You can just toss out your old pillows into the dustbin but that would mean that you are directly contributing to the tonnes of waste that is already in landfills. And we are sure that you’re not one of those people who don’t care about the environment. But then, what can you do with old pillows?
Don’t worry. There are greener and better ways to do away with your old pillows. This blog will tell you how to part with your old sleeping companion without harming the environment.
How to Repurpose Old Pillows?
Thinking of where to take your old pillows? Here are the best ways to recycle old pillows. Why throw them when you can use them for something else?
Stuff Another Pillow
One of the best ways of recycling pillows is to use them to stuff other pillows. Just remove its stuffing and put it in another pillow. That will make the pillow more fluffy and comfortable. Moreover, you will not be guilty of harming the environment.
Make Rags for Cleaning
When your old pillows are ready to hit the grave, open them up and remove the filling. Now, you can cut the remaining fabric into square cloths to use as rags.
Add the Feathers to Compost
What to do with old feather pillows? You don’t have to send them to the landfill if you can’t use them. Instead, remove the feathers and add them to your compost. That will help them decompose easily. Since feathers are biodegradable, they will not harm the environment.
Protect Your Stuff While Moving
Why get rid of pillows when they can be a lifesaver? You can use your old pillows to protect your belongings while shifting. Your cupboard and other furniture might get scratches and marks while moving from one place to another. If you cover them with pillows, they will stay safe and sound during transportation.
Make a Pet Bed
Use your old pillows to add some extra padding to your pet’s bed. Your furry friend will love it. If your pet is small enough, the pillow itself can serve as a bed. You just need to put on a new cover around it to make a cute little bed for your bundle of joy.
Use Them as Knee Pads
As you age, your knees become weak and need some extra protection. Doing chores like gardening can put pressure on your knees. Old pillows can serve as excellent knee pads to give you the much-needed comfort. Moreover, you will not have to spend on buying a knee pad. Isn’t that awesome.
Use Them As Road Trip Pillows
Do you go on frequent road trips with your friends and family? Why not make your trips a bit more comfortable? All you need is your old pillows. Sew them in a straight line and keep them in your car to serve as a super comfortable backrest.
Make Floor Cushion Seats
Do you love to sit on the floor with your family for the evening snacks? Your old pillows might be a perfect companion. Place some colorful fabric over them and transform your old pillows into cushion seats for the floor. Now your evening coffee time with your family or guests will be more comfortable.
Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are stealing the show these days. They can uplift the appearance of your living room. But why spend money on new ones when you can repurpose your old pillows into beautiful throw pillows?
Re Fluff the pillows and wrap them in new fabric before placing them on your couch. You will be stunned to watch how your living room transforms into a vibrant place.
Use Them as Insulators
Pillows contain a lot of air in between the gaps of the stuffing. So, they can act as excellent insulators. You can use the stuffing of your old pillows or the entire pillow to insulate things around your house.
Use your old pillows to insulate your attic or loft in the winter. Furthermore, you can also insulate your pipes and hot water tank to prevent the water from getting too hot or cold.
Block Drafts
Do you have a drafty door? It might be the source of chilly and uncomfortable winds in winter. Don’t worry. Your old pillows can save you from freezing. Use them to block the drafts on your doors and windows. Thus, you will get a cozy and comfortable sleep during winter nights.
Donate Used Pillows
You can donate pillows instead of getting rid of them. There are many shelters for the homeless where they might need such pillows. Plus, animal shelters also require pillows. However, make sure you wash and clean your pillows before donating them.
Tip- Check if your pillows are in a usable condition before donating them.
How to Donate Old Pillows?
Donating your pillows is easy. You need to check if they are in usable condition. Make sure to wash your pillows before passing them on. That is a hygienic practice.
But, where to donate old pillows? Don’t worry. Many human and animal shelters require pillows, sheets, and even mattresses. Check if any charitable trust is accepting pillow donations. The American Textile Recycling Service has got donation bins across the country. You can also get in touch with them to donate your pillows.
You can also donate pillows to a thrift store. However, not all second-hand stores accept pillow donations. So, make sure you check beforehand.
How to Recycle Pillows?
Recycling pillows is the best option when they are not in a condition to donate or repurpose.
Send Them to a Textile Recycling Facility
It is one of the best ways to recycle old pillows. The recycling center will reuse the pillow stuffing to make other items such as carpets, mats, etc. Thus, your pillows will not add up to the endless piles in the landfills.
Compost the Pillow Stuffing
If your pillow stuffing is made of biodegradable materials, you can put them in compost to decompose. That way you can safely recycle them without affecting the environment
When Do You Need to Get Rid of Old Pillows?
How will you understand when it’s time to bid goodbye to your old pillows. Well, when your pillows fail to give you comfort and support, it’s time to replace them. Look for these signs in your pillows before replacing them.
- The pillows have lost shape
- The filling feels lumpy
- You experience neck pain from sleeping on your pillows
- Your pillows are full of stains
- They are torn
- The pillows emit a bad odor even after washing
How Often Should You Replace Pillows?
The National Sleep Foundation recommends replacing your pillows every 1-2 years.
Your pillows accommodate millions of duster particles and dust mites in the course of their lifespan. So, replacing them once every couple of years will maintain the hygiene of your bed. Moreover, your pillows sag with time, failing to provide adequate support. So, you need to discard them and get new ones.
Cleaning and taking care of your pillows might increase their longevity. However, you need to replace them when they fail to provide the same level of comfort.
Welcome Your New Pillows Home
Now that you know what to do with old pillows, it’s time to bring new pillows home. The Dream Cloud memory foam pillow will make you feel you are sleeping on the clouds. Bring it home today to make your nights cozy and comfortable.
