What To Do With Old Pillows: Reuse, Recycle, or Dispose?

How to Dispose of Old Pillows:

• Repurpose: Give old pillows a new life, such as pet beds, floor cushions, or travel pillows.
• Recycle: Donate clean pillows to shelters or recycle the filling and fabric.
• Dispose: If the pillow is beyond repair, consider composting down feather fillings or disposing it responsibly.

Pillows are essential in our daily lives, providing comfort and support while sleeping. But over time, certain types of pillows lose shape and become lumpy and uncomfortable, prompting replacement. So, what options do you have when old pillows are in desperate need of replacement? 

Rather than throwing them away, there are a myriad of options for recycling and reusing old pillows in eco-friendly ways. Once you’re ready to get new pillows, always opt for a supportive, breathable pillow that keeps your neck aligned and helps you sleep more comfortably. Below, we explore 15 uses for your old pillows when you’re ready to buy new ones.

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15 Ways To Repurpose or Recycle Your Old Pillows

While old pillows may seem destined for the trash, there are many creative, sustainable ways to give them a second life. Before diving into these repurposing ideas, it’s important to remember the potential health risks associated with using old pillows past their prime.

Over time, pillows can accumulate dust, dead skin cells, hair, makeup, sweat, bacteria, and dust mites. These allergens can trigger allergies, respiratory problems, and even acne. The end result? Poor sleep. While many develop an attachment to their nightly pillow (for good reason), be sure to regularly check your pillow for upkeep and cleanliness. 

To repurpose your pillows safely, be sure to wash your pillows thoroughly before using them again. A good cleaning can help remove allergens, extend the life of your pillows, and prevent you from having to prematurely replace your pillows. 

1. Recycle Them

While entire pillows aren't typically recyclable, certain components are, such as the fabric covers and feather or foam fillings. Many fabric types, like cotton and polyester, can be recycled. Check with your local recycling center to see if they accept fabric. You can also donate undamaged fabric to textile recycling programs. 

Some companies specialize in recycling feather and down fillings. These materials can be cleaned and repurposed into new pillows or other products. Check with your local textile recyclers or online retailers for specific programs. 

How To Dispose of Old Pillows

2. Donate Them

While thrift stores may not be the best place to discard old pillows due to hygiene concerns, there are other organizations that you can donate to: 

• Animal shelters: Clean, soft pillows can provide comfort for animals in shelters. Contact your local animal shelter to inquire about their donation guidelines.
• Community centers and homeless shelters: These organizations may be able to use old pillows for sleeping or seating purposes. Check with your local community center or homeless shelter to see if they accept pillow donations.
• Creative reuse centers: Some community centers or art organizations specialize in creative reuse. They may be able to repurpose your old pillows into art projects or other creative endeavors.

Where To Donate Old Pillows

3. Fluff Up Other Pillows

If your old pillow still has a quality filling, you can use this stuffing to give new life to other pillows and items like stuffed animals or dog toys. Simply add the filling from your old pillow to your new pillow for extra fluff. If your old pillow doesn’t have a zipper to access the fill in the middle, carefully cut it open to transfer the filling. 

You can also use old pillow filling to re-fluff decorative cushions or pillows that need refilling.

4. Use Them as a Pet Bed

Old pillows make for the perfect, cozy sleeping spot for your pet. If your pet is small enough, your old pillow can give it the added cushion it needs. Simply place a clean, old pillow in a pet bed or crate to provide extra warmth and comfort.

5. Make Comfortable Floor Cushions

Old pillows can transform into cozy floor cushions for meditation, reading, or lounging. Simply add pillows to the floor surrounding a coffee table to create seat cushions for game nights and group gatherings.

6. Use Them as Garden Cushions

Rather than purchasing a new knee cushion for gardening and outdoor projects, double up an old pillow in outdoor-safe fabric. Use a soft, gentle pillow protector that won’t scrape against your knees or cause bruising. This option works well for The Purple Pillow®, as many garden cushions already use a similar gel construction for its gentle, supportive structure.

7. Refresh Them as Throw Pillows

Give your old pillows a makeover by reupholstering them into decorative throw pillows. You can use a variety of fabrics, from cotton or tweed to luxurious velvet, to create a look that suits your style. You can find tutorials and patterns online to guide you through the process. 

8. Turn Them Into Travel Pillows

Repurpose your old pillow's filling to make a U-shaped neck pillow. Simply sew a U-shaped cover from a soft fabric and fill it with the cleaned filling. Not big on your sewing skills? The Harmony Anywhere™ Pillow is another great option.

9. Use Them for Lumbar Support

Old pillows can provide much-needed lumbar support while traveling or working at a desk. When traveling, place the pillow behind your lower back for support during long car rides or flights. You can also use them at work while sitting at your desk. 

10. Reupholster Them for Outdoor Use

If your bed pillows are no longer comfortable, why not reupholster them for outdoor furniture? You can use old throw pillows and sew on weather-resistant fabric to protect them from environmental factors.

When choosing fabric, opt for durable, water-resistant, and fade-resistant materials. Consider fabrics like Sunbrella or outdoor canvas.

