Bill Bryson's book, "A Short History of Nearly Everything," highlights surprising facts about everyday items, like pillows. He points out that many people may not realize that the average pillow is about six years old, which can lead to some shocking hygiene concerns. Over time, a significant portion of a pillow's weight can become made up of various organic materials, including shed skin, living mites, and their waste products.

This interesting detail serves as a reminder of how often we overlook the buildup of dust and allergens in our homes. Regularly replacing and cleaning pillows can help improve sleep quality and hygiene, making it an important consideration for overall health.