MULTIPLE USE PILLOWCASE

Abstract

An improved pillowcase having additional panels to provide unused, fresh bedding surfaces, wherein a person can configure an unused panel to sleep on each night. The additional panels can be configured and optionally secured to either the front panel or the back panel. The additional panels can comprise two or more layers of fabric such that each panel can be used twice. An absorbent layer can be configured to be sandwiched between the two layers. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Description

This application does not claim the benefit of any prior applications or prior filing dates.

BACKGROUND

Typically, pillowcases are only washed or changed when bedding or other linens associated with the bed are washed or changed. Over time, a pillowcase that we sleep on collects various dead tissues, oils, saliva, mucus, bacteria and microscopic bugs (collectively referred to as “irritants” herein). These irritants can cause or worsen allergies, as well as certain skin conditions such as acne (e.g. pimples), blackheads, blocked pores or other skin conditions.

In fact, the pillowcases typically collect such tissues, oils, allergens and irritants far quicker than ordinary bedding or linens (e.g. bed sheet, etc.), due to the proximity of the mouth, eyes, ears and hair. To make matters worse, allergens and irritants easily find their way to the eyes, nose and mouth on a pillowcase that is used night after night. Compounding matters further, facial skin tends to be more sensitive to oils and irritants than other skin throughout the human body—in particular when it comes to acne. For people with severe acne problems, dermatologists typically recommend that a pillowcase be changed frequently, or preferably each night, such that the pillowcase is clean and free from such irritants.

However, washing or changing a pillowcase daily can become a cumbersome and costly practice. First, one must either wash them daily, or alternatively purchase enough pillowcases to be able to wash them in batches with or without other clothes, so that a fresh pillowcase is available each evening at bedtime.

And, aside from washing and purchasing sufficient pillowcases, one must regularly store the extra pillowcases somewhere in their household (preferably close to the bed where they are used), and go through a daily process of changing the pillowcase as well (e.g. removing the pillow from one pillowcase and stuffing it into another). Thus purchasing, washing, storing and changing the pillowcases leads to a comprehensive hassle—such that it may not be accomplished on a daily or regular basis.

What is needed in the field of art of bedding, is a single pillowcase which can be configured to have a fresh and clean surface for a multiple number of nights or sleep sessions, without the need to change the pillowcase daily. For example, a pillowcase that it can be changed and washed once a week or for even more extended periods, rather than once a day.

The present invention fills this need, as will be understood from the following description and accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY

The present invention comprises increasing the number of unused, clean panels (e.g. surfaces) for which one can lay their head. Rather than just having a single front panel (e.g. a normal pillowcase), the present invention comprises multiple panels.

In one aspect, the utilization of multiple panels is accomplished by coupling one or more additional panels to the existing pillowcase. For example, one or more panels similar to the front panel can be sewn into the front panel at a top edge of the pillowcase. Each evening before bedtime, one can configure one of the unused panels to be the surface that the head is placed upon for sleeping. The next day, another unused panel is configured on the front panel, and so forth until all unused panels are used up. At that time, the fully used pillowcase can be washed or changed as desired.

In a second aspect, the one or more additional panels can be attached to a side edge, such as the left edge of the pillow, rather than the top edge.

In another aspect, the one or more additional panels can be secured to the front panel to remain in place during sleep (e.g. one or more unused panels secured to the front). Alternatively, one or more panels remaining that have not been used yet (e.g. unused panels) can be selectively secured to the back panel to remain away from the front panel being used. The panels can be secured to the front panel or the back panel using conventional securing means such as buttons, hook and loop fabric, loop and tie strap, elastic straps, magnets or other conventional securing means.

In yet another aspect, the one or more additional panels can have two or more layers, one layer on each side of the panel, such that the panels can be used twice as an unused panel, rather than just once. Additionally, an absorbent layer can be configured to be sandwiched between the two or more layers of the panel, increasing the absorbency and effectiveness of the one or more additional panels.

