How long are pillows good for

It's also a good time of year to take stock and think about replacing things, like say that mattress you've had since the Clinton administration. In honor of Valentine's Day, why not take a spin around your bedroom and see what might need freshening up? Let's start with the bed. Do you even remember how long you've had your mattress? If it's more than 10 years, according to Consumer Reports , it probably time to go shopping. Depending on the type of bed, says all-things-sleep review site Sleep Like the Dead, it could be even less time ; their research shows latex mattresses last around eight years, memory foam around seven, and inner spring even less.

Consumer Reports has more bad news. How do you know when it's time for out with the old and in with the new? Just listen to your body. Or maybe you could just try these wake-up stretches! And how about where you lay your weary head? Those with neck pain might want to try this fiber-filled pillow with a divot at its center.

People experiencing lots of neck pain may also benefit from this expert-recommended pillow. According to Caitlin M. As a stomach sleeper, I feel my new pillow is here to stay! Those looking for a cooling memory-foam pillow might want to take this one for a spin. This one was a favorite of Amazon reviewers, especially as a slightly less expensive option for a down pillow.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels. Waking up all night with a stuffy nose, nasal drainage, and itchy skin is no way to get sound sleep.

When you fold it over and let go, it stays there. If you sleep on your back, your pillow should cradle your head but should not be so thick that it pushes your head up or so thin that your head drops back. Dust mites, mold, fungus, bacteria, and pain are all things that can keep you from sleeping well.

The foam will get harder over time as a result of both of these factors. Down and Feather: Since down and feather can be washed and dried to rejuvenate and fluff them back up, try this first. Synthetic: Look for clumps in a down alternative pillow, this is a sign that the loftiness and conformance is breaking down. In a traditional synthetic pillow, flatness or lumpiness will be good indicators.