How clean is your pillow? If you’re like most Australians, you probably change your pillowcase regularly and give your sheets a good wash every week or so.
But when was the last time you cleaned your pillow? If you’re struggling to remember, you’re not alone—and you might want to brace yourself for what comes next.
According to cleaning expert Lynsey Crombie, also known as the ‘Queen of Clean’, your pillow could hide a rather unpleasant secret.
Crombie revealed a fact that left viewers squirming: up to half the weight of your pillow could be made up of dead skin cells. Yes, you read that right—half!
Let’s break that down. Every night, as you drift off to sleep, your body sheds skin cells, releases oils, and drool might escape.
Over time, all of this accumulates in your pillow, making it heavier and a bit of a biohazard. Crombie even tested this herself: She weighed a brand-new pillow and then weighed it again after six months of use. The difference? Noticeable—and not in a good way.
Why does this matter? Aside from the ‘ick’ factor, all that buildup creates a perfect breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, and allergens. If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or even just the occasional sniffle, your pillow could be making things worse.
It’s not just dead skin cells you need to worry about. Pillows also absorb sweat, oils from your hair and face, and even particles from the air.
Over time, this cocktail of grime can lead to yellow stains, unpleasant odours, and a pillow that’s a far cry from the fluffy cloud you first brought home.
And it’s not just about comfort—your health could be at stake. Dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments like your pillow, feed on dead skin cells and can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
If you’ve ever woken up with a stuffy nose or itchy eyes, your pillow might be the culprit.
How often should you clean your pillow?
According to sustainable cleaning expert Catherine Green from Smol, most people remember to wash their pillowcases regularly, but the actual pillow often gets overlooked.
Green recommends washing your pillows every 4–6 months to keep them fresh and free from hidden nasties.
The type of pillow you have matters, too. Foam, gel, and hypoallergenic pillows resist dirt and dust mites better than feather or wool varieties, but all pillows need regular care.
Always check the care label before washing—some pillows can go straight into the washing machine, while others need a gentler touch.
Ready to properly clean your pillow? Here’s how:
- Foam Pillows: These can’t go in the washing machine. Instead, mix warm water with a bit of washing-up liquid, then use a soft cloth to sponge the surface gently. Rinse with clean water and let it air dry completely before using.
- Polyester or Down Pillows: Most of these can be machine-washed. Pop a laundry capsule in the drum, add your pillows (ideally two at a time to balance the load), and run a cool wash with a standard spin. Air dry thoroughly—some can be tumble-dried, but always check the label first.
- Pillow Protectors: Invest in good-quality, thick pillow protectors. These act as a barrier against sweat, oils, and skin cells, and can be washed with your sheets weekly. If you have allergies, look for hypoallergenic protectors to keep dust, dander, and pollen at bay.
Green also suggests a simple daily habit: pull back your covers each morning to let your bed breathe. This helps reduce moisture and keeps allergens at bay.
Even with regular cleaning, pillows don’t last forever. Most experts recommend replacing your pillow every 1–2 years, or sooner if it’s lost shape, has persistent stains, or doesn’t feel supportive anymore.
Your pillow might look clean outside, but could harbour unwelcome guests inside. Regular cleaning and a few smart habits can help you sleep easier—literally and figuratively.
Have you ever weighed your pillow after a few months of use? Do you have any pillow-cleaning tips or horror stories to share? We’d love to hear from you! Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation (and our pillows) fresh.
Also read: Try the 60-second rule that transformed cleaning for one woman