Lastly, methods of using the improved pillowcase are discussed, including methods of configuring all the one or more additional panels. In a first method aspect, all the one or more additional panels are configured in close proximity to on the front panel and thereafter moved one-by-one to close proximity to the back panel on each sleep session. In a second method aspect, the process is reversed and all the one or more additional panels are configured in close proximity to the back panel, and moved into close proximity of the front panel one-by-one with each sleep session.

Other embodiments, and other features and objects of the present invention will be in part apparent to those skilled in the art and in part pointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals typically refer to similar elements but such an assumption shall not be limiting nor exhaustive. The contexts and views chosen are selected to best illustrate embodiments of the invention, though many variations of the drawings are possible without departing from the present invention.

FIG. 1 is an environmental view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention as described.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention as described, wherein a one or more additional panels are attached to the top edge of the front panel.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention as described, wherein a one or more additional panels are attached to the top edge of the front panel as well as a second set of one or more additional panels attached to the bottom edge of the front panel.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention as described, wherein a one or more additional panels are attached to the left edge of the front panel.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention as described, wherein a one or more additional panels are attached to the left edge of the front panel with unused one or more additional panels tucked into the inner space of the improved pillowcase.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention as described, wherein the improved pillowcase comprises five panels.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart depicting a method of using the improved pillowcase.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart depicting an alternate method of using the improved pillowcase.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices may be depicted in block diagram form or simplified form in order to avoid unnecessary obscuring of the invention. Section titles and references appearing within the following paragraphs are intended for the convenience of the reader and should not be interpreted to restrict the scope of the information presented at any given location. As such, various aspects and features of example embodiments of the invention are described in more detail hereinafter in the following sections.

Top-Level Functionality

At a top level, the improved pillowcase comprises a traditional pillowcase comprising a front panel and a back panel, with the addition of one or more additional panels that function as unused, fresh surfaces for a person to place their head while sleeping. The one or more additional panels can be attached along a top edge of the pillowcase, where typically a seam between the front panel and the back panel is already sewn into the fabric. The one or more additional panels can be selectively configured to be proximate to the front panel for use as an unused, fresh panel(s), or configured to be proximate to the back panel either as used or unused panel(s). Alternatively, the one or more additional panels can also be attached to the bottom edge, or one or more sides of the pillowcase.

In various embodiments depending upon the application, the one or more additional panels can be secured to the front panel or the rear panel utilizing conventional securing means (e.g. buttons, hook and loop fabric, elastic straps, magnets, etc.), or tucked into the improved pillowcase itself.

Structure of the Improved Pillowcase

Turning to FIG. 1, an improved pillowcase 100 is illustrated, comprising a front panel 110, a back panel 120 and a one or more additional panels 130. Similar to traditional prior art pillowcase (not shown), the front panel 110 and the back panel 120 of the improved pillowcase 100 are typically coupled about three sides of a rectangular shape of the front panel 110 and the back panel 120.

Any conventional means of coupling the front panel 110 to the back panel 120 can be utilized, such as a sewn seam using thread, a glued seam using adhesive, a zippered seam utilizing a zipper, or other prior art affixing or connection means. Thus, with three sides of the rectangular shape of the front panel 110 and back panel 120 coupled together, the front panel 110 and the back panel 120 are coupled about a substantial majority of the perimeter of the respective panels. Further, an inner space 170 is defined between the front panel 110 and back panel 120, also creating an accessible end 172.

The accessible end 172 provides access for a prior art pillow 180 to be configured within the inner space 170. To note, selectively connection means (not shown) such as a zipper, buttons, hook and loop fabric, hook and tie strap, etc. can also be used on the fourth side of the rectangular shape of the front panel 110 and back panel 120 to selectively secure the accessible end of the space 170 without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The improved pillowcase 100 can take other shapes and forms other than a traditional rectangular pillowcase without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, an improved pillowcase (not shown) can be configured in a circular, oval, triangular, trapezoidal, hexagonal or other geometric or custom shapes that retain the one or more additional panels, thereby enjoying the advancements and benefits described herein. Such an alternate shaped improved pillowcase (not shown) can be configured with or without the accessible end 172 without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The improved pillowcase 100 in some applications can be configured where entire perimeters (not shown) of the front panel 110 and the back panel 120 are coupled, thus the pillow 180 is permanently configured within the inner space 170 without the capability of removing the pillow 180 from the inner space 170. Thus, with the addition of the one or more additional panels 130, the improved pillowcase 100 can render similar benefits of multiple clean bedding surfaces without departing from the spirit of the invention, despite the pillow 180 remains a permanent internal component of the improved pillowcase 100.

