Quick answer
Your sleep position determines whether you need a cool, smooth pillowcase or one with more grip and breathability. Side sleepers benefit from soft, low-friction fabrics, while back and stomach sleepers often prefer a cooler, more breathable material.
Why sleep position matters for your pillowcase
Side sleepers press their face and hair into the pillow all night, so a smooth, low-friction fabric reduces wrinkles and hair breakage. Back and stomach sleepers have less direct contact but may overheat if the fabric traps heat.
The weave and fiber of your pillowcase affect how much air flows through and how much moisture wicks away. A percale weave feels crisp and breathable; a sateen weave feels silky but can be warmer.
Material trade-offs: cotton, bamboo, and blends
Cotton is the most common pillowcase material. Long-staple cotton (like Egyptian or Supima) feels softer and lasts longer than standard cotton. Bamboo-derived rayon (often labeled bamboo lyocell) is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, but it may pill over time.
Polyester blends are budget-friendly and wrinkle-resistant, but they trap heat and moisture. If you sleep hot, avoid high-polyester blends for your pillowcase.
Decision rules for choosing a pillowcase by sleep position
- Side sleeper: Choose a smooth, low-friction pillowcase material like sateen cotton, bamboo lyocell, or a Tencel blend. A higher thread count (300–600) reduces friction against skin and hair. Look for a pillowcase labeled 'silky' or 'smooth' and avoid rough weaves like percale if you wake with sleep creases.
- Back sleeper: Prioritize breathability and moisture wicking. A percale cotton or bamboo lyocell pillowcase allows air to circulate and helps keep your head cool. A mid-weight fabric with a crisp feel works best. Avoid heavy sateen weaves that trap heat.
- Stomach sleeper: You need a thin, lightweight pillowcase that doesn't add bulk. A low-thread-count percale cotton or a bamboo lyocell pillowcase is ideal. Breathability is key because your face is pressed into the pillow. Skip thick, plush pillowcases. A flat, cool fabric helps you stay comfortable all night.
Product facts
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Original Pillowcase: A spare pillowcase for the Original pillow made from super-breathable Lulltra™ fabric. If you already own an Original pillow, this pillowcase keeps the same cool, breathable feel without switching to cotton.
Original Pillowcase
Who should use this guide
Best for
- Anyone buying a pillowcase and unsure which material or weave suits their sleep position
- Side sleepers who want to reduce facial wrinkles and hair breakage
Not for
- Shoppers who only need a decorative pillowcase and don't care about sleep comfort
- People with severe allergies who need a hypoallergenic pillowcase enclosure (look for zippered, allergen-proof covers instead)
