March 29, 2024
SKANDARA – MATTRESSES & FURNITURE

6 Sure Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Pillow

9 min readDecember 9, 2022Jennifer Sikorski

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to maintain physical and mental well-being. Long-term sleep deprivation can cause numerous health problems, such as an increased risk of depression and diabetes. Picking the right pillow can be key to achieving that perfect level of comfort for a good night’s sleep. The right pillow should provide moderate cushioning without being too soft or too hard. Non-allergenic pillows with breathable materials such as cotton or feather down are preferable so that breathing is not obstructed. You can customize your support by using multiple layers of smaller pillows instead of one bigger pillow – according to your own preference and sleeping position this could be a great combination for ultimate comfort. With the help of the correct pillow choice, you’ll be on your way to achieving that healthy and restorative sleep you need every night.

But did you know that pillows can harbor dust mites, mold, and mildew? Plus, they can get lumpy and uncomfortable over time. So how do you know when it’s time to replace your pillow? Here are 6 sure signs:

YOU’VE USED YOUR PILLOW FOR MORE THAN 2 YEARS

Do you know that pillows should be replaced every 2 years to maintain their shape and supportiveness? There are very few things in this world that make you feel better than snuggling up with your favorite pillow at night. Unfortunately, even the softest and fluffiest pillow has a shelf life and after two years of giving us comfort, it’s time to send it on its merry way. Replacing pillows every couple of years keeps our heads elevated as we sleep and reduces dust mites and another buildup. Fortunately, sleep technology has evolved so much in the past few years that replacing your pillows is a simple process – just shop for what works for you and enjoy a restful night!

THE PILLOW STARTS TO FEEL LUMPY OR MISSHAPEN

If your pillow is no longer fluffy and evenly shaped, it’s time for a new one. Lumpy or flat pillows can be extremely frustrating, especially when trying to get a good night’s sleep! If your pillow is no longer as comfortable and supportive as it used to be, there are a few simple things you can do to give it new life. You could start by giving the pillow a shake or two in order to redistribute the filling. If that doesn’t work, it’s time for more drastic measures: fluff your pillow in the dryer for 15-20 minutes on a low heat setting – just make sure to put something like an old sock inside with it if you’re using a synthetic filling! With luck, your lumpy or flat pillow will soon feel like new again, but the best option is to change the pillow for a new one without regrets.

THE FABRIC IS STAINED OR DAMAGED

Over time, natural wear and tear can cause pillows to break down faster than usual due to the prolonged use of untreated fabrics. When this happens, it not only affects the appearance of your bedding but also the comfort and support that a pillow should provide. Thus, ensuring you have clean and comfortable pillows to rest on is important for your sleep hygiene and overall health. If your pillowcase is stained, it’s probably time to wash it – but if the stains won’t come out, it means the fabric is deteriorating and it’s time for a new pillow altogether. Investing in a new pillow every few years ensures that these components remain intact so you can stay healthy and rested!

YOUR PILLOW SMELLS MUSTY, MILDEW, OR JUST HAS A BAD ODOR

This is a sign that dust mites or mold has taken up residence in your pillow and needs to be replaced immediately (for health reasons). Freshening up your pillow is an essential home maintenance task that can make all the difference in achieving a good night of sleep. When it’s covered in stains or begins to acquire a smell, it’s time to take action! Start by giving the pillow a deep clean; you can either hand wash it with detergent and warm water or toss it into the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Once cleaned, use baking soda in conjunction with vacuuming to help eliminate stubborn smells. If necessary, consider replacing the pillow altogether—a new one can be just what you need for proper neck and back support!

YOU WAKE UP WITH A HEADACHE OR STIFF NECK REGULARLY

Waking up with a stiff neck or headache can be a result of the mattress you sleep on or the pillow you lay your head on. If you are experiencing chronic morning discomfort, it could be an indicator that your pillow is not providing adequate support and comfort, as pillows should provide proper alignment of the spine, neck, and shoulder. A bad pillow can result in tension headaches by keeping muscles in the neck in a contorted shape through the night which strains those muscles and has a negative effect on alignment and posture. In order to counter this problem, try to find a good pillow that will provide the right kind of cradling for your neck and keeps your spine properly aligned. Investing in quality sleep accessories like memory foam pillows may help alleviate pain associated with stiff necks as well as facilitate better rest for more productive days ahead. If your pillow isn’t giving you the support you need, it could be causing headaches or neck pain – in which case, replacement is definitely necessary!

YOU JUST DON’T SLEEP WELL ON YOUR PILLOW ANYMORE

If you find yourself feeling less than your best in the morning, it might be from tossing and turning on a subpar pillow. If you don’t remember replacing yours in a while, or if it just doesn’t seem as supportive anymore, it might be time for an upgrade! The beauty of today’s home fashion world is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you want a fluffier pillow so you can adjust your head until you find the perfect position, or one with more loft and support to cradle the curves of your neck and head, you have endless options out there. Plus, they come with different levels of armor when it comes to protection against allergens and dust mites. To get even better sleep each night, why not switch up your pillow?

So, now you know a few reasons to change your pillow and how often to do this. Whether you’re looking to get a better night’s sleep, ease neck or back pain, or just want something softer to rest your head on, changing your pillow might be the answer. With all the different types of pillows available now, it’s easy to find one that will suit your needs. To ensure you get the maximum rest you need, invest in a reliable yet comfortable pillow that is meant for your sleeping style. Research suggests side sleepers should opt for a thicker pillow while those who sleep on their back require a flatter option. Additionally, there are brands that make hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and eco-friendly pillows—all of which will help move you closer to achieving beneficial slumber. Be sure to keep these factors in mind when shopping for a new pillow so you can make the best choice for yourself.