When it comes to decorating your home, there are few things as versatile and impactful as throw pillows. You can use them to add a pop of color and/or pattern, soften hard edges, or help make a space feel cozier.
But with so many choices out there, how do you know which size is right for your space? In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about throw pillow sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
Throw Pillow Size Reference Guide
How do you find the right size throw pillow for your space? Furniture piece size and style are the first things to take into consideration when selecting the best throw pillow dimensions.
Smaller furniture requires smaller pillows; for example, an armchair would work best with 18x18 inch pillow covers. A larger sofa may need up to 20x20 or 22x22 inch throw pillow covers.
When it comes to loveseats, use two 18x18 inch or two 20x20 inch pillows on each side of the sofa. A sectional typically requires three to five pillows, with the size depending on its length and depth.
When choosing throw pillow covers for a bed, there are many different size options depending on the size of the bed.
For a king-sized bed go with three or four 24x24 inch and layer with two 20x20 inch pillows and add a lumbar or a circular throw pillow in front.
A queen sized works well with a base of three 24x24 inch pillows and layer two 20x20 or 18x18 inch with a lumbar in the front.
A twin sized bed looks great with one or two 20x20 inch pillows and layer a 18x18 inch or lumbar or circular in front.
I covered this quickly but we'll go into specific details and possible pillow arrangements below.
Standard Throw Pillow Sizes
Throw pillows come in a variety of sizes, with the most common ones being 16x16, 18x18, 20x20, 22x22, and 24x24 inches. These are the standard throw pillow sizes for the square shape-which is by far the most popular with interior designers.
For lumbar pillows (rectangular) the most standard sizes are 12x20, 12x24 or 12x36 inches.
How Do You Pick a Throw Pillow Size?
Picking the right throw pillow size is all about proportion. When it comes to square pillows, you typically want them to be just slightly smaller than the main cushion attached to your sofa or loveseat. So if your main cushion is a 20x20 inch size, then an 18x18 inch pillow would look great next to it.
For Lumbar pillows, as mentioned earlier, you want to aim for no more than two inches difference in width between the main cushion and lumbar pillow. So if your main cushion is a 20x20 inch size, then a 12x24 inch lumbar pillow should look great next to it.
Throw Pillow Sizes for Sofa
When choosing the best size of throw pillows for a sofa or couch, you’ll typically want to use a combination of square and/or lumbar pillows. This will help create a nice balance for your sofa, while still keeping the proportions looking proportional. For example, if your sofa is a 80” wide then you can use three 20x20 inch square pillows followed by one or two 12x24 inch lumbar pillows for a nice overall look.
For more details on mixing and matching throw pillows on a sofa including how to choose colors, patterns and quantity click here.
For armless sofas or loveseats, you’ll mostly want to use smaller square throw pillows as they can be more easily arranged without taking away from the overall look of the piece. For example, if your sofa is 48” wide, then two 18x18 inch pillows should do the trick!
Throw Pillow Sizes for King Bed
For a King size bed, you’ll want to use larger pillows than what you would typically use for a sofa. Generally, three 24x24 inch square throw pillows plus two 20x20 and either 12x20 or 12x36 inch lumbar pillows should look great. Again, this is all up to personal preference as you can mix and match sizes as you like.
For more details about how to arrange throw pillows on a king bed including the four best layouts click here.
Throw Pillow Sizes for Queen Bed
When it comes to queen beds, you’ll mostly want to use two 20x20 inch square throw pillows plus one 12x20, 12x36 or 12x40 inch lumbar pillows. This combination should look great on a queen and help give your bed the perfect amount of coziness!
No matter what size of bed or sofa you’re working with, throw pillows can help add a bit of extra style and comfort. Just make sure to pick the right size for your space and use different shapes and sizes to create balance! With the right combination of throw pillows, you’ll be able to transform any room into a cozy and stylish retreat.
Throw Pillow Sizes for Twin Bed
For twin beds, you’ll want to use smaller pillows than what you would typically use for a queen or king size bed. Generally, two 18x18 inch square throw pillows plus one 12x20 inch lumbar pillow should look great on a twin bed.
These sizes will also work great for daybeds as well, just make sure to choose a few different colors and textures for an added pop of style!
