You’re probably here because you need to know what is the size of a queen pillowcase. It’s a common question when you’re shopping for bedding or making your own. Getting the right fit is key for a neat, comfortable look on your bed.
A standard queen pillowcase is designed to fit a queen-size pillow, which is 20 inches by 30 inches. The case itself is typically cut larger to allow for the pillow’s fullness and a proper closure. Knowing this measurement helps you avoid a baggy or too-tight fit.
What Is The Size Of A Queen Pillowcase
The most common and standard answer is 20 inches by 30 inches for the pillow insert, with the case measuring about 21 inches by 31 inches or slightly more. This extra inch or two is called the “finish size” and it’s crucial for a good fit. It allows the fabric to wrap around the pillow without straining the seams.
However, the world of bedding isn’t always that simple. You might also encounter “queen” pillowcases listed as 20 x 36 inches. This longer style is often called a “queen size pillowcase with flange” or a “European fold” style. It’s made extra long so you can tuck the end under your pillow for a neat, tailored look on the bed.
Why Pillow and Pillowcase Sizes Differ
It can be confusing that a 20″ x 30″ pillow goes into a 21″ x 31″ case. Think of it like a shirt. Your body has specific measurements, but your shirt is cut a little bigger for movement and comfort. The same principle applies here.
- Fabric Take-Up: When you insert a pillow, the fabric is pulled and uses up a bit of the length and width.
- Seam Allowance: The fabric folded inside the seams also uses up material.
- Pillow Loft: A fluffy down pillow needs more room than a thin polyester one, even if both are labeled “queen.”
- Closure Style: An envelope closure or a zipper needs extra fabric to function properly.
How to Measure Your Pillow for the Perfect Case
If your pillow is old, handmade, or non-standard, don’t guess. Take a minute to measure it. This is the best way to ensure you buy or sew the right size case.
- Lay your pillow flat on a hard surface. Don’t fluff it up extra or squish it down.
- Using a soft measuring tape, measure the width from one seam to the other. This is the shorter side.
- Next, measure the length from seam to seam along the longer side.
- Finally, measure the depth (or thickness) of the pillow by compressing it slightly. This helps you understand the “loft.”
Now, add 2 to 3 inches to both the width and length measurements. That’s your ideal pillowcase finish size. For example, if your pillow is 19″ x 29″, look for a case around 21″ x 31″.
Common Queen Pillowcase Dimensions in the Market
When shopping, you’ll see a few variations. Here’s a quick guide:
- Standard Queen: 20″ x 30″ pillow, 21″ x 31″ case.
- Queen with Flange/Extra Length: 20″ x 30″ pillow, 20″ x 36″ case.
- Oversized Queen: 21″ x 31″ pillow, 22″ x 32″ case. (Be careful, these are sometimes confused with standard king).
The Difference Between Queen, Standard, and King
Mixing up pillowcase sizes is a very common mistake. Here’s how to keep them straight:
- Standard Pillowcase: Fits a 20″ x 26″ pillow. The case is about 21″ x 27″. This is common for twin and double beds.
- Queen Pillowcase: Fits a 20″ x 30″ pillow. The case is about 21″ x 31″. This is the focus of our article.
- King Pillowcase: Fits a 20″ x 36″ pillow. The case is about 21″ x 37″. This is for a king or California king bed.
Notice that the width (20″) is often the same for all three! The key difference is in the length. A king case on a queen pillow will have a lot of floppy extra fabric. A queen case on a king pillow will be too short and won’t cover the ends, which is very annoying.
Materials and How They Affect Fit
The fabric your pillowcase is made from can change how it fits, even if the labeled size is correct.
- Cotton (especially percale): Has little stretch. It’s best to get the size exactly right.
- Stretchy Knits (like jersey): These can accommodate a slightly larger range of pillow sizes because they stretch.
- Linen: It softens and relaxes with washing. A snug fit initially might become perfect after a few washes.
- Silk or Satin: These are slippery and a precise fit helps keep the pillow from sliding out.
Pillow Loft and Your Case Choice
Loft refers to how thick and fluffy your pillow is. A high-loft down pillow needs more breathing room than a low-profile memory foam one.
- For High-Loft Pillows (Down, Feather): Consider sizing up slightly or choosing a case with a stretchy material or a gusset (a side panel that adds depth).
- For Low-Profile Pillows (Memory Foam, Some Synthetics): A standard queen case will usually fit just fine, sometimes even appearing a bit loose.
Closure Types and Their Impact
How the pillowcase closes also matters for fit and function.
- Traditional Flap (Hospital Corners): An inner flap that the pillow tucks into. It requires precise sizing to look neat.
- Envelope Closure: A overlapping flap of fabric on the back. It’s neat and secure, needing a little extra length for the overlap.
- Zipper Closure: Common in decorative shams. Provides a very clean look but needs exact sizing; a too-small case will strain the zipper.
