Choosing the right bedding that promotes a clean, healthier night’s rest relies on three key points: Comfort, Protection, and Value for money.
Accidents, spills, and unfortunately, sometimes bed bugs can happen. However, when this happens on your pillow it can be difficult to clean and stressful to deal with. There are thousands of waterproof pillow protectors on the market and oftentimes most people will purchase the first or cheapest one they can find. We investigate some of the top bedding companies on the market in 2024 and find out how they're changing the sleep industry!
Bamboo Pillow Protectors are relatively new and have started gaining popularity this year because of their superior benefits. The majority of zippered pillow protectors come with hefty price tags, however, we discovered the company 'Cosy House Collection' that has been creating waves on social media and in the news with their high-quality 100% Bamboo Pillow Protectors that comes with a ridiculously low price tag!
Doctors say that we get the deepest, healthiest sleep when our bodies are cool, comfortable, and able to breathe. Traditional waterproof pillow protectors use PVC/Vinyl backings that make you sweat at night, cause the ‘loud-crinkly noises,’ and oftentimes contain harmful chemicals. (That doesn’t exactly sound like comfort!)
Finally — you’ll want a pillow protector that is hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and can defend against bed bugs, which cause a variety of negative physical and mental health consequences such as allergic reactions, insomnia, anxiety, and obsessive behavior. Waterproof zippered pillow protectors help protect your pillows against the build-up of mold, bacteria, and other allergens that can cause bad odors and potential health issues. Only zippered pillow protectors offer true protection against bed bugs for your pillow, compared to regular pillowcases.
It can be difficult to know which are the best zippered pillow protectors on the market. That's why Great Life Tips has compiled months of research about this emerging category. We’ll show you what to look for and what to avoid when picking your perfect pillows, and how it can help transform your sleep.
Benefits of extra sleep & rest:
Helps you maintain weight
- Better energy control
- Maintain correct hormone levels
Cognitive Health
- Boosts Memory
- Enhances Processing Speed
Cardiovascular Health
- Aids Cardiovascular Function
- Helps Maintain Normal Blood Flow
Stronger immune system
- Bolsters Immune System
- Helps to fight off illness & infection
What You Need In The Perfect Zippered Pillow Protector
Taking all of the healthful attributes listed above into consideration, we've boiled down a list of four key characteristics you should always look for in a great zippered pillow cover for sleeping. Try to seek out all of these qualities:
Temperature Regulation
The problem with most pillows on the market is they are not very versatile in regards to temperature regulation & temperature changes that come with the seasons.
Polyester pillow protectors can work great for winter months, but they'll leave you overheated and sweaty the rest of the year.
The top cotton pillow protectors can be breathable and cooling in the summer months, but won't help to regulate temperatures the rest of the year when you need them to.
Bamboo pillow protectors are found to be naturally temperature-regulating and wick away moisture allowing you to stay cool, comfortable, and dry year-round.
100% Waterproof
When investing in a zippered pillow protector, it is essential to look for one that is 100% waterproof. After all, the purpose of such a device is to mitigate damage from liquids penetrating your pillow. Failure to stop this from happening can result in a dirty, stained, odorous, and moldy pillow.
Softness & Comfort
The best zippered pillow protectors don’t crinkle and crunch under you as you sleep. In fact, bamboo pillow protectors are known for the silky soft feel and whisper-quiet while offering additional features.
Hypoallergenic & Anti-Bacterial
Allergens such as dust mites and mold can thrive when paired with pillows that allow them to thrive causing endless nights of tossing and turning from symptoms like itchy throat, runny nose, and watery eyes. Luckily, bamboo pillows are hypoallergenic, breathable, and antimicrobial. It is the combination of these features, working together, that raises their individual benefits exponentially.
Pillows are a breeding ground for allergens and bacteria, attracting dust mites and mold in addition to causing bad odors and stains. Bamboo pillow covers are naturally has hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties. The combined benefits of bamboo allow your pillows to stay fresher, for longer (we found about 2x as long compared to traditional pillow protectors).
What To Avoid when buying Pillow Protectors
Harmful Materials: Vinyl/PVC and Polyurethane
Vinyl, also called PVC, and polyurethane are some of the most used materials in pillow protectors. They are often used as the waterproof lining for the cover. However, just because they are widely used, doesn’t mean they’re safe. PVC is the easy way out when it comes to manufacturing waterproof and flexible protectors. The toxic phthalates in this can be extremely harmful, causing reproductive harm, asthma, early-onset puberty, kidney and liver damage, and even cancer.
Polyurethane is another widely used waterproofing agent. It contains isocyanates, which are toxic to the respiratory system.
Flame Retardants
Does your old pillow protector say ‘flame retardant’? You might think this is a highlight, but it actually might be doing more harm than good. Studies have shown that both animals and humans exposed to flame retardants, scientifically called polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs, can lead to memory and learning issues, thyroid problems, delayed development, lower IQ, and decreased fertility. Some have even been linked to cancer!
It is extremely important to read the labels and scrutinize any product that claims to be flame retardant. Your health may depend on it.
