Find out how to identify the right time to change the pillow, the risks of keeping it for a long time and practical advice to guarantee healthier nights
Sleeping well goes beyond a good mattress. The pillow, often left in the background, plays an essential role for the quality of rest and the health of the spine and airways. But did you know he also has an expiration date?
With continuous use, these objects accumulate sweat, oiliness, dead skin cells and above all mites. These microorganisms, invisible to the naked eye, can cause allergies, discomfort and even disturb the breath at night.
Why do you need to change the pillow?
Experts explain that after about two years, from 10% to 25% of the weight of a pillow it can consist of mites, bacteria and their waste. This accumulation creates an environment in favor of problems such as rhinitis, asthma, dermatitis and even sinusitis crisis.
In addition to hygiene, there is the comfort factor: over time the pillow loses height and firmness, failing to correctly support the head and neck. The result can be cervical pain, tension headache and sleepless nights.
Signs that your pillow is over time
It is time to think of replacing whether you notice:
- Persistent yellowish points;
- Bad smell even after washing;
- Loss of firmness or deformations;
- Discomfort when waking up, like neck pain or back;
- Frequent allergic symptoms such as sneezing and nose that colas.
A simple test helps: fold the pillow in half. If he does not return to the original format, it means that he has lost his support.
How to choose the ideal pillow?
The secret is at that moment. Those who sleep aside should choose models that fill the distance between the shoulder and the head. Already those who sleep on their backs need thinner options that keep the neck aligned. As for the material, the options vary: foam, latex, feathers or fibers. The important thing is that the head is neither too high nor sunk, maintaining the alignment of the spine.
They care about prolonging useful life
With small attitudes, it is possible to preserve the pillow longer:
- Use removable protective covers and wash weekly;
- Keep the room ventilated to reduce humidity;
- Sanit the pillow every 3-6 months, always following the instructions of the label;
- Avoid exposing directly to the sun, you prefer to dry in an airy place;
- Alternative use if you have more than a pillow, so wear will be smaller.
The yellow spots, usually caused by sweat, saliva and fat, can be softened by baking soda or delicate soap, but prevention remains the best way to maintain freshness.
What is the ideal frequency of the exchange?
The general recommendation is to renew the pillow every two years. In case of allergy, children and the elderly may need to exchange it at smaller intervals, from 6 to 12 months. Investing in a good pillow is investing in one’s health. After all, the repair nights begin with comfort, hygiene and adequate posture.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
