How Often Should You Replace Pillows?

Did you know that a good night’s rest can literally add years to your life? Yet many of us aren’t getting enough longevity-boosting sleep. And old pillows could be part of the problem.

Any object that you use for a solid chunk of time every day is going to wear out eventually, and your pillow is no exception. Experts suggest replacing your pillow at least every two years to make sure it’s still doing the important work of keeping your head and neck aligned with your spine so you can get the sound sleep you need. 

How often should you replace pillows, anyway? Do your pillows need replacing? Here’s how to check—and why it matters.

Signs Your Pillow Needs Replacing

The first thing you should do when deciding if your pillow needs replacing is examine it. Does it have lumps, bumps or other signs that filling is uneven? Is it yellowed or stained?

Next, give your pillow the folding test. When you fold it in half, does it spring back or stay folded? If it stays folded, it may be time for a new pillow.

After looking at the pillow, consider yourself. Have you been waking up with a stiff neck? This could be a sign your pillow isn’t giving you enough support. Have you been feeling allergic? Old pillows can harbor dust mites and other allergens. Brooklyn Bedding offers a variety of high quality, hypoallergenic pillows to fit every budget and sleep preference.

Pillow Lifespan by Type

How often you should replace pillows depends partly on what kind they are.

●   Down and feather pillows may last 1-3 years, depending on quality. Signs of wear include lumpiness and protruding feathers

●   Memory foam pillows may last 2-3 years before they start to compress and become less supportive. It’s time for a new one if yours is flat or you’re experiencing neck pain.

●   Latex pillows are made with natural material from the rubber tree. They are durable and may last for 3-5 years, with signs of wear similar to those of memory foam.

●   Synthetic fill pillows typically last 1-2 years before they lose shape and become unsupportive.

No matter what type of pillow you use, quality of materials and construction are key to durability. Brooklyn Bedding pillows are made of high quality materials.

Extending the Life of Your Pillow 

There are simple steps you can take to help your pillows last longer. These include:

●   Using pillow protectors to lock out moisture and prevent contamination by mites, dust and other allergens 

●   Regularly fluffing and airing your pillow to help them maintain their shape and stay fresh

●   Cleaning your pillow by following the instructions for your pillow type

Taking time to pamper your pillows is a small thing that can make a big difference in how long they last.

How Pillow Condition Affects Sleep Quality 

Your pillow is what ensures that your head and neck are positioned properly to naturally align with your spine while you sleep. When your pillow is flat or misshapen, this alignment may be thrown out of whack—which can cause stiffness and pain.

An older pillow is also a potential hotbed of allergy-inducing material, including:

●   Pollen

●   Dust mites

●   Pet dander

●   Dead skin

These allergens may negatively affect breathing, potentially disrupting your sleep. In general, it’s hard to get an adequate amount of quality rest with an uncomfortable pillow. This lack of good sleep can take a toll on your overall wellbeing. 

Choosing the Right Replacement Pillow

So it’s time to get a new pillow. Where do you start? First, consider your sleeping position. Brooklyn Bedding pillows come in a variety of heights for every sleeper.

●   Back sleepers may prefer a relatively low-profile pillow, since a thick pillow may strain the neck.

●   Side sleepers generally need a thicker pillow to provide proper spinal alignment. Our high loft pillows may be ideal, and shredded foam pillows are customizable to adjust to your specific needs.

●   Stomach sleepers should choose a very thin pillow to avoid putting stress on the spine. Our low loft or shredded foam pillows would both be good choices.

Of course, your personal preferences should also be taken into account. Just make sure you’re looking at pillows that are made of hypoallergenic materials to minimize allergens. And remember that you get what you pay for—a quality pillow will provide comfort and support for years to come. 

Quality Pillows Mean Quality Sleep

Now that you know how often you should replace pillows, take a look at yours. Can’t remember how old your pillows are? You’re probably due for something new. A quality pillow is key to getting good sleep, which may be the single best thing you can do for your health.