How To Keep Pillow Cases From Sliding Off? The 80 Top Answers

After a long day there is nothing quite like crawling into bed, laying your head on the pillow and closing your eyes for the night. No matter what type of pillow you like – rock hard or soft and plush – you probably don’t think too much about your pillowcase. Until your pillow slips out of its cover or your pillowcase twists in the middle of the night and wakes you up. Luckily, there’s a simple solution to these common problems – envelope-lock pillowcases. Never heard of them? Here’s a closer look at these unique cases and some of the benefits they have to offer:

What are envelope closure pillowcases?

Traditional pillowcases are open at the ends. An envelope pillowcase has a special envelope closure at the end of the cover, allowing the pillow to be tucked away and out of view for a more finished look when making the bed. Recently, these cases have gained popularity. Customers love our PeachSkinSheets envelope closure pillowcases because of the many benefits they offer.

Benefits of Envelope Closure Pillowcases

Why consider swapping out your regular pillowcases for new envelope-lock pillowcases? Just some of the benefits that pillowcases with covers offer are:

No Pillows Protruding – Your pillows can easily protrude from the pillowcases, especially if you have larger pillows. This detracts from the beautiful aesthetics of your bedding. It’s especially unsightly if you have older pillows that are a bit stained. In the case of envelope pillowcases, the pillows are completely covered. You won’t even see the ends of your pillows.

Pillows Won’t Slip Out of Cases – How often do you have to shake those pillows back into their cases? Many pillows slip right out of the covers after you’ve slept on them a few times. Because the envelope-lock cases enclose the ends, you don’t have to worry about your pillow slipping out of the case over and over again.

Pillowcases don’t twist while you sleep – There’s nothing worse than waking up with a pillow stitch on your face or neck because your pillowcase twists in the middle of the night. Pillows can move slightly in cases that don’t close. With an envelope, the pillow can’t escape, so it’s less likely to twist when you snooze.

Pillowcases don’t wrinkle easily – If pillows are allowed to move in the cover, they often wrinkle while you sleep on them. What’s the problem with wrinkles on your pillowcases? They can actually be tough on your skin. It’s even possible that these wrinkles lead to fine lines and wrinkles on the face. The envelope style of the cases doesn’t crease easily because the pillow can’t move, meaning it’s an excellent choice for your skin. As an added bonus, PeachSkinSheets pillowcases have a wrinkle release feature that activates in the tumble dryer for a wrinkle-free sleep.

Tips to get the most out of your pillowcases

Envelope closure pillowcases definitely have many benefits. But no matter what type of cover you choose for your bed, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure your pillowcases do more good than harm:

Make sure you change your pillowcase often – oils from your face and hair can build up on your pillowcase over time. Not changing your case often enough can lead to pimples on your skin.

Choose a fabric for your pillowcases that will keep you cooler and drier – If you sweat a lot at night, especially if your head is sweaty, you want a pillowcase made of materials that wick moisture so you don’t sleep on a soggy pillow all night.

Keep hair oils off your pillow as much as possible – hair oils build up on your pillowcase and aren’t good for your skin. While it’s important to change your pillowcase regularly, it can help to keep hair as far away from the pillow as possible. Try braiding long hair or pinning it up when you sleep.

Wash Pillowcases Properly – Using the wrong detergent can irritate the skin on your face. If you notice itching or red bumps on your neck, face, back, or shoulders, the detergent you use on your linens could be the problem. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, gentle detergent on your pillowcases and other linens.

PeachSkinSheets pillowcases

When you choose envelope closure pillowcases, you surely want to find the most comfortable, softest pillowcase available for a restful night’s sleep. PeachSkinSheets pillowcases are made from a lightweight, breathable and soft fabric that feels wonderful on the face and neck. The athletic performance fabric of the PeachSkinSheets pillowcases actually wicks away moisture rather than absorbing it like other fabrics, so even if you have a hot sleeper or struggle with night sweats, you’ll stay cooler and drier all night.

Tired of pillowcase creases on your skin? Maybe you just don’t want your old pillows showing under your covers. If so, PeachSkinSheets envelope closure pillowcases are an excellent choice to end the frustration of traditional pillowcases. Get your Envelope Pillowcases included with every PeachSkinSheets bed sheet set (or sold separately) today and start enjoying your nights in bed even more!

After a long day, there is nothing more comfortable than crawling into bed, laying your head on the pillow and closing your eyes. Until your pillow slips out of its protective cover in the middle of the night or your pillowcase twists and wakes you up. You can choose a pillowcase with an envelope closure.

What is an envelope closure pillowcase?

