A supportive pillow is necessary for achieving a good night’s sleep. As we spend over 1/3 of our lives in bed resting our heads on our pillows, keeping their quality and cleanliness in mind is essential. Experts recommend replacing pillows every 1 to 2 years to ensure they are clean, supportive, and free of allergens, but this can vary based on the type of pillow you own.^ How do you know if it’s time for a new pillow? While you’ll generally be able to tell when you should find a replacement, a few key indicators can also help guide you to start your search.

Do you find that your pillow is flat or lumpy? A flat, lumpy pillow is certainly past its prime. After nightly use, a well-loved pillow can lose shape, become thinner, or even break down, which can stand in the way of a good night’s sleep. You may need to fluff or readjust your pillow several times throughout the night, but fluffing can only take you so far! If you notice that your pillow feels different, consider purchasing a new one.

Pro Tip: Test your pillow using the bend test. When you bend your pillow, does it return to its original position and shape? If your pillow fails this test, the time has come for a replacement.

Do you often wake up with a stiff or sore neck? Your pillow could be the culprit. Usually, a lack of support in your pillow can cause you to wake up with aches and pains. A pillow that has lost necessary support over its lifetime might also cause you to wake up sore or unrefreshed. If your current pillow has become softer or isn’t offering the same level of support it once did, these are hints that you should shop for an upgrade.

Does your pillow look worn out? By its physical appearance, you can often tell when you should say farewell. Pillows can collect oils, sweat, dirt, and more that irritate your skin and alter their appearance. Excessive yellowing, discoloring, or tears can signal that your pillow has reached the end.

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, it might be time to ditch your pillow and replace it with a new one! Still trying to figure out where to start? Our Sealy® Adjustable Pillow is an excellent option for any sleeper. Made with premium memory foam, the supportive and adaptive fill lets you smoosh, fluff, or flatten the pillow for a sleep experience that’s made just for you.

^ Sleep Foundation