The 11 Best Pillowcases of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

The winner is the Olive + Crate Tencel Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set

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Kassatex Linen-Bamboo Pillowcase Set

The Spruce / Rachel Marek

While finding the right pillowcase is a highly personal endeavor, it's essential to choose one that's comfortable, durable, and protects your pillow from dirt, oils, and sweat. 

Whitney Thornburg, Design Director at Coyuchi, says that when looking to buy a new pillowcase, one of the most important qualities to consider is whether or not the pillowcase's fabric will mesh well with your sleeping style. "If you sleep warm, then a smooth, cool percale case will feel great," she says, "while if you sleep cold, a cozy flannel or jersey might help you feel warmer at night."

After hours of research, we purchased over 30 pillowcases from top-rated brands and tested them both in The Lab and at home, evaluating quality, texture, breathability, durability, and overall value.

Read ahead for the best pillowcases, backed by our thorough testing.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Olive + Crate Natural Eucalyptus Pillowcase (set of 2)

Olive + Crate Natural Eucalyptus Pillowcase

Olive + Crate

What We Like
  • Silky smooth texture

  • Cooling and moisture-wicking material

  • Sustainably sourced fiber with no harmful substances

What We Don't Like
  • May not be warm enough for colder months

Of all the pillowcases we tested, Olive + Crate’s Tencel Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set stood out from the pack, earning a perfect score across all categories. Our lab testers confirmed these pillowcases–made from 100 percent natural Tencel eucalyptus fibers–felt soft and silky straight from the packaging. We were impressed with the overall construction of the pillowcases themselves, as they were very high quality with no defects or flaws. Additionally, the sustainably sourced material contains no harmful substances and is even fully compostable at end of life, so you can feel good about your purchase.

We found the texture of the pillowcases to be extremely luxurious, as they felt smooth to the touch, more closely resembling silk than cotton. The pillowcases were also very breathable, as our tester said her body temperature lowered just by handling the material. Olive + Crate’s Tencel Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set seriously delivers in terms of cooling capabilities, making these a great pick if you prefer lighter bedding in the summertime. The manufacturer also claims that the material is moisture-wicking and resistant to mold, bacteria, and dust mites. 

After a month of use, these sheets held up well, with no pilling or imperfections evident after numerous washes. Considering the pillowcases’ buttery soft texture, eco-friendly construction, and impressive breathability, we think this pillowcase set is the best of the best and definitely worth its price tag.

Price at time of publish: $29.99 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: Tencel eucalyptus fibers | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard, Queen, King | Weave: Sateen | Certifications: Certified Tencel fibers

Olive + Crate's Tencel Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Budget

California Design Den California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases

California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases

California Design Den

What We Like
  • Buttery soft texture

  • Cooling and moisture-wicking material

  • Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Some loose threads post-wash

  • May not be warm enough for colder months

For a more budget-friendly option, the California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases offer a silky-smooth sleeping surface that looks and feels way more expensive than its price tag. We were immediately impressed by the quality of the pillowcases, as our tester noted that the material itself felt sturdy in weight and not too flimsy or thin. Constructed with a 300-thread count sateen weave, these pillowcases had an extremely soft texture, and our tester said they felt buttery against his face as he laid down on them.

The California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases were also very breathable, as they were cool to the touch and remained that way throughout the night, according to our long-term tester. The pillowcases are suitable for warm sleepers who tend to overheat at night, as they may help regulate your temperature while you sleep. During our lab test, these pillowcases held up alright in the wash. Other than a few loose threads, there was no other wear and the texture still felt as good as new. Additionally, these pillowcases are Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified, meaning the product has been tested for harmful substances. Considering the wallet-friendly price point and high-end construction, these pillowcases offer a ton of value at a lower cost than most.

