travel size pillow protector

UponArriving

11 Best Travel Pillow Cases [2020]

Just because you are on a plane or in a car does not mean that you have to sacrifice comfort when it comes to your pillow cases. There are many high-quality and comfortable pillowcases that you can bring with you and place on your travel pillows wherever you go.

In this article, I will cover the different types of travel pillows you might encounter and provide you with some recommendations of some of the most highly reviewed travel pillow cases around.

Table of Contents

Travel pillows overview

Travel pillows come in a variety of sizes and shapes but there are some standardized versions of travel pillows that you will probably see at stores in the airport and when shopping online for travel pillows. 

Standard travel pillow

The standard travel pillow will likely be rectangular and 12″ x 16″ or 14″ x 20″. They might be filled with a variety of fillers like feathers, down, gel fiber, etc. Travel pillows are usually pretty cheap so you don’t have to splurge to find a decent pillow. And likewise, travel pillowcases are also pretty cheap.

A standard travel pillow is the type of pillow that you might bring along on a flight, road trip, or in your luggage for random times when you need some extra support from a pillow.

They are also very handy when traveling with toddlers or with babies. In fact, many pillows that are “travel sized” are actually toddler sized pillows that you would use for every day use with a toddler or a baby. 

And when you are not traveling, these types of pillows can come in handy for added support for your various body parts. For example, I have seen people use smaller travel pillows to help provide them with some additional back support. Or they might plop their legs on top of them when lying down.

Since travel pillows are so popular, it is not that difficult to find a travel pillow case for them. By the way, if you are also interested in finding some quality travel blankets be sure to check out the article here.   

The travel neck pillow

Neck pillows also come in a few varieties but the standard neck pillow comes in a U-shape. This is the type of pillow that wraps around your neck and provides questionable comfort for a lot of people. They also have U-shaped pillows that have additional “arms” for support and other types of neck pillows that provide support in different types of ways. 

You don’t always use a pillowcase for these type of pillows but you can in some instances. The tricky thing with pillows like these is that you have to find a U-shaped pillow case that will fit and the U-shaped pillows often have different dimensions and different fillings which can make it difficult to match them with a pillowcase. 

Standard hotel pillows

When some people are shopping for travel pillow cases, they are not looking for pillowcases for smaller neck and travel pillows.

Instead, they are interested in finding pillowcases that they can take with them to use at hotels.

This gives a lot of people an extra level of comfort and security, knowing that their pillowcases are clean and perhaps more protective of things like allergies. If you fall into this boat, you will be looking to buy pillowcases that are in a standard size or perhaps a queen/king size since many hotel beds are larger.

The issue with this is that hotels use pillows that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Therefore, you may not always be able to use your travel pillowcase unless you travel with several different sizes. 

The best travel pillowcases

Below are some of the top-rated travel pillow cases that you will find online.

ALASKA BEAR – Natural Silk Travel Pillowcase

The ALASKA BEAR – Natural Silk Travel Pillowcase is a very highly rated silk travel pillowcase that comes in a variety of sizes including toddler which is 14″ x 18,” a standard size which is 20″ x 26,” and also queen and king sizes. These pillowcases feature 100% 19 momme mulberry silk and a 600 thread count, allowing for an incredibly smooth feeling on the skin.

Silk pillows may actually have a lot of health benefits . Silk can help reduce allergic reactions to materials and substances that might otherwise be stuck in your cotton pillows. Silk can also help with issues like dry skin and perhaps even help to reduce wrinkles. Finally, it is probably one of the best options for protecting your hair while you sleep. So if health and beauty or at the top of your mind, a pillowcase like this might be perfect for you.

TILLYOU Toddler Travel Pillowcases

The TILLYOU Toddler Travel Pillowcases are some of the most popular travel pillowcases.

These are 100% silky soft microfiber polyester and they are extremely popular with kids and babies due to their smooth texture. They are 14″ x 20″ and come with a pack of two. The pillow cases will fit pillows in the following sizes: 13 x 18, 14 x 19, or 12 x 16 and from the following brands: TILLYOU, Dreamtown Kids, Little Sleepy Head, PharMeDoc, A Little Pillow, My Pillow, and others. 

AmazonBasics Light-Weight Microfiber Pillowcases

AmazonBasics Light-Weight Microfiber Pillowcases are pretty cheap but highly reviewed. It is made with 100% polyester and it includes two 20″ x 30″ pillowcases, so these are a little bit bigger than standard travel pillows.

What is nice about these pillowcases is that they have so many different colors and patterns. You should not have an issue finding a color that matches or compliments whatever look you are going for.

NTBAY Satin Pillowcases

If you are looking for satin travel pillowcases then you might want to check out the NTBAY satin pillowcases . These have fantastic reviews and come with a toddler size of 13″ x 18.” They also come in a variety of colors as well. These pillowcases come with a 90 day return and replacement service so they guarantee your satisfaction which is nice.

Satin pillowcases also have a lot of health benefits just like silk . Satin can help reduce wrinkles and lines in your face by reducing the amount of friction against your face that you would experience with a typical cotton pillow case. It might also help to protect your eyelashes and to keep your hair in good condition as well.  

Bedsure Satin Pillowcase

If you are in the market for a larger satin pillowcase then you might go with the queen size Bedsure Satin pillow case . These measure 20″ x 30″ so they are significantly larger than the satin pillow cases above. These satin pillow cases are highly regarded and have nearly 10,000 reviews averaging close to five stars which is pretty amazing. The satin is 100% polyester satin and will provide you with a smooth and soft feeling.

NTBAY Velvet Pillowcase

If velvet is more your style then look into the NTBAY Velvet Pillowcases . These are super comfortable pillows that come in a toddler size of 13″ x 18.” These pillows come in a number of solid colors and they feature wrinkle, shrink, and fade resistance . 

NTBAY Organic Cotton Toddler Pillowcases

NTBAY Organic Cotton Toddler Pillowcases are good choices for anybody looking for some solid cotton travel pillow cases. These come in toddler size of 13″ x 18″ and will provide you with a set of two pillowcases. You can find these pillows in a variety of different patterns and colors.

Empyrean Bedding Hotel Luxury Set

Walmart has some pretty high-quality travel pillowcases that you can find. The Empyrean Bedding Hotel Luxury Set comes with two pillowcases and the king size pillowcase measures 20” x 40.” The pillowcases are pure microfiber linen, which unlike cotton, is more breathable and durable.

AllerEase Allergy Protection Zippered Travel Pillow Protector

If you are in search of a travel pillow case with an enclosed zipper then consider the AllerEase Allergy Protection Zippered Travel Pillow Protector. It comes in a 14″ x 20″ size and is made of 100% polyester microfiber fabric. The pillowcase only comes in a handful of colors, however.

If you struggle with allergies this might be the type of pillow case that could help you out by blocking dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens .

Travel neck pillowcase

If you are traveling with a neck pillow, there is a chance that you would want to use your own pillow cover for the pillow. Maybe the pillow is a little bit worn and in bad condition or you just want a pillow case that is more comfortable, if you are looking for a good plush pillow cover for a neck pillow then try out Cloudz Washable Travel Neck Pillow Cover .

This pillow case is 100% polyester and slips right over your Cloudz pillow. It even comes with a pocket where you can store your cell phone. 

Personalized travel pillow cases

Some people are really into personalization, especially when it comes to things like travel products. If you would like to find a personalized travel pillow I would head over to Etsy because there are endless customizable products on that website including travel pillows.

There are a lot of high-quality travel pillow cases out there for you to choose from. The first thing you need to figure out is what type of travel pillow you want a pillowcase for and what size. Then look at all of the different fabrics and decide on what type of texture you find most comfortable. Once you have narrowed that down, it will not be very difficult to find the perfect travel pillow case for you!

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Privacy Overview

Travel Pillow Protectors (with Zipper)

$ 2.90 – $ 5.80

Our Travel Pillow Protectors are available in; 200 and 308 thread count, white, quality, down proof ticking. The 200 thread-count  is back-fill and calendar,  resulting in a much better finish than the “regular” 200tc fabrics. The 308tc,  Combed Cotton fabric,  has had all the short fibers ‘combed’ out of it, leaving only the longest fibers, making for a softer and stronger fabric. The 308tc has an exquisite soft finish and shine,  giving pillow protector a great feel,  we also use the same fabric in the high end pillows.

Description

Additional information.

Our pillow cases and protectors are available in; 200 and 308 thread count,  ALL are white, down proof ticking. The 200 tc  is back-fill and calendar,  resulting in a much better finish than the “regular” 200tc fabrics. The 308,  Combed Cotton fabric  has had all the short fibers ‘combed’ out of it, leaving only the longest fibers, making for a softer and stronger fabric. The 308 has an exquisite soft finish and shine,  giving protector a great feel,  we also use the same fabric in the high end pillows.

We manufacture pillow cases for all our pillow sizes, as well custom sizes… Call

Related products

Body Pillow Cases

Bed pillow protectors (with zipper), travel pillow cases, pillow cases (bed pillows).

