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You will have to replace your favorite pillow at some point

Most of us have a favorite pillow or two, but it’s hard to deny that eventually, those much-loved pillows start to look a little used. If you’ve had your pillow so long that it’s stained, flattened or otherwise losing its shape, it’s probably time to find a new one.

Pillows need to be replaced periodically just like your mattress, but if you’re wondering how often, keep reading.

Why should you replace your pillows?

To put it simply, old pillows can be pretty gross. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) recommends replacing them every two years due to concerns about the buildup of allergens, such as dander, dust mites, and mold, that can occur over time.

Dust mites are small bugs invisible to the naked eye that live off dead skin cells, which is why your old pillows can be a hotbed of dust mite activity. You shed dead skin cells in your sleep, and over time, those cells can keep dust mites in business.

How to know when to replace pillows

Monitor your pillows for the following changes:

  • Stains or odors
  • Changes in shape, such as lumps forming or getting flatter
  • Allergy symptoms that may indicate the presence of dust mites
  • Discomfort in the back or neck after sleeping

The best pillows

Marriott Feather & Down Pillow

Marriott Feather & Down Pillow

Sleep like you’re on vacation with a Marriott pillow. This model has dual chambers filled with both down and duck feathers, providing both cloudlike softness and great support. It’s available in three sizes and comes with a cotton cover.

ArticNorthDown Standard Goose Down Pillow

ArticNorthDown Standard Goose Down Pillow

This affordable goose down pillow is double-stitched and double-covered to prevent feathers from leaking. It works for side, stomach and back sleepers.

Snuggle-Pedic Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

Snuggle-Pedic Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

This memory foam pillow is fully adjustable, allowing you to add or remove shredded memory foam to achieve the exact loft and firmness you need to sleep comfortably. It has Kool-Flow technology to help prevent overheating while you sleep.

Mzoimzo Soft Down Alternative Queen Size Bed Pillows

Mzoimzo Soft Down Alternative Queen Size Bed Pillows Set of 2

This affordable set of pillows is hypoallergenic, and each has microfiber fill with fast rebound for firm support. These cooling pillows are suitable for back, stomach or side sleepers.

The Ritz-Carlton Pillow

The Ritz-Carlton Pillow

This luxurious pillow made of feathers and down is a worthy splurge for a fabulous night’s sleep. Its blend of down, feathers and Lyocell fibers makes for a plush and supportive pillow. It has three chambers and a cotton cover to help keep the pillow filling even for optimal support.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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