A traditional pillowcase is open at the end. Envelope pillowcases have a special envelope closure at the end so the pillow can be tucked away out of sight when making the bed. The envelope closure looks as good as it sounds. Your pillow will have two overlapping pieces of fabric on the back leaving an envelope style fastener for you to tuck your pillow shape into. You can also embellish the envelope-style closure with ribbons and buttons for added interest and whimsy.

Benefits of Envelope Closure Pillowcases

Why would you consider giving up your regular pillowcase for a new envelope closure pillowcase? Some of the benefits envelope closure pillowcases must offer include:

The pillow will not show through. The pillow will show through the pillowcase slightly, especially if you have larger pillows. This can affect the aesthetics of your sheets. This is especially unsightly if you have old pillows that are a little dirty. In the case of envelope pillowcases, the pillows are completely covered. You can’t even see the end of the pillow.

The pillow won’t slide out of the pillowcase, and many pillows will slide right out of the pillowcase after you’ve slept on them a few times. Because the envelope cover closes at the end, you don’t have to worry about the pillow slipping out of the cover again and again.

Pillowcases don’t twist when you sleep, and there’s nothing worse than waking up with pillow stitches on your face or neck because your pillowcase twists in the middle of the night. Pillows move slightly when not closed. With an envelope, the pillow can’t escape, so it’s less likely to twist when you snooze.

Pillowcases don’t wrinkle easily, and if pillows are allowed to move inside the pillowcase, they usually wrinkle when you sleep on them.

What’s the problem with wrinkles on pillowcases? They can damage your skin. These wrinkles can even cause fine lines and wrinkles to appear on your face. An envelope-style cover doesn’t crease easily because the pillow can’t move, meaning it’s a good choice for your skin.

Zippered pillowcases are also a common type of pillowcase

Close with a zipper. You can finish your cover off with an invisible zipper or use a visible zipper. I like to use zippers on pillows that aren’t standard sizes.

Zippers work especially well for large pillows.

How to fix a gap between the bed and the wall Credit: Aleksandra Shamonina/iStock/GettyImages

A gap between the bed and the wall is a common problem, especially in older homes where the walls and floors are no longer perfectly straight or level. The gap can be an aesthetic issue that just annoys you to look at, or it can be irritating when pillows and linens slip into the space between the bed and the wall. With a very young crib, a gap between the bed and the wall can pose a safety hazard as the child could roll into the gap while sleeping. Fixing the cause of the gap goes well beyond a DIY project, but there are several creative approaches you can take to solve the problem.

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Check the bed frame first

Before investing time and money in solving the problem of a gap between the bed and the wall, first check that the bed frame is properly assembled. It is possible that some screws have come loose and the headboard or part of the frame is no longer straight. Pull the bed frame away from the wall, ideally lift off the mattress and ensure all screws and bolts are in place and tight. If you have a headboard attached to a frame, see if it is possible to adjust the height. If you’re lucky, these kinds of minor adjustments to the frame or headboard can fill some or all of the gap.

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Buy special pillows

Gaps between the wall and the bed are such a common problem that extra-long, wedge-shaped pillows are made for them. These vary somewhat in design but are generally triangular wedge shaped with a firm foam core and a washable fabric cover. They are available to fit all common mattress sizes. Simply place the wedge pillow along the gap to fill the space. A similar option is a long body pillow that you can pinch in the gap between the bed and the wall.

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Gap Filling DIY Pillows

For a cheaper, custom solution inspired by specialty pillows, cut a block or slab of craft foam or upholstery foam to the exact size and shape to fit in the gap between your bed and the wall. These types of foam come in different densities, so choose one that suits your specific needs. Use a serrated knife to make the necessary cuts. In some cases, you can place the foam wedge in a fitted sheet along the side of the bed next to the gap to both hide it and keep it in place.

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A practical, inexpensive alternative could be a pool noodle. These are already long, narrow and flexible and only need to be shortened to the right length. You can place one or more noodles in a gap so you can’t see them, or arrange them in a fitted sheet. Pipe insulation, which is similar to pool noodles but comes in a wider range of widths, lengths, and densities, is also a good choice for a custom gap filler. If you have basic sewing skills, sew a fabric cover for a DIY gap-fill pillow so it blends in better with the bedding.

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headboards and artificial headboards

If you don’t already have one, a headboard might be the easiest solution to that pesky gap between the bed and the wall. However, they are expensive and an important furnishing decision. A less expensive, easily replaceable alternative is a faux headboard that is hung on the wall. Suitable types of hangings include quilts, tapestries, rugs, and blankets. Choose a textile with some thickness and hang it so that it falls into the gap between the wall and the bed.

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Hanging options include a curtain rod or long towel rail mounted on the wall above the bed. Hang your fabrics using clamp rings or other curtain hardware, or fold the top edge over the rail and secure with stitching or fabric glue. There are also special quilt hangers that clip to the top edge of a piece of fabric.