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The Best Pillow Protectors to Help You Breathe Easier

Keep your pillows looking as good as new

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

You use bed sheets and maybe even a pad or cover to help maintain your mattress and prevent dust accumulation—but what about your pillow? Pillow protectors are similar to pillowcases and shams, except they almost always have zipper closures and serve a specific purpose.

The idea is to prevent premature wear and tear of your pillow while creating a barrier against moisture, stains, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. There are lots of cooling options, too, and some even go so far as to keep bed bugs away. To help you narrow down your options, we rounded up the best pillow protectors for every budget.

Best Overall

Avocado quilted pillow protector.

Hypoallergenic

A bit thick and stiff

While there are many excellent options out there, Avocado takes the cake. The brand's 400-thread-count Quilted Pillow Protector is woven from 100 percent certified organic cotton. It boasts a velvety-smooth sateen finish with a hand-stitched diamond quilting pattern.

This discrete encasement is designed to go over your pillow and under your pillowcase. Thanks to the hidden zipper and white fabric, it won't show through.

We also like that it comes in three sizes and holds various certifications, including GOTS, Made Safe, Greenguard Gold, and Oeko-Tex. This product is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, durable, and even machine-washable—what's not to love?

Material: Organic cotton | Sizes: Standard, Queen, King | Certifications: GOTS, Made Safe, Greenguard Gold, Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Best Budget

The company store cotton pillow protector.

Exceptionally soft and comfortable

Machine-washable

Zipper isn't very durable

For folks on a budget, we highly recommend the 100 percent cotton pillow protector from The Company Store. This well-crafted bedding essential is exceptionally soft and comfortable.

It has a zipper closure on one side and is conveniently machine-washable. We also appreciate that the Cotton Pillow Protector comes in four sizes, including Euro to fit square decorative pillows.

Material: Cotton | Sizes: Standard, Queen, King, Euro | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Best for Allergies

Mission: allergy dust mite and allergen proof pillow encasing.

Protects from multiple allergens

Silky and soft texture

Limited sizes

Some reviews mention crinkliness

Designed by a board-certified allergist, the Mission: Allergy Dust Mite and Allergen Proof Pillow Encasing is a great defense against allergens while you doze. Whether it's dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens, this moderately-priced encasement can help you breathe easier.

Tightly woven with 100 percent microfiber polyester, it flaunts a silky smooth texture, bound seams, interior and exterior zipper flaps, and easy-to-use zippers. The pillow protector has an air-permeable construction making it extremely breathable while still being water-repellant. 

Material: Polyester | Sizes: Standard | Certifications: None listed

Best Waterproof

Coop sleep goods pillow protector.

Guaranteed quiet

Several sizes

Stripe shows through white pillowcases

Woven from a bamboo-polyester blend with a special polyurethane membrane, the Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector from Coop Home Goods is waterproof and stain-resistant. Sweat, spills, and other liquids can't penetrate the material, but it's still machine-washable on a cold cycle.

Unlike other waterproof designs, this pillow protector is guaranteed quiet—no crinkly, rustling noises when you move around. It's also hypoallergenic, breathable, and supremely soft.

Material: Bamboo, polyester, polyurethane membrane | Sizes: Travel/toddler, Standard, Queen, King, Body | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Best Organic

Coyuchi organic pillow protector.

Densely woven

Sateen finish

Dust mite protection

Not waterproof

If you're on the organic bedding bandwagon, you can't go wrong with Coyuchi's Organic Cotton Pillow protector. This protector is made of 100 percent certified organic cotton and densely woven with a 530 thread count. It isn't waterproof, but the fabric is designed to offer a layer of defense against common woes like stains.

Customers love how soft the cotton feels to the touch, and it's clear that the sateen weave makes this protector feel like a little slice of luxury. It's particularly great at protecting down pillows, too.

Available in three sizes, this white encasement features a luxurious sateen finish and a side zipper closure. You can count on protection from stains as well as dust mites, and general wear and tear.

Material: Organic cotton | Sizes: Standard, Queen, King | Certifications: GOTS, Made Safe

Best Cooling

Ettitude bamboo pillow protector.

Sustainable CleanBamboo fabric

Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin

Water-resistant

Can make your pillow too firm

Calling all hot sleepers! Ettitude's Pillow Protector is woven from sustainable and hypoallergenic bamboo. The fill within the box-stitch quilting is bamboo as well, which makes for an all-around breathable and inherently cooling encasement.

It's also a nice choice for those with sensitive skin, as the added breathability and hypoallergenic (and sustainable!) bamboo fabric is gentle to the touch and won't aggravate any existing concerns. Plus, the thickness of this pillow protector helps breathe new life into old pillows, with many customers noting that it can re-fluff and reinvigorate tired, flat ones.

In addition to helping regulate your body temperature, a thermoplastic lining keeps sweat stains and spills off your pillow. However, this pillow protector is definitely an investment with a higher-than-typical price.

Material: Bamboo, thermoplastic polyurethane | Sizes: Standard, King | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Best for Bed Bugs

All-in-one pillow protectors.

Ultrasonically sealed seams

Not very breathable

If you're dealing with bed bugs, go with All-in-One Pillow Protectors. The unique fabric is designed to prevent an infestation from reaching your pillow.

Thanks to a multi-layer microporous barrier, triple-seal closure, and ultrasonically sealed seams, it also blocks dust mites, pollen, and pet dander while keeping moisture out. We appreciate that this waterproof pillow protector is machine-washable and non-crinkly.

Material: Cotton, polyester, polyurethane | Sizes: Standard, King | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Best for Night Sweats

Brooklinen pillow protectors.

Prevents stains

While Brooklinen is well-known for its luxury bedding, the brand makes some great utilitarian products. These pillow protectors are loomed from 100 percent long-staple cotton with a 500-thread-count sateen weave.

The dense fabric is designed to safeguard your pillow from sweat, oil, makeup, and spills. Available in packs of two, the encasements also provide natural protection from dust mites while extending the life of your pillow.

Material: Long-staple cotton | Sizes: Standard, King | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

White Noise 100% Cotton Pillow Sham

High-quality construction

Asthma and allergy friendly

Moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating

Can add a bit too much thickness to your pillow

If you prefer a protector that adds a bit of loft to your pillow, you’ll want to check out the White Noise 100% Cotton Pillow Sham. While it comes at a steep price point compared to other options on this list, it’s suitable for a wide range of people including those with night sweats and people with asthma or allergies. 

Additionally, it’s made primarily with cotton and features a silk liner—a high-end feature that’s pretty rare in pillow protectors. It will add a bit of thickness to your pillow, which is good if you need some added support.

The product is asthma and allergy friendly, certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The material is both breathable and moisture-wicking, so if you tend to overheat while sleeping, this pillow protector might just be for you. 

Material: Cotton and silk | Sizes: Standard, Queen, King | Certifications: Certified asthma and allergy friendly

SMARTSILK Pillow Protector

Cooling properties

Lining can potentially discolor

For those who enjoy the benefits of silk bedding, the SMARTSILK Pillow Protector is a top-notch pick. Made with a cotton shell and silk fill, the product boasts a breathable construction and temperature-regulating properties to keep you cool throughout the night.

Additionally, it’s hypoallergenic, protecting against dander, pollen, and other allergens for a better night’s sleep. And while it might be a bit on the pricey side, we think it’s worth it considering the high-quality materials and thoughtful construction.

Material: Cotton and silk | Sizes: Queen | Certifications: None listed

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick is the Avocado Quilted Pillow Protector (view at Avocado ). This organic cotton encasement features a smooth sateen finish and offers breathable and hypoallergenic protection. For something more wallet-friendly, we recommend our best budget choice The Company Store Cotton Pillow Protector (view at The Company Store ), which is soft, comfortable, breathable, and effective.

What to Look for When Buying a Pillow Protector

When buying a pillow protector, you'll want to pay attention to the material. Many options are 100 percent cotton, an inherently airy and moisture-wicking textile. Some are woven from bamboo lyocell, which is also breathable and moisture-resistant but generally more sustainable.

However, water-resistant and waterproof protectors typically feature some sort of polyethylene membrane or outer shell. The thermoplastic polymer offers excellent protection from spills, sweat, oil, makeup, and other substances that may stain a pillow.

Many protectors come in standard, queen, and king sizes to accommodate different sizes of bed pillows . However, some only offer standard and king. While queen pillows are a few inches longer than standards, the idea is that they're close enough to fit the same cases. You might also see additional sizes, such as Euro (for square throw pillows ) and body (for body pillows).

Temperature Regulation

Some encasements are designed to help regulate your body temperature while you sleep by way of cooling, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Cotton and bamboo tend to be best for this, and lower thread counts will allow more air to pass through. While there are some exceptions, pillow protectors with polyethylene layers generally won't be as breathable.

Certifications

We also suggest looking out for various certifications, which can verify the quality of the textile and ensure it's produced ethically or sustainably. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifies organic bedding, and the Standard 100 certification by Oeko-Tex confirms a material is free of harmful substances.

