How Often Should You Replace Your Pillow for the Best Sleep?
At Marriott, we know that extraordinary sleep starts with exceptional details—and your pillow is one of the most important. A fresh, supportive pillow can transform the way you sleep, while an old pillow can undermine it, collecting allergens, flattening over time, and even contributing to neck pain.
But how do you know when to replace your pillow? And what type of pillow is right for you when it's time to refresh? Here's everything you need to know to maintain a clean, comfortable, hotel-level sleep environment at home.
Why Replacing Your Pillow Matters
Your pillow isn't just for comfort. It's essential for proper spinal alignment, pressure relief, and a healthier sleep environment. Over time, pillows accumulate dead skin cells, sweat, oils, dust mites, and allergens, even when protected by a pillow protector. These build-ups can lead to respiratory irritation and diminished sleep quality.
An old pillow can also lose its shape and support, leading to disrupted sleep and stiff necks. Marriott housekeeping teams are trained to evaluate pillow performance and replace them regularly to uphold a five-star sleep standard. At home, knowing when to replace your pillow can make a world of difference.
How Often Should You Change Your Pillow?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most pillows in a home environment should be replaced every 18-36 months. The exact timing depends on the type of pillow, how often it’s used, and how well it’s cared for.
General Guidelines by Pillow Type
- Down and Down & Feather Pillows: These tend to last the longest, but should still be replaced regularly to maintain support and hygiene.
- Down Alternative Pillows: These typically need replacing a bit sooner, especially if the user selected down alternative due to its hypoallergenic qualities.
These guidelines assume consistent care, including using a pillow protector and proper cleaning.
If you can't remember when you bought your pillow, it's probably time to replace it.
Signs It's Time For a New Pillow
Even before the 18-36 month mark, there are signs your pillow may be ready for retirement:
- You wake up with neck pain or stiffness
- You toss and turn more than usual
- The pillow is lumpy, flat, or won’t hold its shape
- You notice discoloration or lingering odors
- You have increased allergy symptoms despite clean bedding
Pillows also harbor buildup you can't always see: dead skin cells, moisture, and microbes. These can affect both cleanliness and performance, even when your pillow looks fine on the outside.
Try this quick test for down and down and feather pillows: Fold your pillow in half. If it doesn’t bounce back to shape, it's time to replace it.
Can You Wash or Clean a Pillow to Extend Its Life?
Yes, to a point. Washing your pillow can help keep allergens and buildup at bay, but it's not a permanent solution. Most down and down alternative pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and thoroughly dried.
Regular cleaning does help prolong performance, especially when paired with a quality pillow protector. But even well-maintained pillows lose firmness and support over time.
Choosing the Right Pillow Replacement
When it’s time to upgrade, Marriott makes it easy to bring hotel-caliber comfort home. Start with your sleep position:
- Side Sleepers: Need a firmer pillow for proper neck and shoulder alignment. Explore Firm Pillows
- Back Sleepers: Do best with medium firmness that supports the neck curve. Browse Medium Pillows
- Stomach Sleepers: Prefer soft, low-loft pillows to prevent neck strain. Shop Soft Pillows
And consider your preferred pillow fill:
- Down Pillows: Lightweight, breathable, and luxurious.
- Down Alternative Pillows: Hypoallergenic and easy to care for.
- Down & Feather Pillows: Classic hotel feel with plush structure.
Need help deciding? Visit our Pillow Firmness Guide and Pillow Fill Types Overview to find your perfect match.
Final Thoughts: Sleep Elevated
If you're still sleeping on an old pillow, it may be affecting more than your comfort—it could be compromising your health. From neck pain to nighttime allergies, the wrong pillow can disrupt the restful experience you deserve.
With over 9,000 hotels around the world, Marriott knows a lot about selecting pillows to deliver a restorative, elevated rest. Now, you can bring that same standard home.
Ready to upgrade your pillow? Browse our hotel-quality pillows and discover the difference a fresh start can make.