Here's a little secret:
pillows are the unsung heroes of a cozy, inviting space. The right combination of throw pillow sizes, materials, and styles can completely transform a room—but with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've put together this handy guide to help you select the perfect pillow insert, from determining the ideal size to choosing the best filling for your needs.
First Things First
The first step in choosing the perfect pillow insert is settling on the right throw pillow size. Some people start by finding a pillow cover they love and then search for the perfect insert to match. Others have a specific size in mind and look for a cover that suits their style. At Pine & Wool Home, we believe in making the process effortless—our pillows are designed to help you create a beautifully styled space with ease.
Choosing the right pillow insert might seem like a small detail, but it makes all the difference in creating that perfectly plump, inviting look. At Pine & Wool Home, we believe that every pillow should add comfort and beauty to your space. From selecting the right size to picking the best filling, we'll guide you through everything you need to know to make your pillows look their best.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the most important factors in achieving a full, luxurious pillow is selecting the right insert size. A general rule of thumb is to choose an insert that is **2 inches larger** than your pillow cover. This extra fullness ensures that your pillow has a plush, well-stuffed appearance without looking deflated or sloppy.
For example:
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If your pillow cover is 18"x18", use a 20"x20" insert.
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If your pillow cover is 20"x20", use a 22"x22" insert.
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For lumbar pillows, size up by 1-2 inches, depending on how firm you want the pillow to be.
Choosing the Right Pillow for Each Room
Different spaces call for different pillow sizes and styles. The pillows that make a bedroom feel cozy and layered may not be the best fit for a structured living room arrangement. Here's a quick guide to choosing pillow inserts by room:
Bedroom
Layering pillows on a bed not only enhances comfort but also creates a polished, designer look. For a king bed, a simple yet stylish arrangement includes three Euro shams paired with an extra-long lumbar pillow for a clean, modern aesthetic. For added depth, you can also layer three Euro shams, two square pillows, and a smaller accent pillow. A queen bed looks beautifully balanced with two Euro shams and an extra-long lumbar, offering a streamlined yet inviting feel. This combination provides both support and effortless elegance, making it easy to achieve a well-styled bed without excess clutter.
Living Room
For sofas and sectionals, a mix of square and lumbar pillows adds depth and interest. Stick with larger pillows (20"x20" or 22"x22") for a plush, designer look.
Family Room
This is a space for comfort! Oversized, overstuffed pillows work best here. If you love a cozy, lived-in look, consider mixing large square pillows with soft, down-filled lumbar options.
Pillow Insert Size Guide
| Pillow Type | Common Sizes | Recommended Insert Size |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping Pillows |
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| Square Throws |
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| Lumbar Throws |
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Choosing the Right Insert Material
The filling inside your pillow insert plays a major role in its feel and appearance. Here are some of the most common insert materials:
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Down & Feather: Offers a soft, luxurious feel with a slight "karate-chop" effect. Ideal for a high-end look but may require fluffing.
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Down Alternative: A hypoallergenic option that mimics the softness of down but with more structure and support.
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Polyester Fiberfill: A budget-friendly choice that provides a firmer, more structured look—great for decorative pillows.
For the best balance of plushness and support, we recommend "down/feather blends" or high-quality "down-alternative inserts."
How to Properly Stuff Your Pillow Insert
Now that you've chosen the perfect insert, it's time to make sure your pillow looks as full and fluffy as possible. Here are some tips for inserting your pillow insert into the cover like a pro:
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Fold the Insert in Half: Before inserting, fold the pillow insert in half to make it easier to slide into the cover without damaging the seams.
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Fluff and Adjust: Once inside, reach into the corners and make sure the insert fills out all edges of the cover evenly.
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Karate-Chop Finish: If you're using a down or feather insert, give the top a soft karate chop for that designer-style indentation.
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Shake & Rotate: Give the pillow a good shake and rotate it occasionally to keep the filling evenly distributed.
FAQ
1. What Size Pillow Insert Do I Need?
Go up two inches. That's the whole rule for throw pillows: an 18x18 cover wants a 20x20 insert, a 20x20 wants a 22x22, and a 22x22 wants a 24x24. Standard, queen, and king sleeping pillows are the exception, where you match the size exactly.
2. What Size Insert for a 20x20 Pillow Cover?
A 22x22 insert. It'll feel like too much while you're stuffing it in (that's normal, and honestly it's the point). Those extra two inches are what fill out the corners instead of leaving them flat and a little sad.
3. What Are the Standard Lumbar Pillow Cover Sizes?
The usual suspects are 12x18, 12x20, and 12x24, plus 14x20 and 14x36 for long lumbars. Inserts go up about two inches from there, so a 12x18 takes a 13x19 or 14x20, and a 14x36 long lumbar takes a 16x38. The full list is in the chart above.
4. What Size Insert for a 26x26 Euro Sham?
A 28x28 insert. Euro shams are big enough that a matched insert reads as deflated from across the room, so the two-inch rule earns its keep here more than anywhere.
5. What Size Insert for a 12x20 Lumbar Cover?
Either 13x21 or 14x22, depending on how firm you like it. The 14x22 gives you a rounder, fuller lumbar. The 13x21 stays softer and is easier to actually lean back into.
6. What Size Insert for a 22x22 Pillow Cover?
A 24x24 insert. Same two-inch rule as the smaller squares, and at this size the gap between plush and limp is even more obvious.
7. Should the Pillow Insert Be Bigger Than the Cover?
For throw pillows and euro shams, yes, by about two inches each way. A matched insert leaves the cover looking half-empty, especially once people start leaning on it. Sleeping pillows are the exception: match those exactly.
8. What Size Cover for a 20x20 Insert?
An 18x18 cover. This one trips people up because it runs backwards. If you already own the insert, size the cover down two inches rather than up.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pillow insert is the key to achieving a well-styled, cozy home. By selecting the correct size, material, and shape for each space, your pillows will look polished and inviting. At Pine & Wool Home, we know that small details make all the difference—so invest in quality inserts to elevate your pillows and create a space that feels as beautiful as it looks.