More particularly with respect to the one or more additional panels 130, as illustrated in FIG. 1 an unused panel 132 is configured to be proximate to the front panel 110 while a used panel 134 is configured to be proximate to the back panel 120. The characterization and contrast of an “unused” and a “used” panel is discussed later in the disclosure (namely, in the disclosure discussing methods of use).

FIG. 1 further illustrates basic use of the improved pillowcase 100, namely a person's head 190 in a sleeping condition positioned upon fresh bedding afforded by the unused additional panel 132.

Turning to FIG. 2, an improved pillowcase 200 is illustrated, comprising several respective elements of the improved pillowcase 100 in FIG. 1, namely a front panel 210 and a back panel 220, and a one more additional panels 230, an inner space 270 defined by the front panel 210 and the back panel 220, as well as an accessible end 272 for configuring a pillow 280.

More particularly, as illustrated and a common structure for both prior art pillowcases and the improved pillowcase discussed herein, the front panel 210 and back panel 220 are coupled along the top edge 240, the bottom edge 242 and the right edge 246. Typically such a coupling between the front panel 210 and the back panel 220 is a sewn seam, adhesive seam, hook and loop fabric seam, or other conventional coupling means for two fabrics exhibited by the present art.

It is noted that it is also possible for the front panel 210 and the back panel 220 to be a single piece of fabric, or alternatively that the one or more additional panels also be constructed from the same piece(s) of fabric from the front panel 210 or the back panel 220. For example, a single piece of fabric can comprise one of the one or more additional panels 230 and the front panel 210, while another single piece of fabric can comprise another one of the one or more additional panels 230 and the back panel 220, with a seam at the bottom edge 242 and another seam at the top edge 240. It is further noted that even a single piece of fabric can comprise the front panel 210, the back panel 220, and the one or more additional sheets 230, all without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

As earlier noted, the front panel 210 and back panel 220 can also be coupled along the left edge 244, although this is recommended to be a selective coupling if so, (thereby allowing the pillow 280 to be removed from the inner space 270 for washing, replacement, etc.). The front panel 210 and back panel 220 can be permanently coupled along the left edge 244, but this will likely render the pillow 280 not being able to be selectively removed (e.g. for washing, replacement, etc.) from the inner space 270.

As shown in FIG. 2, the one or more additional panels 230 are coupled to the top edge 240 and can be selectively positioned and configured either adjacent and proximate to the front panel 210 or the back panel 220.

Conventional securing means, such as an elastic strap 260 as illustrated, can be used to secure the one or more additional panels to the front panel 210 by tucking a corner 238 of the one or more additional panels 230 beneath the elastic strap 260.

It is also noted that the improved pillowcase 200, as is typical with prior art pillowcases, comprises the top edge 240 and bottom edge 242 which is longer than the left edge 244 or the right edge 246—thus the improved pillowcase 200 is generally rectangular in shape. As noted earlier, it is possible to have circular, oval, triangular, trapezoidal or other shaped pillowcases having alternate numbers of sides with alternate relative dimensions, all without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an improved pillowcase 300 similar to the improved pillowcase 200 of FIG. 2, comprising similar numbered elements: a front panel 310, a back panel 320, a one or more additional panels 330 comprising a one or more corners 332, a top edge 340, a bottom edge 342, a left edge 344, a right edge 346, an inner space 370, an accessible end 372 and a pillow 380.