Similarly, the Made Safe seal tells you a product was created only with safe ingredients and is free of chemicals that could harm your health. Certified Fair Trade bedding is made by farmers, artisans, or production workers who are treated ethically and paid a fair wage.

Products certified as Asthma & Allergy Friendly by the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA) should do a sufficient job of keeping allergens out. Then there's Greenguard Gold, which ensures a fabric won't pollute indoor air, though it's not as common for textiles.

A pillow protector is similar to a mattress protector or mattress pad in that it safeguards the insert from various substances while extending its lifespan. They're typically made of cotton or bamboo and may feature a polyurethane layer for extra moisture resistance. 

People often use them as allergen barriers because they can help keep dust mites, pet dander, and pollen out of your pillow. This type of encasement usually has a zipper closure and might feature specially sealed seams to keep liquids and bed bugs out.

Different fabrics will have different strengths when it comes to pillow protectors, so you’ll want to consider what will benefit your sleep the most. Do you have night sweats or tend to overheat while sleeping? Then you may want to look for a fabric that’s moisture-wicking or temperature-regulating, such as polyester or bamboo.

Is your quality of sleep suffering because of allergies or asthma? Cotton or silk might just be your best bet. You’ll also want to consider your preferred texture and thickness of the pillow protector when picking one out.

Pillow protectors should be washed around once a month in order to make the most of the product. This will ensure you’re washing away any dirt or oils that may have accumulated over time.

And while you can throw most pillow protectors into the washer and dryer with ease, you’ll want to check the care instructions before purchasing one. Some materials may require you to dry on low heat or air dry, which you’ll want to consider beforehand.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in textiles, home design, and lifestyle. For this piece, she researched all aspects of pillow protectors, including the various types, materials, features, and certifications. She considered dozens of encasements from myriad brands and retailers, ultimately selecting products that held multiple critical qualities (breathability, organically grown fabric, water resistance, allergy protection, etc.). Holland has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019, where she writes full reviews of home-tested products and "Best of" roundups.

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Best Pillow Protectors of 2024

Table of Contents

• Best Pillow Protectors
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

The best pillow protectors act as a barrier between your pillows and substances that may stain or leave stubborn odors. They can be useful if you get night sweats, drool in your sleep, like to eat or drink in bed, or own high-end bed pillows that aren't machine-washable.

Pillow protectors also have benefits for those with allergies or asthma. Certified sleep science coach Allana Wass explains, "many pillow protectors are hypoallergenic to prevent the accumulation of pollen, pet dander, and dust mites in the pillow."

Beyond waterproof, stain-resistant, and allergen-blocking designs, some protectors offer a cooling effect, and others simply add a breathable layer between your pillow and pillowcase. The best option for you might not be right for the next person, so our list includes products suited to a variety of needs and preferences.

• Best Overall: Protect-A-Bed Cool Tencel Waterproof Pillow Protector »
• Best Budget: AllerEase Ultimate Cotton Pillow Protector »
• Best for Allergies: Slumberfy Bamboo Pillow Protector »
• Best Cooling: Marlow Cooling Pillow Protector »
• Best Waterproof: Coop Sleep Goods Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector »
• Best Organic: Avocado Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector »

Best Overall: Protect-A-Bed Cool Tencel Waterproof Pillow Protector

Protect-A-Bed

Waterproof yet breathable and soft

Allergen, bacteria, virus, and odor protection

Machine-washable and dryer-safe

Only sold individually

Not the cheapest option on the market

This pillow protector from Protect-A-Bed checks pretty much all the boxes in terms of what this type of product can offer. It's waterproof yet still breathable and acts as a safeguard from allergens, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria. The soft exterior is Tencel lyocell, a fabric made of cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp. Tencel is not only breathable but moisture-wicking (helping draw sweat away from your body) with a cool-to-the-touch feel.

This pillow protector also features a polyurethane (plastic) lining that acts as a shield against liquids and common allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. Such a barrier "not only ensures a cleaner sleeping environment but also enhances comfort, as the additional layer can provide a softer feel when resting one's head," says Kerry Davies , a sleep coach and therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Unlike some other cases with plastic coatings, it doesn't make a crinkly noise.

This protector has a zippered closure that provides full coverage for the pillow. The water and allergy barrier also meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s highest level of protection from viruses, indicating that viruses can’t pass through the fabric. Conveniently, this pillow protector is machine-washable and dryer-safe. It’s also backed by a five-year warranty.

• Price: $49 (Standard)
• Sizes: Standard, queen, king
• Materials: Tencel, polyurethane laminate
• Waterproof: Yes

Best Budget: AllerEase Ultimate Cotton Pillow Protector

Lifetime warranty

Protection from bed bugs, allergens, and bacteria

Isn’t waterproof

May not be as breathable as natural fabrics

On a budget? The AllerEase Ultimate Cotton Pillow Protector is an excellent choice. Made of a polyester and nylon fabric blend with an antimicrobial finish and zipper closure, it's designed to act as a barrier against bed bugs and household allergens while preventing mold and mildew growth. It's also Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified for chemical safety. Though this particular product isn't waterproof, the brand does sell a waterproof option .

The other thing to note is that polyester – a synthetic fabric – is not typically as breathable as other common pillow protector materials such as cotton or Tencel. However, this pillow protector has patented temperature-balancing technology that, according to the manufacturer, helps ensure you don't get too hot or too cold while sleeping. You can put it in the washing machine with your other bedding and toss it in the dryer, too.

A single protector in a standard/queen size costs about $11, but AllerEase also sells it in packs of two and four. Considering the affordable price and lifetime warranty, we found it an undeniable value.

• Price: $10.99 (Standard/queen)
• Sizes: Standard/queen, king
• Materials: Polyester, nylon
• Waterproof: No

Best for Allergies: Slumberfy Bamboo Pillow Protector

Tight weave to keep particles out

Waterproof yet breathable

Low noise level

Has partial widthwise opening

Only sold in a two-pack

This pillow protector is made from fabric derived from bamboo, though Slumberfy does not specify what type of fabric. Wass says bamboo fabrics can be not only soft but also breathable and moisture-wicking – not to mention a great choice for those looking for a hypoallergenic option.

"For a pillow protector to offer optimal protection against dust mites and allergens, it should be crafted from a tightly woven fabric," Davies also notes. Sure enough, this one features a jacquard weave designed to keep such particles out. It's also independently verified by Snell Scientifics , a testing lab in Georgia, to block 100% of dust mites.

The underside of the top layer has a waterproof coating for protection against sweat, spills, oils, and other liquids. At the same time, the brand says the protector is noiseless and breathable with a fabric designed to enhance airflow. One potential drawback is that this pillow protector only has a partial opening widthwise (most open lengthwise). Customer reviews have noted that this can make it hard to get your pillow in and out. Still, the price is reasonable for a set of two, and it's backed by a lifetime warranty.

• Price: $22.99 (Standard two-pack)
• Material: Bamboo-based fabric

Best Cooling: Marlow Cooling Pillow Protector

Features temperature-regulating material

Resists bacteria growth

Is machine-washable and dryer-safe

Not waterproof

No allergen barrier

If you run hot at night, the Marlow Cooling Pillow Protector might be your best bet. The exterior fabric is a blend of breathable long-staple cotton and nylon satin. Then, there's an interior microfiber layer that incorporates phase-changing material (PCM). Textiles can be treated with PCM technology to help regulate temperature by absorbing excess heat from your body, storing it, and releasing it back onto your skin if you get too cold. Essentially, it helps you stay at a comfortable temperature while you sleep.

This product isn't waterproof, and it's not designed to block allergens. However, it does feature an antimicrobial coating to preserve freshness by resisting bacteria, like the kind in your sweat that can cause odors. We also appreciate that the pillow protector can be machine-washed and tumble-dried with the rest of your bedding.

• Price: $32 (Standard)
• Sizes: Standard, king
• Materials: Long-staple cotton, nylon satin, PCM-coated microfiber

Best Waterproof: Coop Sleep Goods Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector

Coop Sleep Goods

Repels sweat, spills, and stains

Offers travel/toddler and body pillow sizes

Uses low-noise design

Has delicate care requirements

May limit effects of cooling pillows

The Coop Sleep Goods Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector is designed to be a safeguard for your bed pillow from sweat, spills, and other liquids as well as dust, mold, bacteria, and mildew. It's made of the brand's Ultra-Tech fabric, which is a blend of polyester and bamboo-derived viscose rayon. The surface features a backing that repels liquids. While some waterproof encasements have a plastic feel and make a crinkly noise, the brand guarantees this one to be soft, breathable, and totally quiet.

This product is also Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified, which tells you the material is free of more than 350 potentially harmful substances. It's machine-washable, though you'll want to run it on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent and make sure the waterproof backing is flipped to the inside. While it's technically dryer-safe, the brand says a low-temperature setting is important, as too much heat can damage it.

In addition to selling queen and king sizes both individually or as a set of two, Coop Sleep Goods also offers versions of this protector that can accommodate a travel/toddler pillow as well as a body pillow.