Price at time of publish: $17.99 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: Bamboo Rayon | Thread count: 300 | Sizes: Standard, King | Weave: Not listed | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Certified

California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Splurge

Kassatex Linen-Bamboo Pillowcase Set of 2

Kassatex Linen-Bamboo Pillowcase Set

Kassatex

What We Like
  • Soft and slightly stretchy texture

  • Lightweight yet sturdy material

  • Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • May not be warm enough for colder months

If you’re willing to spend a little extra money on a high-quality pillowcase set that’s extremely luxurious, the Kassatex Linen-Bamboo Pillowcase Set will instantly upgrade your bedding. The overall quality of the pillowcases was impressive, as the construction looked high-end and the material felt sturdy while not overly heavy. Made with a blend of linen and bamboo rayon, the pillowcases felt extremely soft and lightly stretchy. They were not as silky and smooth as some of the other options we tested, but we appreciated how cozy and comfortable the sheets felt.

The pillowcases provided adequate breathability, and our tester noted how they’d be a great pick for summer bedding because of how lightweight they were. Post-wash, these pillowcases held up nicely with no visible signs of wear. They’re also Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Certified, which helps add to the overall value and quality of the set. These pillowcases are definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum, but we think it's a worthy investment because of their look, texture, and breathability.

Price at time of publish: $60 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: 60% Linen 40% Bamboo Rayon | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard, King | Weave: Not listed | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Certified

Kassatex Linen-Bamboo Pillowcase Set

The Spruce / Rachel Marek

Best Bamboo

BAMPURE 100% Organic Bamboo Pillow Case Set of 2

BAMPURE 100% Organic Bamboo Pillowcase Set

BAMPURE

What We Like
  • High-quality stitching and envelope closure

  • Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Certified

  • Silky smooth texture

  • Very breathable and cooling

What We Don't Like
  • Material may be too thin for some people’s preferences

For those who prefer bamboo over cotton, the BAMPURE Bamboo Pillowcases are our favorite of the bunch. Made with 100 percent bamboo viscose, these OEKO-TEX Certified pillowcases are both lightweight yet cozy enough for year-round use. We were impressed with the overall construction of these pillowcases, which feature quality stitching and have an envelope closure end design. Additionally, our tester loved that the pillowcases are wrinkle-resistant straight out of the package. 

These sheets felt soft to the touch and had a silky smooth texture with a nice shine that added to the high-end look of the pillowcases. For those who want a breathable and temperature-regulating material for their bedding, bamboo is one of the best fabric options out there, and these pillowcases are no exception. The material itself was comfortable, but also lightweight. However, we did find the pillowcases to feel a bit thinner than some other options we tested, so they may not be for you if you prefer something a bit heavier. Our tester said the BAMPURE Bamboo Pillowcases felt cool to the touch, noting that she didn’t feel much warmer after laying with it for five minutes. These pillowcases held up well in the wash, as their texture remained cozy and there were no visible signs of wear. 

Price at time of publish: $20.98 for Queen Size, Set of 2

Material: Bamboo viscose | Thread count: 300 | Sizes: Queen, King | Weave: Sateen | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Certified

BAMPURE 100% Organic Bamboo Pillowcases

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Cooling

Molecule Performance Pillowcases, Sateen

Molecule Pillowcases, Sateen

Molecule

What We Like
  • Crisp texture

  • Very cooling

  • OEKO-TEX Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Somewhat wrinkly

  • Not the softest option we tested

Pillowcases that have cooling properties can be extremely beneficial if you tend to overheat at night and want a comfortable, sweat-free sleeping experience. Of all the options we tested, the Molecule Performance Sateen Pillowcases are a great pick for those looking for a material that helps regulate your temperature without sacrificing comfort. Made with a blend of long-staple cotton and Tencel lyocell, these pillowcases have a nice balance of softness and crispness that make for a luxuriously cozy texture. However, we did notice a significant amount of wrinkles upon arrival, so if you prefer a material that’s more smooth, these pillowcases may not be for you. While these may not be the softest or plushest pillowcases we tested, we think this style of sateen pillowcase performs as it should.

During our lab tests, our tester loved just how breathable and cooling these pillowcases were. After five minutes, the area where she was lying did not get noticeably warmer, and she even said her body temperature lowered a bit. This can be especially helpful for those who tend to sleep on the warmer side. Post-wash and during long-term testing, these pillowcases held up nicely, with no loose threads or seams.

