Pillow Protector vs Pillowcase: Do You Need Both?

A pillowcase is the top layer that you lie on and replace frequently for comfort and to look good. The barrier placed directly on the pillow to prevent sweat, body oil, spills and allergens from coming into contact with the fill is a pillow protector. Most Canadian healthcare properties and hotels are using both layers, as pillows are costly to replace and difficult to thoroughly clean. Read the blog below to learn about pillow protector vs pillowcase in detail and how you can layer them accurately. 

Zippered Pillowcase vs Pillow Protector 

The pillowcase is the cover that is applied and removed for softness, colour and a guest feel. It's supported by a pillow protector that ensures separation to keep moisture and debris out of the pillow. They're not the same as one maintains the appearance and cleanliness of the day, and the other maintains what is underneath. 

A pillowcase with a zipper is still a pillowcase. It cannot be a barrier protector if it does not contain a waterproof membrane.

Do You Need Both?

If you're wondering, should I get a pillow protector and pillowcase? Then yes. Pillows will retain moisture and oils that normal pillowcases will not stop. In most cases, the pillow will need to be replaced if the fill is stained or musty and cannot be cleaned. The protector is an affordable washable layer that absorbs the damage in order to prolong the life of the pillow.

In a private house where the same people sleep in the same beds each night, and the bedding can be washed from time to time, a pillowcase can suffice. The answer is the protector in a 20-room motel in Sudbury or a two-unit Airbnb in Kelowna. Full-zip protectors will be required nearly all of the time when purchasing units for healthcare and long-term care due to infection control and allergens.

How To Layer Them

Lay the protector over the bare pillow and zip the protector. Slide the pillowcase on top of the pillow. Only the pillowcase on the guest's can be felt. The order is always pillow → protector → pillowcase. Soft outer layers of white microfibre pillowcases in packs of 12 are good, as they are durable and can be washed at commercial temperatures.

For high turnover items, the entire zipper also secures the protector while making the bed and in commercial laundry. Waterproof pillow protector 4-packs with zippers allow operators to properly equip multiple pillows with the same protection.

Waterproof Vs Non-Waterproof Protectors

Waterproof protectors are fitted with a membrane (usually TPU) which prevents liquids from passing through. They block stains due to spills or heavy perspiration. Non-waterproof protectors also decrease the transfer of oil and allergens but will not prevent liquids from passing through. Older waterproof designs may crinkle or make noise, newer designs are quieter. If you are interested in the details of noise, check out the blog entry, Why some waterproof covers crinkle. Use waterproof models in Canadian climates during the winter when temperatures drop low enough for indoor heating systems to dry the air.

How Often To Wash Pillow Protectors And Pillowcases 

With short-term rentals, change pillowcases after each guest and, with longer rentals (such as weekly), change pillowcases weekly. Health Canada guidelines recommend reducing dust-mite allergens by washing the bedding regularly in hot water (pillowcases should be washed every week). Replace clean wash protectors every 2-4 weeks or when contaminated by a spill or illness. The protector should be cleaned or washed more frequently if there are sensitivities or a pet problem. Use the drying and temperature specified on the label if either has been mentioned, to prevent the destruction of the membrane (if there is one). 

What Pillow Protectors Do For Pillow Lifespan And Cost

After oils and moisture penetrate the fill of pillows, they are hard and expensive to clean. Most of that load is intercepted by a protector, which extends the life of the pillow. The low-cost protector is replaced more often than the pillow. By reducing the number of full pillow replacement cycles, inventory costs are kept low, and by doing this in bulk, the overall number of pillows made is reduced. The same holds for mattresses, a full mattress encasement has a different effect on bed bugs and is treated individually under how full encasements work against bed bugs.

Have each pillow insured inside the premises. The basic 2- and 4-zippered waterproof packs are ideal for small operators, with larger properties able to upgrade to a dozen pricing options.

An investment in pillows is well safeguarded with a clear layering system protector underneath the pillowcase, without changing the guest experience. When you're done streamlining your inventory in all rooms, pick up protectors and pillowcases in sets of 12. 

FAQs

What is a pillow protector?

A pillow protector is a removable cover which sits directly on the pillow or under the pillowcase. It helps to keep the pillow clean, free of body oils, sweat, spills, stains and allergens, which extends the lifespan of the pillow.

Does a pillow protector go under the pillowcase?

Yes. The protector rests directly on the pillow, the pillowcase covers it.

Are pillow protectors waterproof?

Some are. If liquid protection is needed, search for a waterproof membrane (not all protectors will be waterproof).

How often should you wash a pillow protector?

Every 2 to 4 weeks, or after a spill. Launder pillowcases more frequently; once after each guest or weekly.

Can you use a pillow protector without a pillowcase?

A pillowcase on top is possible, but most people find it to be the more comfortable and convenient option for frequent washing. The protector will feel less comfortable to the skin.

Do hotels use pillow protectors?

Yes. Most commercial businesses utilize them to help extend the life of their pillows and to regulate staining between high-turnover stays.

Conclusion

A pillow protector and a pillowcase are not the same. The protector is used to prevent the pillow from getting soiled, and the pillowcase offers guests a clean surface to lie on, which can be replaced between uses.

In practice, two layers are the norm for Canadian hotels, motels, Airbnbs, and care facilities, as this extends pillow life and reduces replacement costs. For those who are ready to standardize inventory, you can get them in sets of 12 waterproof zippered protectors alongside pillowcases to make sure there's consistent coverage throughout all beds.