Finding the perfect fit for your pillow can make all the difference in your home’s look and comfort. If you’re wondering what size pillow cover for 20×20 insert you need, the answer is straightforward. You need an 18×18 inch pillow cover. This guide will explain exactly why that is and give you all the information you need to get a flawless, professional finish every time.
What Size Pillow Cover For 20×20 Insert
The golden rule for pillow covers is to choose a cover that is 1 to 2 inches smaller than the insert. Therefore, for a 20×20 insert, the ideal pillow cover size is 18×18 inches. This size difference is not a mistake—it’s the secret to a plump, structured pillow without any sagging or wrinkles.
Why a Smaller Cover is Essential
Using a cover that matches the insert size leads to a flat, underfilled appearance. The insert needs to compress slightly to fill the cover completely, creating tension that gives the pillow its shape. An 18×18 cover provides just the right amount of resistance for a 20×20 insert, resulting in a full, luxurious look.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Size?
Choosing the wrong cover size can lead to several common problems. Here’s what to avoid:
- 20×20 Cover on a 20×20 Insert: The pillow will look deflated and sloppy. The corners will often appear empty.
- Smaller than 18×18 Cover: The insert will be overly compressed, making the pillow feel too firm and potentially straining the cover’s seams.
- Larger than 18×18 Cover: The insert will shift and bunch up inside, creating an uneven, lumpy surface that lacks definition.
Measuring Your Insert Correctly
Before you buy or sew a cover, always measure your insert. Some inserts can compress over time or may not be true to size. Here’s how to do it:
- Lay the insert flat on a surface.
- Use a fabric measuring tape for accuracy.
- Measure from seam to seam across the center of the pillow in both directions.
- Note the measurements. If it’s a true 20×20, proceed with an 18×18 cover.
Considering Insert Loft and Material
The material inside your pillow can affect the fit. A down-filled 20×20 insert is much more compressible than a firm poly-fiber one. For very fluffy down inserts, you might even consider a 17×17 cover for an extra-plump look. For a standard polyfill, stick with 18×18.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inserting a Pillow
Getting the insert into the cover properly is key to that perfect finish. Follow these steps:
- Turn the pillow cover inside out and lay it flat.
- Fold your 20×20 insert in half, then in half again (into quarters).
- Place the folded insert into the center of the inside-out cover.
- Align the insert’s corners with the cover’s corners as best you can.
- Begin to roll the cover back over the insert, starting from the bottom.
- Once the cover is right-side out, shake the pillow vigorously and plump it.
- Finally, reach into each corner and pull the insert filling firmly into place.
Choosing Fabric and Closure Types
The fabric and how the cover closes are just as important as the size. They affect both the look and how easy the cover is to use.
Best Fabrics for Pillow Covers
- Linen: Offers a casual, textured look. It softens over time and is durable.
- Cotton: A versatile, easy-care option available in countless prints and colors.
- Velvet: Adds luxury and depth, perfect for a cozy, inviting feel.
- Heavyweight Canvas: Ideal for outdoor use or a more rustic, structured aesthetic.
Understanding Pillow Closure Options
The closure impacts the pillow’s final smoothness. Here are the most common types:
Zipper Closure
A hidden zipper (usually 14-16 inches) sewn into the bottom or back seam gives the cleanest look. It keeps the insert securely in place and makes removal for washing simple.
Envelope Closure
This features an overlapping flap on the back. It’s a great closure for a seamless appearance with no visible hardware. Ensure the overlap is at least 4-5 inches to prevent the insert from peeking out.
Knife-Edge vs. Boxed Edge Covers
Most standard covers have a simple knife-edge (two pieces of fabric sewn together). A boxed-edge cover has side panels that create a more dimensional, furniture-like look. For a boxed edge cover, the size rule still applies: the front panel should be cut to 18×18.
Sewing Your Own 18×18 Pillow Cover
Making your own cover allows for complete customization. It’s a simple sewing project, even for beginners.