• Price: $23 (Queen)
• Sizes: Queen, king, travel/toddler, body
• Materials: Polyester, bamboo-derived viscose rayon, polyurethane

Best Organic: Avocado Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector

Carries multiple product safety and sustainable certifications

Keeps liquids and allergens out

Has no crinkly sound or plastic feel

Not pre-shrunk

Pricier than other options

For a premium option with a "soft, luxurious feel," Davies recommends organic cotton. Avocado's Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector is woven from organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) . A thin layer of polyurethane provides a waterproof barrier to keep sweat, drool, spills, and other liquids away from your pillow. According to the brand, the barrier layer also helps keep dust mites and other allergens out without looking, feeling, or sounding like plastic.

In addition to being GOTS-certified, this product has a Greenguard Gold certification, ensuring it won't emit harmful levels of chemicals into your indoor air. It's also certified by Made Safe , which tells you it's made without certain substances known to be harmful to human health and the environment.

One potential downside to this protector is that it comes with specific care instructions. If you machine-wash your pillow protector, a gentle cycle with cold water is recommended. Then, you'll want to hang it up to air-dry or tumble-dry it on low heat. Avocado designs the pillow protector to be oversized, accounting for eventual shrinking in the wash. The company says you may need to wash it up to three times before it reaches its true size.

• Materials: Organic cotton, polyurethane

The Bottom Line

A pillow protector acts as a safeguard for your bed pillow from sweat, spills, stains, and allergens. The breathable, waterproof, non-crinkly Protect-A-Bed Cool Tencel Waterproof Pillow Protector covers all the bases. But if you're looking for something more affordable, consider the AllerEase Ultimate Cotton Pillow Protector.

Things To Consider When Buying Pillow Protectors

Material: Pillow protectors can be made of natural, semi-synthetic, or completely synthetic fabrics including cotton, Tencel lyocell, bamboo-based fabric, polyester, and microfiber. "Tencel pillow protectors ward off moisture and are highly hypoallergenic and breathable," says sleep science coach Allana Wass , adding that the fabric can help repel odor-causing bacteria.

Wass notes that cotton can be good for those with sensitive skin, polyester is generally low-maintenance and long-lasting, and soft microfiber can do a good job resisting allergens. According to sleep coach and CBT-I therapist Kerry Davies , tightly woven fabrics help keep dust mites and other small particles out. Many encasements also feature a thin polyurethane layer for waterproof protection.

Size: Most pillow protectors are available in two sizes: standard and king. Like regular pillowcases, the standard size can generally fit standard and queen bed pillows, though some brands offer standard and queen sizes separately. You should get the size that corresponds with your bed pillow.

Waterproof Features: Waterproof protectors are designed to keep sweat, spills, drool, makeup, oils, and other liquids from seeping into your bed pillows. This type of encasement usually features a thin polyurethane or vinyl coating. In some cases, nylon may be woven into the exterior fabric for moisture protection.

Noise Level: The plastic or vinyl used to provide waterproof protection can sometimes result in a crinkly sound when you move around at night. However, many of the best pillow protectors have very thin, almost undetectable coatings to reduce noise and prevent disrupting your sleep.

Allergy Protection: "The people who need pillow protectors the most suffer from allergies and asthma," says Wass, explaining that the right one can help "you breathe easier and sleep better." To keep dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mildew out of your pillow, encasements designed for allergy protection might feature a tightly woven fabric, hypoallergenic materials like cotton or bamboo, or a thin plastic barrier.

Temperature Control: Pillow protectors are often woven (at least partially) from breathable and moisture-absorbing materials like cotton, Tencel lyocell, or bamboo-derived fabrics. Some take it a step further with temperature-regulating technology like phase-changing material to prevent you from getting too hot or cold at night. A breathable pillow protector with temperature control is a good choice for those who run hot or get night sweats.

How We Chose the Best Pillow Protectors

To compile this list of the best pillow protectors, we first consulted certified sleep science coach Allana Wass , sleep coach and CBT-I therapist Kerry Davies , and Mattress Firm sleep doctor Dr. Seema Bonney . With their expert insight and buying tips in mind, we considered dozens of options, evaluating each for material, waterproof qualities, allergy protection, temperature control, noise level, and care requirements. While not all pillow protectors check every box, we narrowed it down to options that suit a range of specific needs.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing consumer goods and lifestyle products. The author of this piece Theresa Holland is a commerce writer specializing in home goods and bedding. Her work has appeared on The Spruce, Travel + Leisure, MyDomaine, and People.

For some people, a regular pillowcase will suffice, and you won’t need to use a pillow protector. But if your bed pillow isn't machine-washable, you might appreciate having an extra buffer to protect against sweat, spills, oily residues, makeup, and odor-causing bacteria.

Some pillow protectors can also help keep allergens and bed bugs at bay. "Other people needing a pillow protector include children, seniors, individuals with skin conditions, and guests in any hospitality setting," Wass adds.

Pillowcases are removable, washable enclosures that go over bed pillows. They usually match your sheets or complement the rest of your bedding. While a pillowcase offers some stain protection, a pillow protector takes it a step further. "[It] acts as a protective barrier against dust mites, allergens, spills, and stains, thus keeping you allergy-free and extending your pillow's life," says Wass.

While pillowcases often feature one open side or an envelope closure, pillow protectors typically have zippered closures to fully seal in the pillow. "Moreover, a pillow protector is designed to be used underneath a pillowcase, adding an extra layer of protection rather than replacing the pillowcase itself," Davies adds.

Pillow protectors can be noisy, particularly the waterproof variety, as they usually feature some sort of plastic or vinyl barrier. However, many are designed to have only a thin waterproof coating or barrier that repels liquids without creating a crinkly sound that affects your sleep.

Bonney says all bedding including pillow protectors should be washed at least every two weeks. If certain lifestyle conditions may contribute to increased buildup of dirt and bacteria on your bed – for example, you live in a warm or humid climate, sleep with a pet in the bed, or tend to get night sweats – you might want to wash everything once a week.

You should replace your pillow protector every couple of years – about as often as you'd swap out your bed pillows. That said, if the encasement is no longer doing its job of protecting your pillow from liquids, allergens, or bed bugs, it's probably time to get a new one.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector

Size/Color: Queen (1 Pc)

• Queen (1 Pc)
• Queen (Pair, 2 Pcs)
• King (1 Pc)
• King (Pair, 2 Pcs)
• Toddler - White
• Toddler - Gray
• Body - White

100-Night Risk-Free Trial + Free Delivery & Returns

• Breathable & waterproof Ultra-Tech Fabric
• STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified
• Guaranteed quiet
• Machine washable

To Wash: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Ensure that the pillow protector is unzipped, with the waterproof backing facing in. Use a mild detergent. Do not use fabric softener or bleach.

To Dry: Tumble dry low (note that drying the protector on too high of a temperature will damage it). Ensure the protector is completely dry before use. Do not iron or dry-clean.

Pairs well with

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Whisper Quiet

While other pillow protectors feel like cling wrap, ours is soft, smooth, and breathable for restful, uninterrupted sleep throughout the night.

Waterproof Surface

The special membrane keeps all yuck off, prolonging the life of your pillow, and making cleaning up spills as easy as 1-2-3.

Trust the Experts

No harmful chemicals here. Rest easy knowing our Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector has been tested in an independent lab against a list of over 350 harmful substances.

Textiles you can trust. OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 ZHHO 062859 TESTEX Institute

Common Questions About The Ultra-Tech Pillow Protector

What is a pillow protector? A pillow protector is an extra encasement and it helps shield your pillow shell from unwanted things like spills, dust mites, bed bugs, stains, sweat, and other moisture. Unlike most pillow covers, a pillow protector has a zipper closure and you can even put a pillowcase over it. By using pillow protectors, you can extend the life of your pillows as well as keep dust, bacteria, and liquid out. Should my pillow protector be waterproof? A waterproof pillow protector is an additional benefit to look for when purchasing a protector. Water-resistant or waterproof pillow protectors are ideal because they can prevent stains from liquids as well as protect from mold or mildew. The waterproof surface on our pillow protector makes cleaning up spills as easy as 1-2-3. How often should you wash a pillow protector? We recommend washing your pillow protector about once every month. Our pillow protector is made of machine washable fabric which makes cleaning even more convenient. Wash with a mild detergent on cold in a gentle cycle, making sure that the protector is unzipped with the waterproof backing facing in. You can dry the protector on tumble dry low. Be sure to not use fabric softener or bleach and to not iron or dry-clean as well. Washing your pillow protector is important because you'll want to remove any tough stains and increase your pillow’s lifespan to continue effectively protecting against dust mites, allergens, and moisture throughout the night.

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Love it all

Great quality. Cool. Very soft. Durable. Would purchase again

Well made. As pictured. Very cozy!

Fantastic Pillow Protector

The Coop pillow protector is the nicest I've seen or used.

