The Best Pillow Covers for 2022

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After a hectic day at work, we all want a comfortable bedroom experience that promotes a healthy sleep cycle. It might sound a little silly, but the pillow covers you choose play a vital role in establishing the comfort level of your sleep.

They are made from different fabrics and textures to suit different design concerns and provide a better sleeping experience. Apart from their usual sleep-related use, pillow covers play a key role in maintaining the look and aesthetics of the room. We’ll discuss the perfect pillow covers for 2022 in detail, along with some factors to consider when purchasing one. This article also contains detailed reviews of some options we think are the top contenders as well as their key features. So, if you are ready to amp up your sleeping game and the way your bedroom looks, let’s get started.

Top Picks

Best overall: CaliTime Pillow Covers

CaliTime’s pillow covers take you on an adventure of lumbar support and enhanced aesthetics. They come in a pack of two cushion-sized pillows that you can use anywhere from bedrooms to living rooms and even outdoor setups. They are assembled from a thick, durable, and soft fabric that supports your back without adding any unwanted pressure. This option is available in 16 different colors and nine sizes, delivering the perfect fit for all kinds of sofas and spaces. Additionally, their material is a blend of weather-resistant synthetic fabric, ensuring their durability and longevity. We have chosen this option as the best overall because of its color variation, durability, and availability of sizes.

Key Features:

• Assembled from a polyester blend

• Each package comes with two pillowcases

• Machine washable in cold water on a gentle cycle

• Velvety, super-soft touch on both sides

Elite design: 4th Emotion Pillow Covers

Story continues

Buffalo check plaid never goes out of fashion and the 4th Emotion’s pillow covers are a testament to that. Made from a rugged and weather-resistant material, they offer both durability and longevity. They have a closed-end that won’t let the filling fall out and also prevents the pillow from losing its shape. In addition, this product is available in various sizes and patterns, allowing you to pick something suitable for any bedding or seating area. They come in a classic vintage combination designed to complement any corner of your home. Each package includes a pair of covers, avoiding the need for extra purchases.

Key Features:

• Made from thick polyester, linen-cloth material

• Comes in six different sizes and 14 color combinations

• Invisible zipper keeps filling in one place

• Three-month replacement warranty

Supreme softness: MIULEE Pillow Covers

This option, by Miulee, features a plush and ultra-soft finishing, providing you with the ultimate back support. Available in different sizes, these are suitable for sofas, beds, homes, and offices, allowing you to add aesthetic touches anywhere you want. These covers are made from top-quality weather-resistant materials too, ensuring durability, strength, and longevity. You can also purchase them in several different colors and sizes to match the cushioning requirements of any space. Lastly, these covers are cut by hand, delivering a customized product highlighting sheer hard work and dedication to the craft.

Key Features:

• Made from top-grade polyester

• Come in 38 different colors and nine sizes

• Hidden zippers preserve aesthetics

• Plush finishing

Premier allergy protection: Niagara Pillow Covers

These pillow covers from Niagara are ideal for those looking to add some extra cushioning to their sleeping arrangements. This product is assembled from a synthetic and natural material, allowing maximum breathability and water resistance and aiding comfortable, restful sleep. Besides this, they have a secure finishing that holds the filling in one place, ensuring no discomfort or frustration while you rest. They are available in packs of four, giving you an ultra-luxurious hotel vibe at home. The pillowcases are easy to wash and maintain at home, eliminating any extra expenses for cleaning and repair. These items are designed in multiple sizes, so you can definitely find something suitable for your particular bed. Finally, they are free of any coatings, delivering comfort while reducing the chances of any developing rashes or provoking allergies.

Key Features:

• Made from 50% cotton and 50% polyester

• Come in packs of four with zipper enclosures

• 100% breathable with an ultra-plush finish

• Non-PVC as well as vinyl, coating, and membrane-free

Best protection: White Classic Pillow Covers

The next set of pillow covers, from White Classic, is a frontrunner offering a high-end, luxury hotel vibe. They are made using a high-quality material that delivers a snug fit, making sure you don’t get irritated while trying to sleep. These covers are highly protective because of their thread count, which helps eliminate the risk of any skin irritation or damage. If you are looking for more uninterrupted sleep, consider using these as a barrier between you and your bed. This option is also breathable, helping maintain your body temperature as you sleep. Equipped with refined stitching and protection, these items are great if your house has a lot of pets or if you have toddlers. They are relatively easy to wash and care for too, reducing the need to spend a lot on professional cleaning.

Key Features:

• Made from a tightly-woven, 200 thread count cotton material

• Comes with a zipper for added protection

• Safe and breathable

• Designed for 20 x 27-inch pillows

How to find your next set of pillow covers: A buyer’s guide

You cannot just look at a product and know it’s the ‘perfect’ option. In this guide, we’ve covered the most essential factors for purchasing pillow covers. From the different types and materials to specific characteristics and uses, we have compiled the relevant information you’ll need to buy something that adds aesthetics, appeal, and comfort to your setup.

The essential factors for buying pillow covers

Here is a list of things you need to consider when buying pillow covers.

1. Fabric

The first thing you need to consider is the quality of the fabric. The fabric quality determines a product’s life and durability, but it is also an essential factor in terms of comfort and breathability. Pillowcase fabrics can be made from natural, synthetic materials or a blend of both. Apart from the type of material used, the thread count also plays an important role in determining the quality of pillow covers.