Materials and Cutting Instructions
For a basic knife-edge cover with an envelope back, you will need:
- Fabric of your choice (½ yard is usually sufficient)
- Coordinating thread
- Scissors, pins, sewing machine
- An invisible or standard zipper (optional)
Cutting Dimensions:
- Front Panel: Cut one square at 19×19 inches (allows for ½ inch seams on all sides).
- Back Panels (for envelope): Cut two rectangles. Each should be 19 inches tall. For the width, one should be 14 inches, the other 13 inches. This creates the overlap.
Simple Sewing Steps
- Hem one long edge of each back panel by folding ¼ inch, then ¼ inch again, and stitching.
- Lay the front panel right-side up. Place the back panels right-side down on top, with their hemmed edges overlapping in the center.
- Pin all layers together around all four edges.
- Sew around the entire perimeter using a ½ inch seam allowance.
- Clip the corners, turn the cover right-side out, press with an iron, and insert your pillow.
FAQs: Your Pillow Cover Questions Answered
Can I use a 20×20 cover for a 20×20 insert?
It’s not recommended. A same-size cover will result in a pillow that looks flat and underfilled. The insert needs a smaller cover to create a taut, full appearance.
What if my 20×20 insert is old and compressed?
If your insert has lost its loft, you have two options. You can fluff it in the dryer with a damp towel to rejuvenate it, or you can temporarily use a 20×20 cover until you replace the insert. The fit still won’t be ideal.
Is 18×18 the only size for a 20×20 insert?
While 18×18 is the standard and most reliable size, you can sometimes use a 19×19 cover for a slightly softer look, or a 17×17 for an extra-firm, overstuffed appearance. It depends on the insert’s material.
How do I wash my pillow cover and insert?
Always check the care labels first. Most covers can be machine washed cold on a gentle cycle and tumble dried low. For inserts, spot cleaning is often safest. Polyester inserts can usually be machine washed, but down inserts require special care to avoid clumping.
Where can I buy 18×18 pillow covers?
They are widely available at home goods stores, online retailers like Amazon and Etsy, and specialty linen shops. When shopping, always double-check the listed dimensions, as some brands may label them as “fits 20×20 insert.”
Troubleshooting Common Pillow Problems
My pillow still looks lumpy after inserting it.
This usually means the insert wasn’t distributed evenly. Remove it, fluff the insert by hand, and try the folding and rolling insertion method again. Make sure to really pull the filling into each corner.
The corners of my cover are empty.
This is a classic sign of using a cover that’s too big or not stuffing the corners properly. Use your hand to reach through the closure and manually pull filling into each corner point. A smaller cover will naturally help with this.
My pillow feels too hard.
If your 20×20 insert in an 18×18 cover feels rock-hard, the cover fabric might be to thick or non-stretch. You could try a 19×19 cover instead, or consider using a insert with a softer fill next time.
Styling Tips for Your Perfect Pillows
Now that you have perfectly fitted pillows, here’s how to style them for maximum effect.
- Mix Sizes and Textures: Pair your 20×20 pillows with larger floor pillows or smaller lumbar pillows on a sofa for visual interest.
- Use Odd Numbers: Groupings of three or five pillows often look more dynamic than even-numbered sets.
- Layer Patterns: Combine solid covers with striped, floral, or geometric prints. Just keep a cohesive color scheme to tie them together.
- Don’t Forget the Back Row: On a deep sofa, place larger pillows in the back and your 20×20 pillows in front for a layered, inviting look.
Getting the right fit for your throw pillows is a small detail that has a huge impact. Remembering the simple rule—choose a cover 1-2 inches smaller than your insert—takes the guesswork out of the process. For your 20×20 insert, an 18×18 pillow cover is the key to achieving that crisp, comfortable, and professionally styled look you see in magazines. With the right cover on hand, you can easily refresh any room in your home.