People often find themselves with extra pillows that don’t fit on their beds or couches. These extra pillows need to be stored somewhere, but where is the best place to keep them? There are a few common options people use for storing spare pillows.
Closets
One popular place to store extra pillows is in a closet. Closets provide an out-of-the-way place to tuck pillows so they don’t take up space in the main rooms of the house. Pillows can be stacked or folded on closet shelves or stuffed into empty corners on the floor. Closets are a convenient spot because they are easy to access when needed but keep the pillows hidden when not in use.
Some things to keep in mind when storing pillows in a closet:
– Make sure the closet is dry and cool. Heat and moisture can damage pillows over time.
– Store pillows in breathable containers like cotton sacks or mesh bags. This prevents mildew from developing.
– Vacuum storage bags are another option for compressing pillows to take up less space.
– Arrange heavier household items like sweaters and blankets on lower shelves and stack lightweight pillows up high.
– Use shelf dividers, cubes or bins to neatly organize pillows and contain them in their space.
Under the Bed
Under the bed is another common place for storing spare pillows. This keeps them totally out of sight but still easily accessible. Pillows slide conveniently underneath the bed skirt when not in use. Just make sure to store them in bags or boxes to protect from dust and dirt that accumulates under the bed.
Some tips for utilizing under bed storage for pillows:
– Use plastic bins or storage boxes that can be easily pulled out and opened when needed.
– Label containers so you know which pillows are inside without opening.
– Make sure pillows are completely dry before storing under the bed.
– Vacuum under the bed frequently to remove dust, dirt and bugs.
– Rotate pillows from under bed storage to avoid crushing and flattening.
– Store pillows towards the head of the bed within reach for grabbing when needed.
Guest Bedroom Closets
For those with an extra bedroom, storing spare pillows in the guest room closet is convenient. This keeps them in proximity for when company comes to stay over. It also clears up space in the main bedroom closet or under the master bed.
Tips for storing pillows in a guest room closet:
– Use organizers like cubes, shelves or hanging racks to neatly arrange pillows.
– Place pillows in breathable cotton or mesh bags before storing.
– Store pillows above and below any guest linens or blankets to maximize vertical space.
– Label bags or containers by pillow size – standard, queen, king – for easy identification.
– Only store clean, dry pillows to avoid musty smells in the guest room.
– Rotate regularly with pillows used in main bedrooms to redistribute wear and tear.
Storage Chests
Free-standing storage chests or ottomans can also be used for housing spare pillows. Look for storage pieces that are moisture-proof and have a sealable lid to keep out dust. Chests with locking mechanisms will also keep pillows secure and contain pet hair or little hands from getting into the pillows.
Some tips for utilizing storage chests for extra pillows:
– Place in a guest room, at the end of a bed or in a living room for multifunctional storage.
– Look for chests upholstered in a fabric that matches room decor.
– Make sure the chest is big enough to hold bulkier pillows like euro sham or body pillow sizes.
– Stack pillows evenly and avoid overstuffing to prevent lid damage.
– Store pillows in cotton pillowcases or bags before placing in chest.
– Use cedar blocks or natural odor absorbers if the chest has a less airtight seal.
Attic Storage
For those with an attic space, this can provide longer term storage for pillows not in frequent use. The dry environment of an attic prevents mildew growth that can happen in basements. Just make sure pillows are completely clean and dry before transferring to attic storage.
Tips for storing pillows in the attic:
– First store pillows in airtight plastic bins or trunks to protect from critters, dirt and moisture.
– Label containers by content and date to track how long pillows have been stored.
– Store pillow bins up off the attic floor on shelves or pallets to prevent water damage.
– Place heavy items on lower attic shelves and lighter pillow containers up high.
– Use breathable fabric like cotton or mesh for pillow bags before placing in storage bins.
– Store pillows in attic for 6 months max before rotating with used pillows.
Garage Storage
The garage can work for storing spare pillows if they are properly protected. The right storage containers and placement within the garage are key to keeping pillows clean and undamaged.
Tips for utilizing garage storage:
– Store pillows in waterproof plastic bins elevated off the floor to prevent water damage.
– Place in areas less prone to moisture like on upper shelves or at the back of the garage.
– Keep pillow storage bins away from gasoline, chemicals, tools that could rip or puncture.
– Store pillows in breathable, washable cotton or microfiber bags before placing in bins.
– Avoid storing pillows near exhaust fans or appliances that vibrate to prevent cramming and flattening.
– Inspect pillows monthly and check for signs of moisture or pests.
Unused Rooms
For those with extra rooms like a basement, playroom or home office not in regular use, storing pillows in this unused space can be convenient. The pillows will be out of the way but easy to access when needed.
