What is Pillow Sham? Discover Its Hidden Comfort & Style.

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to enhance your bedding, pillow shams might be just what you need. Pillow shams are decorative covers that fit over your regular pillows, offering both style and comfort. While they are often confused with pillowcases, shams differ in design, construction, and purpose. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pillow shams, from their types and dimensions to their care and practical uses.

Key Takeaways:

• Pillow shams are decorative covers that fit over pillows.
• Pillow shams differ from pillowcases in their design, construction, and purpose.
• In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pillow shams, from their types and dimensions to their care and practical uses.

Types of Pillow Shams

When it comes to pillow shams, there are various types that you can choose from. One of the most common types is the decorative pillow sham, which comes in different patterns, designs, and colors to add elegance to any bedroom.

Another type of pillow sham is the standard pillow sham, which offers essential protection to your pillow while enhancing its overall appearance. It usually comes with a flap opening at the back for easy pillow insertion.

European Pillow Shams

European pillow shams are more significant than those designed specifically for square-shaped pillows. They provide a layer of style and comfort to your bedding arrangement and can be easily placed against your headboard for a decorative look.

King Pillow Shams

King pillow shams are designed to fit king-sized pillows and are ideal for more extensive beds. They also come in various patterns and colors, making them a great addition to any bedroom decor.

Understanding Pillow Sham Dimensions

Pillow shams, like many bedding accessories, come in various sizes to fit different pillows. Standard pillow shams usually measure 26 inches by 20 inches. However, checking the product description is essential to ensure the dimensions fit your pillow. Some shams come with a larger size to accommodate the fluffiness of the insert, while others have smaller dimensions to create a snug fit.

Note that pillow sham dimensions may vary by region or brand. For example, European pillow shams measure 26 inches by 26 inches, while king-size shams are 36 inches by 20 inches. If you need more clarification about the size of your pillow, use a measuring tape to get accurate dimensions before purchasing a sham.

How to Use a Pillow Sham

Using a pillow sham is a simple way to elevate the overall look of your bedding and add a touch of sophistication to your bedroom. Here’s how to use a pillow sham:

1. Please choose the right size: Before purchasing a pillow sham, ensure it fits your pillow’s dimensions. Standard pillow shams usually measure 20 x 26 inches, while king-size shams are typically 20 x 36 inches.
2. Insert the pillow: Once you have the right-sized sham, slip your pillow inside. Ensure the pillow fills out the corners of the con entirely for a polished look.
3. Arrange your pillows: Pillow shams are usually used as decorative accents, so they look best when styled with other pillows. Play around with the arrangement and layering until you find a look that suits your taste.
4. Care and maintenance: It’s essential to wash your pillow shams to keep them looking fresh regularly. Check the care label for washing instructions, but most shams can be machine washed and dried on a low setting. Iron if necessary.

Following these simple steps, you can rejoice in the sophisticated look and added comfort of a pillow sham in your bedroom.

Pillow Sham vs. Pillowcase: Understanding the Difference

While pillow shams and pillowcases may seem interchangeable, they serve different purposes for your bedding. A pillowcase is a protective cover for your pillow, usually made of a soft and breathable material like cotton. It is designed to protect your pillow from sweat, oils, and dirt and keep it clean for longer. Pillowcases typically have an opening on one end or in the middle, where you can insert your pillow.

On the other hand, a pillow sham is a decorative cover for your pillow, often used for decorative purposes rather than functional ones. Pillow shams are usually made of thicker, more ornate fabrics like satin, silk, or velvet and are designed to be placed over your regular pillowcases. They often have intricate designs, embroidery, or patterns that add elegance and personality to your bedding.

Pillow Sham vs. Pillowcase: Which Should You Use?

Whether you should use a pillow sham or a pillowcase largely depends on your preference and the look you want for your bedroom. If you want a clean, simple look, pillowcases are your best bet. However, if you want to add a touch of sophistication and class to your bedding, pillow shams are the way to go.

It’s also important to note that pillow shams are not as practical as pillowcases, but they can still protect your pillows and make them last longer. They are instrumental if you have decorative pillows or accent pillows that you don’t use for sleeping but still want to keep clean and in good condition.

Whether you choose a pillowcase or a pillow sham, make sure you choose high-quality materials and wash and care for them properly to keep your pillows and bedding looking and feeling their best for years.

Enhancing Your Bedroom Decor with Pillow Shams

Pillow shams are not just functional bedding accessories; they can also be used as decorative elements to enhance your bedroom’s overall aesthetic. With different styles, colors, and patterns, you may choose from various pillow shams to complement your existing decor or create a new look.

Consider your bedroom’s color scheme and theme when selecting decorative pillow shams. You can choose bright and bold colors to add a pop of color to a neutral room or muted tones for a more soothing atmosphere. Mixing and matching various patterns and textures can add interest and depth to your bedding.