However, FIG. 3 also illustrates a second set of one or more additional panels 334 coupled to the bottom edge 342 of the front panel 310. The second set of one or more additional panels 336 provides additional unused bedding surfaces, thereby increasing the nights that the improved pillowcase 300 can be used before washing or replacement.

A magnet 360 in a corner 338 of the one or more additional panels 330 can be configured to secure the one or more additional panels 330 to the front panel 330 (or alternatively but not illustrated, the back panel 320). The magnet 360 is aligned with a corresponding magnet 362 on the front panel 310 (or as discussed but not illustrated, the back panel 320). Numerous such magnets can be configured about the improved pillowcase 310 to secure the one or more attached panels 330 in a desired configuration.

As noted, the one or more additional panels 330 and the second set of one or more additional panels 336 can comprise any number of panels depending upon the application and desired longevity between bedding washings. It is also a consideration as to the thickness and number of layers used in each panel. For example, in some applications each panel can comprise a plurality of layers bonded or sewn together.

By way of example, each panel of the one or more additional panels 330 or the second set of one or more additional panels 336 can comprise a plurality of layers (not shown), namely allowing the said panel to be used twice (once on each side if a plurality of layers). The plurality of layers are preferably bonded together or coupled about their periphery by conventional means such as stitching, adhesive, or other bonding or coupling means, or the plurality of layers can be accomplished through a single piece of fabric folded and overlapping itself to become two layers.

In preferred embodiments where substantial body fluids are expected (e.g. skin oils, saliva, blood, mucus, etc.), a middle absorbent layer (not shown) can also be sandwiched between the plurality of layers on the said panel. This absorbent layer can either block fluids from passing from layer to another layer, or simply absorb any excess fluids that are deposited upon a layer of the panel being used. The optional plurality of layers described above, and the optional absorbent layer, are capable of being utilized on the improved pillowcases 100, 200 and 300, or other improved pillowcases discussed below.

Turning to FIG. 4, an improved pillowcase 400 is illustrated, comprising several elements of the improved pillowcase 200 in FIG. 2, namely a front panel 410 and a back panel 420, and a one more additional panels 430, an inner space 470 defined by the front panel 410 and the back panel 420, as well as an accessible end 472 for configuring a pillow 480. Similarly, the front panel 410 and back panel 420 are coupled along the top edge 440, the bottom edge 442 and the right edge 446, similar to the respective numbered elements in FIG. 2.

However, in contrast to FIG. 2, the improved pillowcase 400 in FIG. 4 illustrates that the one or more additional panels 430 are coupled to a left edge 444 (rather than the top edge 240 illustrated in FIG. 2). Similarly, the one or more additional panels 430 and can be selectively positioned and configured either adjacent and proximate to the front panel 410 or the back panel 420.

Alternate conventional securing means is illustrated through a combination of a loop 460 and a tie 462 (e.g. a short string or fabric strap), wherein a portion of the tie 462 is placed inside the loop 460 and pulled taught (not shown). As illustrated, a plurality of the loops 460 and the ties 462 is preferable if this securing means is utilized.

In FIG. 5, an improved pillowcase 500 is illustrated, comprising several elements of the improved pillowcase 400 in FIG. 4, namely a front panel 510 and a back panel 520, and a one more additional panels 530, an inner space 570 defined by the front panel 510 and the back panel 520, as well as an accessible end 572 for configuring a pillow 580. Similarly, the front panel 510 and back panel 520 are coupled along the top edge 540, the bottom edge 542 and the right edge 546, similar to the respective numbered elements of FIG. 4.

However, in contrast to FIG. 4, the improved pillowcase 500 in FIG. 5 illustrates yet another alternate securing means (not shown), namely tucking the one or more additional panels 530 inside the accessible end 572 thus storing such one or more additional panels 530 in the inner space 570 of the improved pillowcase 500. This particular embodiment is particularly desirable as no securing means (e.g. elastic straps, loops & ties, buttons, magnets, etc.) is necessary to construct or configure on the improved pillowcase 500. The elimination of the need for securing means thereby results in a lower production cost, reduction of potential defects and potential component failures, and encourages a simple tuck-away-when-not-in-use approach.

