Last updated on May 18th, 2023
Pillow covers and bed linen often make their way to our shopping list. However, changing our pillows is the last thing on our minds. Sadly, these bedroom essentials get attention only when they become lumpy and unsightly.
So, is it necessary to change a perfectly good pillow? And hey, isn’t a new pillow cover enough to tackle issues such as dust mites or a bit of dirt? Well, not really. Many factors come into play where pillows are concerned, as they can affect your sleep and health. Let’s check out some pillow facts.
Do you need a new pillow?
We spend much time curled up in bed, our heads resting on our pillows. We must change our pillows regularly as we inhale allergens and dust from the pillow, leading to sniffles.
A lumpy pillow can be a pain in the neck, figuratively and theoretically. So, what are the signs to watch out for? Let’s take a look.
Sign One: You get a stiff neck frequently
The structure of a pillow starts to break down over time and does not provide the needed support for your neck. The result? You wake up with neck pain or headache, and in the worst-case scenario, back pain too. If this sounds familiar, you need to go pillow-shopping.
Sign Two: A lumpy pillow
Lumpy pillows are unattractive and a sign that your neck isn’t getting the support it needs. If your lumpy pillow isn’t giving you neck pain, it soon will. Best switch to a new one.
Sign Three: is way past its expiry date.
Yup. Pillows, too, have an expiry date. If you look closely at the label, you will find an expiry date, especially if it’s polyester. No, this isn’t like a carton of milk that has expired. You don’t need to toss it out immediately but make time to buy a new one soon.
There are chances that your pillow may not have an expiry date. In that case, check the rest of the parameters. And if it’s old, go for a change anyway.
Sign Four: You can fold your pillow
If your pillow doesn’t spring back when you fold it, you know it’s time for a switch. So, get yourself a new pillow.
Sign Five: You can’t fluff the pillow
If you need to fluff your pillow repeatedly to get the desired shape, it’s time to change it, especially if it’s a feather pillow.
Sign Six: An old tarnished pillow
Pillows are magnets for dust mites, mold, and dead skin cells. This deadly mixture can cause allergies and lung infections, especially if mold is involved.
Tips on prolonging the life of your pillows
Replacing your pillows every 6 to 12 months would be best. If this sounds unrealistic, here are ways in which you can extend the life of your pillows:
Ø Wash your pillows regularly
Ø At least once a week, give them an airing, preferably in sunlight, to kill the germs and reduce the smell.
Ø Use pillow protectors for your pillows.
So, how do you wash your pillows? Let’s find out.
Ø Check the manufacturer’s label for washing instructions
Ø Wash the pillow using a gentle cycle on the hot water setting
Ø Use a mild liquid detergent
Ø Rinse twice to ensure there is no detergent residue
Ø Toss in two pillows at a time for proper cleaning and balance
Ø Avoid washing machines with agitators as they can damage the pillows
Ø For handwashing, soak the pillow in warm soapy water and squeeze gently
Ø Rinse off the detergent with cold water
Ø Manually squeeze out water
Ø Air dry your pillows on a flat surface
Last words
Fresh and clean pillows can make a lot of difference in our productivity and health as our sleep pattern improves. These tips will help you decide on your next move. For more home décor and cleaning tips, visit us at homebliss.in.
