Pillow covers and protectors are staples of a healthy sleep environment. They provide not only protection for the pillow but stop dust mites and can even halt bed bugs.
Our material below provides insight into the basics and more when evaluating which pillow cover is right for you. From waterproof covers to allergen barriers and cooling, there are several choices on the market.
Consideration To Buy A Throw Pillow Cover
Pillow covers are offered a wide range of options. When purchasing a pillow protector, consider the following features:
Size
The size of the pillow will determine what size pillow protector is needed. Measure the pillow first, then purchase a protector that will best cover the pillow without excess material.
Features
Determine the benefits most important to you when selecting pillow protection. Consider features like waterproofing, cooling fabrics, guarding against bed bugs, and wear and tear prevention. Hypoallergenic pillow cases are ideal for sensitive sleepers who may be allergic to certain fabrics, dust mites or chemicals and pesticides — look for protectors that feature Tencel or bamboo.
Comfort
Pillow covers with thick or layered fabrics can add soft comfort to your pillow’s surface. Consider fabrics like jacquard knits and plush velour, which offer a thick pillow layer, and also keep you warmer. If you prefer a cold sleep climate, consider a cooling pillow cover.
Breathability
In order to enjoy cool pillow cases all night long, choose pillow protectors that allow a pillow to breathe. This guarantees efficient airflow, prevents heat from being trapped, and provides a cooler night sleep. Pillow protectors with polyurethane backing allow more airflow and cooling than their vinyl counterparts.
Throw Pillow Covers
There are two different ways to buy decorative throw pillows, you can either
a) buy the pillow with a sewn-on cover or
b) buy throw pillow covers and throw pillow inserts separately.
There are pros and cons to each.
Buying throw pillow covers and inserts separately gives you more freedom to customize your throws and change them up with the time of year. Buying your throw pillows this way also makes them easier to maintain, as many throw pillow covers are machine washable. When it comes time for a refresher, you can just unzip the cover from the insert and throw it in the washer and dryer.
Different Types of Pillowcases
· Materials:
Like sheets, pillowcases come in a variety of materials and weaves. Cotton and microfiber are common materials, with cotton coming in a variety of weaves, including percale and sateen. Percale is a weave that is crisp, cool, and soft. Sateen is a weave with a smooth sheen, and soft feel. Microfiber is known for its durability, stain resistance, and cost efficiency.
· Temperature Regulation:
If you sleep hot or live in a warm climate, temperature regulation of the fabric may be a consideration. Fabric made from cotton is naturally breathable and airy, and percale cotton sheets are exceptionally breathable.
· Overall Look:
Finding the best pillowcase for you will also depend on the color, pattern, hem design, and closure you desire. Some sleepers prefer an envelope pillow closure which ensures the pillow will stay inside the case without slipping. Some pillowcases come in neutral tones while others have detailed or colorful patterns.
Pillow Cover Fabrics
Pillow covers are available in a wide assortment of fabrics. The following is a list of the most popular fabrics and their benefits:
Cotton Pillow Covers
Cotton pillow covers use natural material that’s breathable and soft, for a comfortable night’s sleep. Cotton fabric is available without chemical and pesticide treatments, which is ideal for those with skin sensitivities.
The largest drawbacks to cotton pillow covers are that they do not wick moisture, they provide refuge to allergens like dust mites, and the cotton fibers are not as smooth as other natural fibers, like Tencel.
Polyester Pillow Covers
Polyester is a durable textile that’s easy to wash, maintain and can be less expensive than other pillow protectors. Polyester is available in a variety of textures and styles and can be stretchy and flexible for comfort and conformity
Bamboo Pillow Covers
Bamboo pillows are popular due to the natural benefits of soothing, comforting bamboo fabric. Much like Tencel, the fabric on bamboo pillows is moisture-wicking and inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Bamboo pillows allow sensitive sleepers to rest soundly since bamboo is a naturally hypoallergenic pillow cover.
Cooling Pillow Covers
Cooling pillow covers utilize specialty engineered fabrics that create an amplified cooling sensation while sleep, perfect for hot sleepers or those who prefer a crisp, cold sleep climate. Turn any pillow into a cold surface pillow with a cooling pillow case or cooling pillow protector.
Pillowcase Care and Maintenance
Pillowcase, like sheets, should be washed every one to two weeks. However, some prefer to wash pillowcases as often as every few days. As opposed to washing sheets or blankets, pillowcases are easy to launder given their small size.
Pillowcases aren’t large enough to need their own washing load and can easily be added to another load of laundry.
The washing instructions depend heavily on the material. Always consult the washing instructions on the individual pillowcase to ensure the maximum lifespan. Most pillowcases can be machine washed in either cold or warm water.
A low dryer setter for most is suitable, as is line drying. Some pillowcase materials, like percale, are prone to wrinkling and can be ironed on a low setting.
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