We sleep in our beds for almost 3000 hours a year, so it's safe to say that our duvets and pillows are getting well used. Over the years our bedding gets dirty, collects dust mites and will eventually need replacing, but when's the right time do it? We have all the need to know info on when to change your duvets and pillows, and how to make them last that little bit longer.

When to replace your duvet?
You should replace your duvet when it starts to feel limp, the filling isn't as evenly spread or the filling starts to come through the casing. As your duvet rests on top of you at night, rather than taking any of your weight, it should last longer than your pillows. A duvet should last at least 5 years, but a good quality duvet, with high quality filling should last at least twice that.

How to make your duvet last longer?
With your bedding, the higher the quality the longer it's going to last. Making sure you do the research on how your duvet is made, could make all the difference, and even improve how well you sleep.

Look for a duvet with a cotton cover, this will make the duvet more breathable, keeping you cooler and keeping the duvet cleaner. A higher thread count case also helps your duvet last, this stops any stray feathers from seeping out. A duvet with a baffle wall construction will last much longer than one without. This method of filling creates small sewn pockets within the duvet, so your filling stays firmly in one place. Your duvet will look and feel much fuller and more evenly filled.

When to replace pillows?
If you take proper care of your pillows, they can last a few years. A natural filled pillow will likely last longer than a hollowfibre filled pillow, as they are slightly less likely to develop lumps and bumps. If you suffer from allergies then it's always best to replace your pillows more often, especially if you start to notice that you're suffering more frequently.

Replace your pillows when you start to notice they're sitting flat (even after a good wash). A pillow that's lost its shape will start to give you neck pain (and that means less time snoozing).

How to make your pillow last longer?
The best way to make sure you get the longest life from your pillows is by taking care of them and washing them properly. A pillow protector is the easiest way to do this, and means your pillows will stay cleaner for longer. They pop onto your pillow, underneath your pillowcase. Bedtime beauty and hair products often contain oils that can go straight through your pillowcase, onto your pillow. A protector will stop anything from reaching your pillow, and affecting your lovely filling.

Washing your pillows regularly also helps keep them fresher for longer. Pillows should be washed every 6 months. Always check the washing instructions, and if you're in any doubt, it's best to take them to a professional cleaner. When you're making your bed, plump up your pillows to keep them feeling fuller.