Price at time of publish: $49 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: 52% Long Staple Cotton, 48% Tencel Lyocell | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard, King | Weave: Sateen | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Certified

Molecule Performance Sateen Pillowcases

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Organic

West Elm Organic Washed Cotton Percale Pillow Case (Set of 2)

West Elm Organic Washed Cotton Percale Pillow Case (Set of 2)

West Elm

What We Like
  • Gets softer the more you wash it

  • Thick and sturdy material

  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Not as lightweight or breathable as other options

  • Not the softest option we tested

Considering how much of our lives are spent in our beds, you’ll want to make sure your bedding is of the highest quality and free from any harmful chemicals. West Elm’s Organic Washed Cotton Pillowcases are made with 100 percent organic cotton, meaning they’re grown without any pesticides or fertilizers. They’re also Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certified, ensuring a responsible manufacturing process. 

We found these pillowcases to have a high-end construction with quality stitching and an elegant look. The texture of these percale pillowcases was soft while still maintaining a good balance between crispness and smoothness. Compared to other options we tested, they weren’t as lightweight and had a bit of sturdiness and thickness to the material. Our tester found that these pillowcases weren’t extremely breathable or cooling, but she also didn’t find herself getting too stuffy or overheating. We also loved how well these sheets held up in the wash since there were no imperfections visible. Plus, the material even gets softer the more you wash it.

Price at time of publish: $29.10 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: Organic cotton | Thread count: 200 | Sizes: Standard, King | Weave: Percale | Certifications: GOTS Certified

West Elm’s Organic Washed Cotton Pillowcases

The Spruce / Rachel Marek

Best Cotton

Lands' End 300 Thread Count Premium Supima Cotton Percale Pillowcases

Lands' End 300 Thread Count Premium Supima Cotton Percale Pillowcases

Lands' End

What We Like
  • Soft and smooth texture

  • Suitable for year-round use

What We Don't Like
  • Not as cooling as other options we tested

Sometimes it’s best to bring it back to the basics, and nothing beats the reliably cozy feel of cotton bedding. Made with 100 percent Supima cotton, the Lands’ End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Pillowcases are constructed with a 300-thread count percale fabric for ultimate comfort. Our tester was immediately impressed with how high-quality these sheets were, as they felt durable without being stiff or papery. The texture was extremely soft and smooth but not quite silky, which feels great when you lay on top of it.

These pillowcases aren’t as cooling as some of the other options we tested, but they didn’t make our tester overheat. They did a great job at warming our tester up without causing her to feel stuffy, making these pillowcases a great option for year-round use or for couples that may sleep at different temperatures. We also found these pillowcases to have simple and straightforward care instructions, and they held up nicely for our long-term tester as well.

Price at time of publish: $18.97 for Standard Size, Set of 2

Material: Supima Cotton | Thread count: 300 | Sizes: Standard, King | Weave: Percale | Certifications: None listed

Lands’ End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Pillowcases

The Spruce / Rachel Marek

Best Flannel

COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Pillowcases - Set of 2

COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Pillowcase Set

COYUCHI

What We Like
  • Weighty and durable construction

  • Sustainable and reusable packaging

  • GOTS+ Made Safe Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Might be too warm for some people

  • Higher price point

Because of its raised texture and heat-trapping capabilities, flannel bedding is ideal for a seasonal replacement in the wintertime or year-round for anyone who tends to sleep cold. The COYUCHI Flannel Pillowcases impressed us with their quality, as they had a nice thickness and felt well-made. Compared to other options we tested, the texture of these pillowcases was extremely fleecy and had a plush feel on both sides.

While flannel tends to be more warming than cooling, our tester found that the material was still comfortable enough that she didn’t overheat while using the pillowcases. These COYUCHI pillowcases were also quite breathable and provided adequate airflow even though the material is thick and dense. Additionally, these pillowcases held up very well in the wash, as they maintained their quality and had no visible pilling or snags. While these may have a higher price point than some of the other options we tested, we think their high-quality construction, ultimate comfort, and durability make it a worthy investment you’ll want to have on hand when the temperature drops.

