5 Tips on How Often to Replace Pillows

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When you climb into bed, you expect to feel a welcoming pillow beneath your tired head. For some though, bedtime is more about feeling the lumpy mattress below. As pillows age, they don't provide the comfort you crave. Old pillows can also be a haven for dust mites and skin cells. Find out how often you need to replace your pillows and the top signs that you should upgrade your pillows.

Consider the Type

How long your pillows last will depend on the type you have. While memory foam pillows are a great option because they retain their shape and provide a lot of comfort, they can also wear down quickly. Memory foam molds to the shape of your head and neck, but it becomes hard over time as the foam wears down. Some can last for three to five years, but others last for only a year or so.

Feather and down pillows have longer lifespans. On average, they'll last up to a decade as long as you care for them. Inexpensive down pillows and those that use down alternatives can last up to five years. Synthetic pillows made of materials like polyester and microfiber have the shortest lifespan of all types. Pillows made from these fibers usually need replacing after a year or two.

Practice the Folding Test

A good way to see if you need a new pillow is to perform the folding test. Place the pillow flat on a table, grab one end, fold it into a square shape, and press down until you push out all the air. Let go of the pillow, and see if it bounces back to its original shape and thickness. If it doesn't, it's either at the end of its lifespan or nearing it fast.

For synthetic pillows, grab a clean boot or shoe. After you fold the pillow, place the footwear on top to add some pressure. A good pillow will slowly bounce back and knock the shoe to the side. If your pillow stays where it is, and the shoe doesn't move, you need a new pillow.

Watch for Allergy Symptoms

Do you have allergies that go haywire at night or when you're sitting in bed? Your pillows may be the cause of your discomfort. Pillows pick up allergens that worsen your allergies. This includes dander from your pets and even mold. Dust mites are another common hazard that wreaks havoc on allergies. Unless you use a pillowcase designed to block the mites and change it often, they can cause sniffles and other symptoms. Worsening allergy symptoms are often a sign that you need a new pillow.

Think About Recent Changes

Recent changes affecting your body can also be a sign you need to replace your pillows. One of the more common is an injury that causes neck pain. This pain can make falling asleep hard, and you may feel even worse in the morning. Many people find that they need more or less support as they age and their bodies change. If you notice discomfort when you wake, replace your pillow.

It's also helpful to change your pillow if you move around in your sleep. Each position affects the way your head lies on the pillow and can cause the pillow to lose its shape or structure, leading to more pain in the morning. Women experiencing menopause often find relief through cooling pillows that keep them comfortable at night.

Check for Stains and Odors

Always check your pillows for stains and odors, which usually develop as you sweat at night. Makeup and skincare products can wear off on the fabric, too. These stains may affect your allergies and irritate your skin. The answer to the question, should you wash pillows, is yes because your washing machine removes stains and odors. Adding a tennis ball keeps the washer balanced. You can use ordinary laundry soap, but let the pillow dry overnight to help it retain its shape.

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Replace Old Pillows

In general, you should replace old pillows every one to five years, depending on the level of comfort they provide. While washing can help, it may not remove all smells and stains. To get the comfort you need and reduce allergy symptoms, consider treating yourself to some new pillows.