In applications where a particularly thick or bulky pillow is utilized, it can be helpful to have extra side panels to accommodate the extra thickness or girth of the thick or bulky pillow. FIG. 6 is an improved pillowcase 600 similar to the improved pillowcase 200 of FIG. 2, comprising similarly respective numbered elements: a front panel 610, a back panel 620, a one or more additional panels 630, a top edge 640, a bottom edge 642, a left edge 644, a right edge 646, an inner space 670, an accessible end 672 and a pillow 680.

In addition, the improved pillowcase 600 of FIG. 6 also comprises a top panel 650, a right panel (not shown) and a bottom panel 652. Thus, notwithstanding the one or more additional panels 630, the improved pillowcase 600 structure to contain the pillow 680 comprises five panels (e.g. the front panel 610, the back panel 620, the top panel 650, the right panel (not shown) and the bottom panel 652) rather than two panels (e.g. the front panel 610 and the back panel 620). It is noted that a left panel (not shown) could be configured, but as earlier discussed this can interfere or eliminate access to the accessible end 672 thus interfering with insertion and removal of a pillow 680 within the inner space 670.

Use of the Improved Pillowcase

Speaking generally, the one or more additional panels as variously discussed above offer additional unused, fresh surfaces for a person to place their head or other body part. More particularly, a new or freshly laundered improved pillowcase will have multiple panels (and optionally multiple layers/surfaces for each panel) in which to place a head or body part, where each surface is preferably used for one night of sleep. However, each panel or additional panel can be used for multiple nights, if desired by the person, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. At its most basic function, the one or more additional panels and optional plurality of layers for each panel offer additional sleeping surfaces.

In one method approach, the one or more additional panels can be configured to the front panel and used one at a time, starting with the most outward facing panel. In a second method approach, alternatively the unused, fresh one or more additional panels can be initially positioned and optionally secured on the back panel, or tucked away inside the inner space (depending upon the configuration) of the improved pillowcase. Of course, many alternate permutations and methods of use are possible since the front panel, the back panel and the one or more additional panels (and layers thereto) can be used in any order preferred by the person.

For the sake of brevity, the two primary methods of use will be discussed in further detail in connection to the following flow chart illustrations.

In FIG. 7, a flow chart 700 depicts a method for sleeping on fresh bedding using the above described improved pillowcase.

The method starts in step 710 of providing one of the improved pillowcases 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 or 600 as discussed above, comprising a front panel and a back panel, and one or more additional panels, wherein the front panel is coupled to the back panel along a top edge, a bottom edge, and a right edge. It is noted herein that all references to “left” or “right” are relative to the perspective of the viewer and the object, such that left and right can be substituted for one another and thus no positional limitation should be drawn by the reference of “left” or “right”. These terms are used merely for the convenience of the reader in connection with the drawings. In the present instance, either the left or right edge can remain open thus creating an accessible end, (or as earlier discussed, selectively coupled or permanently coupled as well).

Step 720 provides a pillow to be inserted into the improved pillowcase. Step 730 configures the pillow within the interior space defined by and within the front panel and the back panel of the improved pillowcase. Note that steps 720 and 730 become unnecessary where the pillow is permanently enclosed within the inner space of the improved pillowcase in such configurations.

Step 740 configures the one or more additional panels to be adjacent and in close proximity to the front panel. In this way, all the unused, fresh additional panels are stacked on top of the front panel, with the front panel not yet having being used.

Step 750 provides for a person sleeping on an unused panel of the one or more additional panels, namely the outermost panel, on the stack created in step 740.

Following the night of sleep or use session in step 750, or as otherwise desired, in step 760 one configures the used panel (the outermost panel on the top of the stack of the one or more additional panels just used in step 750) to be in close proximity to the back panel, or otherwise tucked away into the inner space. In this step, if the panel used in 750 has a plurality of layers, it can also be configured to be in close proximity to the back panel, and the unused layer/surface of the panel can be used as a sleeping surface for another night (which would also require that the pillow be flipped over).