To avoid injury to their patients and themselves, healthcare providers must become accustomed to using SPHM (Safe Patient Handling and Mobility) technologies. In this supplement, national experts share their perspectives and best practices on topics ranging from managing bariatric patients, handling slings and assessing a patient’s mobility to transforming the culture, creating the business case for an SPHM and developing a successful SPHM program.

Download a PDF of the entire supplement here.

In hospital environments where the head of bed (HOB) is typically elevated, gravity causes patients to slide or walk to the foot of the bed. Caregivers are aware of this as they regularly have to withdraw patients to HOB when they are unable to position themselves. A 1995 study at a hospital found that nurses pulled patients up in bed an average of 9.9 times per shift. Recent evidence suggests that this activity is even more prevalent in some hospitals and departments.

Studies show that pulling patients who have been wandering in bed poses an extremely high risk of injury to the caregiver. Less research has been done on the impact of migration on patients. This article describes how migration can impact patient outcomes, outlines relevant scientific evidence, and discusses strategies for managing patient migration.

Negative effects of migration

A 2013 study found that patients in traditional hospital bed designs migrated approximately 13 cm (5″) when the HOB was raised to 45 degrees. Both bed movement and gravity cause patients to slide down the bed over time when the HOB is held up. Such migration is believed to cause friction and shear forces between the mattress and the skin as the patient slides against the bed surface. Although friction and shear have been associated with pressure ulcer formation, no research has examined whether friction and shear caused by migration directly contribute to pressure ulcer risk.

As patients move to the foot of the bed, upper body elevation decreases. A pilot study of 10 healthy subjects positioned at 30 degrees with the HOB showed that their torso angle was approximately 30 degrees when properly aligned with the hip indicator, compared to approximately 12 degrees when they were 23 cm (9″) am Hip indicator hiked past.

Positioning the HOB at or above 30 degrees is said to reduce the risk of ventilation.

Associated pneumonia (VAP), as elevation of the upper body reduces the risk of aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs. Once patients have walked further down the mattress, raising the HOB may no longer reduce the risk of aspiration since their torsos are flatter. If they are not repositioned at this point, there may be an increased risk of VAP.

As patients move down the bed with the HOB elevated, they slip off the pivot point of the HOB section and lose lumbar support, resulting in kyphosis. Kyphosis reduces lung capacity, so respiratory function can decrease in patients who have migrated. Although the relationship between kyphotic postures caused by migration and hospital bed discomfort has not been studied, it is reasonable to expect that migration would lead to discomfort, particularly in patients with back pain or herniated disc.

Response to patient migration

To avoid negative results related to patient migration, be careful when repositioning patients who migrated down. Note, however, that repositioning is most likely to affect outcomes related to torso angle (such as VAP, reduced lung capacity, and discomfort) – not friction and shear related to pressure ulcer development. Among patients unable to strengthen or reposition in bed, those on mechanical ventilators and patients with back pain may need nurse repositioning most urgently.

The manual repositioning of patients is associated with a high risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system. Therefore, always use transfer aids for patients who cannot transfer themselves. The use of lifting equipment such as A ceiling-mounted or mobile lift, for example, is the best way to reduce exposure to medical staff, according to the American Nurses Association’s Safe Patient Handling and Mobility: Interprofessional National Standards, which call for the elimination of manual lifting in all healthcare facilities support financially .

If a lifting device is not available, use an anti-friction sheet and place the bed in the Trendelenburg position (if the patient tolerates it). If the patient is on an air surface, use the Max. Inflation”. Patients who can provide partial support should participate in mobilization by placing their feet flat on the mattress and “bridging” them when transferring. If available, the patient can also pull on traction equipment, a trapeze bar, or bedside rails.

However, be aware that any method that involves manual lifting could result in injury to the caregiver. One researcher found that caregivers who lift with forces over 16 kg (35 lb) have an increased risk of injury based on the posture they adopt when handling patients. The most effective way to avoid self-harm when transferring patients is to use an overhead or mobile lift. An air-assisted lateral transfer device can also be used to reposition the patient in bed.

prevent emigration

Despite the impact of migration on patients and caregivers, there is little research on how to prevent it. The bed’s contribution to migration has been investigated in laboratory studies, but patient movements have yet to be investigated.

To limit migration when angling the bed, use auto-contour (a knee flap that raises automatically and simultaneously with raising the HOB) to reduce migration by up to 2.5 cm (1″). If the bed does not have an automatic contour, raise the knee flap before raising the HOB. In addition to limiting migration from the bed articulation, elevating the patient’s knees may also help limit migration over time. Of course, these strategies can only be used if the patient can tolerate knee flexion.

