How often should you really be changing your pillows? A lot more than you think...

What kind of gross things are hiding on your pillow?

Feb 10, 2022 12:40pm
By Maddison Leach
Most of us wash our bed sheets every few weeks, but when it comes to our pillows we can go for months without giving them a good clean.
In fact, many Aussies haven't thought about cleaning their pillows – let alone buying new ones – in years!
So how often should you actually be swapping our your old pillows for new ones?
When's the last time you changed those pillows, Martha? (Image: Instagram)
"A good rule of thumb when it comes to pillows is to replace them every 1-2 years depending on how well you care for them," explains Ecosa 'bed in a box' entrepreneur Ringo Chan.
Ideally you should wash and air your pillow every six months, try not to leave them lying on the floor and even use a pillow protector where possible.
The material of the pillow, manufacturing quality and how often you clean it can also affect how long your favourite pillow lasts, but look out for the key signs you're due for an upgrade.
"Some of these tell-tale signs are stains, smells, new allergy symptoms and recurring acne on cheek," Ringo says.
"Over time, dust, sweat, dead skin cells, and facial oils accumulate on your pillow. This build-up can make it the perfect breeding ground for dust mites and certain fungi, making your pillow unsanitary."
Not only can old pillows become unsanitary, they can also cause back and neck pain and prevent you from getting a good night's sleep if they're no longer in good condition.

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"This could be from the pillow being too hot and not breathable, perhaps it's lost support or you could be having minor allergic reactions," Ringo says.
Most of us are guilty of hanging onto old pillows for far too long and when it comes to buying a new one all the options can be overwhelming.
The key features to prioritise when shopping around are height (make sure it's right for your sleep position), breathability and odour control, as well as making sure the pillow or cover is washable.
"Side sleepers need to ensure the pillow is high enough so that you shouldn't be sinking in and being squashed," Ringo adds.
"Back sleepers need a pillow that will contour your neck so you're in a neutral position and aligned."
With all that in mind, now is probably a good time for you to invest in a few new pillows – we've rounded up some of our favourite affordable options under $120 to give you a great night's sleep.
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Memory Foam Pillow, on sale for $112.50, from Ecosa.

This pillow has a unique shape designed to provide perfect neck alignment no matter how you sleep. It's also height adjustable and made with activated charcoal for odour control and antibacterial protection.

(Image: Ecosa)
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Downia Everyday Duck Feather & Down Pillow, $79.95, from Myer.

If you want something super soft, you can't go past this duck feather pillow with a medium profile ideal for side and back sleepers.

(Image: Myer)
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Giselle Bedding Set of 2 Natural Latex Pillows, $76.95, from Myer.

Get more bang for your buck with this double pack of latex pillows designed for a highly resilient feel, great air ciruclation and resistance to dust mites, bacteria and mould.

(Image: Myer)
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Heritage Memory Foam Pillow, $89.95, from Myer.

This ultra comfy pillow moulds to the exact shape of your head and neck, plus its ventilated for added breathability and it's machine washable.

(Image: Myer)
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Luxe Anti Allergy Pillow, $55.95, from Tontine.

For a great all-rounder pillow on a budget, head over to Tontine and invest in this plush pillow perfect for asthma and allergy sufferers who prefer a luxurious medium height and medium soft pillow.

(Image: Tontine)
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Comfort Essential Standard Pillow Pack of 2, $49.99, from Adairs.

When you just want to update your pillows fast and cheap, this budget set from Adairs promise premium polyester comfort and ultra-fresh, anti-microbial protection.

(Image: Adairs)

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MiniJumbuk Standard Low Profile Breathe Pillow, $109.99, from Adairs.

If you prefer a low profile pillow, this breathable option promises cool comfort throughout the night that will help to prevent puffy eyes and pressure lines on the face.

(Image: Adairs)
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Heritage Medium Support Gusseted Pillow 2 Pack, $79.95, from Myer.

If you're looking for a value buy, look no further than this two pack from Heritage. The pillows are machine washable, have a hypo-allergenic fill and are ideal for back sleepers with medium support level.

(Image: Myer)
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Downtime Luxury High Loft European Pillow, $89.99, from Adairs.

If you prefer a larger pillow, try this super plush European pillow that offers ultimate soft comfort with the added bonus of a high loft filling - plus, it's machine washable for easy care.

(Image: Adairs)
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Comfortech Gel Infused Memory Foam Pillow, $55.95, from Tontine.

Find yourself overheating in the night? This pillow features gel infused Aircell™ Memory Foam, which combines comfort of memory foam with the cooling gel designed to prevent sweaty nights.

(Image: Tontine)

  • Maddison Leach

    Maddison Leach is a digital writer and manages the print-to-digital relationship for The Australian Women's Weekly. She loves all things fashion, beauty, reality TV and royals.

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