How to Dispose of Pillows: Reuse, Recycle, or Trash

How to dispose of pillows is mostly a choice between reuse and the trash. Used bed pillows are rarely accepted by thrift stores for hygiene reasons, and most curbside recycling programs will not take them. Clean pillows can sometimes go to animal shelters or textile recyclers, and old ones have plenty of second uses around the house. Worn-out pillows that cannot be reused go in the trash, preferably bagged.

When it is time to replace a pillow

Pillows lose support over time. Common signs: lumps or flat spots, stains that do not wash out, a smell that lingers after washing, or waking up with a stiff neck. A simple test for many fiberfill and feather pillows is to fold it in half; if it stays folded instead of springing back, it is worn out.

Donation is limited

Most thrift stores and donation centers do not accept used bed pillows. Some do accept new pillows still in their packaging, and some take decorative throw pillows in good condition. Homeless shelters and crisis centers usually need new bedding rather than used, so ask before dropping anything off.

Animal shelters and rescues

Many animal shelters and rescues welcome clean pillows, blankets, and towels for bedding. Call first, since some only want certain items or have plenty already. Wash and dry the pillows, and skip any with tears that could leak stuffing.

Textile recycling

Some textile recycling programs and drop bins accept pillows along with clothing and linens, as long as they are clean and dry. Others exclude pillows because of the stuffing. Check the program’s accepted list. Our guide to discarding worn-out textiles covers what these programs usually want.

Second uses at home

• Pet beds: stuff two old pillows into a large pillowcase or a duvet cover.
• Floor cushions for kids or reading nooks.
• Stuffing for sewing projects, draft stoppers, or homemade dog toys.
• Packing material when moving fragile items.
• Garden kneeling pads wrapped in a waterproof bag.

Throwing pillows away

Pillows that cannot be reused go in the regular trash. Bag them so stuffing does not escape and blow out of the cart or truck. If you have a lot, such as after clearing a rental or a large household, they may count as bulky waste; ask your hauler, or include them in a load to the transfer station.

Special cases

• Bed bugs: seal infested pillows in plastic, label them, and put them out on collection day. Do not donate or give them away.
• Memory foam and latex: these do not compress well and can take up a lot of space. Cut them into smaller pieces if your cart is tight.
• Feather and down: some specialty programs and manufacturers take down for recycling. Most local programs do not.

How to dispose of pillows FAQ

Can pillows be recycled?

Rarely curbside. Some textile recycling programs accept clean pillows, and a few manufacturers take back down. Most worn pillows go in the trash.

Can I donate used pillows?

Most thrift stores and shelters do not accept used bed pillows. Animal shelters often welcome clean ones for bedding.

How often should pillows be replaced?

It varies by type, but many pillows need replacing every one to two years, or when they stay flat, lumpy, or smelly after washing.

Do pillows go in the trash or bulky pickup?

A few pillows can go in regular trash, bagged. Large amounts may count as bulky waste.

What should I do with pillows that have bed bugs?

Seal them in plastic, label the bag, and put them out for trash pickup. Do not donate or give them away.

The bottom line

How to dispose of pillows comes down to condition. Clean, usable pillows can go to animal shelters, textile programs that accept them, or new jobs around the house. Worn, stained, or flat pillows go in the trash, bagged to keep stuffing contained, and infested ones should be sealed and labeled.