If you’re like I was, old pillows probably end up shoved in a closet or tossed in the trash. But pillows don’t have to become waste. In fact, most of them still have plenty of use left in them.
Old pillows can be repurposed, donated, recycled, or even turned into something surprisingly useful. I started looking into this when my closet overflowed with lumpy, retired pillows. What I found completely changed how I handle them.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Pillow
I used to overlook my pillow’s condition until I realized it was messing with my sleep. If you’re waking up with neck pain or congestion, your pillow could be the problem.
First, check if it’s lost its shape. I did the fold test: folded the pillow in half, and it didn’t spring back. That told me everything I needed to know. A flat, lifeless pillow can’t support your head or neck properly.
Then, smell it. It might sound unpleasant, but pillows soak up sweat, oils, and moisture. If it still smells musty after a wash, that’s a red flag.
Also, pay attention to allergies. I started sneezing more and didn’t connect it to my pillow at first. Old pillows can trap dust mites and allergens that trigger reactions.
Repurposing Ideas for Old Pillows
I used to throw old pillows straight into the trash. Then I realized they could actually solve a few problems around the house.
Pet Beds
Old pillows make perfect pet beds. I slipped one into an old duvet cover, and my dog instantly loved it. If you don’t have pets, shelters usually accept clean, used pillows.
Floor Cushions
I once needed extra seating for guests and didn’t want to buy more furniture. So I stitched a few old pillows together and covered them with patterned fabric. It turned out to be a hit.
Draft Stoppers
In the winter, I always feel a cold breeze sneaking under the doors. I cut up the pillow filling and stuffed it into long tubes made from old fabric. Then I laid them along the base of the doors.
Kneeling Pads for Gardening
Gardening is peaceful, but my knees always took a beating. I wrapped an old pillow in a plastic bag and then in a towel. It turned into a soft, waterproof kneeling pad. This saved me money and worked better than any store-bought option.
Donating Old Pillows
I used to think no one wanted old pillows. But with a little effort, I found out there are actually several places that will gladly take them.
Animal Shelters
Animal shelters are usually the first and best option. I called a local shelter, and they were more than happy to take my clean, used pillows.
They use them for bedding in kennels and crates. It’s a simple way to give old pillows a second life and help animals stay comfortable.
Homeless Shelters
Some homeless shelters accept gently used pillows too, though this depends on their policies. I always make sure the pillow is clean, odor-free, and still in decent shape before offering it. A quick phone call or email can save time and make sure you’re meeting their donation guidelines.
Donation Guidelines
Cleanliness matters. I wash and dry my pillows thoroughly before donating them.
If the pillow is stained, flattened beyond repair, or has a bad odor, it’s better to repurpose or recycle it instead.
Some thrift stores may also accept pillows, but they’re more likely to take decorative ones rather than bed pillows. When in doubt, always ask first.
Recycling and Composting Options
Recycling and composting are both solid options, if you know what type of pillow you’re dealing with.
Recycling Programs
Most curbside recycling won’t take pillows, but textile recycling centers often do. I found a local facility by searching online and calling a few donation drop-offs.
Some large retail chains and mattress companies also offer take-back programs that accept pillows. You just need to check if they’re running a collection drive or partner with textile recyclers.
Synthetic pillows, like those filled with polyester fiberfill, can sometimes be recycled. I separated the filling from the cover and checked if the fabric matched my local recycling guidelines.
Composting Natural Fillings
If your pillow is filled with feathers, down, wool, or buckwheat hulls, you’re in luck. These natural materials can go into a compost pile. I emptied the contents into my compost bin and made sure to mix them with greens like food scraps or grass clippings.
Feathers and wool take longer to break down, but they eventually decompose and enrich the soil. The pillow cover usually isn’t compostable unless it’s made of 100% cotton or another natural fiber.
I always cut it into smaller pieces first to speed things up.
Recycling or composting takes a little more effort than tossing something out. But once I got into the habit, it became second nature. You keep waste out of landfills and give your old pillow a cleaner exit.
Creative DIY Projects Using Old Pillows
When I had a stack of old pillows taking up closet space, I challenged myself to turn them into something useful. What started as a quick weekend experiment became a go-to way for me to reuse worn-out pillows creatively.
Meditation Cushions
I made a meditation cushion using two old pillows and some leftover fabric. I stitched the pillows together, then wrapped them in a soft, washable cover. Now it’s part of my quiet morning routine. It gives me the support I need and looks good in the corner of the room.
Stuffed Toys
If you’ve got kids around or even just a crafty side, use the pillow stuffing to refill plush toys. I repaired a few of my niece’s worn-out stuffed animals using old filling. It was an easy fix, and she was thrilled to see her toys looking full again.
You can also make your own basic plush toys from scratch. I cut out simple shapes, stitched around the edges, and stuffed them. Perfect for little gifts or decor around the house.
Outdoor Cushions
I used old pillows to make cushions for my patio chairs. I wrapped them in waterproof fabric I picked up at a discount store. They turned out surprisingly stylish and handled light rain just fine.
It felt good knowing I didn’t have to buy new ones.