Approximately one-third of your life is spent sleeping, with a significant portion of that time spent in bed, resting your head on a pillow.
While you may routinely change and wash your pillowcase and even clean the pillow itself occasionally, it's crucial to consider replacing your pillow regularly. So, how often should you purchase a new pillow, and are there any benefits to doing so?
Experts recommend replacing pillows every six months to three years, depending on various factors, such as pillow quality, allergies, pillow material (e.g., polyester or down), and sleep position (e.g., side, back, or stomach sleepers). If you're struggling to get a good night's sleep and your pillow is more than six months old, it's worth considering a replacement for improved sleep quality.
Benefit #1 - Enhanced Support
A study by Gordon et al. (2011) highlights the importance of proper pillow support for maintaining spinal alignment during sleep, which can help prevent neck and back pain. Side sleepers require a firm pillow to maintain head, neck, and spine alignment, while medium-firm pillows are suitable for back sleepers. Stomach sleepers benefit from softer pillows. Regardless of your sleep position, proper support during sleep is essential for optimal rest and recuperation.
Benefit #2 - Reduced Allergens
Pillows are in close contact with your face, absorbing oils and dead skin cells even with a pillowcase. Some experts, such as Dr Whitney Bowe, a dermatologist, suggest that dirty pillows can contribute to acne breakouts. Furthermore, pillows can attract dust mites, a common allergen trigger. A study by Arlian et al. (2003) found that allergen levels can be significantly reduced by regularly washing bedding and replacing pillows. Replacing your pillow when it appears dingy or emits a musty odour can help minimize allergen exposure and improve your overall health.
In addition to regular replacement, choosing a hypoallergenic pillow can further reduce allergen exposure. Therapeutic Pillows offers a range of hypoallergenic-certified pillows designed to minimize allergen accumulation and provide a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. These pillows are an excellent choice for those with allergies or sensitivities to common allergens.
Benefit #3 - Increased Comfort
Whether it's spending Sunday mornings cuddling with family and pets or relaxing with a good book, a supportive and fresh pillow can greatly enhance comfort in bed. Knowing that your pillow is clean and free from allergens can make your bed feel more inviting and conducive to relaxation.
The Bottom Line: Replace Your Pillows and Pillow Case Regularly
Your pillow plays a vital role in your sleep quality and overall well-being. While the specific type of pillow you choose is a personal preference, it's essential to recognize when your pillow isn't providing the support and cleanliness required for a restful night. Washing your pillow can help maintain its cleanliness, but it won't improve its support capabilities. Don't neglect the importance of investing in a new pillow when necessary. By doing so, you'll be taking care of your health and paving the way for better sleep and improved quality of life.
A good pillowcase is not only essential for maintaining your pillow's cleanliness but also plays a crucial role in reducing allergen exposure. A high-quality, breathable pillowcase can help protect your pillow from dust, oils, and dead skin cells, which can accumulate over time and attract dust mites or other allergens. Regular washing of your pillowcase, ideally once a week, can help prevent the build-up of allergens and reduce the risk of allergies or skin irritations.
In addition to washing your pillowcase frequently, it's essential to replace it periodically. Over time, even the best pillowcases can wear out and lose their effectiveness in protecting your pillow from allergens. Consider replacing your pillowcase every six months to a year, or whenever it shows signs of wear and tear, to ensure maximum protection against allergens.
Selecting a pillowcase made of hypoallergenic materials, such as organic cotton or bamboo, can further reduce the risk of allergies and provide a more comfortable sleep environment. These materials are gentle on the skin, breathable, and naturally resistant to allergens, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Discover Your Perfect Pillow at Therapeutic Pillows
At Therapeutic Pillows, we understand the importance of selecting the right pillow for your needs. We invite you to visit our showroom or contact our knowledgeable staff to help you explore our extensive pillow range. Our team will guide you through various options, ensuring you find the perfect pillow that suits your sleep position, material preferences, and hypoallergenic requirements.
By investing in a high-quality, supportive, and hypoallergenic pillow from Therapeutic Pillows, you can experience improved sleep quality, better overall health, and enhanced comfort in bed. Don't underestimate the impact of the right pillow on your well-being; visit us today to discover the difference a Therapeutic Pillow can make.
References:
- Arlian, L. G., Neal, J. S., Morgan, M. S., Rapp, C. M., Clobes, A. L., & Platts-Mills, T. A. E. (2003). Reducing relative humidity is a practical way to control dust mites and their allergens in homes in temperate climates. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 111(1), 169-174.
- Gordon, S. J., Grimmer-Somers, K., & Trott, P. (2011). Pillow use: The behaviour of cervical pain, sleep quality, and pillow comfort in side sleepers. Manual Therapy, 16(6), 581-586.
Do you want to learn more? Read our Frequently Asked Questions for...
It is recommended to change your pillowcases at least once a week. Pillowcases can accumulate dirt, sweat, oils, and dead skin cells over time, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and allergens. Regularly changing your pillowcases helps maintain a clean and hygienic sleeping environment. Additionally, if you have allergies or sensitive skin, changing your pillowcases more frequently, such as every few days, may be beneficial to minimize potential irritants.
Remember, pillow change frequency may vary depending on individual factors such as personal hygiene, lifestyle, and skin condition. If you notice any stains, odors, or visible dirt on your pillowcase, it is a clear sign that it needs to be changed sooner. By keeping your pillowcases fresh and clean, you can promote better sleep quality and overall well-being.
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0It is recommended to change your pillows every 1 to 2 years. Over time, pillows accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells, and sweat, which can affect their cleanliness and comfort. Regular pillow change ensures a fresh and hygienic sleep environment, promoting better sleep quality and reducing the risk of allergies or respiratory issues. If you notice your pillow becoming lumpy, flat, or no longer providing adequate support, it may be a sign that it needs to be replaced sooner. Remember, a good night's sleep starts with a fresh and supportive pillow, so don't forget to consider a pillow change every 1 to 2 years for a comfortable and healthy sleep experience.
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