When it comes to dressing up your bed with decorative pillows, sham pillows are often a go-to choice for many. These pillows not only add a touch of elegance but also offer a way to easily switch up the style of your bedroom. The typical size of a standard sham pillow is 20 inches by 26 inches, though there are other sizes available to fit queen and king-sized pillows as well.
Understanding Sham Pillows
Sham pillows are designed primarily for decorative purposes. Unlike pillowcases, which are meant to protect your sleeping pillows and are often hidden beneath other layers of bedding, sham pillows typically feature more intricate designs, flanges, and closures. They often come in elaborate patterns, luxurious textures, and rich colors geared towards complementing the aesthetics of your bedroom. Shams can be easily slipped over a standard-sized pillow insert to instantly lift the ambiance of your space.
Standard Sham Pillows
The most commonly used size for a sham pillow is the standard sham, intended to fit a standard-sized pillow. Measuring 20 inches by 26 inches, these are an ideal choice for twin or double beds. They are perfect when you want to add a layer of style without overwhelming the bed with too much bedding.
Queen Size Sham Pillows
For a queen-sized bed, shams that measure 20 inches by 30 inches, fittingly referred to as queen shams, are a better fit. These are slightly larger than the standard sham and are proportional to a queen-sized bed and pillows.
King Size Sham Pillows
King size shams are designed to fit king size pillows and measure approximately 20 inches by 36 inches. These larger shams work well on king and California king beds, providing a fitting scale to larger bedding configurations.
European Sham Pillows
Moving away from the standard rectangles, there are also European shams, which are square in shape. European shams typically measure 26 inches by 26 inches and can be used on any size bed. These provide a grounded, symmetrical look and are often placed behind the other sizes of shams when propped up against the headboard.
Choosing The Right Pillow Inserts
Selecting the correct pillow insert for your sham is crucial to achieving the fluffy and inviting look characteristic of well-styled beds. Most often, you’ll want to use an insert that is 2 inches larger than your sham to ensure a snug fit and a plump appearance.
Pillow Insert Tips for Standard Shams
For a 20 by 26-inch standard sham, consider using a 22 by 28-inch pillow insert. This will give your pillows that overstuffed, luxurious look that’s often seen in home decor magazines and high-end hotels.
Pillow Insert Tips for Queen and King Shams
Similarly, a queen sham will do best with a 22 by 32-inch insert, while a king sham should be filled with a 22 by 38-inch pillow insert for that ideal fullness.
Opting for Down or Down-Alternative Inserts
Down or down-alternative inserts are popular options for sham pillows. Down is known for its luxurious softness and adaptability, allowing you to fluff up or pat down the pillow to your desired shape. Down-alternative, on the other hand, offers similar benefits but is often more affordable and better suited for individuals with allergies.
Styling with Sham Pillows
Sham pillows are versatile in nature, providing a practical yet stylish way to change the look of your bedding ensemble. Using various sizes, designs, and textures can add depth and interest to your bedroom decor.
Mixing and Matching Different Sizes
A well-composed bed often includes a mixture of different pillow sizes. By layering standard, queen, king, and European pillows, you create a tiered effect that adds dimension to your bed. Placing larger pillows at the back and smaller ones in the front is a common arrangement used by professional stylists.
Coordinating with Other Bedding
Sham pillows should ideally complement your other bedding. You can achieve this by selecting shams that harmonize with the color scheme and patterns of your duvet cover, sheets, and bedspread. Cohesion can be achieved by matching colors or patterns directly, or you can opt for a more eclectic mix by coordinating complementary colors and designs.
Using Shams for Seasonal Updates
Swapping out your sham covers is an easy and economical way to update your room for different seasons or occasions. Lighter, brighter colors and patterns might work well for spring and summer, while warmer tones and richer textures can be perfect for the autumn and winter months.
Maintaining Your Sham Pillows
Caring for your sham pillows is just as important as choosing the right ones. Following the care instructions on the label will help extend the life of the fabric and maintain its appearance.
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Most sham pillows are removable and can be laundered at home. It’s often recommended to wash them inside out on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. To dry, avoid high heat which can shrink the material and degrade the fabric. Air drying is usually the safest bet for preserving the quality of the sham.
Storing Extra Shams
When not in use, store your extra sham covers in a dry, cool place, ideally in breathable storage bags to protect them from dust and any potential damage.
Finishing Thoughts
Sham pillows are a wonderful addition to any bed, adding both comfort and style. The correct size, whether standard, queen, king, or European, can help balance your bed’s proportions and enhance the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. With the right pillow inserts, a mix of different sham sizes, and attention to care, these pillows can be a simple yet transformative component of your bedding ensemble. Investing in quality shams and taking proper care of them ensures they remain a cherished part of your home decor for years to come.
