Pillowcase vs Pillow Cover: What's the Real Difference?

Ever wondered if pillowcases and pillow covers are the same thing? You’re not alone. While they might look similar at first glance, they serve different purposes in your home. In this guide, we’ll clear up the confusion, help you understand which one suits your needs best, and show you how to use each to elevate both comfort and style.

At Pillowhan, we specialize in high-quality decorative pillow covers designed for both style and practicality.

What Is a Pillowcase?

A pillowcase is typically used to cover sleeping pillows. It’s made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk and is designed for direct skin contact. The main role of a pillowcase is hygiene—it protects your pillow from oils, sweat, and daily wear.

Key Features:

• Used for sleeping pillows
  
  

• Soft and breathable (cotton, silk, bamboo)
  
  

• Easy to wash and change

What Is a Pillow Cover?

A pillow cover (or decorative cover) is designed to style your space. It wraps around throw pillows or cushions on sofas, chairs, or beds. These covers come in various textures and patterns—from cozy velvet to natural linen—and are often zippered for convenience.

Key Features:

• Decorative purpose
  
  

• Comes in materials like velvet, linen, boucle
  
  

• Often zippered and washable
  
  

• Can be swapped seasonally for styling

Quick Comparison Table

Why Pillow Covers Matter for Home Styling

Pillow covers are more than decorative accessories. They allow you to refresh your space without major changes. Mix and match textures, rotate seasonal colors, or add depth with layering—all through thoughtful pillow cover choices.

➡️ Want inspiration for blue, green, or rust pillow cover styles? See pillow cover options by color: Blue, Green, Rust & more.

The Case for Washable Pillow Covers

Life happens—coffee spills, pet fur, kids with markers. That’s why machine-washable pillow covers are a must. At Pillowhan, most of our covers are zippered and made to be tossed in the wash with ease.

✨ See our washable pillow covers.

Caring for Your Pillow Covers

• Always check the care label
  
  

• Wash with mild detergent
  
  

• Air dry when possible to maintain texture
  
  

• Store clean covers in a cool, dry place
  
  

Pro Tip: Use cotton pillowcases for sleep and velvet or boucle covers for decorative pillows. That way, both your comfort and design stay intact.

Where to Buy the Right Pillow Covers

Looking to switch from pillowcases to decorative covers?
Explore our curated collection of pillow covers made from high-quality, washable materials in every style and color.

➡️ Shop Throw Pillow Covers at Pillowhan →

Conclusion

While pillowcases and pillow covers may sound similar, they serve very different purposes. If you’re dressing your bed for sleep, go for soft cotton pillowcases. If you’re styling your sofa or layering textures in your bedroom, decorative pillow covers are your go-to.

And the best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Use both—smartly.