Standard Pillow Protectors

Protection from Liquids

• Protection from body fluids such as sweat, tears, and drool are common reasons for buying a pillow protector. Some simply use an old pillow case pinned beneath a newer one as protection. If you are looking for pillow protection for a child's pillow, however, you may prefer more waterproofing to protect from spills or vomit. Choose a waterproof pillow protector. They are also helpful for people with chronic sweat issues, including menopausal women.

Protection from Allergens

• Pillow protectors have become an integral part of fighting chronic symptoms for many allergy sufferers. Using a pillow protector specifically designed to keep allergens out keeps pollen, dust mites and other offenders from embedding inside the pillow's fluffy filling. Constant machine washing and drying can remove allergens once they get inside a pillow, but pillow protectors can keep them out altogether. With less washing and drying, you can extend the life of your pillow.

Protection from Bed Bugs

• Since bed bugs are known to hide in mattress casings rather than pillows, a mattress protector is probably a better investment for avoiding bed bugs. However, when the bed bugs come out at night, they may leave droppings on or around all of your bedding, including pillows. Biting bed bugs often leave behind small drops of blood that can damage pillows. A sealed, waterproof pillow protector will protect your pillows from these bloodstains.

How to Purchase

• When shopping for pillow protectors, buy according to your specific needs and the size of your pillows. Some allergen pillow protectors are treated with an anti-microbial substance to further help allergy sufferers. People with serious allergies may find this treatment helpful. Some pillow protectors offer cooling effects to curb aggravating night-sweats. When buying pillow protectors, buy the same size as your bed pillows. Standard/Queen pillows are approximately 20x28 inches. King pillows are typically 20x36 inches.