Very Comfy and Plush

Overall very comfortable and can be used as a pillowcase in itself. I wish the ribbed section around the sides were less pronounced, but you don't normally notice it when sleeping in a normal position. Admittedly, the coop tags should be inside the pillowcase instead of on the outside. Otherwise, very plush and comfy.

#sleepwithcoop

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The Best Travel Pillow

By Sabrina Imbler

Short of scoring a row of empty seats—dream on!—your best bet for getting at least a little sleep while flying is a travel pillow.

After asking 10 panelists to try on eight travel pillows and after taking four cross-country red-eyes in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the comfortable and easy-to-pack  Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow is the best travel pillow for most people.

Everything we recommend

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The best travel pillow.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

Buying Options

Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

A travel pillow available at airports.

This memory-foam neck-support pillow is highly adjustable, but without a contoured back, it can’t quite sit flush with the headrest. It’s available at many airport stores, though.

Trtl Pillow

A pillow for one-sided neck support only.

It’s a fleece scarf with a built-in plastic brace—like a one-sided neck brace, but softer and cozier. However, it’s not so great if you tend to shift position while you sleep, and it costs more than the other pillows we recommend.

Bcozzy Pillow

Great with large headphones.

Featuring an adjustable design that accommodates over-the-ear headphones, the Bcozzy is an excellent chin-support pillow for people who nod forward as they sleep.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case.

Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, while supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks. While the memory foam feels plush, it’s also quite firm; this offers excellent support, but not much give. It also doesn’t let you adjust the fit, like our two wrappable picks: the Turtl and the BCozzy . If the Travelrest fits your neck, it’s an excellent pillow. If your neck is much longer or shorter than this pillow’s 5-inch wall, though, you might prefer the fit of one of our other pillow picks.

If our top pick sells out, or if you find yourself pillowless past security, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow is almost as good a pillow. It lacks the Travelrest’s angled, lay-flat back, but its U-shape, contoured memory-foam core and machine-washable velour cover still provide comparable levels of comfort. Its adjustable string closure also means that you can fit the pillow much tighter around your neck than you can with the Travelrest, making it a good choice for people with smaller necks or people who prefer a more constricted fit. Additionally, it’s the only one of our picks that we’ve regularly seen in stores located behind the security checkpoint at many airports.

If you typically lean to the same side while sleeping, the Trtl Pillow’s fleece-covered plastic frame provides unshakeable support to one side of your neck while remaining comfortable to wear. It’s basically a one-sided neck brace. The pillow’s cozy wraparound fleece will also keep your neck warm, making it a good choice for anyone who gets cold while flying (and a poor choice for those who sleep hot). But the Trtl’s winning quality is its tiny, packable size. Unlike any of our other picks, the Trtl does not need to be compressed or stuffed into a carrying case. It will always take up about as much space as a PB&J sandwich. (It costs a lot more than one, though.)

The Bcozzy , a variation on the hemi-doughnut theme, is our pick for anyone who wears large over-the-ear headphones on a flight or tends to nod forward while they sleep. The pillow’s overlapping ends form a snug cushion that holds your chin in place far better than do the Trtl’s plastic frame or the Travelrest and Cabeau’s chin-facing gap. While the pillow does not provide great support to either side of your neck, if paired with a large pair of headphones, the Bcozzy holds a head in place perfectly. While not as compressible as our other picks, the pillow has a small loop that can be clipped to the outside of most bags so it doesn’t have to take up space inside your bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked our best travel pillow finalists, how we tested travel pillows, our pick for the best travel pillow: travelrest nest ultimate memory foam travel pillow, runner-up for the best travel pillow: cabeau evolution classic pillow, also great for portability: trtl pillow, also-great chin-support pillow for forward-nodders: bcozzy pillow, other good travel pillows, the competition.

I am a frequent flyer who often takes red-eyes from coast to coast—I now live in Brooklyn but fly home to San Francisco to visit my parents. I’m also an insomniac, so falling asleep on planes has never been easy for me. While writing this article, I tested eight travel pillows on two five-hour flights and slept with our four picks on two more cross-country flights. I also spoke with Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change at the time of the interview, to see what she looks for in a travel pillow.

In addition, my Wirecutter colleagues as a whole are an exceptionally mobile group. We’ve worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica, so I asked some folks on staff which pillows they like and use regularly. (They’ve also since contributed some additional testing.)

Boarding a red-eye without a travel pillow in your bag is like choosing to sleep on the floor when there’s a perfectly good futon nearby. Sure, it’s no bed, but it’s a hell of a lot better than hardwood. In an interview she did in 2017 with The Atlantic reporter Kelly Conaboy, Dr. Mary O’Connor, then the director of Yale’s Center for Musculoskeletal Care, said that despite a lack of clinical studies that support the efficacy of travel pillows, “Many of us who travel have experienced falling asleep with our neck in a weird position and it bothering us thereafter. So, I think they can be helpful, but that depends on how they’re used and whether they support the neck.” In other words, using a supportive pillow may decrease the chances you wake up with an unwanted crick. It certainly has in our experience.

However, not all travel pillows are the same, and if you also happen to have a zealous hatred of your travel pillow, you probably have a bad one. So even if you have a generic pillow you picked up at some airport a few years ago, consider upgrading to one of our picks. And of course, these pillows work well on buses and trains, too.

So how can you tell if a pillow is likely to actually support your head? Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow studying sleep at the time of our interview, says the best travel pillows will keep your head elevated and in alignment with your spine: “Look for something that would really be supportive. My one gripe with most travel pillows is that they’re too soft and not too full—you want something that will be supportive as you try to get comfortable in your limited space.” Robbins also recommends finding a pillow that can keep you cozy but not too hot, as she says it’s easier to sleep with a lower body temperature.

Robbins does her best to avoid one common travel situation. “My number one sleep tip is to not take a red-eye if you can avoid it,” she said. “If the flight is five hours, you’re going to only have three hours of true rest, because all the announcements—‘lower your window,’ ‘raise your window.’ Those can be significant distractions.”

We also looked at existing editorial reviews for guidance. Ethan Green , founder of the sleep resource blog No Sleepless Nights, compiled an extensive comparative review of popular travel pillows that we found helpful when deciding what models to test.

For people who want a travel pillow that will ease some of the discomfort of sleeping upright on a bumpy plane ride, we’ve identified the following key features:

• Comfort and support: The pillow should offer ample support for the weight of your neck and head but not restrict your movements or feel too tight.
• Portable (but not inflatable): You don’t want your travel pillow to take up so much space in your carry-on that you can’t bring other things you need, so it should compress to a smaller size. Barring that, there should at least be a way to clip it to the outside of your bag or luggage. Inflatable pillows are easy to pack but should be avoided. They inevitably spring a leak, often sooner rather than later.
• Soft: The material should feel plush against your skin but not trap so much heat that it’s uncomfortable to wear.
• Universal fit (or as close as possible): The pillow should allow space for people to sleep with a ponytail or accommodate bigger hair, as well as a whole variety of head shapes and sizes and neck lengths.
• Sleeping styles: It should also accommodate people who move their head in any direction while they sleep. It should also work in a window, a middle, or an aisle seat.
• Speed of compression/decompression: In case you need to quickly stow your pillow before exiting the plane, or if you want to catch some shut-eye in a moment’s notice, it shouldn’t take too long to stuff the pillow into its carrying case or unfold it to full size.
• Weight: Ideally, the pillow shouldn’t add undue burden to your carry-on. While inflatable pillows will always be the lightest option, memory-foam pillows don’t weigh much more and can offer significantly more comfort.
• Grip/traction: Your head will likely move around a bit while sleeping on a plane, especially if there’s turbulence. So any kind of grip or traction around the bottom of the pillow will help it stay in place and keep you snoozing.
• Machine washable: As you might expect from a vessel that ferries hundreds of people back and forth across the sky on a daily basis, planes can be filthy. So you’ll want to be able to wash the whole pillow—or at least its cover—before you take it on your next trip.

We researched more than 40 travel pillows—which ranged from variations on a hemi-doughnut to inscrutable crowdfunded designs—and after comparing hundreds of glowing and enraged Amazon reviews, we decided to test eight. We asked a panel of 10 people to try each of the pillows in a chair pushed against the wall of a conference room (the closest we could come to airline conditions in our office) and surveyed them on the fit, comfort, and support of each pillow. The panelists all had a variety of neck lengths and jaw sizes, and one even had a substantial beard. We also ran all of the pillows or their detachable pillowcases through a washing machine as instructed to see how well each stood up to a spin cycle and tumble dry.

And because simulations are rarely enough, I brought eight travel pillows on two cross-country flights to see how the pillows felt in the specific back design of an airplane seat. As I was lucky enough to have unnecessarily kind and understanding neighbors (thank you, Mike and Deborah!), I wore each of these pillows in a window, a middle, and an aisle seat to see if they felt comfortable in each configuration. I also tried on Deborah’s Muji travel pillow (as she offered), but determined it had much less support than our picks. I also carried all of our picks on two more cross-country flights on a different airline to ensure the pillows did just as well in different seat designs.

