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December 31, 2023

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    The term bed bug pillow cover is somewhat self-explanatory. However, it’s not as simple as that.

    Standard pillow covers are a special type of encasement designed to efficiently extend the expected lifespan of a bedchamber cushion by protecting it from wear and tear and all types of fluids and stains.

    Bed bug pillow covers on the other hand, have an additional layer of protection. Special fabric and zipper technology seals your pillow from all possible points of entry.

    The bed bug proof fabric and zipper help prevent infestations from flourishing and provide you with stress free nights for wonderful days ahead.

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    How Do Bed Bug Covers Work?

    Bed bugs can live in family homes, apartments, hospitals, offices, and other types of commercial establishments. They also thrive on vehicles as well as boats and airplanes.

    The bottom line is that bed bugs can live and survive anywhere.

    But in our homes, they usually thrive in the living room and most especially in your bedroom. Bed bug pillow covers are designed to deny these nocturnal insects any point of entry into your pillow.

    Through its super fine Invisi-Zip zipper, these pillow protectors can effectively seal off your entire pillow to prevent bed bug infestations underneath your head.

    And to ensure total comfort and bite-free experience throughout the night, these covers are supplemented with special features that can protect your cushion from the usual wear and tear, stains, and a spectrum of allergens.


    How Do You Find The Best Bed Bug Pillow Covers?

    Today’s bedding market is practically flooded with thousands of pillow covers with special features. Unless you are down with finding needle in a haystack type of task, it’s best that you know what you really need for bed bug free nights.

    The first thing to look for is the pore size of the pillow cover. Encasements designed with the smallest pores offer the best possible protection against all types of allergens as well as bed bugs and dust mites.

    The finest covers have a pore size as small as one micron to offer first-rate protection. Also, look for Invisi-Zip feature that can stylishly seal off your pillow from all types of invaders.

    Another essential feature to consider for a bed bug pillow cover is a breathable membrane. This ensures that heat won’t get trap inside your pillow for superior comfort throughout the night. Pillow covers offering great breathability have pore sizes ranging from three to four microns.

    Lastly, you’ll want your pillow cover to be free from all sorts of liquid stains – from perspiration to your very own saliva. These pillowcases are made with advanced fabric technology that can effectively wick away moisture and keep you comfortably drier throughout the night.


    Are Bed Bug Pillow Covers Effective?

    It’s both Yes and No.

    What’s important is that you need to focus on the primary reason why you are looking for a bed bug cover – prevent bed bugs from penetrating and eventually thriving inside your pillow.

    In most cases, buyers are deceived into buying a supposed bed bug pillow cover that focuses more on other special features such as a breathable membrane and water resistance.

    Although these features are also critical in helping you secure a good night’s sleep, it also compromises the case’s efficiency in denying bed bugs entry to your pillow.

    Also bear in mind that the main and only function of a bed bug pillow cover is to prevent these insects from penetrating into your pillow. The encasements are not there to control the bed bug population.


    How To Use And Care For A Bed Bug Pillow Cover?

    Bed bug pillow covers are designed to last for about 10 years or more. However, this expected lifespan can only be realized if the product is cared for properly.

    It is best to wash the bed bug cover first before using it. This helps soften up the fabric of the pillowcase and effectively removes any unwanted odor.

    Wash your pillowcase with a normal detergent but without the use of bleach. Bear in mind that bleach products can compromise the encasement’s waterproof capability. It is also not recommended to dry clean your bed bug pillow cover.

    Dry your pillowcases on low heat. High heat drying can damage the fabric and lose the cover’s overall efficiency.


    Are Bed Bug Pillow Covers Safe Around Children and Pets?

    Bed bug pillowcases are totally safe to use around children and pets. These special bedding encasements are typically hypoallergenic and are free from vinyl, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals.


    5 Best Bed Bug Pillow Covers

    As a quick recap, here are the five bed bug covers we looked at.

    Our number one pick goes to the SafeRest Bed Bug Proof Pillow Protector, but the rest of the list might be more suited to your needs.

