How Often Should You Replace Your Pillow?

A good pillow is essential for a restful night’s sleep, but even the best ones don’t last forever. Over time, pillows lose their shape, collect allergens, and stop providing the support your body needs. If you’ve ever woken up with a stiff neck or found yourself fluffing and folding your pillow throughout the night, it may be time for a replacement.

So, how often should you replace your pillow and why? The answer depends on the type of pillow you have, how well you care for it, and whether it’s showing signs of wear.

When to replace pillows

Most pillows should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, but different materials have different lifespans.

Memory foam and latex pillows tend to last longer because of their dense structure, while polyester fiberfill pillows flatten out more quickly. Down and feather pillows can last longer with regular fluffing and proper cleaning. If you’re unsure whether your pillow still provides adequate support, try the fold test—fold it in half and see if it springs back. If it stays folded, it’s time for a replacement.

Not sure which pillow is right for you? Explore our Pillow Guide for expert recommendations.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Pillow

Even if your pillow isn’t at the end of its recommended lifespan, certain signs indicate it’s time for a new one.

Physical signs

• It’s lost its shape—If your pillow feels lumpy, flat, or doesn’t fluff up, it’s no longer providing proper support.
• It has stains or odors—Sweat, natural oils, and dust mites accumulate over time, even with regular washing.
• You wake up uncomfortable—A pillow that no longer supports your head and neck can cause poor sleep posture and stiffness.

Health-related indicators

• Your allergies are acting up—Dust mites, pet dander, and bacteria build up inside pillows and worsen allergy symptoms, such as sneezing or itchy eyes. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, dust mites are a leading trigger for allergies and asthma.
• You’re waking up with neck or shoulder pain—An unsupportive pillow can throw off spinal alignment and lead to discomfort and poor sleep quality.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, upgrading your pillow can improve your sleep and overall well-being.

Why You Should Replace Your Pillow

If you wash your pillow regularly and use a quality pillow protector, it may still look perfectly fine—causing you to wonder why you need to replace it. Well, there are a variety of reasons, and not all of them are visible to the naked eye. Here are some of the benefits of replacing your pillow frequently.

Supports better hygiene

Replacing your pillow regularly helps maintain a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. Using a pillowcase, showering before bed, and not going to bed with wet hair all help keep your pillow clean. But things like dead skin, oil, sweat, and saliva will eventually seep into your pillow. Washing pillowcases and pillows regularly and replacing your pillows on a yearly schedule can help you have better skin, hair, and overall health.

Helps alleviate allergy symptoms

Dust mites, mildew, and mold can grow in your pillow—gross! Whether you suffer from allergies or not, you may experience itchy eyes, a runny nose, and a sore throat because of these allergens in your pillow. Regular pillow replacement helps reduce allergy symptoms by minimizing allergen buildup and promoting a cleaner, healthier sleep environment.

Reduces the risk of aches and pains

Over time, pillows lose their support and shape, which can lead to neck, back, and shoulder pain. Keeping your pillow fresh ensures it continues to provide the support you need for restful, pain-free sleep every night.

What happens if you don’t change your pillow when it’s time? You risk compromising your sleep quality, health, and comfort. An old and unsupportive pillow can make allergies worse, cause neck and back pain, and contribute to poor hygiene, ultimately affecting your overall well-being.

How Often Should You Change Your Pillowcase?

To maintain a clean and healthy sleep environment, wash and change your pillowcase at least once a week. Regular washing removes bacteria, sweat, and allergens that can accumulate overnight. This helps ensure your skin stays fresh and your pillow remains hygienic.

If you have acne-prone skin, consider changing your pillowcase every 2–3 days. The buildup of oil, dirt, and bacteria on your pillowcase can contribute to breakouts. Regularly swapping pillowcases will reduce the chances of irritation and keep your skin clearer.

Do you like the feel of silk and satin against your skin? Delicate fabrics like these require extra care when washing to maintain their luxurious texture. Clean them with mild detergent on a gentle cycle, but remember, even these soft materials should be washed regularly to keep your pillowcase fresh and hygienic.

Tips to Extend Pillow Lifespan

Taking proper care of your pillow can help you get the most out of it before replacing it. Here’s what you can do to keep your pillow lasting longer.

1. Use a pillow protector
   A breathable, washable protector shields against moisture, allergens, and dust buildup. It’s an easy way to keep your pillow cleaner for longer.
2. Wash your pillow regularly
   Most down, synthetic, and fiberfill pillows can be machine-washed every 3–6 months.
3. Fluff and air out your pillow
   Fluffing your pillow daily redistributes filling and helps maintain its shape. Letting it air out in the sun once a week can also help eliminate moisture and bacteria.
4. Store it properly
   When not in use, store pillows in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Avoid compressing them in airtight bags for long periods, as this can reduce their loft and comfort.