Time for a new pillow?

5 signs: check your pillow – is it time for a new one?

Hand on heart – how old is your pillow? If it’s been more than three years since you started using it, chances are it’s already time for a replacement. Here, we guide you through the average lifespan of pillows – and the clearest signs that yours is ready to be replaced.

You probably know the feeling of resting your head on the pillow after one of those long days. The kind where nothing quite went to plan, and you felt a step behind from the moment you got out of bed. On days like those, you especially deserve a pillow that gently supports you, slows your pulse and eases you into sleep.

Unfortunately, many of us sleep on a pillow that’s either too old or simply not right for our needs. Below, you’ll find five simple checks to help you decide whether it’s time to treat yourself – and your sleep – to a new pillow.

1. How old is your pillow?

A good place to start is with age. If your pillow is already five or six years old, it’s definitely time for a new one. Consider this: you spend seven to eight hours a night on your pillow – that’s more than 2,500 hours a year. Depending on the type of filling, pilllows have different average lifespans.

Average pillow lifespan:
Fibre: up to 18 months
Down: up to 2 years
Memory foam: up to 3 years

2. Shaping or sleeping?

Do you spend half the night plumping and reshaping your pillow just to get some support? This is usually a sign that the filling has broken down and no longer does its job. Assuming the pillow once offered the right level of support, frequent fluffing is a clear signal that it has reached the end of its life. If the pillow is new, however, it’s more likely that you’ve simply chosen the wrong model for your sleeping needs.

3. Take a closer look

Remove the pillowcase and inspect the pillow itself. Are there sweat marks? Does it look damaged or smell unpleasant? Any of these signs mean it’s time to replace your pillow.

4. The revealing fold test

Now it’s time for the fold test.
Down pillow: Fold the pillow in half and drape it over your arm. If it hangs limply on both sides without springing back, it should be replaced.
Fibre pillow: Fold the pillow and place it on the bed, adding a little weight on top (for example, a shoe). Remove the weight. If the pillow doesn’t return to its original shape, it’s worn out.

5. The allergy check

Have you developed allergy symptoms recently? Your pillow could be the culprit. Over time, pillows accumulate dead skin cells, moisture, mould and dust mites. In fact, these unwanted guests can eventually make up as much as half the pillow’s weight. This can trigger allergies or make breathing more difficult while you sleep – and is a clear sign that it’s time for a new pillow.

Not sure which pillow to choose? Explore our guide and find the right pillow for you: choose the right pillow for you.