Symptoms
- Pillow doesn't spring back after being sat against
- Filling feels clumped in one area
- Pillow looks noticeably smaller than when new
Likely causes
- CommonCompressed polyester or down filling from regular useFiber filling naturally compresses and loses loft with time and pressure.
- CommonFilling shifted or clumped inside the insertFill can migrate to one section, especially in cheaper inserts without baffling.
- PossibleInsert too small for the decorative coverA mismatched insert size will always look flat or loose in a larger cover.
What to do
- Fluff and knead the pillow by hand regularly to redistribute filling and restore loft.
- For down or down-alternative pillows, toss them in the dryer on low heat with a couple of clean tennis balls for a few minutes to refluff.
- Open a seam or zipper if present and add extra polyester fiberfill to bulk up a thin insert.
- If the insert itself is worn out, replace it with a new one sized about 2 inches larger than the cover for a fuller look.
- Rotate and flip pillows regularly to prevent one side from compressing more than the other.
- Store pillows properly (not compressed under other items) when not in use to help maintain shape.
Tools and parts
- Polyester fiberfill (if adding fill)
- Dryer (for refluffing certain materials)
Pillow insert replacementSearch: “throw pillow insert replacement”
When to call a pro
Not typically needed, though a dry cleaner can professionally refresh down pillows that don't respond to home fluffing methods.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.