Bed frame hinge design appears to have an even greater impact on the extent of patient migration than car contour. For example, for three different bed frame designs, the mean cumulative movement (total amount of sliding when raising and lowering the hob) ranged from 13 to 28 cm (5″ to 11″). Most likely, migration caused by bed movement will continue to decrease as manufacturers develop beds that are more compatible with changing patient geometry as HOB increases. (See Considerations When Buying Hospital Beds.)

Further research is needed to confirm evidence that patient migration to the foot end of the bed increases pressure ulcer and VAP risk, causes patient discomfort, and decreases lung capacity. Many tools are available to help caregivers safely reposition patients who have migrated. Using auto contour when lifting the HOB or knee clamp can help prevent migration or slow its speed. The design of the bed hinge also affects the distance a patient travels.

Selected references

American Nurses Association. Safe Patient Handling and Mobility: Interprofessional National Standards. Silver Spring, MD: Author; 2013

Bakker EW, Verhagen AP, van Trijffel E, Lucas C, Koes BW. Mechanical loading of the spine as a risk factor for low back pain: a systematic review of prospective cohort studies. Spine (Phila PA 1976). 2009;34(8): E281-93.

Bartnik LM, Reis MS. Comparison of caregiver forces required to push a patient up in bed with a series of sliding sheets. Company health Saf. 2013;61(9):393-400.

Drakulovic MB, Torres A, Bauer TT, et al. Supine position as a risk factor for nosocomial pneumonia in mechanically ventilated patients: a randomized study. Lancet.1999;354(9193):1851-8.

Eriksen W, Bruusgaard D, Knardahl S. Work factors as predictors of severe or disabling back pain; A prospective study of nursing assistants. Occup Environ Med. 2004;61(5):398-404.

Kotowski SE, Davis KG, Wiggermann N, Williamson R. Quantifying in-bed patient migration: catalyst for improving hospital bed design to reduce shear and friction forces and caregiver injuries. hum factors. 2013;55(1):36-47.

Lin F, Parthasarathy S, Taylor SJ, et al. Influence of different sitting postures on lung capacity, expiratory flow and lumbar lordosis. Arch Phys Med Rehab. 2006;87(4):504-9.

Marras WS, Davis KG, Kirking BC, Bertsche PK. A comprehensive analysis of the risk of lower back disease and spinal loading during patient transfer and repositioning using various techniques. Ergonomics. 1999;42(7):904-26.

Mehta RK, Horton LM, Agnew MJ, Nussbaum MA. Ergonomic assessment of hospital bed design features during patient handling. Int J Ind Ergon. 2011;41(6):647-52.

Metheny NA, Davis-Jackson J, Stewart BJ. Efficacy of an aspiration risk reduction protocol. Nurs Res. 2010;59(1):18-25.

Michel DP, Helander MG. Effects of two types of chairs on stature change and comfort in healthy and herniated subjects. Ergonomics. 1994;37(7):1231-44.

Poole-Wilson T, Davis K, Daraiseh N, Kotowski S. Documenting the amount of manual handling performed by nurses in a hospital setting. Proceedings of 2014 Symposium on Human Factors and Ergonomics in Health Care: Leading the Way. Chicago, IL: The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society; 2014

Skotte J, Fallentin N. Risk of lower back injury during in-bed transfer of patients: the influence of handling technique, patient weight, and disability. Ergonomics. 2008;51(7):1042-52.

Vasiliadou A, Karvountzis GG, Soumilas A, Roumeliotis D, Theodosopoulou E. Occupational back pain among nurses in a Greek hospital. J Adv Nurs. 1995;21(1):125-30.

water TR. When is it safe to lift a patient manually? Am J Nurs. 2007;107(8):53-9.

Wiggermann NE, Vangilder C, Davis K. Patient migration to the foot end of the bed affects trunk angle. 2014 National Teaching Institute Research Abstracts. http://ajcc.aacnjournals.org/content/23/3/e19.full?sid=039ddc07-4db1-4bc4-aaca-5855cc684831#sec-175. Retrieved July 15, 2014.

Williams MM, Hawley JA, McKenzie RA, van Wijmen PM. A comparison of the effects of two sitting postures on back and referred pain. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 1991;16(10):1185-91.

Neal Wiggermann is a Senior Biomedical Engineer and Ergonomics Specialist at Hill-Rom in Batesville, Indiana.

Spring Post II: The spring weather in Colorado makes us think of cleaning up, airing the house and freshening up the wardrobe!

Don’t forget your bed in this list. With QuickZip, all you need is a new zip-on and some fresh pillowcases to give you the complete rest and relaxation you deserve when you finally tumble into bed with a set of brand new, luxurious pillowcases.

A lot can happen on your pillow that you can’t see!

Take our quiz to see how often you should change your pillowcase.

Count the number of statements below that apply to you to get your score.

i have allergies

Dust mites can accumulate and cause or worsen allergies.

