Expert's simple pillow test tells you if you need to replace yours - and why you should
When should you replace your pillows? An expert has shared a quick and easy test to help you know when it's time to invest in some new ones - and why it's so important to do so
Pillows are one of those everyday essentials that we often overlook when it comes to updating our household items. It's not uncommon for people to keep the same pillows for years, barely considering the need for a replacement.
The conundrum of knowing when to bid farewell to your old pillows has been highlighted by experts at DUSK, a homeware company. They said they'd noticed a significant uptick in public curiosity, with online searches for 'when should you replace pillows' skyrocketing by 133% over the past 12 months.
Jade Crooks, the commercial director at DUSK, said: "The pillow-fold test is a super quick and easy way for you to determine whether it's time to buy a new pillow or not. Your pillow is one of the most important parts of your sleep, as you'll know if you've stayed in a hotel with an uncomfortable one and woken up in the morning with a stiff back and sore neck. The pillow fold test will check the firmness and condition of your pillow and can be done by anybody in a matter of seconds."
Crooks explains the simplicity of the pillow-fold test: "To carry out the test, all you need is your pillow, a spare minute, and a flat surface. To begin with, you want to fold your pillow in half and hold it in that position for a few seconds, trying to compress it as much as possible. Once you feel like you've held it there for long enough, let go and observe.
"If your pillow springs back to its original shape then you're good to go, it shows good resilience and will offer support for when you sleep. However, if your pillow takes a while to unfold or worse, continues to lie limp and folded in half, then it's probably time to invest in a new one."
Highlighting the risks of sleeping on an old, sagging pillow, Jade pointed out to Gloucestershire Live: "There are some big risks attached to the persistent use of an old pillow that has lost its loftiness. The first would be around the lack of support the pillow offers. When you sleep you want your body to be aligned to keep your spine and neck comfortable.
"If your pillow isn't firm enough your head may be lower than the rest of your body and falling out of alignment is what leads to issues like neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort in the morning. Another issue that an old pillow can bring is hygiene. Old pillows that have lost their shape and structure will be less breathable.
"This means it will harbour allergens and trap moisture inside the pillow allowing bacteria to develop over time, which can then affect your skin and overall health. That's why it's important for everyone, but particularly those with allergies to replace pillows every couple of years. Options that have a microfibre material, without the feathers that could cause allergies are the perfect choice. A Feels-Like Down pillow can provide a luxury feel without harmful allergens.
"In terms of offering support, this all depends on your sleeping position. If you find yourself lying on your front a lot more then a pillow with a soft fill and low loft is ideal for you. Whereas if you are a side or back sleeper you want to be aware of how much height your pillow is creating. A medium or firm pillow is perfect for keeping your head and neck aligned."
