Did you know your pillow has an expiry date? That soft cushion you rest your head on every night might be hiding more harm than good if it’s overdue for a replacement.

Experts are now warning Nigerians to take pillow hygiene seriously, as ignoring it can lead to neck pain, allergies, and even acne.

When should you change your pillow?

Health experts recommend swapping your pillow for a new one every one to two years. Depending on the material, some pillows last longer than others. For example, latex pillows can serve you for up to three years, but polyester ones barely last a year.

How to know it’s time for a new pillow your pillow looks saggy, feels flat, or you wake up with neck pain or headaches, it’s probably time to let it go. Watch out for these signs:

Stains or yellowing

Lumps or loss of shape

Night-time sneezing or allergies

Constantly re-fluffing it for comfort

Quick tests to check your pillow’s condition

Try these simple tests to see if your pillow still works:

Saddlebag test: Place your pillow on your arm. If it droops like an old bag, it’s finished.

Fold test: Fold it in half. If it doesn’t spring back, it’s done.

Press test: Press down on a foam pillow. If it’s slow to return to shape, it’s time to let it go.

Why it mattersOld pillows don’t just lose their comfort—they can also collect dust, sweat, and bacteria, which can affect your health. Clean and supportive pillows help you sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.Remember, a fresh pillow means better sleep and a healthier you. Don’t wait until it’s too late to replace yours.