- Open End: Just an open hole. Often found on cheaper cases. The pillow can easily fall out and it doesn’t look as tidy.
How to Sew Your Own Queen Pillowcase
Making your own pillowcase is a simple sewing project. It lets you choose the perfect fabric and exact size. Here’s a basic guide.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Fabric of your choice (about 1 yard for a standard case)
- Thread
- Sewing machine, scissors, pins, measuring tape
- Calculate Fabric: Decide your finish size (e.g., 21″ x 31″). Add 1″ for the lengthwise seam and 5″ for the hem and closure flap. So, cut one piece 21″ + 1″ = 22″ wide, and 31″ + 5″ = 36″ long.
- Cut the Fabric: Cut your main fabric piece to these dimensions.
- Create the Hem/Flap: Fold and press 3 inches of the fabric on one short end to the wrong side. Then fold it under again by 2 inches and press. This creates a neat double hem.
- Sew the Hem: Stitch close to the inner folded edge to secure the hem. This will be the inside of the pillowcase opening.
- Form the Tube: Fold the entire fabric piece in half lengthwise, with right sides together. The hem you just sewed should be at the top, facing inward. Align the raw edges.
- Sew the Side and Bottom: Pin and sew along the long side and the bottom short side using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end.
- Finish the Seams: You can use a serger, a zigzag stitch, or pinking shears to prevent the fabric from fraying.
- Turn and Press: Turn the pillowcase right side out. Use a point turner or a pencil to push out the corners gently. Give it a final press with an iron.
Now you have a custom pillowcase that fits your queen pillow perfectly. You can adjust the measurments if your pillow is unique.
Solving Common Pillowcase Problems
Even with the right size, issues can pop up. Here’s how to fix them.
Problem: The pillowcase is always wrinkled and baggy.
Solution: Your case is likely too big for your pillow’s loft. Try a “low profile” specific case, or use a pillow protector underneath to add bulk. You can also try a different fabric with less drape.
Problem: The pillow won’t fit all the way in; the corners are stuffed.
Solution: This is a too-small case or a very high-loft pillow. Check your pillow’s actual dimensions against the case’s. Consider a “king” case for a very thick queen pillow, or look for cases labeled “extra deep” or “gusseted.”
Problem: The pillow falls out of the open end during the night.
Solution: Switch to a pillowcase with an envelope closure or a traditional flap. These are designed to keep the pillow securely inside all night long.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
When you’re ready to shop, keep this checklist in mind.
- Check the “Finish Size”: Don’t just look at “queen.” Find the actual fabric dimensions in the product details.
- Know Your Pillow’s Loft: Is it thin or super fluffy? This will guide your material and size choice.
- Read Reviews: Other buyers often mention if a case runs large or small.
- Consider a Set: Buying a queen sheet set often includes two matching queen pillowcases, which is convenient and cost-effective.
- Feel the Fabric: If in a store, hold it up. Does it have any stretch? Does it feel like it will shrink?
Understanding Care Labels and Shrinkage
Cotton, especially 100% cotton, can shrink. A perfectly fitting new case might become too tight after its first wash.
- Pre-wash your fabric if you’re sewing.
- When buying, check if the product is labeled “pre-shrunk.”
- If it does shrink, you can sometimes gently stretch it back out while it’s still damp and iron it.
FAQ Section
Is a queen pillowcase 20×30 or 20×36?
The pillow insert is 20×30. The case is usually about 21×31. A 20×36 case is a longer style meant for tucking (often called a flange style), but it still fits the same 20×30 pillow.
Can I use a standard pillowcase on a queen pillow?
No, it will be too short. A standard case is made for a 20×26 pillow. A queen pillow is 30 inches long, so 4 inches of pillow will be exposed.
What size pillowcase for 2 queen pillows?
Two queen pillows need two queen pillowcases. Each queen pillow is 20×30, so each needs its own correctly sized case. A standard bed pillow arrangement uses two pillows for a queen bed.
Are queen and full pillowcases the same size?
Often, yes. Full/ Double beds commonly use standard size pillows (20×26). However, some full beds might use queen pillows. You must check the size of your specific pillows, not just the bed name.
Why is my queen pillowcase too big?
You might have a low-loft pillow (like memory foam) in a case designed for a fluffier pillow. Or, you may have accidentally bought a king-size pillowcase. Double-check the tag and your pillow’s actual plumpness.
Knowing the answer to what is the size of a queen pillowcase makes shopping and bed-making much simpler. Always remember the core measurement: a 20 by 30 inch pillow. Aim for a case that gives you an extra inch or two in both directions for a fit that’s snug but not tight. With this guide, you can confidently choose the right pillowcase for a perfect night’s sleep and a beautifully made bed. Measuring your existing pillow is always the best first step if you’re ever in doubt.