2. Size

Another thing to look for is the size of a pillow cover. For instance, a cushion cover is much smaller and has equal dimensions. Bedding covers are larger, rectangular-shaped, and approximately 20 x 36 inches. Other than the shape, the size also affects the overall construction of pillows. King-size beds are larger and can accommodate more oversized pillows than queen-sized versions.

3. Closing

The closing of your pillow covers determines whether or not a filling will fit inside. There are multiple kinds of closures, with knots and zippers being the most popular. Most modern products now have a hidden zip closure that’s more subtle and won’t disrupt any designs or aesthetic flourishes. They can also hold the filling inside for longer periods, enhancing their lifespan.

4. Care

People expect low laundry costs when they purchase everyday essentials like bedding and basic fabrics. If you want to save some extra money, go with pillow covers that do not require high-end professional cleaning. Most modern products are easy to wash and dry at home. You’ll get a manufacturer’s instruction label explaining everything for maintenance and care, helping promote long-lasting use.

Why is the thread count so essential with pillow covers?

Most labels contain the words ‘thread count’. Unfortunately, not many people are aware of what this term actually means.

Defining thread count

Thread count, also known as Thread Per Inch (TPI), is a unit measuring the roughness or smoothness of fabric. This measurement is calculated by combining the warp and weft – these are terms you don’t need to worry about too much, just remember that the number you get in the end lets you know how many threads there are in one inch of fabric. Knowing this is a valuable tool for determining the quality of a cover.

Range

This is an essential factor to consider, it determines the quality of the fabric used in manufacturing. 100 to 150 TPI in standard bedding is considered normal and won’t cause discomfort. On the other hand, if you are looking for a luxury, hotel-like feel, go for pillowcases with over 200 TPI. This will be more expensive than standard cases but is considered a premium fabric and you will be able to notice a difference in terms of comfort and feel. Some brands even sell up to 400 TPI covers.

Care and caution

Since we discussed luxury, you might be wondering whether a lower thread will cause irritation and pain. That’s not the case at all. They’ll provide you with a good night’s sleep but might be a little rough for people with extra-sensitive skin.

It is extremely important to purchase a pillowcase from a reputable seller. Even if you see a high thread count, it does not necessarily mean that the product is genuine or accurately advertised. Most low-quality brands manipulate the manufacturing process to make the thread count look higher than it is. If you find a product labeled as high TPI at a super low cost, there’s probably something fishy going on.

What fabrics are used for making pillow covers?

Pillowcases are made from different types of material. What you choose depends on personal preferences and maintenance requirements. Let’s discuss the fabrics involved.

Cotton

Cotton is the softest, and most breathable, natural fabric used in making pillow covers. It is both luxurious and low-maintenance, which is a pretty perfect marriage. Cotton pillow covers are available in different sizes and colors. They might require regular pressing after every wash though. Cotton is long-lasting and the colors won’t fade away easily. Some brands also provide a cotton blend using a synthetic material, like polyester.

Polyester

After cotton, polyester is the most affordable option. It is synthetic and weather-resistant. You can find blends of polyester made with breathable materials. They are available in a lot of different colors, but the fabric is not as breathable as cotton. Polyester is also available in a number of sizes, great for matching your bedding needs. This material is also relatively easy to care for.

Satin

Satin is a type of polyester designed to look like silk. It is a synthetic fabric that also keeps your hair smooth and silky by helping avoid frizz. Satin is among the smoothest and softest materials and can also help you avoid wrinkles and fine lines on your face.

Silk

As a natural material, silk is also like fabric but a little more expensive. These pillows also will leave your hair looking smooth and soft. Silk is perfect for people with sensitive skin, it’s extremely gentle. This material delivers a luxurious feel. Most people who share a bed prefer using silk pillow covers and sheets for the sensual and romantic vibe they offer.

Determining the appropriate size of pillow covers

After deciding on the fabric, thread count, and color, it is essential to look for the correct size. If you have pillows, you need to measure them or check their packaging. Sometimes it can be a bit confusing, so the best thing to do is double-check to avoid any confusion. Trust us, we know how disappointing getting something in the wrong size can be.

Standard

A standard pillow is the smallest of them all. It measures 20 x 26 inches. A pair of standard pillows are usually used for single beds. They look tiny on a king-size bed, so you’ll need to use them appropriately.

Queen

A queen-size pillow cover, as its name suggests, is designed for people using single to queen-size beds. These covers still fit standard-size pillows but can also be a little loose.

King

The biggest of them all, a king-size pillow cover is made for larger beds. These are the biggest in the market, measuring 20 x 36 inches. King-size pillows can provide a snug finish to queen-size beds as well, adding a little extra comfort.

People also asked

Q: How often should I change my pillow covers?

A: Pillow covers can become homes for bacteria and debris. It is essential to throw them in the laundry at least once a week.

Q: How long do pillow covers last?

A: If appropriately maintained, you can use pillow covers for one to two years.

Q: Why are my white pillow covers turning yellow?

A: Turning yellow is one of the most common problems with white pillowcases. This is due to the release of bodily oils from hair and sweating.