How to stop your pillows from going flat (and when to replace them)
8th Apr 2025
There’s nothing worse than laying your head down after a long day and realising your pillow feels more like a crepe than a cloud.
Flat pillows don’t just ruin the vibe either, they can mess with your sleep quality, posture, and even your skin.
But don’t toss it just yet! Here’s how to keep your pillows plump, how to know when it’s actually time to replace them, and why Canningvale pillows are made to go the distance (we’re talking five years, minimum!).
Why Do Pillows Go Flat?
Even the best pillows lose a bit of loft over time (you haven’t done anything wrong, it’s totally normal). But if yours is looking like it’s been steamrolled after just a few months, it’s worth checking a few common culprits:
● Compression from daily use: All that head time takes a toll. Your pillow’s filling gets compressed naturally when you sleep on it each night
● Moisture and sweat: Over time, moisture build-up (yep, even from your face and hair) can weigh pillows down and break down the fill
● Lack of fluffing: Think of your pillow like you would your doona, it needs a good shake up every now and then to keep its shape
● Poor-quality fill: Low-grade polyester or foam tends to clump or collapse way faster than premium materials like microfibre or feather/down blends
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How to Keep Your Pillows from Going Flat
If your pillows are victims of any of the above, don’t worry! We’ve got the fluff-saving tips that are actually doable:
● Give it a daily fluff: Yes! Every day. A quick shake and fluff helps redistribute the filling and keep your pillow looking full and feeling comfy
● Let it breathe: Air your pillow out regularly, especially if it’s been trapped under heavy bedding. A bit of sunlight can also help kill bacteria and keep your pillow fresh
● Use a pillow protector: This is your pillow’s first line of defence against sweat, oils, and dust. It helps prolong the life of the filling inside (and makes cleaning way easier!)
● Wash it right: Most Canningvale pillows are machine washable—praise be
● Always check the care label first! Pop your pillow into the washing machine on a gentle cycle, then into the dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls. This method is a game-changer for pillows with synthetic fillings like polyester or microfibre. The balls help prevent clumping and keep the fill evenly fluffy
● Rotate or flip it: Using the same side every night? Try rotating or flipping your pillow weekly to avoid uneven wear
● Know your sleep profile: Your sleep position can seriously influence both how quickly your pillow wears out and which type you should be using in the first place
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What Kind of Sleeper Are You?
Using the wrong pillow profile can flatten your pillow faster and lead to aches and pains. Canningvale’s range includes high, medium, and low-profile options in soft, medium and firm feels, so you can get your perfect match.
Let’s match your sleep style to your perfect pillow.
● Side Sleeper - High-profile, firm pillow – keeps neck aligned and supported
● Back Sleeper - Medium-profile, medium-firm pillow – supports neck without pushing head too far forward
● Stomach Sleeper - Low-profile, soft pillow – avoids neck strain and keeps things gentle
● Combo Sleeper - Medium-profile, adaptable fill – keeps up with your position changes
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When to Replace Your Pillow
Even with all the care in the world, pillows don’t last forever. Most flatten out within a year or two—but not ours.
All Canningvale pillows are designed to last at least 5 years without giving up their shape or support. That’s long-term love right there.
But if yours is doing any of the following, it might be time to make the switch:
● Looks or feels flat, no matter how much you fluff it
● Has noticeable lumps or odours (ew)
● Doesn’t bounce back when folded in half
● You’re waking up with neck or shoulder pain
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Why Canningvale Pillows Go the Distance
We don’t do fast-fashion bedding. Every Canningvale pillow is made from high-quality, durable materials designed for serious sleep performance. Whether you prefer soft and cloud-like or supportive and firm, there’s a Canningvale pillow made just for you–and it’s built to last.