How often should you replace your pillows, and how should you clean them?

Dirty or worn-out pillows can affect your sleep and health. Learn how often to replace them and how to clean them properly to keep your bed fresh and allergen-free.(Image: Pexels)

A pillow plays an important role in ensuring good sleep. But its cleanliness and replacement are often not given as much thought. While you may remember to wash your bedsheets regularly, cleaning pillowcases and replacing pillows is just as important. Over a period of time, they tend to gather dirt, bacteria, sweat, and oil, making them unfit for use.

Why should you replace your pillows or wash pillowcases?

Pillows are not just for comfort, they also help in proper positioning while you’re asleep. They prevent unnatural bending and keep your head and neck aligned with the spine. However, constant use changes their shape, and they collect oil and bacteria which can cause breakouts or acne, especially if you sleep on your side or stomach.

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How frequently should you replace your pillows?

Experts recommend noticing the change in shape and comfort of your pillows to decide when to replace them. It could be either one or two years, but if it’s uncomfortable or causes skin problems, then there’s no need to wait that long.

Over time, pillows become lumpy, lose their shape, or become smelly. It is a sure sign to replace them with a new one. Typically, a pillow should be washed or replaced every three to six months. Even the care labels can help ascertain this, depending on the material.

How often should you wash your pillowcases?

The general recommendation is to wash your pillowcases once a week. Doing so prevents the accumulation of oil, sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells, which impact the skin. While it may seem like an uphill task, clean pillowcases are not only good for your skin, which won’t be as irritated or break out as often, but they will also help you feel more relaxed at night. It’s best to have more pillowcases at your disposal so you can use a fresh one when you want.

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How should you wash a pillow?

Most pillows can be tossed into the washing machine with sheets and other bedding. It’s best to look at the care instructions to cross-check. Another popular method to get rid of bacteria and dust is sprinkling baking soda over your pillow, letting it rest for half an hour, and cleaning it with a handheld vacuum. Even keeping your pillow out in the sunshine helps eliminate odour and allergens.