How to Prevent Greasy Pillow Stains from Bald Heads

Medical Disclaimer: Freebird provides general information, not medical advice. For any health or medical advice, consult a licensed healthcare professional

Rocking a smooth dome? You've probably seen oil stains on your pillowcases. I know how frustrating this is, because we all want our bedding fresh and clean.

If you sleep with a partner, getting an earful about greasy pillows happens all the time. This can strain your relationship if not dealt with ASAP. Who wants a grumpy wife, or worse, get kicked out of the bedroom!

Don't sleep on the couch just yet. We'll share tips on how to prevent greasy pillow stains on bald heads, plus how to clean greasy pillow cases.

Why Does My Bald Head Leave Stains on My Pillowcase?

Sebum: The Main Culprit

Waking up to an oily, brownish-yellow-stained pillow is a shared experience among many of us. The culprit? Sebum, the natural oil produced by our bald heads. Our hair usually absorbs these oils; without them, they end up on our pillowcases. The reason for the bald head stains pillowcase dilemma is simple: there's no hair to soak up the oil.

A study also shows that those with male pattern baldness produce more sebum.

The Double Whammy: Sweat and Hair Products

Sweating when you sleep makes the problem worse. Sweat and oil are not a good combination. They smell bad, producing a musty odor that can drive your wife crazy.

Now, if your grooming routine involves hair oils, scalp balms, or heavy moisturizers, you're adding more fuel to the fire! Combined with sweat, these products can create a potent mixture that's even harder to remove from your pillowcases. This is a big part of the oily scalp bald head issue.

How to Get Grease Out of Pillowcases?

If you don't have an oil-resistant pillowcase, don't worry.

Here are some tried and tested methods to rescue your pillowcases from their oily fate:

Baking Soda Stain Remover. Sprinkle a scoop of baking soda on oily pillow stains for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, wash with a powerful detergent, warm water, and a good brush scrub. It's a tried and tested method to get those deep stains out.

Vinegar Cleaning Solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray on greasy portions and let it sit for 15 minutes before tossing it in your washer. 

Dish Soap Pre-Treatment. Apply some dish soap to the stains before washing in warm water. Dish soap contains degreasers that can help remove stains on oily pillowcases.

How to Prevent Future Stains?

Wash Regularly

Wash your pillowcases often, using one of the cleaning hacks we shared. This is your best defense against those oily scalp stains. 

Choose the Right Materials

Traditional cotton pillowcases are super absorbent and soak up oils from your scalp. Bad news for those who rock a bald dome.

The Solution? Switch to satin or silk pillowcases for bald heads and ditch cotton. They're the best pillowcases for oily skin. because they're less absorbent than cotton pillowcases. If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, bamboo pillowcases with moisture-wicking properties are your best option.

Scalp Hygiene for Bald Head

Keep your chrome dome clean! Use a gentle shampoo to remove excess sweat and oil on your scalp. Some baldies apply baby powder before going to bed. Freebird has a gentle detoxifying scalp cleanser that removes excess oil and keeps your scalp clean. A less oily scalp means cleaner pillows!

Exfoliate 

Scalp exfoliation for oily bald heads may sound like something reserved for a fancy spa, but let me tell you, it's a game-changer for those with gleaming bald heads. Exfoliating regularly may help remove dead skin, excess oil, and unclog pores. It also helps balance oil production. When you scrub away excess oil and dirt, your oil glands get the message: "Hey, we don't need to produce so much oil!" Less oil means less greasy pillowcases. Mission accomplished!

The Power of Pillow Protectors: Best Pillowcases for Bald Head

Pillow protectors are game changers for oily heads. They help keep oils, sweat, and drool from seeping into your pillows and ensure a good night's sleep. They're easy to wash and are affordable, too. Here are some good options:

Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector - Best Pillowcase for Bald Heads

Looking for the best pillowcase for bald heads? Naturepedic has your back.

For the eco-conscious baldie, this certified organic pillow protector option from Naturepedic is both luxurious and environmentally friendly. It keeps moisture and oils out while allowing your pillows to breathe.