Throw Pillow Sizes for Chair
When it comes to chairs, you’ll generally want to use smaller throw pillows than what you would typically use for a sofa or bed. Generally, one 18x18 inch square pillow plus one 12x20 inch lumbar pillow should look great on a chair.
Choose different colors and textures to create contrast and make sure to pick coordinating colors for a cohesive look. With the right combination of pillows, you can turn any chair into a cozy spot to relax and unwind!
Throw Pillow Sizes for Sectional
Sectional sofas can be tricky when it comes to pillow sizes as there are a variety of shapes and styles. However, you’ll typically want to use two 20x20 inch square pillows plus one or two 12x20 or 12x24 inch lumbar pillows. This combination should help provide the perfect balance for your sectional.
For corner sections, you can also use two 18x18 inch square pillows plus one or two 12x20 or 12x24 inch lumbar pillows for a nice overall look. With the right combination of throw pillows, you’ll be able to turn any sectional into a cozy spot to lounge and relax!
No matter what kind of space you’re working with, throw pillows can help add an extra touch of style and comfort. Just make sure to pick the right size for your space and use different shapes and sizes to create balance.
Pillow Filler Insert Size for Throw Pillow Covers
When it comes to picking the right pillow insert for a throw pillow cover, you’ll want to make sure that your insert is slightly larger than the cover. We recommend going 2-3 inches larger. For example, if your pillow cover is 20x20 inches, then you’ll want to get a 22x22 inch insert. This will provide the perfect fit and help your pillow look its best!
Throw Pillow Fill Material
Polyester
Polyester fiber-filled pillows are a great option for throw pillows as they provide the perfect combination of support and comfort. This type of pillow is also easy to clean and maintain, so you don’t have to worry about replacing them frequently.
Down Feather Fill
If you prefer a more luxe look and feel, then down or feather fill is a great choice. Down and feather filled pillows are extremely soft, making them the perfect choice for a more luxurious look and feel. They also provide excellent shape, making them ideal for those who prefer to mold or "chop" the pillow.
Down Faux Feather Fill
Down faux feather fill pillows is a great option for those who prefer the feel of feathers without the higher price tag. Faux down is just as soft and comfortable as real down, but it’s more affordable and easier to maintain.
Another great bonus of the faux feather pillow inserts is the hypoallergenic qualities. If you’re looking for a pillow that won’t aggravate any allergies, then faux down is your best bet.
And, the faux down insert still allows for shaping and the "chopped" look.
How to Stuff Throw Pillow Covers
Stuffing a pillow cover correctly is the key to creating a beautiful and full-looking pillow. Start folding the insert in half like a taco and stuffing all the way to the back of the cover making sure to fill the corners up. Then move on to the other corners until both sides are evenly filled. You’ll want to stuff it just enough so that you can still close up the opening carefully without putting too much pressure on the zipper.
Check out our detailed step-by-step checklist and a tutorial video here on how to properly stuff throw pillow covers.
Best Places to Buy Throw Pillows
Now that you know the basics of throw pillows and the different materials and sizes available, it’s time to find the perfect pillow for your space! Whether you’re looking for something classic, modern or eclectic, there are plenty of places to shop.
Online stores like Amazon, Wayfair, Pottery Barn and CB2 are great places to find a wide selection of throw pillows in all kinds of styles. You can also check out stores like HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Target for some great deals on designer pillows.
Of course, if you're looking for high-end one-of-a-kind throw pillows that are made by hand from culture-rich locations such as Bali, India, and Morocco then The Global Stitch is your place :)
At the end of the day, throw pillows are an easy and affordable way to update any living space or bedroom. With the right combination of size, material, shape, and color you can create a look that is both comfortable and stylish.
Wrapping Up The Throw Pillow Size Guide
Now that you know all about the different sizes, materials, and shapes of throw pillows, it's time to find the perfect pieces to style your spaces.
Whether you're looking for bright and bold colors or something more neutral, you'll be able to find the perfect throw pillows that will bring your space to life.
Remember to pay close attention to the size of your pillow covers and inserts so that the fit is perfect. And don't forget about choosing a fill material that is just right for you.
Now get out there and find the perfect throw pillows to make your space beautiful!