When was the last time you switched out your pillowcase? If it hasn't been within the last few months, it's time to add this chore to your cleaning routine. Dust mites and mold can accumulate on your pillowcase over time, triggering allergies. Not only that, but pillowcases can absorb the oils, dirt, and dead skin cells that accumulate on your skin and hair while you sleep. An ultra-soft and breathable pillowcase with hypoallergenic properties can help you sleep better, support clear skin, and wake up feeling refreshed and irritation-free. In this article, we’ll cover the best pillowcase materials to help you achieve your goals. We will also touch upon the Best Hypoallergenic Duvet Insert.
Yumerest's cloud-like, fluffy duvets are a valuable tool to help you meet your objectives. These ultra-soft bedding products help you achieve a breathable and fluffy sleep environment that promotes better sleep and clear skin.
Why Pillowcase Material Matters?
Before choosing the correct type of fabric for your pillowcase, it's always better to know the impact of fabric for several reasons:
Comfort
Choosing the right fabric can significantly impact the comfort of your sleep. Imagine sleeping on a rough or scratchy pillow cover after a tiring day. To achieve perfect comfort, it's essential to choose specific types of fabric, such as cotton, bamboo, and silk, as they can help keep you cool throughout the night.
Skin & Health Care
By choosing the right fabric, you can avoid hair fall and skin allergies. Fabrics such as cotton & bamboo are naturally hypoallergenic and can help prevent hair breakage and skin irritation.
Durability
Fabrics such as cotton and silk are more durable and can last longer. Polyester and microfiber fabrics might lead to wear and tear, causing damage, and can change their shape over time. Durability is crucial when choosing the right fabric for your pillowcase.
Breathability
The material needs to be permeable to air to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. Due to these factors, it's crucial to select a pillowcase made from breathable materials such as:
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Cotton
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Linen
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Bamboo
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Silk
The ability to breathe well, regulate temperature, and have moisture-wicking properties makes these materials well-known.
A Closer Look at Pillowcase Fabric Options
You should now be aware of the importance of selecting the right fabric. Now, let's examine specific types of fabric to consider when purchasing your pillowcase.
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What Is the Best Pillowcase Material for Your Skin?
Pillowcases made from high-quality materials tend to perform better than those made from lower-quality materials. One thing to especially keep in mind is durability. While quality materials may cost more, they often have longer lifespans, which can offset their higher cost over time.
Cotton
Cotton pillowcases can have diverse qualities and performance depending on factors like their weave and fiber length. Several types of cotton are frequently found in quality pillowcases.
Egyptian Cotton
Often regarded as the most luxurious form of cotton, Egyptian cotton is made from long fibers, known as long-staple fibers, which create its signature smooth feel. Egyptian cotton is also durable and breathable, making it a premium option for almost any type of sleeper.
One downside is that Egyptian cotton usually comes at a high price point that exceeds many budgets.
Upland Cotton:
Upland cotton is the most commonly used type of cotton in pillowcases. While still offering many of the benefits of other types of cotton, it tends to be coarser, less durable, and more susceptible to pilling over time. That said, upland cotton is more affordable and remains soft and breathable, making it an appealing option for budget- and value-conscious shoppers.
Pima Cotton
Pima cotton is a type of long-staple cotton that offers high-end performance, albeit at a slightly lower price than Egyptian cotton. A type of Pima cotton, known as Supima cotton, is exclusively grown in the United States.
Cotton Pillowcase Pros
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Easy to find
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Plant based
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Affordable to buy
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Maybe all natural
Cotton Pillowcase Cons
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Causes friction
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Creases easily
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Absorbs night cream, etc.
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Not as soft as silk or bamboo
Linen
Linen pillowcases are often considered a luxury option because of their durability and breathability, which is especially appealing for hot sleepers. Linen is a fabric made from the flax plant, and it is typically stiffer than cotton, although it can become softer with time.
Linen can provide an elegant and understated look, but it may require ironing due to its tendency to wrinkle.
Silk
Silk is a premium material for individuals who prefer a smooth, gentle feel when they rest their heads at night. This material’s smoothness prevents friction and irritation with the skin and hair.
Silk is also very breathable, making it great for hot sleepers. The downsides to silk are its high cost and demanding care requirements.
Pros
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Long-lasting
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Utterly luxurious
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Naturally sourced
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Machine washable
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Surprisingly strong
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Incredibly sustainable
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Kind to skin and hair
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Antibacterial & hypoallergenic
Cons
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Most expensive fabric
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Not suitable for vegans
Tencel
Often compared to silk, Tencel is a semi-synthetic fabric that’s made from wood pulp. Like silk, it has a soft feel, but Tencel is typically available at a lower price point. Tencel is still marketed as a luxury product, so shoppers who are on a tight budget may need to consider less expensive options.
