Do You Need a Pillow Protector? A Simple Guide

Your pillow does a lot of work. Every night it soaks up sweat, skin oils and the odd spilt cup of tea, and over time that shows as yellow stains and flat, tired filling. A pillow protector is a simple, low-cost way to stop that happening. After more than 75 years of making bedding, we think it's one of the most useful things you can add to your bed. Here's what a pillow protector does, which type suits you, and how to look after one.

What Is a Pillow Protector?

A pillow protector is a thin, fitted cover that goes on your pillow before the pillowcase. It acts as a barrier between you and the filling. Depending on the type, it can block moisture, keep dust mites out, or add a soft quilted layer on top.

You won't see it once your pillowcase is on. But it means the part that gets dirty is the washable protector, not the pillow itself.

Pillow Protector vs Pillowcase: What's the Difference?

They look similar, but they do different jobs:

• A pillowcase is the outer layer you see. It's chosen for colour, fabric and feel, and changed with your bedding.
• A pillow protector is the hidden layer underneath. It's picked for protection: waterproofing, allergy barriers or extra padding.

Most people use both. Think of the protector as a mattress protector for your pillow, and the pillowcase as the sheet that goes over it.

Do You Really Need One?

You don't have to use a pillow protector, but it's worth it for most people. It's especially useful if:

• You've just bought a new pillow and want to keep it fresh for longer.
• You sleep hot or have night sweats, which can stain pillows quickly.
• You have allergies or asthma, as pillows can collect dust mites over time.
• You're making up a child's bed or a guest room, where spills and accidents happen.
• You have a pillow you can't easily wash, such as memory foam.

A pair of protectors usually costs far less than a new pair of pillows, so it pays for itself if it helps your pillows last longer.

Types of Pillow Protector

Waterproof Pillow Protectors

A waterproof protector has a thin backing that stops liquid reaching the pillow. It's the best choice for children's beds, night sweats or anyone who drinks in bed. Our Waterproof Pillow Protectors have a soft 80% cotton face over a polyurethane backing.

Anti-Allergy Pillow Protectors

Anti-allergy protectors use treated fibres that help keep dust mites and bacteria at bay. Look for recognised approval, such as the British Allergy Foundation seal on our Silentnight Anti Allergy Pillow Protectors. For a fully hypoallergenic bed, pair them with anti-allergy pillows.

Quilted and Cotton Pillow Protectors

Quilted protectors add a padded layer, so your pillow feels a little softer and plumper. Cotton covers are naturally breathable, which suits warmer sleepers. Our Hotel Collection 100% Cotton pair combines both.

Are Waterproof Pillow Protectors Hot or Noisy?

Older waterproof protectors used plastic backings that could rustle and trap heat. Most modern ones use a thin polyurethane layer under a soft fabric face, which is much quieter and lets air through. If you sleep very hot and don't need waterproofing, a cotton or quilted protector is the coolest option.

How Often Should You Wash a Pillow Protector?

Wash your protectors regularly, but not as often as your pillowcases. As a guide:

• Every few weeks for most people.
• More frequently if you have allergies, have been unwell, or after a spill.
• Always follow the care label. Our waterproof and Lyndon Company protectors wash at 40°C, and waterproof protectors shouldn't be ironed.

Keeping a spare pair means you're never without one on wash day.

When Should You Replace a Pillow Protector?

Most protectors last a year or two with regular washing. Replace yours if the fabric is thinning, the waterproof backing is cracking, or stains no longer wash out. It's a good time to check your pillows too. Our guide on how often to replace duvets and pillows covers the signs to look for.

Choosing the Right Pillow First

A protector works best on a pillow that already suits you. If you're not sure yours does, see our guides to choosing the perfect pillow and firm vs medium vs soft pillows.

FAQs

Can I use a pillow protector without a pillowcase? You can, but it's not ideal. Protectors aren't made to feel as soft as a pillowcase, and the pillowcase adds an extra washable layer.

Do pillow protectors help with allergies? Anti-allergy protectors can help by creating a barrier against dust mites. Pick one with recognised approval, such as the British Allergy Foundation seal.

Do memory foam pillows need a protector? Yes. Memory foam usually can't go in the washing machine, so a washable protector is the easiest way to keep it clean.

Ready to protect your pillows? Shop our full range of pillow protectors, all sold in pairs and machine washable.