I am prone to acne

Residue on your pillowcase can contribute to clogged pores and acne.

i have oily skin

If your natural oils are a little overzealous, they can quickly add up on your pillowcase.

My pet sleeps on my bed

Your precious fur baby could add dander, dust and hair to your pillow.

I sometimes go with my makeup on

Makeup rubs off during the night and contributes to a dirty pillowcase.

I wear lotion or face cream

Another culprit for clogged pores could be sleeping on the residue from your skin products.

I use hair products

Conditioner, mousse, gel and other hair products end up on your pillowcase after a night’s sleep.

I have sensitive skin.

You are more likely to experience side effects from a dirty pillow.

My pillowcase is made of synthetic fibers (viscose, polyester).

These fibers don’t let your skin breathe and can cause sweat to build up, which clogs pores.

I use dryer sheets or fabric softener.

These items contain oily, non-water soluble ingredients such as fragrances, emulsifiers, colorants and preservatives. Even the small amount of residue these ingredients leave behind can cause problems if they get mixed up with other items on your pillowcase.

I tend to sweat at night

Everyone naturally sweats, but some of us are just sweaty sleepers. The more sweat there is, the more moisture remains, which is ideal for dust mites and other unpleasant visitors.

I go to bed with wet hair

Adding moisture to your pillowcase welcomes dust mites, mold and bacteria. Silly!

I rarely dust or sweep my bedroom

Dust mites thrive on dead skin and bacteria, making your pillowcase a desirable home. While dust mites will always be a fact of life, frequent cleaning can help keep them to a minimum.

I have high thread count sheets

Tight threads are less breathable and allow very little oxygen to flow through your pillow. This can cause more sweat and create a shelf for oils, dead skin, and dander.

i eat in bed

Enjoying a treat in bed isn’t a crime, but crumbs can be something else that ends up on your pillowcase and contributes to your unhappy skin.

Before you start feeling stressed about waiting for your score, remember: we’re all here for you. And EVERYONE IS A WINNER at QuickZip. We stand ready to deliver your fresh, soft and comfortable Luxe pillowcases straight to your door!

Click here to buy a Luxe pillowcase now.

RESULT 1-4:

Your pillowcase may not cause you any problems, but you can’t stop nature! All sheets, no matter how clean a person is, will still get dirty. Make sure you change your pillowcase every 7-10 days.

RESULT 5-10:

You’re on board with most of us! (Who doesn’t at least use conditioner and lotion?). A fresh pillowcase is easy to put on, so change it every 3-6 days.

RESULT 11-15:

It’s entirely possible that your pillow and your skin are far from best friends. Changing your pillowcase often can only help you and your skin. It might seem like a nuisance at first, but stock up on pillowcases and soon changing them will become a part of your daily routine. Change every 1-2 days.

Click here to buy a Luxe pillowcase now.

Pillowcases get dirty pretty quickly. The reason? You spend about eight hours a night being exposed to everything from the fats and oils on our skin and scalp to the products we use to keep our complexion and hair looking their best. That’s why Mary Gagliardi, Clorox’s in-house scientist and cleaning expert, says washing these linens frequently is a must.

Wash pillowcases weekly.

According to Gagliardi, a good rule of thumb is to wash your pillowcases every time you wash the rest of your linens, which you should do at least once a week. “Some people might want to wash the pillowcases they sleep on more often if they sweat during their sleep, have oily hair or skin, or go to bed with makeup on,” she explains, adding that most of us with the Basics get along cadence. “Eight hours times seven days equals 56 hours of use – even if you don’t sweat or have greasy hair, that’s enough ‘wear and tear’ to have to wash with the rest of the sheets.”

The fabric of a pillowcase should not affect its cleaning schedule.

Gagliardi notes that most textiles require the same weekly care, so the material of your pillowcase isn’t a determining factor in whether you wash the piece more or less. “The point is, pillowcases used for sleeping need to be washed regularly so dirt, body oil, sweat, and makeup don’t build up and become even more difficult to remove,” she says. “Satin sheets need to be washed just as often as cotton percale or cotton flannel sheets.”

Use the correct washing program and detergent.

It’s important to use the right wash cycle and detergent for linens, says Gagliardi; This, she adds, is where most of us fall short. “People often ask for advice on pillowcases that just won’t come clean, and it turns out they wash in cold water and don’t use the appropriate bleach along with their detergent,” she explains. “Pillow covers need to be cleaned very thoroughly, so using hot water, a heavy duty wash for prolonged movement, a good detergent with enzymes, and the right bleach for the fabric and color makes a world of difference.”

Pillow hams can be washed less frequently.

Experts agree that a good night’s sleep is essential for physical and mental health. One way to prepare for better sleep is to optimize the bedroom environment and bedding. This includes taking care of your pillow and replacing it when necessary so that it always gives you the right support.