Polyester
If you’re looking for an affordable pillowcase that’s easy to maintain, polyester is a compelling choice. A synthetic fabric, polyester is stain-resistant and often available at a very reasonable price. They're durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to care for.
Polyester isn't very breathable, which means you might find yourself waking up hot and sweaty. While it's not the best pillowcase material for temperature regulation, it's a decent option if you're looking for something affordable and low-maintenance.
Bamboo
Pillowcases made from bamboo are known for being lightweight, breathable, and durable. They are often woven to have a smooth feel and shiny appearance. Bamboo-based fabrics, such as bamboo viscose, are sometimes considered eco-friendly; their sustainability depends on how the material is processed and manufactured.
Bamboo Pillowcase Pros
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Vegan friendly
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A natural fabric
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Highly sustainable
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Relatively affordable
Bamboo Pillowcase Cons
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Requires more processing
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Not as smooth as silk
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It can be harder to find
Synthetics
Synthetic satin fabrics are a poor choice for a pillowcase. Such fabrics lack breathability and can therefore be hot and uncomfortable. Friction is also highest with man-made materials. So what about satin, which surely at least provides a smooth surface on which to sleep? Sleek, yes, but also high in static. If you want to wake up with tangled hair and tired skin, then by all means, go for a synthetic pillowcase!
Synthetic Or Satin Pillowcase Pros
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Cheap to buy
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Can look good
Synthetic Or Satin Pillowcase Cons
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Not natural
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Zero breathability
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Unpleasant to sleep on
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Not an eco-conscious choice
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Friction plays havoc with hair & skin
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Static can cause small electric shocks
What to Look For in a Pillowcase
When searching for a pillowcase, several factors should be considered to ensure you find the best option for your needs.
Quality Materials
It may seem obvious, but it’s worth stating that pillowcases made from high-quality materials tend to perform better than those made from lower-quality materials. One thing to especially keep in mind is durability. While quality materials may cost more, they often have longer lifespans, which, over time, can offset their higher cost.
Weave
How a pillowcase is woven has a profound influence on its performance. For individuals seeking a soft pillowcase that drapes well, a satin or sateen weave may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, percale can be a good choice for a pillowcase for individuals who prefer temperature regulation and a more subtle visual appearance.
Feel
Given how much time is spent in bed, it’s natural to want to be comfortable, which generally means a pillowcase with a soft feel. Beyond basic comfort, though, a soft and smooth pillowcase can be gentler on the skin and less likely to damage hair. By contrast, some people prefer a more crisp texture and less drape, and pillowcases made from linen may be a better fit for them.
Breathability
It can be incredibly frustrating to be unable to locate the “cool side of the pillow.” For hot sleepers, this feeling is all too common. A breathable pillowcase can help combat this by wicking moisture, promoting airflow, and preventing heat from getting trapped around the head and neck.
Price
The cost of a pillowcase can vary based on material, thread count, size, and other factors. If you’re shopping on a budget, consider upland cotton or polyester as pillowcases made from these materials are often more affordable.
Size
A pillowcase acts as a comfortable and protective barrier between your head and your pillow. To make this barrier effective, however, you need a pillowcase that fits appropriately. Thankfully, most pillowcases are available in a wide variety of sizes, making it relatively easy to find one that matches your pillow.
Design
For many people, a bed is not only a place to rest but also a vital part of their home's decor. For them, pillowcases need to have visual appeal based on their color, pattern, or texture. Design-minded shoppers should consider their existing decor and look for a pillowcase that is a perfect complement to their sheets or serves as an accent that enhances their bedroom’s style.
Durability
While some wear and tear is inevitable, sure pillowcases are more durable than others. Materials like high-quality cotton, Tencel, and linen tend to withstand many washes. With any material, though, following proper cleaning instructions is essential to avoiding premature damage.
Ease of Care
Washing a pillowcase is an essential part of maintaining a hygienic bedroom. Some types of pillowcases are easier to clean and dry than others. Fabrics like polyester and cotton tend to have the simplest care requirements, whereas silk requires more delicate and time-intensive handling.
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11 Examples of Great Pillowcases for Amazing Sleep
1. L.L.Bean Premium Egyptian Percale Sheet Collection
When it comes to cooling pillowcases, breathable materials like cotton and linen reign supreme. The L.L. Bean Premium Egyptian Cotton Percale Pillowcases boast a classic percale weave that promotes airflow for a cooler sleeping experience.
