The journal
What pillow goes in a sham?
Direct answer: use a size‑matched decorative pillow insert that matches your sham’s shape. See common sham sizes, simple fill choices, and quick steps to get a crisp fit.
Quick answer
Use a size‑matched decorative pillow insert that matches your sham’s shape. Rectangular shams (standard/queen/king) take rectangular inserts; square Euro shams take square inserts. Many brands specifically advise buying a same‑size insert for each sham Crane & Canopy.
What to put in a sham (and how to match size)
A pillow sham is an ornamental cover for display, not a standard pillowcase. It’s used to finish the look of the bed and can be placed in front of or behind sleeping pillows when the bed is made Eli & Elm. To fill it, choose a decorative insert sized to the sham.
- Common sham sizes listed by some retailers: Standard 20×26, Queen 20×32 (+ approx. 2 inch flange on some styles), King 20×38 (+ approx. 2 inch flange), Euro 26×26 David’s Fine Linens.
- If a size chart shows a “+ flange,” that border is decorative; match your insert to the core sham size shown (for example, 26×26 for a Euro), not the flange add‑on David’s Fine Linens.
- Brands often advise a same‑size insert for the sham, and some sell inserts with extra filling so the sham looks full Crane & Canopy.
Euro shams and rectangular shams at a glance
Square Euros
Most Euro shams are square and often listed around 26×26. Buy a square insert of the same size unless the brand tells you otherwise David’s Fine Linens Crane & Canopy.
Standard, queen and king shams
Rectangular shams take rectangular inserts that match the size listed on the product page (for example, 20×26 for many standard shams) David’s Fine Linens. If the sham includes a flange, that edge is decorative; follow the core dimensions when choosing your insert.
Fill choices and the look you’ll get
- Down‑alternative inserts are commonly offered and are an easy, practical pick for most shams. One retailer specifically recommends a size‑matching down‑alternative sham insert and notes their sham inserts are made with extra filling so they appear full Crane & Canopy.
- For a crisp, upright look, choose an insert marketed as “extra fill” or “full” so the corners hold their shape Crane & Canopy.
Prefer a softer silhouette? A standard, same‑size insert will give a more relaxed drape. If you plan to actually sleep on the sham, you can do that, though shams are primarily decorative and often used for support or display on a made bed Crane & Canopy Eli & Elm.
Where shams sit on the bed
Shams are decorative. On a made bed, place them in front of or behind your sleeping pillows to add symmetry and texture Eli & Elm. For everyday hygiene, keep the pillowcases you sleep on freshly laundered; see our practical guide on how often to wash pillowcases.
Confirm your sham insert in 3-5 minutes
Quick FAQ
Can I use a regular sleeping pillow inside a sham?
You can, as long as it matches the sham’s size, but shams are mainly decorative. For a fuller display look, brands sell dedicated sham inserts and often suggest size‑matching fills Crane & Canopy.
How many Euros do I need?
It’s a style choice. Once you know the correct insert size (often 26×26 for a Euro), arrange one, two, or three across depending on bed width and the look you prefer David’s Fine Linens.
Related reading: if you like taller, more structured pillows, see our note on what high loft means for pillows.