Since we spend so many hours in bed with our heads resting on our pillows, it is also important to pay attention to the quality and cleanliness of the pillows. Not changing pillows regularly can lead to allergic reactions, breakouts, and neck pain. We’ll discuss how to care for your pillow and know when it’s time for a new one.

How often should you replace your pillows?

Most experts recommend replacing pillows every 1 to 2 years. This way you can ensure you are using pillows that are supportive, clean and allergen free. It is also important to take care of the pillows you use to ensure their longevity.

In general, you’ll be able to tell when it’s time to swap out your pillows. If you wake up with a sore neck or can’t find a comfortable sleeping position, your pillow may not be providing the support you need. Just like with a mattress, you should replace pillows when they sag or form lumps. It might also be time to look for new pillows if you’re noticing excessive yellowing or if your allergies come on at night.

Certain pillow materials are more durable than others. For example, a polyester pillow can only last 1 year, while a latex pillow can last up to 3 years. In addition to the type of material, the quality of the materials or the density of the foams can also play a role. Choosing the best pillow made from higher-quality materials generally means you’ll have to replace it less often.

Clean your pillow and pillowcase regularly to protect the pillow and prolong its life. You should wash your pillowcases every time you wash your sheets, and many pillows themselves can be machine washed and machine dried regularly.

Why it’s important to swap out pillows

Replacing pillows frequently might seem like a chore, but pillows that are past their prime can contribute to allergic reactions, skin breakouts, and muscle soreness.

An old pillow can collect allergens such as dust mites, fungi, mold and pet dander. For some people, sleeping near these allergens can cause a runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin, and irritated eyes, which can affect sleep quality. Changing your pillows frequently or investing in a pillow that is antimicrobial and breathable can help prevent pillow-related allergies.

Facial and hair oils, sweat, drool, and other dirt can also seep through pillowcases and get caught in your pillows, causing yellow stains on the surface. These substances can even clog your pores and trigger acne breakouts or rashes in people with sensitive skin. Washing pillowcases and pillows frequently with a gentle detergent can help reduce buildup, and replacing pillows regularly can provide a fresh start that doesn’t irritate the skin.

Perhaps most importantly, pillows support your neck and head while you sleep, relieving muscle tension and promoting healthy spinal alignment. A pillow that has sagged or flattened out over time won’t provide the support you need, and you may wake up sore or unrefreshed. Side sleepers can also experience shoulder pain from a flattened pillow. When your pillow is no longer providing the support it once had, it may be time to replace it. Flapping or folding will only get you so far.

Pillow care and replacement guidelines

In order to extend the life of a pillow, regular care and cleaning is required. A pillow’s materials can affect care instructions and longevity, so it’s important to consider the type of pillow when purchasing and to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Care Instructions for Pillow Types Memory Foam A memory foam pillow should not be machine washed or tumble dried. Instead, it’s best to spot clean this pillow when needed. You can hand wash the pillow thoroughly with a gentle detergent every 2 months and let it air dry. Memory foam pillows should be replaced every 2 to 3 years. Polyfoam Like memory foam pillows, polyfoam pillows can be spot cleaned if needed and hand washed every 2 to 3 months with a gentle detergent and then air dried. Polyfoam pillows typically last 2 to 3 years before needing to be replaced. Down/Feather Many down and feather pillows are machine washable, but some should be dry cleaned. If you are machine washing a down or feather pillow, use the gentle cycle, warm water, and a mild detergent. Sometimes it may be necessary to run the rinse cycle more than once to remove all detergent. You can air dry the pillows or put them in a dryer on low for about 20 minutes. Wash these pillows every 3 to 6 months and replace them every 1 to 3 years. You can tell it’s time for a replacement if the pillow doesn’t spring back to its normal shape after you fold it in half. Polyester and Down Alternatives Down alternatives and polyester pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and cold water and tumble dried on a low setting. Wash these pillows every 3 to 6 months. Alternative down pillows typically last about 1 to 2 years. Polyester pillows are among the least durable and should be replaced every 6 months to 2 years. Latex Avoid washing latex pillows in the washing machine. You can spot clean stains and hand wash the pillow every 2 to 3 months with warm water and mild detergent. Do not immerse the cushion in water or wring it dry. Instead, lay the pillow flat to air it out. You should replace your latex pillow every 2 to 4 years. Buckwheat Moisture can ruin buckwheat pillows, so it’s best to protect your buckwheat pillow with a removable, washable cover. Most buckwheat pillows can be opened, allowing you to dry the buckwheat hulls in the sun in case of an accidental spill. You can also rejuvenate your pillow by replacing the buckwheat hulls as soon as they start to flatten out, about every three years. Pillowcases Wash your pillowcases at least once a week. Different materials have different care instructions, so check the manufacturer’s label. Replace pillowcases every 1 to 2 years.

