Buying guide for best hypoallergenic pillowcases
Your bed should be a soft, safe haven for relaxation and rest. Experience the ultimate peace of mind with hypoallergenic pillowcases, which do the hard work of protecting you from allergens like dust, dirt, bacteria, and pests while you sleep.
Hypoallergenic pillowcases are a great defense against substances that can affect your breathing or cause skin irritation. A good night’s sleep is vital to good health, and thanks to the unique technology of hypoallergenic pillowcases, you can rest even easier. Though they’re especially helpful for those who suffer from asthma or allergies, anyone can benefit from hypoallergenic pillowcases. But with so many hypoallergenic pillowcases to choose from, how do you find the best set for your bed?
Our buying guide has all the details on what to consider when shopping for hypoallergenic pillowcases, including material, thread count, and price.
Key considerations
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic products are specifically made to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic pillowcases are made from breathable materials that don’t trap heat or moisture, so dust mites and other pests won’t take up residency. Some hypoallergenic pillowcases are made with organic materials or are chemical-free as well.
Thread count
Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch in bedding. When it comes to hypoallergenic pillowcases, thread counts range from 200 to 1,800. Generally, the higher the thread count, the softer the material. Pillowcases with higher thread counts tend to last longer, too, and soften even more over time.
Size
Hypoallergenic pillowcases come in every standard pillowcase size. There are also hypoallergenic pillowcases for travel pillows, toddler pillows, and body pillows on the market. There are even hypoallergenic pillowcases for throw pillows, so you can make sure all the pillows around your house are allergen-free.
Sets
Hypoallergenic pillowcases are usually sold in pairs or sets of four or more. You can purchase as many pillowcases as you have pillows, but it’s more efficient to buy extras. Hypoallergenic pillowcases, like any bedding, should be washed regularly. With extra pillowcases, you can put on a fresh set while the others are in the laundry hamper or wash. Another reason to purchase more pillowcases is to rotate use. Alternating between sets of hypoallergenic pillowcases will lessen wear and tear and extend how long they last.
Caution
If you use products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, be aware that they could stain your hypoallergenic pillowcases. Benzoyl peroxide includes bleaching agents that can leave blotchy stains. Salicylic acid also contains chemicals that can discolor fabric.
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Features
Material
Hypoallergenic pillowcases are typically cotton blends or microfiber. There are also some hypoallergenic pillowcases made from terrycloth, silk, or satin. Microfiber pillowcases are often the most affordable. Cotton blends and terrycloth are slightly more expensive. Silk and satin pillowcases tend to be the most expensive.
When it comes to choosing the right fabric, it’s largely a matter of personal preference since all hypoallergenic pillowcases have allergen-resistant qualities. Some people feel microfiber is noisy when you move against it, whereas others love it for its characteristic smoothness. Textile traditionalists usually prefer cotton, specifically pillowcases with a high thread count that continue to get softer. Silk and satin have a buttery smoothness, and because they don’t hold onto moisture like other fabrics, they’re ideal for anyone who suffers from frizzy morning hair or wants to avoid pillowcase creases on their face.
Closure
In addition to traditional open-ended pillowcases, there are also hypoallergenic pillowcases with zip closures or overlapping ends. Zippers seal off the pillow completely, which gives the highest level of protection offered by hypoallergenic pillowcases. Overlapping ends also offer more protection than open-ended styles as one end tucks into the other to cover the entire pillow.
Easy care
Hypoallergenic pillowcases often have easy-care features. For the most part, these pillowcases are machine-washable and can be tumble-dried. Many are wrinkle-free, which is ideal if you don’t exactly have time to iron your pillowcases. Certain hypoallergenic pillowcases are also stain-resistant, meaning they’re specially treated so that their fibers don’t hold onto stains or dirt the way more porous and absorbent fabrics do.
Color
Hypoallergenic pillowcases are available in a wide assortment of colors, though white is the most common. There are also a few hypoallergenic pillowcases that are patterned, though it’s rare to find patterned pillowcases with matching sheet sets. That said, you shouldn’t have a problem finding hypoallergenic pillowcases that match or complement your bedding.
Hypoallergenic pillowcase prices
Inexpensive
Hypoallergenic pillowcases are usually sold in pairs, so expect to spend between $12 and $40 for two pillowcases. Inexpensive hypoallergenic pillowcases range from $12 to $20, and they are usually microfiber with basic hypoallergenic properties like dust and pest resistance.
Mid-range
Mid-range hypoallergenic pillowcases cost $20 to $30 and include quality cotton blends and higher thread counts. The construction of these pillowcases, particularly those with zippers, is also noticeably better.
Expensive
High-end hypoallergenic pillowcases are priced between $30 and $40. Many have more extensive hypoallergenic properties and have been rigorously lab-tested. They are also made from the highest-quality materials.
Tips
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Wash your face before bedtime. It’s important to wash your face thoroughly before going to bed, especially if you wear makeup. A clean face makes for a clean pillowcase.
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Get rip-resistant pillowcases for children. Kids can be hard on bedding, so invest in hypoallergenic pillowcases with rip-resistant features, especially those with reinforced seams.
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Wash pillowcases regularly. Weekly washing of your bedding and hypoallergenic pillowcases is recommended to keep them clean and control the buildup of dirt.
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Purchase pillowcases for loved ones in the hospital. If a family member or friend has to spend time in the hospital, hypoallergenic pillowcases are ideal for keeping dirt and bacteria at bay.
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Check the warranty. Hypoallergenic pillowcases often come with warranties. You may need to register your product or set up an account on the manufacturer’s website.
- Hypoallergenic pillowcases are perfect for college students. For college students living in dorms, hypoallergenic pillowcases are ideal. They can help enormously during cold and flu season.
FAQ
Q. Can I put a decorative pillowcase over a plain hypoallergenic pillowcase?
A. That would defeat the purpose of a hypoallergenic pillowcase because the decorative pillowcase won’t have any hypoallergenic properties. Since your skin would have direct contact with the decorative pillowcase, you could experience skin irritations and allergies.
Q. What should I do if the hypoallergenic pillowcase I like best doesn’t come in the same color as my bedding?
A. If the color match isn’t exact, choose a complementary color instead. There may be a color in the pattern of your bedding that can be matched. If not, consider your bedroom decor. Choose a pillowcase color that matches your curtains, rug, or lamps for a coordinated look throughout the room.
Q. Should I buy hypoallergenic pillowcases to cover pillows in hotel rooms?
A. If it gives you peace of mind, you can. When you are checking out, remove your hypoallergenic pillowcases and place them in a Ziploc bag so they don’t touch the other items in your suitcase. Wash them thoroughly as soon as you get home. Another thing to consider is size. Since you probably won’t know the size of the hotel pillows, opt for king-size pillowcases. They might be too big if the pillows are smaller, but they won’t be too small to use.
