How to clean your pillows—they're full of dead bugs

You probably wash your bed sheets and pillowcases about once a week—on a rare occasion, maybe every two weeks. But has it ever occurred to you to wash your pillows?

Perhaps this tidbit will be the encouragement you need: They're grosser than you could possibly imagine. To put a finer point on it, they're ideal breeding grounds for everything from dust mites to the flu.

Buying new pillows every week would strain any budget. But check a pillow's care label and you might find welcome news: Your pillows are machine-washable.

Experts recommend washing your pillows every six months to prolong their lifespan. Here's what you need to know.

How to wash pillows

1. Check the wash instructions on your pillows' tags to make sure they can go in the washing machine. Instructions vary by material and even by manufacturer.

2. Remove pillowcases and pillow protectors.

3. Put the pillows in the washing machine. If you have a top-loading machine, wash at least two pillows at a time to keep the washer balanced.

4. Add a small amount of laundry detergent to the washing machine.

5. Use warm water on the gentle cycle, unless the pillows' care instructions say otherwise.

6. Move the clean pillows to the dryer with a couple of tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff them. If you're in the market, we recommend the Budieggs wool dryer balls, which last for at least 10,000 loads.

7. Tumble dry on low heat. Wait until the pillows are completely dry before remaking your bed.

How to wash memory foam pillows

If you own a memory foam pillow, chances are you'll have to stick to spot-cleaning. The process is similar to cleaning a memory foam mattress.

1. Remove your memory foam pillow from the pillowcase.

2. Use a handheld vacuum to remove dust and other debris.

3. Tackle any stains with a lint-free cloth and a gentle cleaning agent, such as baking soda or a diluted laundry soap solution.

4. Let the pillow air dry, and make sure it's completely dry before placing it back on your bed. The material traps moisture, which leads to mold.

When is it time to buy new bed pillows?

No pillow is meant to last forever. Some stains won't wash out, or maybe your aching neck and sore back demand a change. Sleep experts suggest replacing a pillow every few years, but these questions can help you decide when to upgrade:

• Did you buy your pillow more than two years ago?
• Do your head and neck feel unsupported?
• Do you wake up sneezing or congested every day?
• Is the pillow lumpy or losing its shape?
• Do you have to fluff your pillow for support?
• If you fold the pillow in half, does it stay folded?

What pillow should you buy?

Did too many of those questions resonate? Then it's time for a new pillow. Of course, your purchase will depend on your sleep position—for example, the best pillow for side sleepers isn't necessarily the best pillow for stomach sleepers. Your budget and the material you're after will factor in, too. But here are some of the best pillows we've tested.