Best Pillow Protectors

Pillow protectors are designed to extend the life of your pillow by preventing damage and stains from body fluids, makeup, dead skin, and dust mites. Pillow protectors fit beneath the pillowcase and are removable for cleaning. We examine some of the best protectors made with varying features and materials to accommodate a range of needs.

A pillow protector extends your pillow’s life by shielding it from wear and tear. It completely encases the pillow for comprehensive coverage. A zipper closure allows you to remove the protector to clean your pillow. Designed to fit beneath the pillowcase, pillow protectors generally do not change the feel of a pillow. 

We’ll take a closer look at the best pillow protectors on the market that fit a range of budgets and needs. We’ll also examine their construction and performance so you can choose the best pillow protectors for your sleep style.

In-Depth Reviews

What Is a Pillow Protector?

A pillow protector acts as a barrier between your pillow and pillowcase, preventing sweat, oils, and makeup from permanently damaging your pillow. 

Similar to some mattress protectors, pillow protectors completely encase your pillow, reducing the accumulation of dust and allergens. Most pillow protectors feature a side zipper for easy removal and may be made with cotton, silk, polyester, vinyl, or bamboo-derived fabrics. Some include cooling materials designed for hot sleepers, and others feature waterproof materials or an impermeable backing for heavy-duty protection.

We’ll discuss the benefits of pillow protectors, as well as the various types on the market. After explaining their differences, we’ll share tips on how to choose the best pillow protector for you.  

Benefits of a Pillow Protector

If you invest in a high-quality pillow, a pillow protector can extend its durability by minimizing damage from both accidents and daily use. In this way, a pillow protector can offer value to almost any sleeper and may be particularly beneficial for people with allergies and asthma. 

• Defends against allergens: A pillow protector prevents dust mites, dead skin cells, pet dander, and other allergens from building up in your pillow and triggering breathing problems or other allergic reactions. 
• Extends pillow lifespan: Liquids, sweat, oils, and dust can damage the integrity of a pillow over time, resulting in less-than-satisfactory performance. Skin cells and moisture can weigh down fluffy fill, stain the outer shell, and potentially lead to unwanted odors. A pillow protector preserves the material’s integrity and can extend the pillow’s life so you don’t have to replace it as often.
• Protects against stains: Makeup, sweat, and spills can lead to unsightly stains on your pillow as well as internal damage to the fill material. Waterproof protectors are especially effective at preventing your pillow from absorbing moisture that can lead to the growth of mold. A pillow protector with a vinyl or polyurethane backing can provide a solid barrier against liquids. 
• Adds comfort: For certain types of pillow protectors, the material is designed to enhance comfort with a thicker or softer layer that can give extra cushioning to your head and neck.
• Keeps out bed bugs: If you get a pillow protector with a zipper closure, you can seal your pillow inside. This can keep bed bugs from making a home in your pillow. Bed bugs are stressful to deal with, costly to eradicate, and can present a health hazard due to their potential to cause allergic reactions. A pillow protector makes a good complement to a mattress encasement that can prevent bed bugs from hiding out in the seams of your mattress. 
• Prevents feather pokes: If you are using a down pillow, a pillow protector can keep pointy parts of feathers from sticking out and poking you while you’re trying to sleep. 

Pillow Protector vs. Pillowcase

Pillow protectors and pillowcases are both designed to fit over your pillow, but pillowcases don’t offer the same kind of barrier. Pillowcases are open at one end and are made with a single fabric layer that fits loosely around the pillow. In contrast, pillow protectors have a side zipper closure for complete coverage and a somewhat snug fit. Protectors are more robust in their design and prevent your pillow from being stained or damaged. 

When preparing your bedding, you put your pillow inside the pillow protector and then put on the pillowcase as the outermost layer that makes direct contact with your head. 

Types of Pillow Protectors

Pillow protectors are made with different types of materials for varying feels and performance. Although this isn’t an exhaustive list, we take a closer look at some of the most common fabrics.

Cotton

Cotton is popular for its breathability and easy care. High-quality versions such as Egyptian, Supima, or organic cotton offer durability and a soft feel while being machine-washable. Cotton is strong enough to withstand feather quills and can be combined with other materials such as cooling fibers or a waterproof backing.