Every product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links included, we may receive a commission.

A material long associated with luxury, silk has reached peak popularity among celebrities and hairstylists alike – particularly in the form of silk pillowcases. “Healthy, shiny hair is definitely in, and sleeping on silk is one of the easiest ways to improve your hair’s health,” says celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan. “Rubbing from cotton can disrupt the cuticle layer, resulting in frizz, breakage, sleep lines and dry strands. Silk doesn’t absorb or wick moisture from your skin like traditional cotton pillowcases, keeping hair hydrated and frizz-free.”

You’ll also be able to extend the life of a fresh blowout, says Marjan, because silk allows the hair cuticle’s layer to lay flat, making strands smoother and silkier. (She also recommends using silk hair ties because they don’t pull and snag on your hair like traditional elastics.) But the anti-aging, wrinkle-preventing benefits that have been linked to silk are less clear, says Dr. Y. Claire Chang, MD, dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.

“Sources claim that cotton or polyester pillowcases are rough against the skin, leading to pulling, stretching, scratching, and rubbing, which leads to more wrinkles over time,” Chang says. “They also state that the cotton’s absorbent material pulls moisture away from the skin, leaving it dry and dehydrated in the morning. Silk is believed to allow skin to glide smoothly over the skin, allowing for better sleep and slowing down visible signs of aging. It also helps silk feel luxurious and chic.”

According to Chang, there’s no solid evidence that sleeping on cotton pillowcases ages skin. “We know that repetitive facial expressions, movement, and compression can cause wrinkles in the skin that can become more permanent over time,” she says. “Silk may or may not prevent this.” According to Chang, your sleeping position is more important than the pillowcase material when it comes to preventing wrinkles. “I recommend sleeping on your back if possible to avoid compression on one side of your face.”

But it’s true that cotton material is absorbent, Chang says, and can wick moisture from the skin while you sleep. (Whether cotton will absorb skincare products you applied that night depends on how quickly and how well they absorb into your skin.) She also says silk is a great option for those with sensitive skin. “It’s a hypoallergenic material and is great for patients with frequent contact allergies or sensitivities,” says Chang. “Silk allergies are very rare.”

Share on Pinterest Sonia62/Getty Images We feature products that we think our readers will find useful. If you make a purchase through links on this site, we may receive a small commission. Here is our process. You’ve probably heard all the hype about silk pillowcases being better for your skin and hair. It turns out that satin—silk is an equally smooth but slightly more affordable cousin—has beauty benefits too. Read on to learn more about these luxurious pillowcases. We tell you what they can do, how they work and why they work. Plus, we’ll share an expert’s insight and might even blow your mind.

What are satin pillowcases (and why are they there)? A satin pillowcase is a satin pillowcase—but you probably guessed that. What you may not know: Contrary to popular belief, satin is not a type of fabric. Boom! Overwhelmed right? Satin is a type of weave and can be made from a few different fibers. (Fibers are the threads that make up materials.) You can find satin fabrics made from silk, rayon, polyester, and blends. Satin pillowcases have become A Whole Thing because they are meant to be better for you than the cotton pillowcases that often come with sheet sets.

Benefits of Satin Pillowcases for Your Hair We turned to board-certified dermatologist Jessie Cheung, MD to find out what a satin pillowcase could do for your hair. According to Cheung, the benefits of satin pillowcases for your hair (and skin) lie in the smooth, slippery surface that reduces chafing and tugging. What does less friction and drag mean for your hair? Frizz Protection Because satin is a smooth fabric, it won’t rough up the hair cuticle like a regular pillowcase. The result is less frizz. Rejoice, curly friends! Less tangles Fabrics like cotton keep your hair from moving when you switch positions during sleep and, um, other pre-bedtime activities. If your hair is fine, dry or tangle-prone, the suppleness of a satin pillowcase means you don’t have to wake up looking like a matted Yorkie anymore. Less Likely to Break Your Hair Fine hair or hair loss sufferers, take note! Less rubbing and pulling on a satin pillowcase can result in less hair breakage, according to Cheung. Not having to brush through tangles will also help reduce breakage. Your favorite style will last longer. Same reason as above, the smoother the surface, the less likely it is to mess things up. It can help keep your blowout or salon style a few days longer than a cotton pillowcase could. Your Hair Stays Hydrated Satin is less drying than cotton, making it easier to retain moisture in your hair, according to Cheung.

