When Is It Time To Get A New Pillow?

One of the most important aspects of sleep, next to your bed, is your pillow. Your pillow supports your neck and upper back as you sleep and a good pillow can be the perfect remedy for restless sleep or neck or back cramps throughout the day. Though your bed and mattress can last you a lifetime, the life of your pillow is certainly finite, and using your pillow beyond its useful lifetime can lead to sleep related maladies, such as soreness or poor sleep.

Manufacturers will claim that a pillow will last about two years. The actual lifetime will vary based on how active of a sleeper you are, and what kind of material the pillow is made of.

Though feather pillows might be the fluffiest and some of the softest pillows on the market, they tend to become worn out the fastest. A high quality feather pillow will last over a year if it is properly taken care of. If you have any questions about whether you should consider replacing your feather pillows, simply rest your head on it without fluffing it up. If the pillow requires fluffing or significant 'punching up', in order to provide adequate support for your neck, it really is time to start looking for a new pillow or restless nights may lie ahead.

In other pillows, the first indication that your pillow may be in need of retiring is a lumpiness in its foam stuffing. This is usually a result of having absorbed moisture, and not only makes for uncomfortable sleeping, but is also unsanitary. The washing machine can rectify the hygiene aspect, but will just make the pillow lumpier and even more uncomfortable for your night's rest. Even if you prefer your pillows lumpy, a sure sign that a pillow is no longer giving you the support you need is the fold test. Simply fold your pillow in half. If it does not immediately unfold itself then you are in dire need of a new pillow.

Hopefully these tips will keep your head resting on a perfectly soft and supportive pillow whenever you nap or retire for the night. And remember, a good night's sleep is important for the mind and body, so don't feel guilty for spoiling yourself with a high quality pillow.