Pillow protectors are an item people tend to forget about.

I’m going to settle the debate on how often you should clean your pillow protectors after a debate sparked online.

People on social media admitted they did it every few weeks, and one even said they changed their protectors "every third night" due to their hormonal acne.

Pillow protectors aren't the same as pillow cases, which sit on the very top of your pillow. Protectors are the next layer underneath and prevent dirt, sweat, oils, allergens, and dust mites from hitting your pillow. 

You only need to wash pillow protectors every two to four weeks, unless you have acne or allergies.

It’s one of those things people forget, but it makes a big difference.

I recommend washing pillow protectors every two to four weeks. If you sweat more, have allergies, or oily skin, then definitely aim for closer to every two weeks.

Swapping your protectors every few days would be "excessive" for most people as the pillow cases do "most of the heavy lifting" and should be washed weekly. 

Pillow protectors serve as a secondary barrier, so washing them every two to four weeks is sufficient to maintain hygiene without creating unnecessary laundry or causing premature wear and tear on the fabric.

Your pillow is something you use every single night, so it’s worth looking after.

Clean pillows can help with better sleep, clearer skin, and fewer allergies. It’s such a simple win in your routine.

How should you wash pillow protectors?

Rather than throwing the pillow protectors in the wash with the rest of your clothes, pop them in the washing machine on their own cycle.

Use warm wash, good detergent, and don’t overload the machine so they actually get clean.

Make sure they’re completely dry before putting them back on. No one wants that musty smell creeping in.

How often should you replace and wash pillows?

Since your pillow can become a breeding ground for dust mites, it's best to replace them more often than you think.

Most pillows should be replaced every one to two years. If it’s lost its shape, doesn’t bounce back, or you’re waking up a bit stuffy, it’s probably time to let it go.

Consumer company CHOICE also recommended the 'fold test', which involves folding your pillow in half horizontally for 30 seconds to one minute.

If the pillow bounces back to it's regular shape then it's fine to keep, but if it doesn't, then this is a sign it needs to be replaced.

And, pillows should be washed every three to six months.

Use a gentle cycle, mild detergent, and dry them really well. Preferably in the sun.

I always throw in a couple of dryer balls or tennis balls to keep them fluffy.

Your pillow is something you use every single night, so it’s worth looking after.