How Often Should You Change Your Pillowcase?

When was the last time you changed your pillowcase? If you had to think about it, chances are it’s been too long. While most of us focus on washing clothes, bed sheets, curtains, and cleaning floors, the humble pillowcase is often overlooked.

Your pillowcase is in constant contact with your face for hours every night, collecting oils, sweat, allergens, and germs. To keep your sleeping environment truly germ-free, it’s important not just to clean but to disinfect your pillowcases regularly. This helps maintain personal hygiene and supports healthy skin.

In this guide, we’ll explain how often you should change your pillowcases and how to wash them effectively using Lysol^® Laundry Detergent to eliminate 99.99% of viruses and bacteria that detergent leaves behind*.

Why do pillowcases need regular changing?

Pillowcases collect sweat, body oils, dead skin cells, dirt, and even allergens like dust mites every night. Over time, this buildup can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, potentially leading to acne, skin irritation, itching, bumps, folliculitis flares, or respiratory issues.

Regularly changing your pillowcases ensures a cleaner sleeping environment, promotes better skin health, and enhances overall hygiene.

How often do you need to change your pillowcase?

Dermatologists and hygiene experts generally recommend changing your pillowcase at least once a week, or ideally every two to three days, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne. Regularly changing your pillowcase helps reduce exposure to sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria that can cause skin irritation, allergies, or breakouts.

How to wash pillowcases?

No matter the fabric of your pillowcase, it’s essential to not only wash it thoroughly but also disinfect it using a dependable laundry disinfectant.

Products like Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant help eliminate up to 99.99% of bacteria and viruses that regular detergent may miss*, are gentle on fabrics, contain 0% bleach, work even in cold water, ensuring a deeper, more hygienic clean.

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, but typically, invert your pillowcase, apply a mild detergent, add Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant, and wash the pillowcases in warm or hot water (as recommended on the label) on a gentle or normal cycle in the washing machine.

Additionally, either tumble dry on low heat or hang them to air dry. Ensure pillowcases are completely dry to prevent mildew and musty smells.

^*vs detergent alone; Always read and follow the label.

FAQs

Should I use hot or cold water to wash pillowcases?

Warm water is generally best. It helps break down oils and remove dirt without damaging the fabric, especially for cotton and polyester pillowcases.

Why is it important to disinfect pillowcases, not just wash them?

Washing removes dirt and oils, but pillowcases can still harbour invisible germs. Disinfecting with products like Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant will help kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria, ensuring a cleaner, healthier sleep surface and reducing the risk of skin irritation and illness.

Is it okay to wash pillowcases with other laundry items?

Yes, it’s advisable to wash them with similar items, such as bed linens or towels, to prevent tangling and guarantee thorough cleaning.

How can I keep pillowcases fresh between washes?

Allow pillows to air out during the day, avoid going to bed with makeup or oily hair, and consider using a pillow protector underneath your pillowcase.

What’s the best way to keep pillowcases smelling fresh?

To keep pillowcases smelling fresh, it’s important to wash and disinfect them regularly. Using Lysol® laundry disinfectants with refreshing scents like Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen—or Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Free & Clear if you prefer fragrance-free—helps eliminate germs while leaving your pillowcases clean and inviting.