As sugarplums dance in your head, you need a pillow that supports it. Your pillow should elevate your sleep, cradling your neck, aligning your spine, and helping you wake up feeling refreshed.
The pillowcase you choose to snuggle into is just as important.
When it comes to finding the perfect pillowcase, you can’t forget about its size. By understanding the dimensions of your pillow, you can ensure your case offers a snug and cozy fit to help you get a good night’s sleep.
| Pillow Type | Pillowcase Dimensions |
| Standard | 20 inches by 26 inches (51 cm by 66 cm) |
| Super Standard | 20 inches by 28 inches (51 cm by 71 cm) |
| Queen | 20 inches by 30 inches (51 cm by 76 cm) |
| King | 20 inches by 36 inches (51 cm by 92 cm) |
| Body Pillow | 20 inches by 54 inches (51 cm by 137 cm) |
| Euro Pillow | 26 inches by 26 inches (66 cm by 66 cm) |
| Travel Pillow | Varies based on pillow shape and size |
| Throw Pillow | Matches pillow dimensions. Common sizes: 18 inches by 18 inches (46 cm by 46 cm) or 20 inches by 20 inches (51 cm by 51 cm) |
| Pregnancy Pillow | Varies based on pillow shape and size |
Standard Pillowcase Sizes
Pillowcases come in a range of standard sizes, each tailored to fit specific pillow dimensions. Whether you love the plush comfort of oversized pillows or lean toward a more traditional feel, knowing your options ensures you pick the perfect pillowcase for your sleeping position.
Below, we explore the standard pillowcase sizes.
Standard Size
The standard size pillowcase is 20 inches by 26 inches, or 51 centimeters by 66 centimeters.
It fits comfortably on twin and twin XL mattresses, and two standard pillows can be placed side by side on full and queen mattresses.
Standard pillowcases are a versatile choice, designed with extra room to comfortably fit both standard and queen pillows. Their slightly larger dimensions make them adaptable and convenient for various pillow sizes, too.
Super Standard Size
The super standard size pillowcase is 20 inches by 28 inches, or 51 centimeters by 71 centimeters.
Accordingly, these pillowcase dimensions are two inches longer than the standard size, providing a more relaxed fit around your pillow.
This size is perfect if you like a little extra room for your pillow, ensuring it stays snugly covered all night long. Plus, the added space promotes breathability, keeping you cool and comfortable as you drift off to sleep.
Queen Size
Queen size pillows are 20 inches by 30 inches, or 51 centimeters by 76 centimeters.
Queen-size pillows are ideal for queen and king-sized beds, offering extra length for added comfort. If you’re a side sleeper or tend to toss and turn, this size gives you the support and space you need for a restful night’s sleep.
A Queen-size pillowcase is designed to fit snugly over these larger pillows, ensuring your pillow is just as snug as you are.
King Size
King-size pillows are the largest standard pillow size, at 20 inches by 36 inches, or 51 centimeters by 92 centimeters.
They’re designed to crown California King beds, offering excellent support for those who prefer to use all six feet of the mattress.
For these pillows, a King-size pillowcase will provide the perfect fit, ensuring your pillow stays securely covered while maintaining a polished look. With ample coverage, these pillowcases enhance comfort and add a touch of luxury to your bed, making sure you sleep like royalty.
Specialty Pillowcase Sizes
Aside from the standard pillow sizes, there are a variety of options with alternative dimensions, designed to meet the needs of all types of mattresses and sleep styles.
With pillows coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you get the right pillowcase dimensions for a perfect fit.
Here’s an overview of some of the specialty pillowcase sizes you might cuddle up to.
Body Pillow
What is a body pillow? As their name suggests, body pillows are long, 20 inches by 54 inches, or 51 centimeters by 137 centimeters, providing support for the entire body. They’re often used for hugging or placing between the legs during sleep to align the spine.
Body pillowcases are specifically designed to fit these elongated pillows, ensuring they remain covered and clean.
Euro Pillow
Euro pillows are large, square pillows, with dimensions of 26 inches by 26 inches, or 66 centimeters by 66 centimeters. They’re commonly used for decorative purposes on beds and couches.
Euro pillowcases, often referred to as Euro shams, are designed to fit these pillows and typically feature decorative elements like envelope closures.1
Travel Pillow
Travel pillows come in various shapes and sizes, including rectangular and C-shaped designs. They are compact and designed for comfort during travel. Many travel pillows have built-in covers, but for those that don’t, finding the right pillowcase can enhance comfort on the go.
Throw Pillow
Throw pillows are decorative and come in various sizes, although common throw pillow sizes include 18 inches by 18 inches or 20 inches by 20 inches.
