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New comforter and set pillows it can be quite expensive, not to mention boring to take home from the shops.
Many of us are in no rush to replace them, but maybe we should.
Every night our body sheds hair, dead skin and body fat that is yours bedding absorbs, and they, combined with natural perspiration, create the perfect environment for mites.
This can affect those with asthma and can lead to irritated eyes, runny noses and sleep disturbances.
“Generally, you’ll be able to tell when it’s time to replace your pillows, but I always recommend replacing them every one to two years,” says Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and managing director at Woolroom (thewoolroom.com).
“They wear out surprisingly quickly, with an average pillow doing its job 2,500 hours a year (about 100 days).”
He says certain kinds pillows they last longer than others, due to the materials used in production. For example, antimicrobial textiles like linen, wool, and hemp offer a natural defense against bacteria, mold, mildew, and other microbes.
Fabio Perrotta, purchasing director at Dreams (dreams.co.uk), agrees: “To get the most out of your cushions, it’s advised to replace them at least once every two years.
“This is because dust mites will accumulate over time and the pillow has most likely lost a lot of its elasticity, meaning it won’t provide adequate support.”
Perrotta suggests duvets should be replaced every two to five years. There are ways to try to extend the life of your duvet – such as using a washable protector to protect against stains and dust mites.
Tattersall says: “Soups should be changed about every five years. Like pillows, if they are filled with more natural fibers, they do not need to be changed as often, e.g. wool is self-cleaning. Moreover, having a washable comforter or pillow will save the need for regular replacement.”
How do you know when it’s time to change your pillow?
There are a few ways to tell it’s time for a new pillow, suggests Tattersall. “Obvious features include it starting to smell, yellowing and stains on the pillow – this will be from sweat.
“Alternatively, your pillow may start to cause you discomfort with neck or shoulder pain, which can lead to headaches.”
He says you can check if it’s time for a new pillow by folding it in half and letting go – if it stays folded, the pillow needs replacing, as the filling has lost its support and won’t ‘pop’ back.
“With duvets, if they feel thin and flabby due to the compression of the filling, it may mean they are not able to trap air and maintain your body temperature properly,” explains Tattersall.
“Similarly, an unevenly distributed charge – which will happen naturally or after a few too many washes – or leakage indicates it’s time for a refresh.”