In step 770, steps 750 and 760 are repeated, provided that unused panels of the one or more additional panels exists.

Finally, in step 780, with no unused panels existing within the one or more additional panels, and all such one or more additional panels are either configured to be proximate to the back panel or otherwise tucked away within the inner space, a person sleeps on the unused front panel.

It is noted that if securing means are utilized in the improved pillowcase in the above method, then the respective used panel in 760 is secured to the back panel in a step 765 which occurs between steps 760 and 770.

In FIG. 8, partially similar to FIG. 7, a flow chart 800 depicts an alternate method for sleeping on fresh bedding using the above described improved pillowcase. Steps 810, 820 and 830 are identical to steps 710, 720 and 730 in the flow chart 700, respectively.

Step 840 configures the one or more additional panels to be adjacent and in close proximity to the back panel. Alternatively, instead of being configured to the back panel, the one or more additional panels can be tucked into the inner space of the improved pillowcase. In this way, all the unused, fresh additional panels are stacked either on the back panel, or alternatively tucked away within the inner space of the improved pillowcase.

In step 850, a person sleeps on the unused front panel.

Step 860 configures an unused panel from the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the back panel (or tucked in the inner space of the improved pillowcase), to thereafter be in close proximity to the front panel. Thus, an unused, fresh panel is provided for the person to place their head.

In step 870, a person sleeps on the unused panel configured in step 860.

In step 880, the steps 860 and 870 are repeated, provided that unused panels of the one or more additional panels exist.

Similar to step 765, optional step 865 secures the unused panel of step 860 to the front panel (thus staying adjacent to and proximate to the front panel while the person sleeps on the unused panel).

It is noted that although the improved pillowcase is intended to be used as a traditional pillow for a person to place their head, other uses such as arms, legs, hips or other body parts can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Alternate Embodiments & Conclusion

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. As can be appreciated from the technical disclosure herein, embodiments of the present invention evidence a variety of advances and benefits over the prior art, uniquely and advantageously yielding savings of time, effort, and cost relative to the existing prior art currently utilized. Of course, variations on those preferred embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Other modifications that may be employed are within the scope of the invention. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, alternative configurations of the present invention may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to that precisely as shown and described. There are numerous and diverse additional embodiments anticipated by the present invention. Therefore, it is further understood that the examples are not limiting by nature, but rather alternate specific examples where the disclosed apparatus and method can be utilized.

The terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents used in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention. Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein.

Furthermore, if any references have been made to patents and printed publications in this specification, then each of the above cited references and printed publications, if any, are herein individually incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In closing, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Other modifications that may be employed are within the scope of the invention. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, alternative configurations of the present invention may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to that precisely as shown and described.

Claims

1. An improved pillowcase comprising:

a front panel and a back panel, wherein the front panel is coupled to the back panel along a substantial majority of a perimeter of the front panel; and,

a one or more additional panels is coupled to the front panel, wherein the one or more additional panels can be selectively configured to be in close proximity to either the front panel or the back panel.

2. The improved pillowcase of claim 1 wherein the front panel, the back panel and the one or more additional panels are rectangular in shape, with each respective panel further comprising a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge, and a right edge.

3. The improved pillowcase of claim 2 wherein the top edge of the front panel is longer than the left edge of the front panel.

4. The improved pillowcase of claim 3 wherein the one or more additional panels is coupled to the front panel along the top edge of the front panel and the top edge of the one or more additional panels.

5. The improved pillowcase of claim 4 further comprising:

a securing means located in proximity to the bottom edge of the front panel, wherein the securing means keeps the bottom edge of the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the bottom edge of the front panel.

6. The improved pillowcase of claim 4 further comprising:

a securing means located in proximity to the bottom edge of the back panel, wherein the securing means keeps the bottom edge of the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the bottom edge of the back panel.

7. The improved pillowcase of claim 4 further comprising:

a second set of one or more additional panels is coupled to the bottom edge of the front panel, wherein the second set of one or more additional panels can be selectively configured to be in close proximity to either the front panel or the back panel.