Top 5 Pillow Protectors of 2024
Based on our own extensive research, the metrics provided by our Great Life Tips Ranking System, and consideration of thousands of reviews by Shoppers just like you, we've compiled a list of what we've found to be the top five products in this category, on the market today.
Bamboo Waterproof Zippered Pillow Protector
Total Ranking
375 votes
9.7/10
A+
Overall GradePROS
- 100% Waterproof
- Whisper Quiet & Breathable
- Hypoallergenic & Antibacterial
- Bed Bug Proof
- Best value and quality for the price
- Durable & Easy to maintain
- Excellent US-based customer service
CONS
- Only available online
The Bottom Line
Cosy House Collection's Waterproof Zippered Pillow Protectors offer an incredible value featuring adjustable memory foam, giving you that 'just right' support & comfort that's packed with many healthful benefits. The natural, temperature regulating bamboo allows for year-round use. Wake up truly relaxed thanks to hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties.
Sleep with peace of mind knowing your pillow has full 360-degree protection and has been tested rigorously to ensure there are no harmful chemicals and contaminants.
Their return policy includes a 90-day, risk-free, money-back guarantee, proving the company stands behind its products.
*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.
Learn About Our Top Pick2. Premium Zippered Pillow Protectors
Total Ranking
214 votes
9.1/10
A-
Overall GradePROS
- Secure Zippered Protection
- Noiseless
- 10-Year Warranty
CONS
- Expensive
- Cotton Material
- No Temperature Regulation
- 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line
SureGuard is a popular option when it comes to bedding protectors. SureGuard promises their pillow protectors offer many benefits. However, do the pros weigh out the cons?
When searching for the perfect pillow encasement, it is always nice to see that it is “Greenguard Gold certified.” This waterproof pillow protector is very soft and a great option for those wanting to drop a little more money to save their pillows. The Invisi-Zip™ technology ensures that your protector stays on keeps your pillow safe throughout the night.
However, there are a few cons. The extra expense of this pillow protector should signify superior quality. The cotton material that the protector is crafted from means that it lacks the temperature regulation properties of bamboo. Many customers stated that the pillow encasement has no temperature regulation qualities and they felt hot throughout the night.
*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.
Learn More3. Breathable Pillow Protectors
Total Ranking
263 votes
8.7/10
B+
Overall GradePROS
- Noiseless
- Zippered Protection
CONS
- Cotton Material
- Can Shrink
- Not 100% Waterproof
- Delicate Zipper
- Limited Return Policy
The Bottom Line
The CirclesHome Pillow Protector is soft and hypoallergenic, resisting dust mites and other common allergens that tend to settle in during sleep, causing major sinus issues. The fabric is comfortable and many customers state the pillow protectors are very breathable. The pillow protectors are also completely quiet and won’t crackle when you lay down.
While there are some great pros listed, there are a few cons to be aware of. Customers have reported that the pillow encasement is not completely waterproof and has a delicate zipper, so it must be handled with care. CirclesHome also states that pillow protectors will not shrink, despite being 100% cotton. Customers have reported that the encasement does sometimes shrinks after washing and makes it difficult to fit on their pillows.
At this time the company currently charges a restocking fee and has a limited return policy.
*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.
Learn More4. Bamboo Pillow Protector
Total Ranking
299 votes
8.1/10
B-
Overall GradePROS
- Waterproof
- Hypoallergenic
CONS
- Mostly Polyester
- Not Breathable
- Loose Fit
- 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line
PlushDeluxe has been an extremely popular choice for bedding protection in the last few years. For this pillow protector, we found that there were both pros and cons for the pillow encasement.
Customers boasted about how easy the pillow protector is to install due to the fact that the zipper is placed on the long side of the pillows instead of the short side like traditional pillow encasements. Both waterproof and hypoallergenic, this pillow protector is a good choice for someone with allergies and wants that extra protection.
However, there are a few cons that need mentioning. Even though customers loved the zipper placement, they do mention that the pillow protectors do fit a bit loose on the pillows. Additionally, PlushDeluxe markets their pillow protectors as Premium Bamboo Protectors, when in reality they are only 40% bamboo, while the remaining 60% is polyester.
*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.
Learn More5. Bamboo Pillow Protector
Total Ranking
194 votes
7.9/10
C+
Overall GradePROS
- Noiseless
- 100% Waterproof
- Silky Soft
CONS
- Mostly Polyester
- Runs Warm
- Balloon Effect
- 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line
FeelAtHome’s pillow protector has some fantastic features. However, there are also some cons to address.
The pros are high with the FeelAtHome’s pillow protector. Despite being a waterproof pillow protector, they are completely silent, to ensure a restful night’s sleep. While the material is on the thicker side, customers have reported that it fully protects the pillow without sacrificing overall comfort.
However, there are a few cons to point out. Some customers reported the pillow protectors run a bit warmed than they would have liked. Additionally, they reported that the pillow protector has a balloon effect — when installing the pillow protector, air easily gets trapped inside and takes some time to deflate.
Similar to PlushDeluxe, FeelAtHome markets its pillow protectors as Bamboo Pillow Covers. These protectors are only 35% Bamboo Rayon and there is no mention of the remaining materials. This can be worrisome due to the number of encasements that contain harsh, and sometimes deadly, chemicals.
*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.
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