Price at time of publish: $48 for Standard/Queen Size, Set of 2

Material: Organic cotton | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard/Queen, King | Weave: Not listed | Certifications: GOTS+ Made Safe Certified

COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Pillowcases - Set of 2

The Spruce / Grant Webster

Best for Hot Sleepers

Sijo Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set

Sijo Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set

Nordstrom

What We Like
  • Silky smooth texture

  • Cooling and moisture-wicking material

  • OEKO-TEX and Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certified

What We Don't Like
  • Some shrinkage post-wash

Anyone who tends to sleep hot knows the struggle of finding a material that remains cool throughout the night. The Sijo Eucalyptus Airyweight Pillowcases are the perfect pick to help prevent overheating, as they’re designed to be temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking while still maintaining softness. We loved the construction of these pillowcases, as they had a high-quality texture that felt silky and smooth. They even had a bit of a shiny finish, which can make for an elegant addition to any bed. The material itself was lightweight and cold to the touch, and both our lab and long-term testers noted their effectiveness at keeping the temperature of the bed below average.

We also appreciated just how breathable these pillowcases were, as they provided adequate airflow and weren’t stuffy at all. Post-wash, we did notice that the pillowcases suffered a bit of shrinkage, but they still fit snugly after a bit of shimmying. If you want to ensure that your head and neck stay cool throughout the night, the Sijo Eucalyptus Airyweight Pillowcases are definitely worth considering.

Price at time of publish: $36 for Standard/Queen Size, Set of 2

Material: Tencel lyocell | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard/Queen, King | Weave: Not listed | Certifications: Certified Tencel

Sijo Eucalyptus Airyweight Pillowcases

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Silk

Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase

4.8
Slip 100% Pure 22 Momme Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

Amazon

What We Like
  • Machine-washable

  • Buttery-soft texture

  • Skin and haircare benefits

  • Lightweight material

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • Not sold in a set

When it comes to getting your beauty rest, the quality and material of the Slip Silk Pillowcase can’t be beaten. Made with 100 percent mulberry silk, the pillowcase can help improve skin hydration and reduce hair frizz compared to other materials. Our tester was impressed with the overall construction of the pillowcase, noting that the product’s quality is apparent in both the appearance and feel. The pillowcase fits comfortably around the pillow, which features a pocket at the opening to fully enclose the pillow. Its texture also felt extremely luxurious, with a buttery smooth feel and shiny finish.

The pillowcase felt very cool to the touch, providing adequate breathability and airflow. Caring for the silk pillowcase also proved to be very easy, as it’s machine washable. While the Slip Silk Pillowcase may be more expensive than other options we tested, it’s worth it for those who want to spend a little more on a product that can help keep your skin and hair healthy.

Price at time of publish: $89 for Queen Size, Single Pillowcase

Material: Mulberry Silk | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Queen, King | Weave: Not listed | Certifications: None listed

Slip Silk pillowcase

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Satin

Kitsch Satin Pillowcase

4.2
Kitsch Satin Pillowcase

Amazon

What We Like
  • Buttery-soft texture

  • Vegan alternative to silk

  • Skin and haircare benefits

What We Don't Like
  • Hand wash only

Similar to the benefits of silk, satin can improve your hair and skin while you sleep. The two materials feel very similar, but satin is a vegan alternative while silk is produced from silkworms. The Kitsch 100% Satin Pillowcase is made with a polyester cotton blend and features a zipper closure to keep your pillow secure. 

The satin texture feels buttery-soft and somewhat slippery just like silk, allowing for less friction on your skin and hair. It also feels cool to the touch and won’t cause you to overheat at night. While we love the high-quality construction and material of the pillowcase, we were disappointed to find out that the product is hand-wash only, which can be a pain for anyone who’s used to just throwing their bedding into the washing machine. Overall, we think this product is definitely worth the price tag, but don’t just take it from us–with over 10,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this product is a beloved fan favorite you won’t regret purchasing.

Price at time of publish: $26.39 for Standard/Queen Size, 2 Pack

Material: Polyester cotton blend | Thread count: Not listed | Sizes: Standard/Queen, King | Weave: Satin | Certifications: None listed

Final Verdict

Of all the options we tested, our number one pick is the Olive + Crate Tencel Eucalyptus Pillowcase Set. Woven from natural Tencel eucalyptus fibers, these silky-smooth and lightweight pillowcases earned a perfect score across all testing categories. If you're looking for something a bit more affordable, we suggest the California Design Den 100% Bamboo Pillowcases. We found its high-end construction, moisture-wicking material, and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Certification offer a ton of value at a relatively low price point.

