How Often Should You Change Your Pillows?

We all know there’s nothing like sinking your head into a plump, luxurious pillow at the end of a long day. Whether you’re a single-pillow sleeper or a three-tier stacker, your pillow is more than just a sleep accessory. It plays a crucial role in supporting your head, neck, and spine during rest and is key to getting a good night’s sleep. But how often should you change your pillows to ensure optimal comfort and hygiene? It might be time to let go of your old favourite…

How Often Should You Replace Pillows?

Experts recommend replacing your pillows every 1 to 2 years, depending on the type of filling and quality of the pillow itself. Over time, pillows may lose their shape, becoming lumpy or flat and unable to provide adequate support. This can lead to all sorts of sleep issues, including neck pain and sleep disruption. Not only this, but they can accumulate dust mites, sweat, dead skin cells, and allergens, making them less hygienic and affecting your skin and hair health.

How Often Should You Change Pillows with Different Materials?

How often you should replace your pillows depends on what they’re made from. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Down or Feather Pillows: Replace every 1-2 years. These can last longer with proper care, such as regular fluffing and using a pillow protector.
Memory Foam Pillows: Replace every 2-3 years. Though durable, memory foam pillows can break down over time, causing them to lose support. Memory foam pillows often come with a removable cover that can be popped in the wash to keep your pillow feeling fresh.
Synthetic Pillows: Replace every 1-2 years. These tend to lose their fluffiness and support faster than other types.

How Often Should You Change Your Pillow for Hygiene?

Aside from comfort, hygiene is a key consideration when replacing your pillows. Even with pillowcases, pillows can become a breeding ground for bacteria and dust mites, which may trigger allergies or worsen asthma.

Clean pillows can also improve hair health, reducing breakage and keeping your hair cleaner throughout the night. In addition, skincare products, sweat and makeup can build up on your pillows, even with a pillowcase, which can lead to skin problems such as dryness, dullness and acne.

Washing your pillow every 3-6 months can help extend its lifespan and keep it clean, but the fabric and filling still degrade over time, making it necessary to replace your pillows regularly. Using a pillow protector will not only prolong the life of your pillow but also add an extra layer of comfort.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Pillow

If you're wondering how often should you change your pillows, watch for these signs:

Your pillow is lumpy or flat
You wake up with neck or shoulder pain
Your allergies seem to worsen at night
Your pillow has a lingering odour, even after washing
You wake up restless

Final Thoughts

How often you should change your pillow depends on its material, condition, and your personal needs. Generally, replacing your pillows every 1-2 years ensures a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment. Browse our collection of luxury pillows and invest in your sleep with an upgrade today!