The Travelrest Ultimate remains our top pick after several years because its plush but firm memory-foam core offers more support to your neck than that of any other pillow. It’s also one of the few pillows we tested that felt specifically designed for an airline seat, with an angled, grippy back that aligns perfectly to both upright and reclined positions and ensures the pillow won’t slide down as you nod off. The velvety-soft pillow supports heads and necks of all sizes and can be fitted with an adjustable cord and clasp. In the tried-but-true shape of a hemi-doughnut—imagine a doughnut with a bite taken out—the Travelrest Ultimate may look like other pillows, but a number of thoughtful details make it a softer, more supportive pillow than all the rest.

The Travelrest offers better all-around support than any other pillow we tested. Its broad, marshmallowy walls hug the whole circumference of your neck. It feels supportive but not stifling. The easy-to-fasten Velcro strap means it can be adjusted to a snug fit for necks of many sizes. There’s even a small crevice for curlier hair or a ponytail.

In addition to fitting your neck, the Travelrest’s back tapers up to a point to fit flat against an airline seat back. Most neck pillows lack this tapering on the back and the excess padding can push your neck away from the headrest, causing your neck to droop forward. Additionally, the Travelrest has grippy dots on the back that prevent it from slipping.

In addition to its excellent support, the Travelrest is very comfortable and cozy to wear. Its memory-foam core is wrapped in velour, which kept my neck warm without overheating it. The Travelrest’s velour also felt softer and smoother against my skin than similar coverings on other pillows, such as the Cabeau Evolution. It’s also easy to clean: The Travelrest’s cover is easily unzipped and machine-washable. The velour retained its softness after going through a wash and dry cycle.

While the Travelrest isn’t inflatable, it packs down to the size of a roll of toilet paper in its carrying case. Once you fold it cinnamon-roll style and it’s small enough to fit inside the bag, a Velcro strap on the pouch helps you compress it even further. If there’s still not enough space for it in your bag, you can always clip its drawstring to any exterior loop.

All of these thoughtful details were not lost on our testing panel. They gave the Travelrest the highest marks of any pillow in comfort and neck support, and two-thirds of our testers picked it as their favorite pillow.

How the Travelrest has held up

After over a year of use, this pillow had lost none of its supportiveness. The memory foam was just as firm and springy as it was when we bought it. Its velcro strap was still easy to secure. If it fits you, this is a pillow that stays secure and comfortable on your neck for the duration of a long flight. However, we’ve also heard from multiple travelers that this pillow doesn’t fit them. The memory foam is quite firm, which offers excellent support, but not much give. If a pillow of up to 5 inches doesn’t fit comfortably on your neck, we think you’ll be happier trying one of our other picks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Travelrest Ultimate will never compress to the thin, flat size of a tiny pillow like the Trtl. But its unparalleled, cushiony support can still pack down to a reasonable size, and its 13 ounces won’t make your carry-on noticeably heavier. And if saving space is your highest concern, we think the Trtl provides space-conscious support without the spit-filled fuss of an inflatable pillow.

While the Travelrest’s voluminous plush can support all heads that lean left, back, or right, the pillow may not hold up the chins of people with smaller faces. When my head bobbed forward, my small face sank into the gap between the pillow closure and my neck. You can adjust the Velcro strap for a tighter fit, but the short strap cannot be pulled as tight as the Cabeau’s adjustable strings.

The Travelrest Ultimate’s unbeatable support is in part due to the height of its sides, designed to come up to the jaw of the wearer. This means the pillow may be incompatible with larger over-the-ear headphones for people with shorter necks. For instance, when I tried to wear the Travelrest Ultimate with my noise-cancelling Bose headphones , the pillow pushed the headset uncomfortably far up on my head, taking my earlobes with it. However, my editor, who has a longer neck, didn’t have this problem.

If you want a tighter, more adjustable fit, the Cabeau Evolution Classic  (which used to be called just the Evolution) is the way to go. Its contoured memory-foam design offers almost as much neck support as our main pick does, albeit without some of the Travelrest’s luxurious height. But the Cabeau’s adjustable clasp allows a far greater range of cinching than the Travelrest. In other words, the pillow can fit as tightly as you like.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau’s hemi-doughnut shape offers 360 degrees of support for anyone wearing it. It also boasts a cushioned memory-foam core and a contoured top that will keep your neck upright and head in place. But unlike the Travelrest’s gently arched bottom, the Cabeau’s flat bottom won’t sit as securely on your shoulders and may move around during your sleep. The Cabeau also lacks the Travelrest’s smartly tapered, grippy back that helps keep the pillow in place during flight. The Cabeau’s velour cover is also machine-washable, but it feels less soft than the Travelrest’s.

Although the Cabeau’s fit and shape aren’t quite as good as the Travelrest’s, this pillow is more adjustable. It can be tightened or loosened with two adjustable strings that clip together, which results in a far more adjustable range than the Travelrest’s short strip of Velcro. If you have a smaller neck and know you find a tighter grip on your neck comforting, the Cabeau may be the way to go.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau also packs down to a quarter of its size, thanks to an adjustable strap bisecting its carrying case. But at 15.2 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than the Travelrest.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Cabeau Evolution is sold in many of those ubiquitous news stores inside airports. So if you find yourself lacing up your shoes after security and wishing you had bought one of our picks before your flight, look for the Cabeau’s contoured shape among the novelty hemi-doughnuts dangling off the travel pillow racks. It’s the best pillow you can buy at an airport. But if you have the chance to order online, the Travelrest offers more support.

There is a newer model of the Evolution Classic, the S3 , which has straps to hook onto a seat’s headrest. We think it’s a good choice if the Classic version is out of stock or otherwise unavailable. It’s still supportive and comfortable, but not as thick or soft as the Classic.

The Trtl Pillow , though odd-looking and unconventional, won a contingent of ardent fans with its firm support and slim, packable size. But it’s not our top pick because it works on only one side, and its warmth-trapping fleece can cause your neck to overheat. It’s also the most expensive of our picks. The Trtl consists of an arched plastic skeleton inside of a soft, fleece scarf that wraps once around your neck and then closes with Velcro to hold the pillow in place. You just lean your head against the convex end of the bendy frame, wrap the pillow around your neck, and your head has a soft but firm pedestal on which to rest while you sleep. It sounds weird, but it’s not that different from a neck brace—only it’s one-sided and softer.

Because the Trtl Pillow is little more than a scarf with a plastic plate in it, it packs down to the size of a sandwich and can lay flat against the back of your bag. This is the smallest travel pillow we tested and also requires none of the squashing or awkward cinching it takes to stuff the Travelrest or Cabeau into their holding bags, which are also easy to lose. Unlike any of the other pillows we’ve seen, the Trtl is small enough to fit inside a briefcase or handbag, making it the best option for people who don’t normally travel with backpacks. And at a featherweight 5 ounces, the Trtl is the lightest pillow we tested.

Though the Trtl can support your head from only one side, the tall, bendy plastic frame inside offered more support on that one side than either the Travelrest or Cabeau. Yet even with its soft, wraparound design, it lacks the all-around support provided by our top and runner-up picks. If you are an asymmetrical sleeper (if you prefer sleeping with your head leaning to one side), the Trtl may be a good choice. However, it’s not a good choice for people who nod forward—the plastic insert is too stiff. If that’s you, we prefer the Bcozzy, which we talk more about below .

Some testers found the Trtl’s quasi-corseted-turtleneck design off-putting. But then again, no one looks cool wearing any travel pillow. And on that note, the Trtl’s cozy fleece will keep your neck toasty. So if you know you run hot, the Trtl may not be the pillow for you.

Wirecutter’s Ganda Suthivarakom swears by the Trtl: “It packs almost flat, weighs next to nothing, and can be helpful for sleeping even when you are stuck in a middle seat. As someone who is always cold on the plane, I don't mind the whole fleece scarf design, either.”

Trtl has a more padded version of the pillow that claims to be more adjustable; one of our longer-necked staffers tried it and reported that it is indeed more comfortable for him than the original Trtl was. However, the same limitations of the original apply to the new version.

The Bcozzy is a snakelike spin on the traditional hemi-doughnut that’s perfect for anyone traveling with large headphones or people who tend to nod forward while sleeping and wake themselves up. It lacks the tall, supportive sides of our other picks, but the overlapping front is the perfect height to keep your chin from nodding forward as you doze off. It’s not as supportive on the sides, but this leaves ample room for big headphones.

The Bcozzy’s best advantage is its overlapping circular design, which allows you to adjust the pillow to degrees of personal preference. You can place the overlapping ends of the pillow around any point of your neck (though it only really makes sense in the front or on the sides), and wear the pillow as loose or as tight as you’d like. We think it’s most comfortable when the ends meet right under your neck—and in that position, it cushions your chin better than any other pillow we tested.

