AmazonBasics 400 Thread Count Cotton Pillow Cases, 2-Pack

Do you need a pillow protector or a pillowcase? Pillow protectors do exactly what they sound like: They’re used to guard pillows from stains, liquids, bed bugs, dust mites and other allergens. They can be decorative, used to protect pillows during storage or used under pillowcases. Most of the time, they have zippered closures.

Pillowcases are slept on, and they are usually part of a sheet set. That said, they can also be purchased separately. They are made in a variety of thread counts, for which higher numbers are associated with better quality (to a point — you can expect a thicker weave the higher the number is, though many numbers around 400 are still very good quality). You can find them made out of 100% cotton, percale, mercerized cotton and blends that include bamboo and polyester.

Some pillowcases have added touches like piping, which can make them a nice addition to the aesthetics of your bedroom. Bedroom pillowcases generally come in three sizes: standard, which is 20 by 30 inches; queen, which is 20 by 36 inches; and king, which is 20 by 44 inches.

• Pillow protectors can help your pillows last longer and make them feel softer. They are also good to bring when you travel, since they provide an extra barrier between you and the pillow, which could be dirty.
• 100% cotton pillowcases shrink more than blended ones.
• A higher percentage of polyester in a fabric usually indicates longer durability. Of course, proper care will prolong the life of most fabrics, as well.
• High thread counts do not always equal high quality. Read the product reviews of any pillowcase you are considering to see what other consumers have to say about the products you are interested in.