Benefits of Satin Pillowcases for Your Skin “Satin pillowcases can contribute to our beauty sleep,” says Cheung. Cheung says the same benefits that the slippery surface offers to your hair carry over to your skin. Let’s break down these benefits: Fewer Skin Wrinkles The slippery surface results in fewer wrinkles on our face, says Cheung. These pillow lines usually subside after waking up, but there is research that over time skin stretching and pulling that occurs overnight can contribute to permanent sleep lines. They can help keep your skin hydrated. If you have dry skin, a satin pillowcase can help. As Cheung explains, satin doesn’t dry out like cotton, so it’s easier to keep the skin hydrated. Satin Pillowcases Can Help Acne Many people believe that sleeping on a smoother surface like satin can help acne. The reason: Less friction from your pillowcase means less irritation.

Silk vs. Satin Silk and satin pillowcases are both touted as beauty must-haves that can work wonders on hair and skin. But what’s the difference? For starters, satin pillowcases are usually a lot cheaper than silk. This is because silk is a natural fiber made from the larvae of certain insects and the extraction process is labor intensive. As a natural fiber, silk is also hypoallergenic and cooler to sleep on. All in all, the beauty benefits in terms of friction, tugging, and moisture protection are similar for both materials. Plus, both materials feel like luxurious, sexy lingerie for your face. In the end, unless you have allergies, satin pillowcases should give you that same frizz-free hair and wrinkle-free face when you wake up.

Cons The only downside to satin pillowcases is that some people find them not ideal for hot nights. While most people find satin cooling, especially when they first lower their heads, a select few find it uncomfortable in the heat. However, this could be due more to the material than the satin weave. That being said, it’s a matter of personal preference. Sleeping on a slippery surface is not for everyone.

Satin sheets are highly praised for their luxurious, smooth texture and lustrous appearance. The sheets stay cool during the summer months, keeping you comfortable even in homes without air conditioning. Unfortunately, they tend to slide off the mattress, and some people have been known to slip and fall out of bed during a night sleeping on satin sheets. Special straps available at department stores and dollar stores can help secure the sheets.

Meet the pillow protection that hotels and resorts love

Have you ever used a pillow protector? Have you ever heard of one? If you’re like many consumers, you might be new to a pillow protector. We are all used to using pillowcases. So unless you or someone in your house has allergies, you may have never had a pillow protector before. However, these handy household items, common in high-end hotels and resorts, are useful and not just for allergy protection. Here are the details on what a pillow protector is and why you should use it for your bed pillows at home.

What is the difference between a pillow protector and a pillowcase?

A pillow protector is essentially a pillowcase that zips closed rather than having an opening at one end. It envelops the entire cushion and completely shields it from the outside. You can use a pillowcase with a pillowcase by slipping the cover over the pillowcase, or use the pillowcase alone as an extra protective pillowcase. It all depends on your individual health needs and taste in home decor.

A pillow protector zips around the pillow on all sides, preventing allergens such as pet dander and dust mites from getting onto the pillow through the open end of a regular pillowcase. This makes your pillow safe for allergy sufferers as the protector makes it essentially hypoallergenic.

Why do I need a pillow protector?

Even if you don’t have allergies, a pillow protector adds an extra layer of protection that will help keep your pillow fresher and cleaner for longer, extending its lifespan. It adds a barrier between you and your pillow to keep skin oil and dandruff and sweat away from your pillow. These (along with the nightly drool) cause a pillow to turn yellow over time. If your pillow is a high quality pillow that you spent a lot of money on, you don’t want it damaged in this way. A pillow protector will keep your pillow in pristine condition for longer and protect your investment in quality bedding.

Keep your pillow fresh and new and smelling like a rose

When your pillow is protected with a pillow protector, not only can you keep it clean and fresh, it also extends the life of the pillow, allowing you to better utilize and enjoy the quality pillow you’ve carefully chosen for your sleeping style and budget . Less prone to stains and dirt, with a pillow protector, the pillow doesn’t need to be replaced as often. So that you can enjoy your pillow for longer, it is best to protect it from the start with a pillow protector. They are very inexpensive and easy to wash and care for. You avoid having to wash your pillow, which can damage it if done wrong or too often. You’ll feel the difference night after night when you lay your head on a pillow that feels and smells fresh, clean and always looks great, doubly protected by your favorite decorative pillowcase that suits your personal style.

Meet the Sobel Westex pillow protector

Sobel Westex’s pillow protector is a high-quality cover made from a cotton-polyester blend, perfect for protecting a luxury pillow from allergens and other dirt and damage. It is an antibacterial, allergen shielding and fully breathable fabric cover that improves your sleeping experience by keeping your pillow cool and clean. It’s also extremely comfortable with a 250 thread count, so you’ll enjoy laying your head on it every night. And it’s an easy, affordable way to protect your investment in a quality pillow. You can protect this pillow for a long time for about the same price as a cup of trendy coffee.

If protecting your investment in your pillow while maintaining a clean and healthy sleeping environment is important to you, try Sobel at Home’s pillow protector.