They’re soft and durable, making them perfect for hot sleepers and anyone else who wants a quality pillowcase that will withstand years of use.
2. California Design Den Cotton Pillowcases
For a more budget-friendly option, the California Design Den 400 Thread Count Cotton Pillowcases offer a comfortable sleeping surface that looks and feels way more expensive than their price tag. The envelope closure keeps the pillow in place, covering it and making this an excellent choice for restless sleepers.
3. Feather & Stitch 100% Cotton Pillow Cases
Nothing beats the reliably cozy feel of cotton bedding. The Feather & Stitch Cotton Percale Pillowcases are constructed with a 300-thread-count cotton percale weave for ultimate comfort.
The fabric offers the crispness you’d expect of a percale weave with a medium weight. While certainly not as soft as our best overall pick, the L.L. Bean Premium Egyptian Cotton Percale Pillowcase, we appreciated the substantial and sturdy construction of the Feather & Stitch pillowcase.
4. Rest Evercool+ Cooling Pillowcases
The Rest Evercool+ Cooling Pillowcases are constructed from a unique material that’s similar in stretch to a bathing suit, yet they’re thin and silky. The pillowcase feels cool to the touch and retains its coolness after use, making it an ideal choice for hot and sweaty sleepers.
5. Bamboo Bliss Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set
Pillowcases with cooling properties can be highly beneficial for individuals who tend to overheat at night and seek a comfortable, sweat-free sleeping experience.
The Bamboo Bliss Resort Bamboo Collection Pillowcases are another excellent choice for those seeking a material that helps regulate their temperature without compromising comfort.
6. Brooklinen Washed Linen Pillowcases
The distinct texture of linen may not be everyone’s preference when shopping for pillowcases, but if you love the breezy look linen brings to a bed, the Washed Linen Pillowcases from Brooklinen are a great choice.
They’re available in many colors, and we love the envelope closure, which gives them the appearance of shams rather than traditional sleeping pillows.
7. Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
If you’re looking for an extra luxurious pillowcase, you may want to consider silk options. Silk’s texture makes it a great cooling fabric for hot sleepers who don’t love the static of a full silk sheet set but want their head and neck to be extra cool.
We have not had the opportunity to test this silk pillowcase in the lab, but we are currently testing it at home and will update with more firsthand experience soon.
8. Lands’ End Flannel Pillowcases
A cozy pillowcase for winter is just as crucial as cozy sheets. The Comfy Super Soft Cotton Flannel Pillowcases from Lands’ End certainly lived up to their name during our testing. The pillowcase material is thick, and it’s well-constructed too.
9. Sweet Zzz Bamboo Pillowcase Set
Viscose derived from bamboo is prized for its smooth hand-feel, so sleeping on these pillowcases shouldn’t cause too many lines or wrinkles. A sateen weave adds to the fabric’s silkiness, while envelope closures hold your pillow in place throughout the night.
10. Cozy Earth Bamboo Pillowcases
For those who prefer a softer pillowcase material over crisper fabrics like linen or cotton, viscose derived from bamboo should suit your needs. Viscose glides gently over the skin, and Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Pillowcases are crafted with a sateen weave to enhance this quality further.
Despite the exceptionally smooth feel, the pillowcases shouldn’t pill with subsequent laundry cycles. Cozy Earth’s product warranty considers this a defect.
11. Buffy Breeze Pillowcases
Tencel is one of the few bedding materials that approaches the softness and durability of natural silk. The material is also more affordable, making it a good option for budget-conscious shoppers who want the look of silk at a more approachable price point.
The Buffy Breeze Pillowcases are made from 100% Tencel, which glides smoothly over the skin without any coarseness. A sateen weave further enhances this quality to create a luxuriously smooth finish.
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Get Deep Sleep Every Night with Our Cloud-like Soft Fluffy Duvets
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet transforms your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary. The PureFlow Duvet envelops you in cloud-like softness with its exceptional 5kg filling, which promotes more profound, more restorative sleep.
This premium Canadian duvet stands apart from competitors like Happy Fluffy Cloud and Hush through its ethically sourced northern down that perfectly regulates temperature year-round, never too hot, just perfectly cozy. If you want to elevate your sleep experience, Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet is here to help.
What Makes the PureFlow Duvet So Special?
Crafted by expert artisans using techniques perfected since 1946, our duvets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver an unparalleled sleeping experience. The PureFlow bundle, featuring our heavenly duvet, elegant cover, and calming sleep mist, creates a complete sleep sanctuary that helps busy professionals and parents finally achieve the rejuvenating rest they deserve. Get a deep sleep every night with our soft, cloud-like fluffy duvets.