Silk

Silk is prized for its rich sheen, breathability, and smooth feel. Its slick surface easily slides beneath a pillowcase. Some pillow protectors combine a silk lining with a cotton shell in an effort to blend the benefits of both materials. Silk’s delicate nature requires careful handling and adherence to washing instructions to avoid damage. 

Polyester

A favorite of budget shoppers, polyester is an affordable synthetic material that feels smooth but lacks breathability and longevity. It can have varying finishes and may have a bit of stretchiness to accommodate movement. Polyester is machine-washable and fits easily into a low-maintenance lifestyle. 

Bamboo

Bamboo-derived materials are made from stalks of the bamboo plant that have been chemically processed into fabrics such as lyocell, viscose, and rayon. They have become popular for their temperature regulation and smoothness. Although often more expensive, bamboo-based fabrics create a lightweight and durable pillow protector.

Vinyl

Vinyl pillow protectors are completely waterproof and feature a smooth outer surface that wipes clean. They provide total protection from liquids and body fluids but may feel warmer due to their lack of breathability. Their tendency to crinkle and rustle with movement may not be suitable for sleepers who awaken easily. 

How to Choose a Pillow Protector

There are some important factors to consider when searching for the most suitable pillow protector. Shopping for a pillow protector is different from shopping for pillowcases. The criteria for selecting your ideal pillow protector have to reflect the protector’s specific purpose. We break each element down in detail to help you make an informed decision about which pillow protector is right for you. 

Material

First and foremost, the type of material is a key factor determining the overall feel, performance, and durability of your pillow protector. Care requirements and price points also vary by material. Natural and organic materials may appeal to eco-conscious shoppers and hot sleepers. Synthetic materials offer affordability and ease of care. 

Size

Size is especially important when choosing a pillow protector. If the protector is too tight, it can compress the pillow and its fill. If it’s too loose, it can look floppy. As a result, a snug fit is ideal, and most protectors are designed to match traditional pillow sizes, such as standard, queen, and king. To be sure about the fit, you can check a protector’s dimensions in the product description. 

Price

Because many materials can be used to make them, pillow protectors have a wide price range, which is good news for budget shoppers. It’s advisable to decide what you can reasonably afford before beginning your search. This streamlines your shopping process by narrowing down the options. In general, it’s wise to invest a bit more in a high-quality product that will perform well and last longer. 

Noise

Some waterproof pillow protectors, vinyl ones in particular, tend to make a crinkling noise when you adjust your head’s position. This may be bothersome if you are sensitive to sounds at night. If you are a light sleeper and need a waterproof protector, you may prefer models with a backing layer of vinyl or polyurethane. This construction is designed to provide protection against moisture and liquid spills without the noise. 

Quality Materials

A pillow protector composed of high-quality fibers will last longer and outperform those of lower quality. Fabrics made of natural fibers tend to have the greatest return on investment because of their durability. They are unlikely to pill or wear thin, even with regular washing. That said, there are synthetic and semi-synthetic options that also offer good durability and value.

Waterproofing

Many people choose a waterproof pillow protector for complete protection. This feature preserves the quality of the pillow and is suitable for children, people who often drool or perspire at night, and those who tend to eat or drink in bed. Since impermeable materials can hold in heat, hot sleepers may want to avoid protectors made entirely of vinyl and instead consider models with a thin waterproof backing.

Temperature Regulation

Most pillow protectors are constructed with airflow in mind to prevent heat from building up around the head and neck. People who tend to sleep hot will appreciate protectors made with natural, breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo-derived textiles. Fully waterproof protectors permit less airflow and can retain heat, but in many protectors, a waterproof layer will be surrounded by temperature-regulating materials that prevent overheating.

Warranty and Sleep Trial

Both a sleep trial and a warranty can protect your investment when purchasing a high-quality piece of bedding. Many manufacturers offer a sleep trial for their pillow protectors, which gives you the option to try the protector risk-free. Some companies also include a warranty that covers defects. A warranty that shows the company stands behind their product can give you peace of mind when purchasing a pillow protector.