Why Pillow Cover Size Matters
When it comes to home decor, pillow covers are more than just functional items; they are an easy and affordable way to refresh a space, add comfort, and express personal style. However, choosing the right pillow cover size is essential for achieving the look and feel you want. Several standard pillow sizes dominate the market in the United States, each serving different purposes and styles. Understanding these prevailing sizes can help you make informed decisions, whether you are designing a bedroom, living room, or outdoor space.
In this blog, you will explore the most common throw pillow cover sizes used in the USA, their typical uses, and how to choose the perfect size for your home.
Most Popular Pillow Sizes in the USA
When it comes to bedding, pillowcases or pillow covers are relatively uniform across the USA. These pillows are designed to fit the most commonly available mattresses and bedding sets, and their corresponding pillow covers are widely available. Here are the prevailing sizes:
Standard pillow (20" x 26")
- The standard pillow sizes, measuring 20 by 26 inches, are the most common for bedding. Typically, one or two of these pillows are used on a twin or full bed, while larger beds like queen or king often feature a pair.
- Standard pillow covers work well for sleeping and also for decorative pieces. They provide adequate neck support for most sleepers and are easily complemented with smaller or larger decorative pillow covers.
Queen pillow (20" x 30")
- Slightly longer than the standard pillow covers, the queen size offers extra width for individuals who tend to shift positions during the night. Measuring 20 by 30 inches, it is ideal for larger beds like queen and king, offering a more spacious look without adding too much bulk.
- Queen-sized pillow covers are less common but are becoming increasingly available as the popularity of queen beds rises.
King Pillow (20" x 36")
King pillows are the longest standard option available, measuring 20 by 36 inches. These pillows are perfect for people who need extra length, particularly those who toss and turn frequently during the night.
King pillows are usually used on king-sized beds, though they can also be placed on queen-sized beds for added luxury. Their elongated shape also makes them ideal for use as decorative pillows on a bed or even as back support for reading or lounging.
Euro Pillow (26" x 26")
Euro pillows, or European square pillows, measure 26 by 26 inches and are primarily decorative pillow covers. Commonly found on beds for added style and layering, Euro pillows are also used for back support in both the bedroom and living room.
Euro pillows are versatile, and the large square shape allows for endless design possibilities. Pillow covers for Euro pillows come in a range of styles and textures, making them easy to match with any room's theme.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your Style
Decorative throw pillows are used throughout the home, from the living room sofa to bedroom benches. These pillows are more varied in size than bed pillows, offering countless opportunities for creativity. In the USA, several sizes are popular:
- 18" x 18"
The 18 by 18-inch pillow is the most common size for throw pillows. It fits well on couches, armchairs, or as an accent on a bed, and its medium size makes it versatile for both comfort and decoration.
These pillow covers are widely available and can be found in a variety of patterns, textures, and colors. The size is perfect for mixing and matching with larger or smaller pillows.
- 20" x 20"
Slightly larger than the 18-inch square pillow, the 20 by 20-inch pillow adds a fuller, more plush look to seating arrangements. This size is especially popular for couches or sectionals, where a larger pillow is needed to balance the furniture's size.
Larger throw pillows like this one offer additional back support while lounging, and they are commonly paired with smaller accent pillows.
- 16" x 16"
The 16 by 16-inch pillow is ideal for accent purposes. It is often used as a finishing touch on a larger arrangement of pillows or placed in smaller spaces like armchairs or window seats.
This smaller size adds texture and color without overwhelming the space, making it ideal for minimalist or modern decor styles.
- 24" x 24"
Larger throw pillows, such as the 24 by 24-inch size, are less common but ideal for oversized furniture or creating a more dramatic look. They work especially well on large sectionals, wide armchairs, or oversized floor pillows for a cozy, bohemian vibe.
These pillows can also double as extra seating in casual living spaces or outdoor areas. The pillow covers for this size tend to come in rich fabrics like velvet or thick cotton, adding a touch of luxury to any room.
