Choosing the right pillow for your decorative cover can be confusing. If you’re wondering what size pillow for 20×20 cover, the direct answer is an 20×20 inch pillow insert. But getting the perfect look involves a bit more nuance than just matching numbers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from insert sizing and materials to achieving that plump, professional finish.
Getting this right makes all the difference. A perfectly filled pillow looks inviting and expensive, while a poorly filled one can look sloppy. We’ll cover the simple rules and the little tricks interior designers use to make throw pillows look their absolute best.
What Size Pillow For 20×20 Cover
The fundamental rule for pillow inserts is to size up. For a 20×20 inch pillow cover, you should use a pillow insert that is larger than the cover itself. This ensures the cover is fully filled out with no sagging or empty corners. The most common and recommended insert size for a 20×20 cover is a 22×22 inch pillow insert.
Using a larger insert creates a plump, luxurious look. It gives the pillow structure and ensures the fabric of the cover is taut and smooth. A 20×20 insert in a 20×20 cover will often look flat and understuffed, especially after the first wash when fabrics can relax a bit.
Why the Two-Inch Rule Works Best
This sizing strategy isn’t just a guess; it’s based on how fabric behaves. Here’s why going up two inches is the sweet spot:
* Fights Sagging: Fabric has natural give. A larger insert pushes against the seams, creating a firm, defined shape.
* Comforts for Shrinkage: Many covers, especially cotton or linen, may shrink slightly when washed. Starting with a larger insert accounts for this.
* Creates Fullness: It gives that desirable, plump appearance you see in magazine spreads and designer homes.
* Improves Durability: A fully filled pillow puts less stress on individual seams because the tension is evenly distributed.
Alternative Insert Sizes
While 22×22 is ideal, you can adjust based on the look you want or the insert you have available.
* 21×21 Inch Insert: A good compromise if you want a slightly less full look or if your cover is made from a very thick, non-stretch fabric.
* 24×24 Inch Insert: This will create an extremely plump, overstuffed “breakfast pillow” look. It’s perfect for a super-luxurious, sink-in feel, but can be harder to get into the cover.
* 20×20 Inch Insert: Only use this if the cover is made of a very thin, stretchy material, or if you intentionally want a softer, more casual look. Be prepared for it to look a bit flat.
Step-by-Step: Inserting Your Oversized Pillow
Getting a big insert into a smaller cover can be tricky. Here’s the best method:
1. Lay your pillow cover flat with the opening facing up.
2. Flatten your pillow insert by rolling it from both ends towards the center, like you’re making a burrito.
3. Slide the rolled insert into the opening of the pillow cover.
4. Push the corners of the insert firmly into the corners of the cover first.
5. Then, unroll the rest of the insert and shake it out inside the cover.
6. Finally, adjust the insert by patting and punching the corners until they are sharp and full.
Choosing the Right Pillow Insert Material
The material inside your pillow is just as important as the size. It affects the feel, shape, and price. Here are the most common options:
Down & Feather Blends:
* Pros: Offers the plushest, most luxurious feel. It’s moldable and gets that perfect “squish.” You can fluff it back to life easily.
* Cons: More expensive. Can trigger allergies. Requires occasional fluffing.
* Best For: High-end, lived-in sofas and beds where comfort and luxury are key.
Polyester Fiberfill (Standard):
* Pros: Very affordable, hypoallergenic, and holds its shape well without much fluffing. Machine washable.
* Cons: Can feel less luxurious and sometimes lumpy over time if it’s low quality.
* Best For: Everyday use, kid’s rooms, outdoor pillows (if specified), and anyone on a budget.
Memory Foam or Shredded Foam:
* Pros: Provides excellent, supportive structure. Keeps its shape perfectly. Shredded foam is more malleable than solid blocks.
* Cons: Can be heavy and more expensive. Doesn’t have the traditional soft pillow feel.
* Best For: Floor pillows, back support pillows, or any pillow that needs to hold a very specific, firm shape.
Down Alternative:
* Pros: Mimics the softness and fluffiness of down but is hypoallergenic and usually more affordable. Often machine washable.
* Cons: May not last as long as high-quality down and can sometimes flatten more quickly.
* Best For: Anyone who wants the down feel without the allergens or ethical concerns.
Understanding Pillow Cover Construction & Fabric
The type of cover you have will also influence which insert size you choose. The main thing to look at is the closure and the fabric weight.
Closure Types:
* Zipper Closure: This is the easiest for inserting an oversized pillow. The full opening allows you to maneuver the insert in easily. Always check that the zipper is well-made so it doesn’t snag the fabric.
* Envelope Closure: This overlapping flap is common and stylish. It can be slightly more challenging with a larger insert, but the roll-up method works perfectly. It hides the closure neatly.
