A face cradle cover is also called a face rest cover, face pillow cover, or headrest cover. Whatever you’d like to call it, they all refer to the same thing. The headrest cover’s task is to protect the material below it, similar to how a massage table sheet shields the faux leather covering of the table from harmful liquids. Additionally, face cradle covers protect the client’s face from skin allergies and other issues brought about by contaminants.
A headrest is really composed of three parts – the face cradle, face pillow and the face pillow cover. It can work without a covering, but there is too much risk for harmful bacteria to set foot on the client. That’s why a face pillow cover is needed. It doesn’t cost much, so you might as well invest in it to prolong the life of the headrest, and to protect the client’s health.
Earthlite Professional Flannel Face Pillow Covers
Face pillow covers can be washable or disposable. Each type has its specific use case. For instance, a massage establishment with several clients a day would benefit more from disposable covers due to their lower operating cost and ease of use. It doesn’t make sense if the establishment uses a washable cover, as that would entail additional cost for laundry services. It would also limit their supply since washable types cost a bit more per piece.
Below is a chart that lists 10 of the best face cradle covers sold online.
| RANK | PRODUCT | QUANTITY | FABRIC | RATING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | 100, 200 | Medical Grade Fiber |  |
| 2 |  | 1 up to 30 | Polyester Faux-Fleece |  |
| 3 |  Clinical Health Services Deluxe Flannel Massage Face Rest Cover Cozies | 4 | Flannel |  |
| 4 |  | 50, 100 | Flannel or Cotton | |
| 5 |  | 4, 10 | Flannel | |
| 6 |  | 6 | Cotton | |
| 7 |  | 1 up to 100 | Polyester Faux-Fleece |  |
| 8 |  | 100 | Medical Grade Fiber |  |
| 9 |  | 1, 10, 50, 100 | Microfiber Polyester | |
| 10 |  | 50 | N/A (respiration-active fabric) | |
Headrests have different sizes as determined by their manufacturer. Ideally, you’d look at headrest covers from your massage or Reiki table’s manufacturer since they are guaranteed to work on their respective products. Then again, one brand’s cover may be superior to the other.
The table below lists compatibility with other brands:
| PRODUCT | COMPATIBILITY |
|---|---|
| fits all sizes of massage tables and chairs |
| fits most standard size face pillows (11 in. L x 3.5 in. W), Sierra Comfort, Earthlite |
Clinical Health Services Deluxe Flannel Massage Face Rest Cover Cozies | fits most standard size face pillows, Oakworks, Earthlite |
| fits most standard size face pillows, Stronglite, Oakworks |
| fits most standard size face pillows |
| fits any face pillow |
| universal fit, fits most face pillows, Oakworks, Earthlite |
| fits most standard size face pillows |
| fits the face rest of most massage tables |
| universal fit, over-sized to work with most face cradle cushions |
Disposable face cradle covers are often loosely made so that they can be easily removed. It also makes them compatible with a variety of headrests. The only downside to the loose design is that it can also quickly slip off when the client moves his/her head. Practitioners remedy this by taping the bottom left, right and top sides of the cover onto the pillow.
On the other hand, a washable headrest cover is designed to fit face pillows of a particular range of sizes.
Ultimate Face Cradle Guide
Looking for a more durable face cradle that will fit your massage or Reiki table? Read our article on face cradles and check out the most robust and sought after products.