What Size Is A Standard Pillow Sham

If you’re shopping for bedding, you might be wondering what size is a standard pillow sham. It’s a common question, as shams look different from regular pillowcases. Getting the right size is key for a polished, put-together bed.

This guide will give you all the details you need. We’ll cover standard sham sizes, how they differ from cases, and tips for choosing the right one. You’ll learn how to measure and style them for a perfect bedroom look.

A standard pillow sham typically measures 26 inches by 20 inches. This is the most common size you’ll find in stores and online. It’s designed to fit over a standard sleeping pillow, which is usually 20 inches by 26 inches.

The sham is cut slightly larger to accomodate the pillow insert and any decorative flanges or cording. This extra room ensures a full, plump appearance. Always check the specific product details, as sizes can vary a little between brands.

Standard Sham vs. Standard Pillowcase

It’s easy to mix up shams and pillowcases. They serve different purposes, though. Here’s how they compare:

Pillowcase: This is for sleeping. It’s usually a simple envelope or closure style, made from soft, comfortable fabrics like cotton sateen or percale. It measures about 20″ x 26″ for a standard size.
Pillow Sham: This is primarily decorative. It has a more formal closure in the back, often with a flange (decorative border). It uses thicker, more decorative fabrics to match your duvet cover or comforter. Its dimensions are slightly bigger to create a fuller look.

Other Common Sham Sizes

Not all pillows are standard size. Your bed might use other common pillow dimensions. Here’s a quick guide:

King Sham: Measures 36 inches by 20 inches. This fits a king sleeping pillow (20″ x 36″).
Queen Sham: Measures 30 inches by 20 inches. This fits a queen sleeping pillow (20″ x 30″).
Euro Sham: Measures 26 inches by 26 inches (square). This is a large, square decorative pillow often used for sitting up in bed.
Body Pillow Sham: Measures 20 inches by 54 inches (or longer). This fits a long body pillow.

How to Measure Your Pillow for a Sham

If your pillow isn’t a typical size, you’ll need to measure it. Follow these steps:

Lay your pillow flat on a surface.
Use a fabric tape measure to find the width (the shorter side).
Then, measure the length (the longer side).
Note these dimensions down in inches.

When you shop for a sham, choose one that is 1 to 2 inches larger than your pillow in both directions. This allows for the pillow’s loft and gives that full, finished look. A sham that’s to small will look stretched and messy.

Choosing the Right Sham Insert

The pillow you put inside the sham matters a lot. It’s called an insert. For the best look, you need the correct insert size and fill.

Size: Always buy an insert that is the same size or slightly larger than the sham. For a standard 26″x20″ sham, use a standard 20″x26″ pillow. Some people use an insert 2 inches larger for an extra-plump appearance.
Fill: Down or down-alternative inserts are best. They are fluffy and moldable, creating a luxurious look. A basic polyester bed pillow might not fill out the sham properly and can look lumpy.

How to Put on a Pillow Sham

Shams have a different closure than regular cases. It’s not difficult once you know how. Here is the easiest method:

Lay the sham flat with the decorative front side down. The back opening will be facing up.
Find the overlapping panels or envelope flap on the back.
Place your pillow insert on top of the opening.
Gently push the pillow into the sham through the back opening.
Adjust the corners and give the pillow a shake to distribute the fill evenly.
Fluff the sham and arrange any flanges neatly.

Styling Your Bed with Pillow Shams

Shams are the foundation of a beautiful bed. They add texture, color, and depth. A common layering strategy is to start with shams and add smaller decorative pillows in front.

A classic arrangement for a queen or king bed looks like this:

Place your sleeping pillows against the headboard (in their regular pillowcases).
Put the standard or king shams in front of them, standing upright.
Layer one or two Euro shams in front of those.
Finish with a few smaller accent pillows or a lumbar pillow in the very front.

This creates a professional, inviting look. You can mix and match patterns and textures, but keep colors in the same family for cohesion. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find a style you love.

Common Sham Fabrics and Care

Shams are made from decorative fabrics that match your other bedding. Common choices include:

Cotton: Durable, breathable, and easy to care for. Look for high thread counts for a softer feel.
Linen: Offers a relaxed, casually elegant look. It gets softer with each wash.
Silk or Satin: Provides a luxurious, shiny appearance but requires delicate care.
Velvet or Chenille: Adds rich texture and warmth, perfect for colder months.

Always check the care label. Most shams can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. Tumble dry on low, and remove promptly to avoid wrinkles. Ironing may be needed for a crisp look, especially on flanges.

Troubleshooting Common Sham Problems

Sometimes, shams don’t look quite right. Here are solutions to frequent issues:

Sham looks flat: Your insert is likely too small. Try a larger or fuller insert. You can also add a second, thinner pillow inside to boost volume.
Corners won’t fill out: Reach inside and manually pull the insert corners into the sham corners before adjusting the rest.
Back closure gaps open: This is normal to some degree. Arrange the overlapping panels neatly. For a cleaner look, you can use a few hidden safety pins to hold them together.
Sham wrinkles easily: Some fabrics, like linen, are meant to look casually wrinkled. For others, a quick steam or iron will smooth them out.

Where to Buy Pillow Shams

You can find pillow shams in many places. Department stores, home goods stores, and online retailers all carry them. When shopping, it’s helpful to have your pillow and bedding measurements handy.

Consider buying a sham as part of a bedding set. This ensures a perfect match with your duvet cover or comforter. If you prefer to mix and match, many brands sell shams separately. Just make sure the colors and styles coordinate well.

Read reviews to check for quality and accurate sizing. Some brands shams might run a bit small or large. It’s a good idea to check the return policy incase the size or color isn’t what you expected.

FAQs About Pillow Shams

What is the difference between a sham and a case?

A pillowcase is for sleeping on and is typically soft and simple. A sham is a decorative cover that goes over a pillow (or pillowcase) to match your bedding set. It has a decorative closure on the back.

Can you sleep on a pillow sham?

You can, but it’s not designed for comfort like a pillowcase. The fabrics are often thicker and less soft, and the back closure can be uncomfortable against your skin. It’s better to use a pillowcase for sleeping and place the sham over it during the day.

How many shams should I put on a bed?

It depends on your bed size and style. For a full or queen bed, two standard shams is common. For a king bed, you might use two king shams or three standard shams. You then layer other decorative pillows in front of them.

Do shams come with inserts?

Usually, no. Pillow shams are typically sold as the cover only. You need to purchase the pillow insert separately. This allows you to choose your preferred fill and firmness for the look you want.

What if my pillow is a non-standard size?

You have a couple options. You can search for specialty bedding stores that offer custom-sized shams. Alternatively, you can buy a larger sham and have it tailored to fit your specific pillow, which is often a simple alteration for a seamstress.

How do I keep my shams looking neat?

Fluff them daily when you make your bed. Use a high-quality insert that holds its shape. Wash them according to the instructions to prevent premature wear or fading. A quick steam can also refresh their appearance between washes.

Final Tips for Perfect Pillow Shams

Choosing the right sham really elevates your bedroom’s style. Remember, the key is in the fit and the fill. Always opt for an insert that is at least as big as the sham for a luxe, full appearance.

Don’t forget to consider the overall aesthetic of your room. Your shams should complement your other bedding and the room’s color scheme. With the right size and style, your bed will look like it came straight from a magazine.

Now that you know what size is a standard pillow sham and how to use them, you can shop with confidence. Take your time to find the perfect set that makes your bed a cozy and stylish retreat. Your bedroom will thank you for the extra attention to detail.