How We Tested the Pillowcases

After researching the most beloved, top-rated pillowcases currently on the market, we gathered over 30 options and collected testing insight from both The Lab and at home. The pillowcases were first unpackaged and slipped onto the pillows, and we assessed each product’s overall quality, taking note of the weave, material, and whether there were any noticeable defects or flaws. We then rated the pillowcases’ texture by feeling how soft the fabric was and how it felt when laying on top of it. Next, we judged each product’s breathability, noting whether or not they felt cool to the touch and impacted the testers’ body temperature. To gauge the pillowcases’ durability, we washed and dried every pillowcase according to the manufacturer’s instructions, looking out for any damage or signs of wear afterward. Finally, we assessed the pillowcases’ value by comparing the retail price with its overall quality. In addition to our standard lab testing, we also conducted long-term testing for most of the options, seeing how they held up over the course of one and three months. We analyzed each product’s scores and insights along with our supplemental research to compile this list of the pillowcases we think are the best.

What is Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend, and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. We also pride ourselves on transparency and will always let you know if we received a product for free.

What to Look for in a Pillowcase

Material and Fabric Type

When choosing a pillowcase, there are a few standard fabric options. Cotton is known for being soft and breathable, and it can often provide a luxe feel for an affordable price. Microfiber and polyester are also inexpensive and wrinkle-resistant. For a more luxurious feel, opt for silk or linen.

Care and Maintenance

Because pillowcases come into direct contact with your face, you'll want to ensure you wash them regularly. In general, you should check the manufacturer's care instructions before purchasing a pillowcase, since having to hand-wash or dry-clean a pillowcase weekly may not be a task you want to spend time on. Especially if you tend to be on the go, opt for a pillowcase that you can easily toss in with the rest of your laundry.

Quality

While shopping for a pillowcase, you'll want to keep in mind a few different factors, including the overall construction of the case, the quality of the material, the type of weave, thread count, and any environmental or manufacturing certifications. The material, weave type, and thread count will be highly personal to your sleeping style and preferences (i.e. if you prefer something silky versus crisp). Depending on the type of certification a product has, this can be a good indication as to whether or not any harmful chemicals were used in the manufacturing process or if the pillowcase was made with sustainable practices.

Expert Buying Tip

"Make sure you start with matching your shams to your main cover. Then, it's super important to pull the color out of the sham that is not so eye-catching in its print or pattern. Then, find a version of this color in a throw pillow. If your bedding is all white, then I suggest two white matching euro shams and adding a fun coverlet with some color to pop the space."—Betsey Glass, Interior Designer, The Flippin Designer

FAQ
  • How often should you wash your pillowcase?

    Because your hair and face touch your pillowcase every night, you’ll want to ensure you clean it regularly to avoid any buildup of bacteria, oils, dirt, and dead skin. Just like an unwashed face, unwashed pillowcases can cause acne or clog your pores. Most experts will recommend washing your pillowcases at least once a week in order to maintain good sleep hygiene.

  • What is the best thread count for pillowcases?

    While a high thread count can be an indicator of good-quality sheets, there is no correct answer to whether there is a 'best' thread count for bedding. Instead, Whitney Thornburg, Design Director at Coyuchi, advises taking thread count into consideration amongst a number of other factors, as well: "The quality of cotton, make, and the right balance of thread count to yarn size is more important than a straight thread count," she says. "Many cheaper cases with high thread are created through an unbalanced weave which can lead to more tears and faster wear."

  • What is the coolest fabric for a pillowcase?

    When looking for bedding with cooling properties, you'll want to pay attention to both the material and the weave. For cotton pillowcases, a percale weave will likely keep you cool throughout the night, due to its crispness and breathability. Bamboo and eucalyptus fibers also tend to have temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties as well.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer specializing in bedding, bath, and home decor at the Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted outside research on the topic. Each option in this list performed the best during our in-lab or at-home tests.

In addition, Pineda also spoke to experts in the field in order to gather some guidance regarding the construction and materials used in high-quality pillowcases. Insight was provided by Whitney Thornburg, Design Director at Coyuchi.

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