What to expect from a bamboo pillowcase
Short answer: A bamboo pillowcase is smooth and cool against the face and hair and often becomes softer with time. It is washed more often than the rest of the bedding, because it is in contact with skin, hair and skincare, and it needs gentle washing to keep its surface.
Smooth against skin and hair
Pillowcases made from bamboo viscose are usually woven in sateen or twill. Sateen gives a smooth surface with a light sheen that many people find pleasant against the face. The smooth surface rubs less against the hair than a rough fabric. How skin and hair respond is individual, though, and a pillowcase cannot solve skin problems. If you have questions about your skin, talk to your doctor. See bamboo pillowcases.
Frequent washing
The pillowcase is in direct contact with face, hair, sweat and cream every night. That is why it should be washed more often than the duvet cover, ideally once a week or more. Frequent washing wears on any textile, so wash gently at 30 to 40 degrees according to the label, with a mild detergent and no fabric softener. Having two or more pillowcases in rotation spreads the wear and gives each one a longer life.
Stains from skincare and hair
Night cream, oil, hair products and make-up can leave marks and a slightly yellowish tint on the pillowcase over time. It shows most on light colours. Let creams absorb before you go to bed, and wash the pillowcase regularly. Pre-treat stains with a little mild detergent before washing. Avoid bleach, as it weakens viscose. Darker colours hide this kind of discolouration better.
Sheen and surface
The sheen on a sateen pillowcase can turn slightly more matt over time, especially with hot washes or strong detergents. Small snags can appear if the fabric catches on nails, jewellery or hair clips. That is normal wear on smooth fabrics. Wash the pillowcase inside out and close any zips so it catches less. Brands such as Decoy usually recommend gentle care.
Drying and shrinkage
Viscose can shrink at high temperatures and in the tumble dryer. A pillowcase that has shrunk can sit tight around the pillow. Air dry the pillowcase and smooth it with your hands while it is damp, and you can often skip ironing. If it needs ironing, use low to medium heat. Many people find it becomes softer after a few washes.
When to replace it
A pillowcase is worn out when the fabric thins, when small holes or snags appear that cannot be fixed, or when marks and discolouration no longer wash out. How quickly that happens depends on how often it is washed and how it is dried. See also the range from Zent.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a pillowcase be washed
Ideally once a week, because it is in direct contact with skin and hair.
Why is my pillowcase turning yellow
Skincare, hair products and sweat can cause discolouration over time. Wash regularly and pre-treat stains.
Can a bamboo pillowcase go in the tumble dryer
Preferably not. Air drying protects the fibres and prevents shrinkage.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
