Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Pillowcase
A quality sleeping experience is heavily dependent on large elements like a mattress, but even smaller aspects like pillowcases can make a big impact on sleep quality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what buyers should know before purchasing pillowcases. Different fabrics and weaves contribute to how the pillowcase feels. To find the pillowcases that suit you best, consider the material, price, sizing, and color options available.
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.
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.
What Else Should You Consider When Buying Pillowcases?
Here are a few more points to consider before buying pillowcases.
- If cost is a factor, look for pillowcases made of synthetic materials like polyester microfiber. Most microfiber and polyester is stain and wrinkle resistant, holds up well with use and washings, and isn’t prone to color fading.
- If you already have sheets you like, you may be looking for pillowcases to match. Many companies offer pillowcases in a variety of colors and patterns so you can find the one best suited for your style in a material you find comfortable.
- If you’re unsure of material or weave, look for a company that offers a sleep trial and accepts free returns within that window.
