The "tea bag pillow" phenomenon has sparked considerable debate on social media, with many users defending their beloved but discolored pillows.
This trend, brought to light by a viral post, reveals a surprising attachment to these yellowed sleep companions. Why do so many people cherish their old pillows, and what are the implications for sleep quality and hygiene?
On social media, a viral image comparing a brand-new pillow to an older one gained attention.
A social media user, known as @effy6stonem, shared an image of her new pillow alongside her old, much yellower one.
Her caption read, "I got a new pillow, have to say goodbye to my old one :( Mom saw it and got mad." This post quickly garnered attention and divided opinions among users.
The post quickly went viral and sparked debate on social media.
In the comment section, reactions varied widely.
Some users expressed disgust, while others found humor in the pillow’s appearance.
Some offered practical advice, reminding them that pillows need washing. Yet, a surprising majority voted in favor of keeping the old pillow, citing unparalleled comfort and nostalgic value.
One person said: The amount of people okay with this is wild. Dead skin, generic dust that forms, the stains on it, all where you rest your face of a night, dread to think what ecosystems have formed and are growing in that
A second wrote: Going to bed with wet or damp hair and sweating. Can't be helped
While a third commented: Nope, nasty af. I wash them regularly and if i see a stain it goes in the garbage.
Another added: Not me, they get a quilted cover and as soon as any discolouration occurs they get thrown out or given to the cat to sit on. The real trick is putting a pillow proctor under the pillowcase.
Someone else said: If you don't have a pillow like this you AINT. LIVIN. A pillow of this caliber is like a fine wine; only gets better with age and night sweat.
This is not the first time the yellow pillow has sparked debate on social media.
Previously, a man named Cam faced his girlfriend’s ire after revealing his own cherished yellow pillow on social media.
In a post that went viral on X, a user who goes by @largemotorcycle gained attention.
The post read: 'Gf is mad at me because I have revealed to her The Yellow Pillow. Fellas, I’m sure you all know that this thing is magic.'
The post showed a stock photo of a pillow, not his own, but he added: 'It’s not my fault the pillow is yellow and bestows upon me the most peaceful slumber.'
However, his confession led to an outpouring of support from other men who swear by their similarly stained pillows for a restful night’s sleep.
Why do pillows turn yellow?
According to Lauren Fountain, a certified sleep science coach from the Sleep Foundation, yellow stains on pillows result from various factors, primarily the accumulation of moisture from sweat, drool, wet hair, and skincare products. These stains, while unsightly, can also harbor bacteria and allergens, potentially affecting sleep quality and health.
To prevent pillows from turning yellow, fountain is recommended.
Using a pillow protector: "A pillow protector is a sealed layer of fabric that goes between your pillowcase and your pillow. It acts as an additional barrier against moisture."
Investing in high-quality pillowcases: "Pillowcases with better construction are more likely to keep moisture away from your pillow, slowing down the yellowing process."
A stock photo of a yellow pillow sparked a wave of support from other men who admitted to having similar attachments to their discolored pillows.
This trend highlights a broader, perhaps humorous, cultural acceptance of the 'yellow pillow' as a symbol of comfort and longevity.