- Outdoor Pillow Sizes
For outdoor spaces, like patios and gardens, pillow covers are designed to withstand the elements while still offering style and comfort. The most common outdoor pillow sizes tend to mirror indoor throw pillows but often come with weather-resistant fabrics.
- 12" x 20" (Lumbar Pillow)
Lumbar pillows, measuring 12 by 20 inches, are a popular choice for outdoor furniture. They provide back support and are often placed on chairs, benches, or loungers.
Lumbar pillows add a sleek look and are easy to move around, making them versatile for both decorative and functional purposes in outdoor settings.
- 20" x 20"
As with indoor decor, the 20-by-20-inch pillow is also popular for outdoor spaces. Its larger size makes it ideal for adding comfort and style to outdoor couches or sectionals.
These pillows often feature durable, fade-resistant fabrics to withstand the sun and other weather conditions.
Where to Buy Stylish Pillow Covers in All Sizes
Ready to modernize your house with new, trendy pillow covers of any kind? No matter how you decide to decorate your reading nook, refresh your living room, or harmonize your bedroom, the most appropriate pillow covers can improve any area of your house. Whether it is a regular square to lumbar and life-sized couch pillows, it is essential to find trendy and well-fitted pillows, and the truth is that they are available with a single click.
Websites such as Fabdivine contain a selection of pillow covers of different sizes, colors, and patterns to fit any decorating theme, boho, minimalist, cottagecore, or modern. They offer collections of handcrafted, block-printed cotton and linen, all of which bring together the elements of comfort and beauty. Sorting can also be done by dimensions, fabric, or design so that you easily get what you need.
Such stylish covers are also available in a variety of sizes in retail stores, such as Amazon, Etsy, or West Elm. But in case you want something special and be artistic, a boutique brand would be something of quality, and its look would be charming.
Measure your pillow inserts and never rush to get a product without reading the product details before purchasing it. It fits snugly and is somewhat designer-like in size.
Thus, be it a 16x16 throw cover or a 24x24 floor pillow case, the ideal one is available online. It is time to start exploring!
When selecting pillow covers, it’s essential to keep proportion in mind. For larger beds and couches, bigger pillows (such as 20" x 20" or 24" x 24") create a balanced look, while smaller pillows like 18" x 18" or 16" x 16" add pops of color and texture without dominating the space. Additionally, mixing and matching different sizes, like combining Euro pillows with standard or lumbar pillows, creates visual interest and adds depth to your décor.
It’s also important to consider the pillow insert’s size relative to the cover. To achieve a full, plump look, many designers recommend using an insert that is slightly larger than the pillow cover—for example, a 22" x 22" insert for a 20" x 20" cover.
Final Tips to Measure & Match Pillow Inserts Correctly
Measure the size of the pillow cover from seam to seam to make sure the cover fits plushly and smoothly around your pillows. To complete the luxurious appearance, select the insert that is 1-2 inches bigger than the cover. As an example, a 20x20" cover is most suited with a 22x22" insert. Put decorative pillows inside a firm insert to be structured and supported. And in case of doubt, size up, an overstuffed pillow will look flabby. The fit of the shapes is also important: square inserts and square covers, lumbar pillow cover. The finishing accents will complete the picture of the styling of an entire pillow set.
Looking for covers that fit perfectly? Explore our curated pillow cover collection for every size—from boho euro shams to modern lumbar pillows.
FAQs
1. What are the standard sizes of pillow covers?
- Standard: 20 x 26 inches (50 x 66 cm)
- Queen: 20 x 30 inches (50 x 76 cm)
- King: 20 x 36 inches (50 x 92 cm)
- Euro: 26 x 26 inches (66 x 66 cm)
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Body Pillow: 20 x 54 inches (50 x 137 cm)
It's essential to match your pillow cover size with your pillow dimensions for a snug fit and polished look.
2. How do I measure for the right pillow cover size?
To measure for the right pillow cover size, lay the pillow insert flat and measure from seam to seam across the width and height—do not measure diagonally or around the pillow.