Pros:

• Features DrySleep technology (blocks liquids from passing through)
• Made from certified organic material
• Keeps moisture and oils out
• Let's your pillows breathe
• Waterproof
• Minimizes crinkling noise
• Protects from spills and stains
• May also help block dust mites, lice, bed bugs, and allergens
  
• 100-night trial
• 1-year limited warranty

Cons:

• Organic materials are usually more expensive

Who It's For: The Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector is for the eco-conscious baldie who wants a luxurious and environmentally friendly option.

The Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Pillow Protector costs $49 a pair.

Egyptian Linens Waterproof Pillow Protector with 3M Stain Release - Best Pillowcase for Oily Skin

If you're looking for serious protection against oil stains, this pillowcase protector has you covered. Its waterproof TPU laminated design and 3M stain release treatment can handle anything your scalp throws at it and make cleanup a breeze.

Pros:

• Waterproof TPU laminated
• Easy to clean
• Also protects from bed bugs and dust mites
• 3M Stain Release Treatment
• Hypoallergenic
• Zipper closure

Cons:

• May feel less breathable than other fabrics

Who It's For: The Egyptian Linens Waterproof Pillow Protector is for the baldie who wants maximum protection and easy cleaning.

The Egyptian Linens Waterproof Pillow Protector costs $14.40 a pair.

Cosy House Luxury Bamboo Zippered Pillow Protector - Best Moisture Wicking Pillowcase

Traditional cotton pillowcases absorb and retain oils and sweat. Not so with bamboo fabric. They have excellent moisture-wicking properties that draw moisture away from your scalp, keeping your pillowcase dry all night. Say goodbye to waking up to an oily mess and hello to a clean and comfortable sleep!

Pros:

• 4.9 stars Google customer reviews
• Hypoallergenic
• Easy to wash
• Waterproof
• Noise free
• Allows maximum airflow
• Protects against allergens and dust
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Zipper closure

Cons:

• Some may be allergic to bamboo

Who It's For: The Cosy House Bamboo Pillow Protector is for the baldie who sweats a lot and wants to stay dry and comfortable all night.

The Cosy House Bamboo Pillow Protector costs only $21.95 for a set of 2 pillow protectors

The Bottom Line

Male pattern baldness may come with its fair share of greasy bald head problems, but applying the hacks we shared can help you conquer your oily foe!

Washing regularly, using clever hacks, and investing in pillow protectors can help you keep your bedding looking and smelling fresh all the time.

FAQs

Why is My Husband's Pillow Greasy?

It's because of sebum, the natural oil produced by his scalp. Bald men have no hair to absorb this oil, which ends up on the pillowcase.  

Why Does My Bald Head Get So Oily?

Your bald head gets so oily because sebum is no longer being absorbed by your hair. It builds up on your scalp and can make your head shiny and greasy.

Can a Dirty Pillow Cause Scalp Acne?

Yes, a dirty pillow can harbor bacteria and oils that clog pores, leading to pesky scalp acne breakouts.

Can a Dirty Pillowcase Cause Dandruff?

While dirty pillowcases don't directly cause dandruff, they may help worsen dandruff by trapping oils and irritants.

How Often Should I Wash My Pillowcases if I Have a Bald Head?

Once a week is a good baseline for washing your pillowcases, but if you sweat a lot and have an oily bald head, washing every few days may be a good idea to maintain a clean and hygienic sleeping environment. 

Does Diet Affect an Oily Scalp?

While diet doesn't directly cause an oily scalp, some foods might affect oil production. A diet rich in processed foods or dairy can sometimes lead to more oil production in the body, which can show up on your scalp.

Can Stress Make My Scalp Oilier?

Yes, stress can definitely contribute to an oily scalp. When you're stressed, your body produces hormones like cortisol that can increase sebum production, leading to a shinier, oilier scalp.

What Kind of Shaving Products Should I Use for an Oily Scalp?

Choose lightweight, oil-free moisturizers and gels. Heavy creams or balms can add to the oil and shine on your scalp, so stick to products that absorb quickly.