash

Memory Foam: Spot cleaning is best. Perform a hand-wash with mild detergent every two months, then allow to air-dry.

Down/Feathers: Many can be machine-washed (on gentle cycle with warm water and then air-dried) but others must be dry cleaned every three to six months.

Latex: Avoid machine-washing, spot clean only. Hand-wash in mild detergent every two to three months and then air-dry (don't wring dry!).

Polyester & Down Alternative: Machine-wash on gentle cycle with mild detergent every three to six months.

How Often to Replace

Memory Foam: Replace every two to three years.

Down/Feathers: Replace every one to three years or when it doesn't go back to its normal shape after being folded.

Latex: Replace every two to four years.

Polyester & Down Alternative: Replace every six months to two years.

Tip!

Pillowcases should be washed at least once a week and replaced every one to two years.

What to Do With Old Pillows

Once your pillows are spent, there are a few ways you can upcycle them rather than tossing them.

• Use them as a pet bed.
• Recover them and use them as floor pillows for extra seating when you have guests over, on your child's bedroom floor for additional cushioning, lounging on a soft carpet, enjoying picnic-style dinners, or even taking them outdoors.
• Use them for knee support when you perform DIY tasks like tiling floors, or painting walls.

It's crucial to know how often to replace pillows for your health, so if yours are in need of an upgrade, start shopping with us.

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