    Be sure to take a look at the Everlasting Comfort Pillow Protector if you are looking for a cotton terry cloth with a breathable membrane.

    1. SafeRest Bed Bug Proof Pillow Protector
    2. Everlasting Comfort Pillow Protector (hypoallergenic breathable membrane)
    3. LINENSPA Premium Pillow Protector 
    4. Four Seasons Essentials Pillow Protector Set
    5. Hospitology Products Sleep Defense System

    SafeRest Bed Bug Proof Pillow Protector

    This premium pillow protector from SafeRest gives you peace of mind knowing you’re protected at night from bed bugs. It also works for dust mites as well as other allergens.

    It’s made from the finest breathable terry cotton. The waterproof membrane coating resists stains and perspiration, and it’s completely noiseless to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

    The SafeRest Bed Bug Proof Pillow Protector is available in three convenient sizes. It comes with a micro-zip feature to keep out both bed bugs and dust mites. In addition, it’s PVC-free and fully machine washable.

    Keeps out bed bugs and allergens
    Breathable material
    Waterproof
    Machine washable
    Zipper may get stuck easily

    Everlasting Comfort Pillow Protector

    Another great alternative for those who sweat heavily at night, this pillow protector promises to keep you dry throughout your sleep. The case is equipped with a polyester membrane which helps keep the moisture out while securing a good airflow for your pillow.

    This pillow protector is designed with double layer protection to make sure that all types of allergen will never be able to penetrate through the surface. And at the top, the cotton terry fabric makes sure that you enjoy the utmost comfort.

    100% waterproof
    Impermeable but breathable membrane
    Soft cotton terry cloth
    Cotton terry surface leaves out visible flecks of thread on the bed
    Not an ideal choice for warm sleepers

    LINENSPA Premium Pillow Protector

    The LINENSPA Premium Pillow Protector delivers high-quality and durable protection against bed bugs and dust mites. In addition, it features a 100 percent polyester barrier that offers years of use.

    This unique protector fits over most pillows and goes on easily. It’s machine washable and fully waterproof.

    The ultra-thin material is made from soft, breathable fabric. It cleans up quickly and contains no noisy vinyl to keep you up at night.

    The LINENSPA Premium Pillow Protector comes with a ten-year warranty, and it’s safe to use for the whole family.

    Made from durable materials
    Machine washable
    Soft and breathable
    No vinyl, safe for children
    May not be able to return the product if opened

    Four Seasons Essentials Pillow Protector Set

    This economical alternative from Four Seasons Essentials now has two pillow protectors instead of one, and they boast some of the same features as top leading brands.

    For example, each pillow protector is designed to keep out both bed bugs and dust mites. Its zipper is highly durable and functional, and the material is waterproof and machine washable.

    Simply put, these Four Seasons Essentials Pillow Covers have everything you need in a quality bed bug pillow cover. That includes the comfort of knowing you’re assured a good night’s sleep.

    Set has two pillow protectors instead of only one
    Keeps bed bugs and dust mites out
    Durable zipper
    Waterproof and machine washable
    Some people may not find them breathable enough

    Hospitology Products Sleep Defense System

    Another viable option for relaxing and hassle-free nights, these pillow protectors basically have everything you need.

    The covers are made of polyester fabric making your nights extra cool and soft. They’re also equipped with a breathable but impermeable membrane so that heat won’t get trapped inside your pillow without allowing any fluid (saliva and sweat) to pass through.

    What’s nice about this product is that it delivers healthcare-level bedding straight to your own bedroom. It features a 1ml thick polyurethane waterproof layer paired with an ultra-plush knit fabric so that you can totally relax and enjoy your sleep every night.

    1ml polyurethane film protection
    Fully breathable
    Soft to touch
    Premium zippered hypoallergenic protector
    Doesn’t work well on down pillows
    Actual size can be bigger than the declared dimensions on the package

    Think you might need professional help with your bed bugs problem? Use the form below to connect with local pest control pros:

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    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Ed Spicer

    Ed Spicer

    Ed has been working in the pest control industry for years helping 1,000's of homeowners navigate the world of insect and rodent management.

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