The longer, leaner Bcozzy lacks the plush, ensconcing neck support of the Travelrest Ultimate or Cabeau Evolution. It lays so low on your shoulders that it might not even touch your jaw. But this makes the pillow perfect for anyone who likes to wear over-the-ear headphones along with a travel pillow while they sleep on the flight. I personally like to fall asleep to music and drown out the dull roar of an airplane, so the Bcozzy works perfectly for me.

We still think the Travelrest Ultimate is a superior overall hemi-doughnut pillow, but the Bcozzy is an excellent choice if you plan to wear big headphones or know the feeling of that sharp, waking drop when your head falls forward on a plane.

The Bcozzy is also one of the least packable pillows, as it doesn’t come with a carrying case and does not compress particularly well. But its 7.4 ounces is around half the weight of the Travelrest or Cabeau, and it does comes with a little loop that clips onto the outside of a backpack or duffel. And even when squished down at the bottom of a bag, it doesn’t take up that much more space than the Travelrest Ultimate or Cabeau.

If you’re a back sleeper who can fall sleep sitting upright in your seat, facing forward, and not need to curl up or lean your head on the airplane window: You may want to try the Posture+ Travel Pillow, which is a U-shaped neck cushion, padded with memory foam, that looks like the back half of a cervical collar. When testing it, we slept surprisingly well, but it won’t suit all (or even most) sleep styles. It’s also not machine-washable, and it is pricy.

If you have a shorter neck and tend to run hot on planes and would prefer a pillow designed to keep you cool: Consider the ventilated Cabeau Evolution Cool —the combination of a silky polyester cover (similar to spandex) and vented design did feel mildly cooler against our necks. And we liked the pillow’s silky feel, packable size, zippered carrying case. But it was significantly smaller than the standard Cabeau Evolution and the Travelrest Ultimate, and it left the chins of long-necked testers totally unsupported. It’s also more expensive—now about $20 more than the Travelrest.

If you always lean to the same side when sleeping: Consider Travelrest’s All-in-One , which has a novel across-the-shoulder design that could be comfortable in such a situation. It has a similar fabric to the company’s winning Ultimate Memory Foam Neck Pillow, but in our tests its bulky inflated tube offered no structured head support, which could pose a problem in bumpy conditions.

If you tend to be a forward-falling head bobber: Consider the Caldera Releaf , which is less travel pillow and more neck brace. It does offer superior neck support, but it constricted the throat too much for our comfort.

The Trtl Pillow Plus , a later addition to the Trtl lineup, is more height-adjustable and has more padding than its older sibling . Our self-described “giraffe-necked” tester said that it did indeed fit him better than the original Trtl had. However, it still supports your head from only one side, making it not a great choice for sleepers who nod forward. It’s also bulkier than the original and costs nearly twice as much.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 is a newer version of our runner-up pick , the Evolution Classic. We liked it, and we think it’s a solid choice if the original Evolution isn’t available. It has added straps that you can hook onto a headrest to keep your head from falling forward while you sleep, but our runner-up pick is softer and slightly thicker, which offers a bit more support. We did find the S3 to be easier to roll up into its carrying case, however.

Intrigued by one of the stranger innovations that we’ve seen in travel pillow design, we tested the Huzi Design Infinity , but we can’t recommend it. Instead of cinching or clasping at the front, it is designed to be looped several times around the wearer’s neck like an infinity scarf. But the pillow failed to support our testers’ necks. Regardless of who tried it, testers found that looping it twice was too loose and thrice was too tight. It was also the largest and least compressible pillow we tested.

The J-Pillow offered a singular, three-pronged design that proved impossible for anyone to figure out without instructions. After some explanation, our testers could wear the pillow correctly, but they still felt that its squishy stuffing offered insufficient support, and only to one side of the head. It’s also impossible to pack away efficiently due to its pyramidal shape. If you want a one-sided pillow, skip this and go for the Trtl instead.

We tested the inexpensive Travelrest Curl because we loved its plush and contoured big cousin, the Travelrest Ultimate. But while the Curl contains the same luxurious memory-foam filling as the Ultimate, the pillow is so small that many testers found that it didn’t even come up to their jaws when worn. It does have an attractive price, but its skimpy size and unsupportive design could support only the shortest of necks.

We found the air-filled Sea to Summit Aeros Traveller Pillow to be similarly lacking. We liked how easy it was to fill—its dual-valve inflation mechanism means it won’t let air out between breaths—and we appreciated that it weighed only about a fifth as much as the Travelrest, but the Travelrest’s 360-degree support made it too hard to go back to an open-ring design that offers no support in the front. Also, one of our former freelance writers recently reported that when she pulled her pillow out of storage, after a few years of not using it, its internal bladder disintegrated in her hands.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Rebecca Robbins, postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change , phone interview , October 20, 2017

Meet your guide

Sabrina Imbler

Sabrina Imbler is a former staff writer for Wirecutter, where they covered kitchen tools and HVAC.

Further reading

Pluto Pod Travel Pillow: A First-Class Sleep Experience in Economy

by Dorie Chevlen

This travel pillow is so great you won’t even care if you look silly wearing it.

The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights

by Elissa Sanci

You might look funny while wearing the one-sided Trtl travel pillow in flight, but you won’t care when you land at your destination bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

by Samantha Schoech

We’ve put together a selection of fun, useful and clever gifts for that person who always has a trip planned.

The Best Pillow for Side Sleepers

by Jackie Reeve

We recommend the Xtreme Comforts Shredded Memory Foam Pillow for most side-sleepers. If you prefer a smoother cover, get Nest Bedding's Easy Breather Pillow .

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The 9 Best Pillow Protectors of 2024 Will Help Extend The Life of Your Pillows

Fend off allergens, sweat, and more.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

The Bottom Line

• What to Know Before Shopping

Your Questions, Answered

Better Homes & Gardens / Marcus Millan

You can find pillows for all sleep preferences , pillowcases made of silk to help keep hair frizz-free, and sheets that claim to keep you cool even in the depths of summer. But there’s one bedding product that, while not mentioned as often, is just as essential: the pillow protector. 

Not only can the best pillow protectors keep you comfortable and cool, they can also prolong the life of your pillows while protecting you from allergens like dust mites and pet dander while you sleep.

Some pillow protectors go above with certifications for chemical emissions, organic materials, and environmentally-friendly production. You can find a pillow protector that improves the environment you sleep in without harming the world around you.

What We Researched

We researched dozens of pillow protectors, paying close attention to materials, available sizes, and special certifications .

Best Overall

Sureguard cotton pillow protectors.

The outside is breathable cotton and inside is 100% waterproof for protection against sweat and other types of moisture.

While the waterproof lining is great, it feels a bit like plastic and might not be comfortable for hot sleepers.

There’s a lot to like about the two-pack of SureGuard Cotton Pillow Protectors . It topped our list because it’s waterproof and tackles allergens, while being visibly less noticeable than other options. Soft and noiseless, it’s free from vinyls, PVCs, and anything flame-retardant. 

It has a 100% cotton surface that wicks away moisture, as well as a waterproof backing. While the brand says the material still circulates air to keep you fairly comfortable for year-round use, it has a plastic-y texture that might make hot sleepers uncomfortable.

We also appreciate that there is a hidden zipper that helps keep the pillow protector in place. The hypoallergenic material protects your pillows from dust, dander, mold, mildew, and pollen. The protector also prevents the feathers from down pillows from poking you while you sleep. 

It’s machine-washable and compatible with any pillow, including gel or memory foam, plus Greenguard Gold-certified , meaning it has undergone significant testing to ensure that chemical emissions are so low, it’s approved for use in schools and healthcare facilities.  

The pillow protector is available in seven different sizes, including standard and body. 

Product Details: Material: Cotton | Size: Standard, queen, king, body, European, toddler/travel, travel | Certifications: Greenguard Gold Certified

Best Budget

Allerease allergy pillow protectors.

This pack of four pillow protectors is a great price—but it's still an effective way to block dust mites and dander.

It does not have any official certifications, nor is it waterproof.

The main purpose of the AllerEase Allergy Pillow Protectors is to help block dust mites, pollen, and pet dander; although it also protects against bed bugs by preventing them from entering the inside of your pillow because of its fully zippered closure.

The soft fabric is tightly woven while remaining breathable to allow a comfortable night’s sleep—and prevents allergens from passing through. It’s machine-washable, too. For the low price, it doesn’t come with certifications, although it does note it’s allergist-recommended.

Since it comes in a pack of four (twice as many as our top pick) for just over $20, it’s an exceptional value.

Product Details: Material: Polyester and nylon | Size: Standard/queen, king | Certifications: None

Best Splurge

Avocado waterproof pillow protector.

The soft, two-layered organic cotton provides both a luxurious sleep and certified protection.

The brand notes that the polyurethane waterproof lining will likely get weaker and less effective with use.

The Avocado Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector is worth the splurge. It’s made with 95% organic cotton and a 5% PVC- and vinyl-free polyurethane waterproof barrier that keeps it GOTS organic certified (because of the low percentage of additional materials).

The thin double layers of cotton help to wick away moisture while remaining breathable. It’s made to protect your pillow from light moisture like mild to moderate night sweats, wet hair, and even the excess products you put in your hair and on your skin.