11. Make Door Draft Blockers

Keep the cold air out and warm air in with DIY draft blockers made from old pillow filling. Simply stuff a long sock or fabric tube with the filling and place it at the bottom of your doors. For a more decorative touch, cover the fabric tube with a colorful fabric or knit a cozy cover.

12. Use the Cover as Rags

Instead of tossing your pillowcase, repurpose it into cleaning rags. Simply remove the pillow insert and cut the pillowcase into smaller rags. Use these rags for cleaning around the house, car, or garage. This is also a good idea if you’re wondering what to do with old sheets. 

13. Make Crafts With Pillow Stuffing

Pillow stuffing can be a versatile material for various craft projects. Here are a few ideas:

• Soft sculptures: Use the stuffing to create soft sculptures of animals, characters, or abstract shapes.
• Sensory toys: Fill sensory bags or bins with the stuffing to create tactile experiences for children.
• Packing material: Use the stuffing as a soft and protective filler for fragile items when packing or shipping.

14. Protect Fragile Items When Moving

If you're planning a move, pillow stuffing is a great way to protect your fragile items when packing. Fill your boxes or bags with the stuffing and place your delicate items inside. The soft, cushioning material will help prevent breakage and damage.

15. Compost Pillow Stuffing

If your old pillow is filled with down feathers, you can compost the filling. Down feathers are a natural, biodegradable material that can enrich your garden soil. However, keep in mind that synthetic fillings and other materials used in pillows are not compostable.

Where To Donate Pillows

If you don’t have the time to upcycle your pillows, you might wonder: can you donate pillows? While you can bring pillows to most donation drives, many thrift stores won’t accept them for sanitary reasons. 

Instead of taking your old pillows to places like Goodwill or the Salvation Army, consider these charities and donation centers:

• Animal shelters
• Wildlife rehabilitation centers
• Homeless shelters
• Community centers
• Local daycares
• Online donation sites 

Animal Shelters and Veterinary Clinics

Most accept clean and gently used pillows as animal bedding. While you can safely donate materials like cotton and polyester fiber, you’ll want to avoid donating down, as it may cause allergic reactions.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers

Wildlife rehabilitation centers may be able to use old pillows for various purposes, such as nesting materials for birds or soft bedding for injured animals. Be sure to check with the specific center to make sure your donation is appropriate. Ask if they have any specific cleaning requirements or if they prefer new pillows.

Homeless Shelters

Most homeless shelters will accept old pillows, but you should contact them before bringing your donations. If you choose to donate used pillows, ensure they are clean and in good condition.

Community Centers

Some local organizations, like churches and nonprofits, accept used foam pillows and pillow covers to distribute to families in need. Contact your local community center to learn their specific needs and donation guidelines.

Local Daycares

If it’s time to upgrade your child’s room and replace their pillows, daycares can always use them for naptime, storytime, or playtime. Daycares may also be able to repurpose old pillows for craft projects or sensory activities.

Online Donation Sites

Some online donation sites, such as Freecycle and Craigslist, have sections where you can post items you want to donate for free. These platforms often have specific guidelines for donating used items, so check their requirements before donating.

How To Dispose of Pillows

If you can’t find a good way to donate or reuse a pillow, it may be time to learn how to dispose of old pillows. Keep these tips in mind to dispose of the product responsibly and sustainably: 

• Contact a textile recycling facility: Instead of tossing your old pillows into the recycling bin, you can bring them to these recycling facilities. Textile recycling facilities reuse old stuffing as padding, cleaning rags, and insulation, preventing them from ending up in landfills.
• Compost your stuffing: If you have feather pillows, you can remove the filling to place into your compost bin. Other organic materials like wool, 100% cotton, and bamboo will compost. However, you’ll want to avoid composting synthetic fabrics like latex or fiberfill, as doing so may be unsafe.

When It May Be Time To Get Rid of an Old Pillow

You’ll know it’s time to get rid of a pillow under these circumstances or when you start to notice the following signs: 

• It’s more than two years old.
• It feels lumpy and sags often.
• It no longer provides body, head, neck, or lumbar support.
• It emits a bad smell.
• It’s excessively stained.
• It’s torn, and stuffing or feathers are falling out.

Some cushions, like latex pillows, last longer than others, such as fiberfill or other synthetic materials. Depending on the type of pillow, you may need to replace them more often to get the best quality sleep possible.

Upgrade Your Sleep Experience With Purple

If it’s time for a pillow replacement, these tips will point you in the right direction as you consider what to do with old pillows and how to dispose of them responsibly before choosing the best new pillow for you. 

The innovations team behind our pillow collection pored over every detail of every model. Each pillow is inspired by specific sleep struggles (such as neck pain, sleeping hot, and ill-fitting heights) and enhanced with best-in-class tech that delivers the Greatest Sleep Ever Invented™ so every sleeper can find their perfect pillow.

Our GelFlex® Grid pillows provide a breathable, moisture-wicking environment that ups the ante of traditional foam and down-alternative pillows. Whether you enjoy the classic fluff or a memory foam-like feel that doesn’t sleep hot, Purple has the pillow for you. Be sure to find the right pillow size for your needs.

Unsure where to start? Allow us to introduce the Greatest Pillow Ever Invented™, the Purple Harmony™ Pillow. 

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