They can be used on couches or beds for added comfort and style. Pillowcases for throw pillows are often more decorative and can be found in various fabrics and patterns.
Pregnancy Pillow
Pregnancy pillows are designed to provide support for pregnant individuals, helping to alleviate pressure on the spine, or support sleepers with a variety of health conditions.2
They come in various shapes and sizes, and finding the right pillowcase can enhance comfort for a good night’s rest. Many pregnancy pillows have removable covers, making it easy to maintain cleanliness.
Why Pillowcase Size Matters
While it may seem like a minor detail compared to the rest of your bedding, choosing the right pillowcase size is crucial for several reasons.
Comfort
A properly sized pillowcase ensures that the pillow fits snugly, preventing it from slipping out or bunching up during the night. This is particularly important for maintaining the support your neck and head need for a restful sleep. A loose pillowcase can lead to discomfort, as it may cause the pillow to shift, disrupting your sleep cycle.
Hygiene
Pillowcases protect pillows from dirt, sweat, and allergens, so a well-fitting pillowcase helps keep the pillow clean and prolongs its lifespan. When a pillowcase is too large, it can allow these substances to seep through, potentially leading to the accumulation of dust mites and bacteria.
Regularly washing your pillowcase is key, but having the correct size makes this task easier and more effective.
Aesthetic Appeal
The right pillowcase size can improve the overall look of your bedding. This means that a well-fitted pillowcase complements your bedroom decor and adds to the visual appeal of your bedroom.
Pillow Lifespan
Using the correct size pillowcase can also prolong the lifespan of your pillows. Learn more about how often to replace your pillows in our blog.
A loose or oversized pillowcase can cause friction and wear, leading to premature deterioration. By ensuring that your pillowcases match the dimensions of your pillows, you protect your investment in quality sleep.
How to Measure Your Pillow for the Right Fit
Measuring your pillow is essential for finding the perfect pillowcase. Here’s how to do it:
Measuring Tips
Measuring your pillow accurately is essential for finding the perfect pillowcase that ensures comfort and functionality. Here are some tips on how to measure your pillow for the right fit:
- Begin by gathering your tools – To begin, you’ll need a soft measuring tape, which is flexible enough to contour to the shape of your pillow. If you don’t have a measuring tape, a ruler or yardstick can also work.
- Lay the pillow flat – Place your pillow on a flat surface, such as a bed or table. Make sure it’s fully fluffed and not compressed, as this will give you the most accurate measurements.
- Measure the length and width – Using the measuring tape, measure the length of the pillow from one seam to the other. Then, measure the width in the same manner. For standard and queen pillows, these measurements are straightforward. However, for specialty pillows like body or pregnancy pillows, measure the longest and widest points to capture their unique shapes.
- Don’t forget about pillow thickness – While length and width are crucial, don’t forget to consider the thickness of your pillow. Some pillowcases are designed with deeper pockets to accommodate thicker pillows, ensuring a secure fit.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure your pillow and confidently choose a pillowcase that’s a perfect match.
Considerations for Different Pillow Types
If you’re looking for a case for a specialty pillow, here are some considerations you’ll want to keep in mind for different types of pillows:
- Standard and queen pillows – These are straightforward to measure, as they have standard dimensions.
- Specialty pillows – For specialty pillows like body pillows or pregnancy pillows, consider their unique shapes. Measure the longest and widest points to ensure you find a compatible pillowcase.
- Travel and throw pillows – These can vary significantly in size, so always measure before purchasing a pillowcase.
The size of your pillowcase is not just a matter of preference; it significantly affects your comfort, hygiene, aesthetics, and the longevity of your pillows. Choosing the right size is a simple yet essential step toward enhancing your sleep experience, whether you’re in bed, napping on your couch, or catching some Z’s mid-flight.
Finding the Perfect Pillowcase with Casper
Fitting your pillowcase snugly to your pillow ensures optimal comfort, enhances breathability, and keeps your pillow looking neat and inviting all night long. To find a pillowcase that fits your pillow and sleep needs, take the time to measure your pillow and choose a cover that complements its size and shape.
At Casper, we understand that comfort and quality are paramount, which is why our pillowcases are designed to accentuate our innovative pillows perfectly. Made from high-quality materials, like tencel, percale, and sateen, Casper pillowcases and bed sheet sets offer a soft, breathable surface that feels luxurious against your skin.
Plus, our thoughtful design ensures a snug fit, preventing any slipping or bunching, so nothing gets in the way of you and a restful night’s sleep.
Sleep soundly with Casper.
Sources:
- The DIY Playbook. How to Arrange Euro Shams. https://thediyplaybook.com/arranging-euro-shams/
- WebMD. What to Know About Pregnancy Pillows. https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-to-know-pregnancy-pillows