Knife Edge vs. Piped Edge: A knife edge is a simple sewn seam around the edge. A piped or welted edge has a cord inside the seam, creating a defined border. Piped edges often require a very full insert to look their best, so leaning towards the 22×22 or even 24×24 is smart.
Fabric Considerations:
* Stretch Fabrics (Velvet, Stretch Linen): These fabrics have more give, so they can accommodate a larger insert more easily. You can often size up two inches without a problem.
* Non-Stretch Fabrics (Heavy Cotton, Canvas, Leather): These are less forgiving. You might find a full 2-inch oversize to be too tight, making the closure strain. A 21×21 insert might be better here.
Thick Upholstery Fabrics: These take up more space inside the seam. For these, you may need to stick closer to the actual 20×20 insert size or only go up one inch.
How to Fix Common Pillow Problems
Even with the right size, you might encounter a few issues. Here’s how to fix them:
* Flat or Saggy Corners: This is usually from an insert that’s too small. The fix is to replace it with a larger insert. As a temporary fix, you can add extra stuffing (like loose polyester fill) into the corners of the cover before inserting the main pillow.
* Lumpy or Uneven Fill: This is common with cheaper fiberfill inserts. Take the insert out and manually redistribute the filling by shaking and kneading it. For a permanent fix, consider upgrading to a higher-quality insert.
* Cover Won’t Close: Your insert is too large for the fabric type. Try a insert that’s one inch smaller. You can also try steaming or slightly stretching the cover fabric first.
* Insert Shifts Inside Cover: Some covers have inner ties. If yours does, use them! Tie the corners of the insert to the corners of the cover. If not, you can hand-sew a few small, loose stitches connecting the insert to the cover at each corner.
Care and Maintenance for Longevity
To keep your 20×20 pillows looking fresh:
1. Use Pillow Protectors: For bed pillows, always use a protector under your pillowcase. For decorative inserts, consider a thin inner cover if you plan to wash the outer cover frequently.
2. Fluff Regularly: Give your pillows a good shake and punch daily. This prevents the filling from settling and matting down.
3. Sun & Air: To freshen them without washing, place pillows in direct sunlight for an hour or two. The sun helps kill dust mites and odors.
4. Washing Instructions: Always check the label. Most down and fiberfill inserts can be machine washed on gentle with a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low with tennis balls or dryer balls to break up clumps.
5. Storage: Store pillows in a cool, dry place, not compressed in vacuum bags for long periods, as this can damage the loft of the filling.
Styling Your 20×20 Pillows
Now that you have the perfect fit, here’s how to style them like a pro:
* The Rule of Threes: Odd numbers are more visually appealing. Group three pillows together on a sofa or bed.
* Mix Sizes and Textures: Pair your 20×20 pillows with smaller lumbar pillows (12×20) or larger floor pillows. Mix a smooth linen with a nubby wool or a shiny velvet.
* Layer Patterns: Combine different patterns by using a common color thread. For example, pair a large floral with a small stripe, ensuring both have a touch of navy blue.
* Symmetry vs. Asymmetry: For a formal look, use symmetrical pillow arrangements (two of the same on each end of the sofa). For a casual, collected look, use an asymmetrical mix of different but coordinating pillows.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use an 18×18 pillow in a 20×20 cover?
A: We do not recommend this. An 18×18 insert will be too small, resulting in a very flat, baggy pillow with empty corners. It will lack structure and look unfinished.
Q: My 20×20 cover has a piping edge. What size insert?
A: With piped edges, you typically need a very full insert to make the piping stand out properly. Stick with the 22×22 inch insert, or even consider a 24×24 if the fabric has some stretch, to really define that border.
Q: How do I measure my pillow cover correctly?
A: Lay the cover flat and measure from seam to seam, not from the outer edges. Measure both the width and height. For envelope closures, measure when the flap is lying flat.
Q: Is a down or polyester insert better for a 20×20 decorative pillow?
A: It depends on your priority. Down offers a luxurious, moldable feel but needs fluffing. Polyester holds its shape well, is hypoallergenic, and is easier to care for. For a constantly perfect look, a high-loft polyester might be more practical.
Q: The pillow cover material is very stiff. What insert size should I use?
A: With stiff, non-stretch fabric like heavy canvas or leather, a full 2-inch oversize might make it impossible to close. Start with a 21×21 inch insert, or even a 20×20 if you want a more structured, box-like look rather than a plump one.
Finding the perfect pillow insert might seem like a small detail, but it has a huge impact on your home’s decor. By following the simple rule of sizing up—preferring a 22×22 insert for your 20×20 cover—you ensure a crisp, professional, and inviting result every time. Remember to consider the cover’s fabric and closure, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different fill materials to get the exact feel you want. With these tips, your throw pillows will always look their absolute best, adding that final layer of comfort and style to any room.