(And why your neck will thank you when you do)
We spend about a third of our lives in bed — but when was the last time you gave your pillow some thought? If your answer is somewhere between “never” and “when it started looking suspiciously flat,” you’re not alone.
Pillows are one of those sleep essentials that quietly lose their magic over time. Even the most luxurious ones don’t last forever — and hanging onto an old pillow could be doing more harm than you realise.
Here’s how often you should replace your pillow, why it matters, and how to know when it’s time for an upgrade.
So, how often should you replace your pillow?
The general rule of thumb:
🕒 Every 1 to 2 years.
That’s right — your pillow isn’t built to last forever. Over time, it loses its shape and support, collects dust and oils, and can start to affect both your comfort and your health.
Of course, the exact lifespan depends on the type of pillow you use:
-
Memory foam pillows: Replace every 2–3 years. They last a little longer but eventually lose firmness and bounce.
-
Down or feather pillows: Replace every 1–2 years. Soft and luxurious, but they tend to flatten faster.
-
Synthetic pillows: Replace every 1–1.5 years. Affordable, but they wear out quickly.
Signs your pillow needs replacing
If you’re unsure whether it’s time, run through this quick checklist:
-
You wake up with a stiff neck or sore shoulders.
-
You’re constantly fluffing or folding your pillow to get comfy.
-
It feels lumpy, flat, or uneven.
-
It doesn’t spring back when you fold it in half (a classic pillow test).
-
You notice yellow stains or a musty smell — a natural build-up of sweat and oils over time.
If any of these sound familiar, your pillow’s likely past its prime.
Why it matters more than you think
A good pillow does far more than just make your bed look inviting. It supports your head and neck alignment, helps you breathe more easily, and promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.
An old, unsupportive pillow, on the other hand, can lead to neck pain, headaches, allergies, and restless nights. It’s a bit like expecting a worn-out mattress to perform like new — it simply can’t.
How to make your pillows last longer
A little care can go a long way towards keeping your pillows fresh and supportive:
-
Use a pillow protector to guard against sweat, oils, and dust.
-
Wash pillowcases weekly and follow care instructions for the pillow itself.
-
Give it a regular fluff or air-out to help it stay plump and hygienic.
These small habits can help extend your pillow’s lifespan — but once it starts sagging or losing its shape, it’s time for a new one.
The finishing touch to your DreamCloud sleep
Pairing your DreamCloud mattress with a quality pillow completes the experience — ensuring your head and neck get the same luxurious support as the rest of your body.
Because even the best mattress can’t make up for a tired, flat pillow.
So if it’s been a while, take this as your gentle reminder: a fresh, supportive pillow might be the upgrade your sleep’s been waiting for.
