Buzz
Image Credit: Fresh Splash/Getty ImagesIf you wake up with a sore neck from a pillow that's lost its shape, it might be time for a replacement. (Typically, it’s recommended to swap them out about every two years.) But what should you do with the old pillow? Tossing it in the trash is not ideal, as many of the materials used in pillows aren’t biodegradable and will linger in landfills long after we're gone. Instead, here are seven ideas for what you can do with that old pillow.
Repurpose or Compost Your Old Pillows
As mentioned earlier, it's not advisable to throw pillows in the regular trash. While recycling is the best option if you can't repurpose them, make sure you don't place them in your home recycling bin either. (Most local facilities are not equipped to process textiles.)
There are a few specialized recycling services that may accept your old pillows—consider using the Earth911 Recycling Search or the American Textile Recycling Service, which has numerous recycling bins throughout the country. TerraCycle also offers a service where they send you a box to pack your pillow in, and then you send it back for proper recycling.
Alternatively, if your pillow's filling is made of plant-based materials (such as natural rubber latex or feathers) and the fabric is made from a natural fiber like organic cotton, you can compost it. Be sure to research your pillow’s materials first, but typically, you’ll need to remove the zippers and tags before composting.
Donate Your Pillows
Donating pillows can be trickier than expected. While many donation centers, such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, won’t accept them for hygiene reasons, certain non-profits like homeless shelters and animal shelters might be willing to take your pillows if they’re still in good condition. Be sure to wash your pillow thoroughly before donating.
Give Them Away for Free
Repurpose Your Pillow as a Pet Bed
If you have four-legged companions, they can make use of your old pillow. One advantage is that your pet will already recognize the familiar scent of the pillow, so it’s likely they’ll feel right at home with it.
Create a Door Draft Stopper
A smart way to reuse your old pillow is to turn it into a door stopper that keeps the cold air out. Simply grab some of the pillow stuffing and stuff it into a long sock. You may need to fill two or three socks, and if you’re feeling crafty, you can sew them together for a custom fit.
Use It as Packing and Moving Material
If you have space to store your pillows, hang onto them for when you need extra padding material for shipping delicate items or packing up for your next move. (If storage is tight, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag to store them under your bed.)
Refill Other Pillows
Another idea is to repurpose the filling from your bed pillow to restore some fluff to your flat throw pillows. (You could also use this method with other bed pillows, but it might affect how comfortable they are when you sleep.)
