A body pillow cover protects the pillow insert, extends its lifespan, and makes cleaning far easier — but only if you pick the right size and fabric. This guide walks through how to measure, what materials work best, and how to keep your cover in good condition.
Why a Body Pillow Cover Matters
Most body pillow inserts (especially memory foam) can't be machine washed directly, so the cover acts as the main washable, hygienic layer. A good cover also protects against dust, allergens, and general wear, which helps the pillow itself last longer.
How to Measure for a Body Pillow Cover
Before buying a cover, measure your existing pillow's length and width, and check for a zipper opening at one end. Standard body pillow covers are made to fit these common sizes:
| Body Pillow Length |
Common Cover Size |
| 48 inches |
20" x 48" |
| 54 inches |
20" x 54" |
| 60 inches |
20" x 60" |
| Custom/U-Shaped |
Check manufacturer sizing |
Best Fabrics for Body Pillow Covers
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Cotton: Breathable, durable, and easy to wash — a solid all-around choice.
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Bamboo blend: Naturally cooling and soft, good for hot sleepers or sensitive skin.
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Microfiber/Polyester: Budget-friendly, wrinkle-resistant, but less breathable.
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Jersey knit: Stretchy and soft, similar feel to a t-shirt fabric.
What to Look for When Buying a Cover
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Zipper closure: Easier to remove and wash than pillowcase-style open ends.
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Machine washable: Confirm the fabric can handle regular washing without shrinking.
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Hypoallergenic material: Especially important if the pillow is used for pregnancy or by people with sensitive skin.
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Colour and pattern options: Covers are also a simple way to match bedroom décor without replacing the whole pillow.
How to Care for Your Body Pillow Cover
Wash covers every 1–2 weeks in cold or warm water, and avoid high heat when drying, since it can shrink certain fabrics like bamboo blends. Rotating between two covers extends the life of each and ensures you always have one ready while the other is being washed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size body pillow cover to buy?
Measure the length and width of your current pillow insert and match it to the closest standard size — most fall between 48 and 60 inches in length.
Can I use a regular pillowcase on a body pillow?
No, regular pillowcases are too short and narrow to properly cover a body pillow; you need a size specifically made for the longer dimensions.
What is the best fabric for a body pillow cover in summer?
Bamboo or cotton blends are best for warmer months since they're breathable and help wick away heat and moisture.
How often should I wash my body pillow cover?
Every 1–2 weeks under normal use, or more frequently during pregnancy or illness for hygiene reasons.
Do body pillow covers come in different shapes for U-shaped pillows?
Yes, U-shaped and C-shaped pillows require specially cut covers that follow the curved shape — standard rectangular covers won't fit properly.
Can I put a body pillow cover in the dryer?
Most cotton and polyester covers can be tumble-dried on low heat, but bamboo blends should generally be air-dried to prevent shrinkage — check the care label to confirm.
Are personalized body pillow covers worth buying?
Personalized covers are purely a style choice and don't affect the functional support of the pillow, but they can be a nice gift option or décor match.
How to Choose the Right Body Pillow Cover/Case
A body pillow cover protects the pillow insert, extends its lifespan, and makes cleaning far easier — but only if you pick the right size and fabric. This guide walks through how to measure, what materials work best, and how to keep your cover in good condition.
Why a Body Pillow Cover Matters
Most body pillow inserts (especially memory foam) can't be machine washed directly, so the cover acts as the main washable, hygienic layer. A good cover also protects against dust, allergens, and general wear, which helps the pillow itself last longer.
How to Measure for a Body Pillow Cover
Before buying a cover, measure your existing pillow's length and width, and check for a zipper opening at one end. Standard body pillow covers are made to fit these common sizes:
Best Fabrics for Body Pillow Covers
What to Look for When Buying a Cover
How to Care for Your Body Pillow Cover
Wash covers every 1–2 weeks in cold or warm water, and avoid high heat when drying, since it can shrink certain fabrics like bamboo blends. Rotating between two covers extends the life of each and ensures you always have one ready while the other is being washed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size body pillow cover to buy?
Measure the length and width of your current pillow insert and match it to the closest standard size — most fall between 48 and 60 inches in length.
Can I use a regular pillowcase on a body pillow?
No, regular pillowcases are too short and narrow to properly cover a body pillow; you need a size specifically made for the longer dimensions.
What is the best fabric for a body pillow cover in summer?
Bamboo or cotton blends are best for warmer months since they're breathable and help wick away heat and moisture.
How often should I wash my body pillow cover?
Every 1–2 weeks under normal use, or more frequently during pregnancy or illness for hygiene reasons.
Do body pillow covers come in different shapes for U-shaped pillows?
Yes, U-shaped and C-shaped pillows require specially cut covers that follow the curved shape — standard rectangular covers won't fit properly.
Can I put a body pillow cover in the dryer?
Most cotton and polyester covers can be tumble-dried on low heat, but bamboo blends should generally be air-dried to prevent shrinkage — check the care label to confirm.
Are personalized body pillow covers worth buying?
Personalized covers are purely a style choice and don't affect the functional support of the pillow, but they can be a nice gift option or décor match.