8. The improved pillowcase of claim 3 wherein the one or more additional panels is coupled to the front panel along the left edge of the front panel and the left edge of the one or more additional panels.

9. The improved pillowcase of claim 8 further comprising:

a securing means located in proximity to the right edge of the front panel, wherein the securing means keeps the right edge of the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the right edge of the front panel.

10. The improved pillowcase of claim 8 further comprising:

a securing means located in proximity to the right edge of the back panel, wherein the securing means keeps the right edge of the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the right edge of the back panel.

11. The improved pillowcase of claim 8 further comprising:

a second set of one or more additional panels is coupled to the right edge of the front panel, wherein the second set of one or more additional panels can be selectively configured to be in close proximity to either the front panel or alternatively the back panel.

12. The improved pillowcase of claim 3 wherein the one or more additional panels further comprises a plurality of layers for each respective panel of the one or more additional panels.

13. The improved pillowcase of claim 12 wherein the plurality of layers further comprises an absorbent layer sandwiched between the plurality of layers.

14. The improved pillowcase of claim 3 further comprising a top panel, a bottom panel and a left panel, wherein:

the top panel is coupled to the top edge of the front panel, the top edge of the back panel, and the left panel;

the bottom panel is coupled to bottom edge of the front panel, the bottom edge of the back panel, and the left panel;

and, the left panel is coupled to the left edge of the front panel, the left edge of the back panel.

15. The improved pillowcase of claim 3:

wherein the one or more additional panels is coupled to the front panel along the top edge of the front panel and the top edge of the one or more additional panels;

wherein the one or more additional panels comprises two or more layers of fabric coupled to one another, and wherein the two or more layers of fabric coupled to one another comprises an absorbent layer sandwiched between the two or more layers of fabric;

further comprising a second set of one or more additional panels coupled to the bottom edge of the front panel, wherein the second set of one or more additional panels can be selectively configured to be in close proximity to either the front panel or alternatively the back panel;

and, further comprising a securing means located either on the front panel or the back panel, wherein the securing means selectively secures the one or more additional panels in close proximity to either the front panel or the back panel respectively.

16. A method for sleeping on fresh bedding, comprising:

providing an improved pillowcase, namely a front panel and a back panel, and one or more additional panels, wherein the front panel is coupled to the back panel along a top edge, a bottom edge, and a right edge;

providing a pillow;

configuring the pillow within an interior space defined by and within the front panel and the back panel of the improved pillowcase;

configuring all the one or more additional panels to be in close proximity to the front panel;

sleeping on an unused panel of the one or more additional panels;

configuring the used panel of the one or more additional panels to be in close proximity to the back panel;

repeating the steps of sleeping on an unused panel of the one or more additional panels, and configuring the used panel to be in close proximity to the back panel, until such a time that no unused panels of the one or more additional panels exists;

and, sleeping on the front panel.

17. The method of claim 16 wherein the step of configuring the used panel further comprises securing the used panel to the back panel.

18. The method of claim 17 wherein the step of securing the used panel to the back panel comprises tucking the one or more additional panels into the inner space.

19. A method for sleeping on fresh bedding, comprising:

providing an improved pillowcase, namely a front panel and a back panel, and one or more additional panels, wherein the front panel is coupled to the back panel along a top edge, a bottom edge, and a left edge;

providing a pillow;

configuring the pillow within the interior space defined by and within the front panel and the back panel of the improved pillowcase;

configuring all the one or more additional panels to be in close proximity to the back panel;

sleeping on the front panel of the improved pillowcase;

configuring an unused panel from the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the back panel, to thereafter be in close proximity to the front panel;

sleeping on the unused panel;

and, repeating the steps of configuring an unused panel from the one or more additional panels and sleeping on the unused panel, until no unused panel exists from the one or more additional panels in close proximity to the back panel.

20. The method of claim 19 wherein the step of configuring an unused panel further comprises securing the unused panel to the front panel.