It also protects against dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. With its hidden side zipper, it keeps the protector secure without creating extra visible bulk. While it is waterproof, the brand notes that the polyurethane liner will likely get weaker and less effective with use. 

The Avocado Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector is machine-washable in cold water, but should be hung to dry. 

Product Details: Material: Organic cotton | Size: Standard, queen, king | Certifications: Greenguard Gold Certified, Climate Neutral Certified, GOTS Organic Certified

Best Waterproof

Hospitology products waterproof pillow encasement.

Extra durable seams and a 1-millimeter thick lining make this pillow protector highly effective against sweat, saliva, or spills.

Its main purpose is to remain waterproof, so the heavy lining won’t be necessary for those who aren’t worried about sweat or spills.

The Hospitology Products Waterproof Pillow Encasement is specifically designed to keep water from staining and damaging your pillows over time. That means it has a thick waterproof lining—1 millimeter—and offers protection against night sweats , wet hair, and drool.

If you’re prone to heavy night sweats, this is going to keep your pillows as good as new for longer periods of time. It’s also highly effective against allergens, and is dust mite- and bacteria-proof. It’s machine-washable, and can be put in the dryer on low.

Additionally, the high-count polyester fabric is comfortable all year round, and the extra-durable seams make it a pillow protector that will last through a number of washes. Find it in sizes standard, queen, and king.

Product Details: Material: Polyester | Size: Standard, queen, king | Certifications: None

Best Hypoallergenic

Amazon basics hypoallergenic pillow protector case.

The tight weave cotton material is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it meets safety and environmental standards that ensure.

The fabric is not the softest.

The Amazon Basics 100% Cotton Hypoallergenic Pillow Protector Case is a good option for someone who struggles with allergies . It's a tightly-woven 100% cotton protector that reduces exposure to dust and other allergens while prolonging the life of your pillow.

To be hypoallergenic, a fabric needs to be free of chemicals that can cause irritation to people with hyper-sensitive skin. Cotton is one of the most common fabrics used in bedding , and it’s often hypoallergenic due to being a natural material . 

The Amazon Basics pillow protector is 100% cotton and OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it meets key safety and environmental standards in its construction and has been tested for safe chemical usage that cuts down on the chances that it will be irritating to the skin.

The cotton is what makes it comfortable and breathable as you sleep, the tight weave prevents the dust mites. It’s also relatively easy to care for as it's machine-washable and safe to dry on low heat. But some users say the fabric is a bit stiff, so it might not be the softest cotton.

Product Details: Material: Cotton | Size: Standard, queen, king, body | Certifications: Made in Green by OEKO-TEX

Best Cooling

Marlow pillow protector.

It has a dual-layer cooling interior, and the outer layer is also made of cooling materials.

There are only two sizes available: standard and king.

The Brooklinen Marlow Pillow Protector is the best pillow protector for hot sleepers or those who suffer from night sweats. Not only does the protector have an antimicrobial coating that protects your pillow from the staining and bacteria that comes with sweat, it also has a dual-layer cooling interior.

The outer layer has cooling properties woven in the fabric and is made of cotton and cooling nylon satin, while the inner layer has the cooling material printed on top of the poly microfiber. The zippered protector is also machine-washable and safe to put in the dryer. 

You can purchase the pillow protector in a set of one, two, or four, but it’s only available in a standard or king size .

Product Details: Material: Cotton | Size: Standard, king | Certifications: None

Best Organic

Coyuchi organic pillow protector.

This 530-thread count pillow protector is made from 100% organic cotton and is GOTS Organic Certified.

It’s made specifically for Coyuchi pillows, so check the size of your pillow before purchasing.

Organic cotton has benefits for the user (it’s incredibly soft, breathable, and comfortable to sleep on) and for the earth. The Coyuchi Organic Pillow Protector is made with 100% organic cotton and is GOTS Organic Certified, indicating a certain standard for the working conditions and the environment.

All of those feel-good details combine with the tightly woven, 530-thread count cotton to help create a blissful night of rest . The zipper protects against stains and dust mites, and is machine-washable and safe to tumble dry on low.

We also love that the pillow protector is packaged in an environmentally friendly way. Instead of using plastic to wrap the pillow protector, it comes in a reusable organic bag. Bear in mind, it’s made specifically for Coyuchi pillows and may not work for others if they aren’t the same size.

Product Details: Material: Organic cotton | Size: Standard, queen, king | Certifications: GOTS Organic Certified

Best Antimicrobial

Brooklinen pillow protectors.

This pillow protector features an antimicrobial coating that helps protect your pillow from oils, sweat, and makeup.

It doesn’t tout waterproof capabilities.

The Brooklinen Pillow Protectors are the best antimicrobial option. An antimicrobial coating is most notable for its ability to prevent bacteria from growing and spreading.

The densely-woven sateen will also prevent stains and dust mites, and the side zipper ensures a comfortable, tight fit. This 500-thread count pillow protector is a soft option that will keep your pillow fresher and stain-free for longer. We should note it’s not waterproof, however. 

To launder, wash on a cool or warm cycle and line dry. While you can use a dryer, it’s recommended to use a low, tumble dry cycle. The set of two pillow protectors is available in a standard or king size.

Product Details: Material: Sateen | Size: Standard or king | Certifications: None

SMARTSILK Pillow Protector

It’s certified asthma- and allergy-friendly by Allergy Standards CA and Allergy Standards USA.

You should wash this pillow protector in cold water at least every eight weeks.

For those who prefer the smooth feel of silk , the SmartSilk Pillow Protectors is an excellent choice. The clinical-grade, cruelty-free silk has a number of benefits to improve sleep quality. It’s cooling and breathable, adjusts to body temperature, and doesn’t take on or absorb odors.

The protector acts as a barrier against dust mites, allergens, and pet dander. It’s certified asthma- and allergy-friendly by Allergy Standards CA and Allergy Standards USA, although it’s recommended you wash it at least every eight weeks in cold water to ensure the best results.

This two-pack is available in three sizes: standard, queen, and king. It is the most expensive option on our list, but because it’s made with silk and can protect your pillow from common allergens, it earned the spot as the best silk pillow protector. 

Product Details: Material: Cotton and silk | Size: Standard, queen, king | Certifications: Certified Asthma- and Allergy-Friendly by Allergy Standards CA and Allergy Standards USA

The SureGuard Cotton Pillow Protector is our pick for the best pillow protector because it’s waterproof, Greenguard Gold Certified, and protects against a variety of allergens. If you’re looking to splurge, the Avocado Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector is as soft as it is protective, while also being organic and carbon neutral certified.

What to Know About Pillow Protectors Before Shopping

Cotton is one of the most popular options for pillow protectors because it's naturally cooling and comfortable, durable, and often hypoallergenic. Silk goes above and beyond—because of its smooth texture, it’s beneficial for skin and also doesn’t absorb odor. 

Additional materials  like polyurethane are typically included in the fabric makeup when a pillow protector is waterproof, as there needs to be a barrier that repels moisture and sweat. 

Most protectors come in typical pillowcase sizes like standard, queen, and king. Some have expanded options like European sizes, or are more limited (for example, the Coyuchi Organic Pillow Protector is designed to fit the brand’s pillows). To ensure the best fit, measure your pillowcase—the protector should fit snugly inside. 

Certifications

There are a few certifications that you’ll often see when shopping for bedding. Most are meant to ensure a lower environmental impact. While not all the pillow protectors on our list have a certification, here are some to look out for, especially if you’re concerned about allergens.

• UL Greenguard: Indicates that a product meets requirements for low chemical emissions. Gold Certification products also meet the California Department of Public Health Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers. Products with this label are subject to routine testing.
• OEKO-TEX® Made in Green: Ensures that textile products have been manufactured in environmentally-friendly facilities that practice socially responsible and safe working conditions. It also ensures that the material has been tested for harmful substances.
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): The highest level of certification for socially responsible and environmentally-friendly practices, ensuring that the materials used are made from 95% organic fibers. It also ensures the materials are free from certain chemicals that are known to be harmful to the workers, the environment, and the consumer. 
• The Asthma- and Allergy- Friendly ®Certification Program: Partners the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and the Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) to test and certify products that improve air quality and home health while removing known allergens.

What is the best fabric for a pillow protector?

Most of the protectors on our list are made of cotton, which is easy to care for and comfortable. It also tends to be breathable, and it’s fairly easy to find organic options if that’s important to you. Cotton pillow protectors are available in a wide range of prices as well. 

Do you need a pillow protector?

To extend the life of your pillow, a pillow protector is necessary. They help prevent stains and offer an extra layer of protection between your favorite pillowcases and pillows. Additionally, if you suffer from allergies, it may be helpful to add a protector as it can help reduce the amount of allergens, such as dust, pet danger, or dust mites, on your pillow.

Alida Nugent is a freelance commerce writer who has been in the commerce space for over seven years. She conducted a lot of research for this round-up, including research on various certifications .

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