Tips for storing pillows in unused rooms:
– Place pillows bins or chests along walls, under tables or on top of shelves and cabinets.
– Use lidded plastic bins, trunks or shelving units to corral and contain pillows.
– Store pillows in breathable, washable fabric bags before placing in containers.
– Keep spare pillows separate from other items stored in unused rooms like holiday decorations.
– Store pillows elevated off cement floors if in basements to prevent moisture damage.
– Only use dry, clean rooms kept at regular household temperature and humidity.
Outdoor Storage
Outdoor storage like sheds, garages or covered porches can also house spare pillows with the right precautions. Make sure pillows are thoroughly dry and kept in waterproof storage bins. The main risks with outdoor pillow storage are moisture, pests, dust and dirt.
Tips for storing pillows outdoors:
– Choose storage bins that are completely airtight and waterproof. Look for gaskets and rubber sealed lids.
– Elevate bins off concrete floors using pallets or shelves to prevent water damage.
– Store pillow bins in areas protected from rain, flooding and sprinklers.
– Place mothballs or cedar blocks in containers to repel pests. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
– Use washable fabric bags for pillows before placing in bins. This adds an extra layer to protect from dust and debris.
– Avoid storing pillows outdoors long-term or in sheds with poor temperature control.
Self-Storage Units
Renting a climate controlled self-storage unit provides another option for storing substantial pillow reserves. The dry, pest-free environment keeps pillows protected from damage while freeing up space at home.
Tips for storing pillows in self-storage units:
– Select a small 5×5 unit with climate controls to prevent moisture and mildew.
– Store pillows tightly packed in lidded plastic bins elevated on pallets or shelves.
– Place bins along the back perimeter of the unit for easier access.
– Line bins with washable cotton pillowcases or bags before adding pillows.
– Label each bin clearly with the contents and date pillows were stored.
– Inspect pillows every 1-2 months for signs of dampness or pest infestations.
– Avoid long term storage of more than 6 months before rotating pillows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While there are many options for storing spare pillows, there are some mistakes to avoid no matter where you choose to store them:
– Don’t use non-breathable plastic bags which can cause mildew.
– Avoid storing pillows near heat sources, appliances or fans that could flatten or damage them.
– Don’t overstuff storage containers which strains seams and prevents the pillows from lofting back up.
– Don’t leave pillows directly on concrete or damp floors which leads to mildew growth.
– Don’t use cardboard boxes or non-lidded bins which allows dust and pests to get in.
– Avoid long term storage of more than 6 months without rotating or airing out pillows.
– Don’t use harsh chemicals or mothballs which can react with pillow materials and cause damage.
Signs Your Pillows Need to be Replaced
No matter how carefully you store spare pillows, they will eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs it’s time to throw pillows away and get new ones:
– Visible yellowing or brown stains on the pillow surface.
– Pillow has a musty, sour or funky smell.
– You can feel lumps or bald spots where filling has shifted.
– Pillow has lost significant loft and doesn’t spring back up when compressed.
– You see signs of damage like ripped seams, exposed filling or cracks in foam.
– Pillow feels extra heavy or dense compared to a new pillow.
– Pillow shows signs of pest infestation like bed bugs, mold or mildew.
– Down or fiberfill pillows are leaking feathers through the pillowcase.
– Foam pillows get brittle, crumble or break apart when folded.
How Often Should You Replace Pillows?
On average, pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years for optimal comfort and support. Here are some general guidelines on pillow replacement timing:
– Down pillows: Replace every 2-3 years
– Memory foam pillows: Replace every 2-3 years
– Latex pillows: Replace every 3-4 years
– Polyester fiber pillows: Replace every 1-2 years
– Feather pillows: Replace every 2-3 years
– Microbead pillows: Replace every 1-2 years
– Buckwheat pillows: Replace every 1-2 years
– Wool pillows: Replace every 2-3 years
Signs of wear like lumps, odor, and lack of support mean a pillow should be replaced even if it hasn’t reached the end of its average lifespan. Regardless of pillow material, use the two year mark as a cue to evaluate its condition.
Conclusion
There are pros and cons to various options for storing extra pillows when they are not in everyday use. Closets, under beds, guest rooms, storage chests and unused spaces in the home provide convenient access when needed. For more permanent storage, attics, garages, outdoor sheds or storage units keep pillow reserves clean and protected.
No matter where spare pillows are stored, be sure to use breathable storage containers raised off damp floors and avoid dust, dirt, moisture and pests. Rotate pillows every 6 months and check frequently for signs its time to replace them. With some strategic planning, you can easily store extra pillows until you need them.