Incorporating Pillow Shams in Different Design Themes

If your bedroom has a specific design theme, such as rustic, coastal, or bohemian, you can use pillow shams to enhance that theme further. For a rustic look, consider pillow shams made from natural materials like linen or burlap, and feature earth tones like brown, green, or beige. For a coastal theme, opt for shams with seashells or wave patterns in blue and white hues. Choose shams with vibrant colors and patterns, such as paisleys or geometric shapes.

Design Theme	Pillow Sham Styles
Rustic	Natural materials, earth tones
Coastal	Seashell or wave patterns, blue and white hues
Bohemian	Vibrant colors, paisleys, geometric shapes

Remember that pillow shams are not just for your bed. You can also use them to add a decorative touch to your sofa or accent chairs. Experiment with different sizes and shapes to make a cohesive look throughout your room.

Pillow Sham Care and Maintenance Tips

Proper care and maintenance of your pillow shams can help them last longer and retain their beauty. Here are some essential tips to follow:

Care Tips	Maintenance Tips
Check the care label for specific instructions. Always wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent free of bleach or fabric softeners. Avoid overloading the washing machine to prevent tangling and stretching. Remove promptly from the washer to prevent wrinkles. Do not dry clean or iron.	Fluff and rotate the pillows regularly to maintain their shape. Avoid exposing the pillow shams to direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Store the shams in a cool, dry place when not in use. Consider using pillow protectors to prevent stains and dirt buildup.

Remember, different fabrics may require extra care. Check the care label for specific guidelines and follow them to ensure the longevity of your pillow shams.
Following these tips, you can enjoy your pillow shams for years.

Following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can enjoy your pillow shams for years.

Practical and Decorative Uses for Pillow Shams

Pillow shams are not just for show; they serve many practical purposes too. Here are some ways to use your pillow shams:

• As a protective layer: Pillow shams protect your pillows, keeping them clean and free of dust and dirt.
• As a cushion: You can add more cushioning to your bed by using a pillow sham as a layer between your pillows and your headboard or wall.
• As a backrest: Prop up your pillow shams against the wall for a comfy backrest while reading or watching TV in bed.
• As a travel pillow: Fold a pillow sham in half and use it as a comfortable pillow on long journeys.

Aside from their practical uses, pillow shams are also perfect for decorative purposes. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your bedroom decor:

• Mix and match: Try experimenting with different textures and patterns to make a unique and visually appealing look.
• Layering: Use pillow shams to add depth and interest to your bed by layering them over your pillows or duvet cover.
• As a focal point: Choose a standout pillow sham with bold colors or patterns to make it the focal point of your bedding ensemble.
• As an accent color: Select pillow shams in a coordinating color to match your overall color scheme and add a pop of color to your bed.

With these practical and decorative uses, pillow shams can truly elevate the look and feel of your bedroom.

Incorporating Pillow Shams in Different Design Themes

Pillow shams can be a versatile addition to any bedroom decor theme. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, minimalist, or bohemian style, there’s always a perfect pillow sham style for every design taste.

Classic Designs

Classic designs generally emphasize symmetry and balance with a touch of elegance. To incorporate pillow shams in this theme, opt for pillow shams with simple yet elegant patterns or solid colors that complement the bedding sheets. Choose pillow shams with a neutral color palette like grey, white, navy, or beige to add a timeless appeal to the room.

Modern Designs

Modern designs focus on clean lines, bold patterns, and vibrant colors. To incorporate pillow shams in this theme, choose pillow shams with geometric patterns, bold stripes, or vibrant florals. Opt for pillow shams with bright colors like red, yellow, or green or a more subdued look with neutral colors like black or white.

Minimalist Designs

Minimalist designs emphasize simplicity, functionality, and a clutter-free environment. To incorporate pillow shams in this theme, opt for pillow shams with solid colors or simple patterns like stripes or dots. Choose light and neutral colors like white, beige, or light grey to create a cohesive and calming environment.

Bohemian Designs

Bohemian designs generally focus on a mix of textures, patterns, and colors, creating a free-spirited and eclectic atmosphere. To incorporate pillow shams in this theme, choose pillow shams with vibrant designs, bold prints, or even tassels or fringe. Mix up and match different colors and patterns for an organic and playful look.
By selecting the right pillow shams and coordinating them with the bedding sheets, you can create a cohesive and stylish bedroom decor that reflects your personality and taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pillow shams are a versatile and practical addition to any bedroom decor. They add an extra layer of comfort and style to your bedding, and a wide variety of options are available to suit any design theme or personal taste.
When choosing a pillow sham, consider the dimensions and type that will best meet your needs. Remember to properly care for and maintain your pillow shams to ensure they last as long as possible.
Whether you opt for decorative or practical pillow shams, incorporating them into your bedding can enhance your overall sleeping experience. So why not try several different types and see which ones work best for you?