Sleep is essential to our well-being, and a good night's rest is vital to our physical and mental health.
Did you know that we spend around a third of our day asleep if we stick to the recommended 8 hours of sleep a night? That's why it's crucial to optimize our sleeping environment, especially our bedroom and bed. And among the important elements for a good night's sleep, the pillow plays a fundamental role.
Choosing the right pillow to suit our personal characteristics is crucial to improving our sleep. However, we mustn't forget that, like other bed components, pillows wear out over time. We spend many hours with our head resting on a pillow, so it's essential to take care of it and know when to replace it with a new one.
Signs that it's time to replace your pillow
Signs of change
According to the National Sleep Foundation, the average lifespan of a pillow is about 1 to 2 years, although some higher-quality pillows can last up to 2 to 3 years. It's a good idea to follow this recommendation to ensure that you're using a pillow that offers good support, a clean environment and is allergen-free. But how do you know when it's time to replace your pillow?
There are several signs that may indicate it's time to change your pillow. Waking up with a sore neck or not finding a comfortable sleeping position are obvious signs that your pillow is no longer doing its job. It may have sagged or flattened over time, no longer offering the support you need for a good night's sleep. Side sleepers may also experience shoulder pain due to a flattened pillow.
Other signs that it's time to look for a new pillow include it becoming loose or lumpy, yellowing or emitting a strong odor. If you also notice an increase in allergies during the night, this may be due to allergens accumulating in your pillow, such as dust mites, fungi, mold or pet dander. Sleeping near these allergens can cause nasal congestion, itchy skin and eye irritation, all of which affect the quality of your sleep.
How to extend the life of your pillow
How to prolong the life of your pillow
Regular cleaning of your pillow and pillowcase can extend its life. It's important to follow each manufacturer's instructions, as each type of pillow has its own care recommendations. Some pillows can be washed, while others require dry-cleaning or dusting.
It's also important to choose a quality pillow suited to your needs. Some materials, such as latex or viscoelastic foam, last longer than others, like polyester. Take comfort into account, but bear in mind that some materials will last longer and offer better support.
