Pillowcases

What to consider when choosing pillowcases

There are a few things to consider when choosing pillowcases.

• Material

  Cotton pillowcases are the most commonly used. They're soft, durable, breathable and easy to care for. However, there are options you may benefit more from, such as bamboo cotton blends, which have increased breathability and feel even smoother against the skin. Bamboo cotton pillowcases also have natural bacteria-resistant properties and moisture-wicking properties, making them great for anyone that tends to sweat more during periods of sleep.

  Linen pillowcases are made from flax plants and are known for their breathability. They're also quite durable, but they can wrinkle easily and also tend to be warmer to the touch than cotton or bamboo-cotton pillowcase options.

  Silk pillowcases are the most expensive option, but they're also the most luxurious. They're smooth and gentle on your skin, and they can help keep your hair from tangling. However, silk pillowcases often need to be dry-cleaned and are also considerably more delicate than other fabrics. Satin pillowcases are made from synthetic fibres and have a glossy finish, and are typically used as a substitute for silk. They're smooth and soft, but they can be slippery and difficult to keep in place. As a synthetic fibre, satin pillowcases also retain heat and aren't as breathable.

•  Size

  The second thing to consider is size. However, if you have a king-size or queen-size bed and have queen-size pillows or king-size pillows to match, you'll need to buy larger pillowcases. Don't forget that decorative pillows like European pillows will also need European-size pillowcases of their own.

•  Colour or pattern 

  Finally, you'll need to decide on a colour or pattern. Pillowcases are available in a wide range of colours and patterns, so you're sure to find one that suits your taste. These can be used for a second set of pillows on your bed to add depth and styling. You can still use these secondary pillows for support when you're sleeping, such as keeping one underneath your knees if you sleep on your back for lower back support. 

What are some popular pillowcase trends?

Here are six popular pillowcase trends to consider:

• Envelope closures

  Envelope-close pillowcases are the most popular option, as they are simple to make and are relatively good at keeping your pillow from slipping out during use. 

  Button closures are another less common option that is easy to use and offers a little more restraint to keep your pillow tucked inside. Buttons require a little more time to manufacture and also leave slight gaps, exposing your pillow inside to air, dust & bacteria.

• Tie-up closures

  Tie-up closure pillowcases are also very similar to button closures, which are less common for the same reasons. They require more time to create and offer less coverage than an envelope or zipper closure. Some people can also find the ties sticking up into the air to be irritating and disruptive to sleep.

• Zipper closures

  Zipper closure pillowcases are somewhat common and one of the most convenient options. They are effortless to close and provide maximum coverage for your pillow inside, keeping it snug and protected. Zipper closures can be unpopular due to some level of interaction with the cold metal tag on the zip against the skin throughout the night, but this is generally avoidable if the zip is placed in the top right or left corner.

•  High thread count

  High-thread count pillowcases are generally quite popular because there is a commonly misunderstood association with quality. High thread count pillowcases can certainly be high quality, but there are often more factors that contribute to the durability, softness and breathability of bed linen. We recommend looking at the item's individual description for more information as to the feel of the pillowcase, which affects you directly. Treatments like stone washing and chemical washes, as well as fibre sourcing, processing and yarn construction, can be more important than the thread count number.

•  Silk or satin

  Silk and satin pillowcases are popular because they're gentle on your skin and hair and can cause fewer tangles in your hair and impressions on your skin. Some studies suggest they offer anti-ageing properties. However, this is largely unsupported.