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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →A pillow sham is a decorative cover for a pillow, used to finish the look of a made bed. It is usually intended for display rather than sleeping, while a pillowcase is made to cover the pillow you sleep on. Shams are optional styling pieces, and their sizes, fabrics, trim, and closures vary.
How is a sham different from a pillowcase?
A pillowcase protects a pillow used for sleeping and provides a comfortable surface. A sham is primarily decorative: it may coordinate with the bedding or add a contrasting color or texture. As Sleep Foundation explains, shams commonly have a decorative front and a plainer reverse, with a closure at the back. The closure may use overlapping fabric, a hidden zipper, or buttons; not every sham has the same construction or trim.
Some shams can also cover pillows used for sleeping, but decorative stitching, lace, or other details may feel uncomfortable against the face or require more delicate care. A practical shorthand is: pillowcases are for sleeping pillows; shams dress pillows displayed on the bed.
What pillow goes inside a sham?
Choose an insert that corresponds to the sham’s size category—standard, queen, king, or Euro—and compare the actual dimensions listed by the seller with the pillow you have. The following are approximate dimensions reported by Sleep Foundation, not universal manufacturing standards:
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#1 Best Overall
- Soft Brushed Microfiber: These pillow shams are made from smooth brushed microfiber polyester for a comfortable feel and an easy update to everyday bedding.
- Envelope Closure: The back envelope opening keeps the pillow insert covered without exposed zippers or buttons and allows quick removal for washing.
- Tailored Decorative Edge: A 1 inch flange creates a clean finished border that coordinates with solid, patterned, modern, and traditional bedding.
- Standard Set of 2: Includes two pillow shams measuring 20 x 26 inches. Pillow inserts are not included.
- Easy Care: Machine wash separately in cold water on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry low. Do not bleach, and remove promptly to help maintain a neat appearance.
| Sham size | Approximate dimensions | Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 26 × 20 inches | Rectangular |
| Queen | 30 × 20 inches | Rectangular |
| King | 36 × 20 inches | Rectangular |
| Euro | 26 × 26 inches | Square |
These approximate measurements come from Sleep Foundation’s bed-sham guide. A sham listing may not include the pillow insert, so check the package contents before purchasing. Euro pillows are commonly arranged upright behind sleeping pillows to make a bed look fuller.
How do you wash a pillow sham?
Follow the care label on the specific sham. Fabric and embellishments affect laundering: cotton is generally machine-washable, but the label takes precedence; silk needs more delicate care, and lace or other delicate details may not suit routine machine washing. Some shams should not be machine-washed. There is no one washing cycle or schedule that applies to every sham.
Rank #2
- Exquisite Waffle Weave Design: Add a touch of timeless charm to your home with the classic waffle weave texture. The three-dimensional pattern brings beautiful depth and a relaxed, elevated look, while a variety of colors, including versatile neutral tones, make it easy to refresh your décor and create a space that feels effortlessly stylish.
- 100% Natural Cotton Comfort: Crafted from 100% natural cotton and OEKO-TEX certified, these pillow shams offer a soft, breathable feel that is gentle on the skin. The front features a 100% cotton waffle weave texture, while the reverse side uses smooth cotton fabric for a comfortable finish. The 300 GSM fabric adds a premium look and quality feel to your bedding décor.
- Envelope Closure Design: Designed with an elegant envelope closure, these waffle pillowcases offer a clean, tailored look while keeping pillows comfortably covered and in place. The thoughtful overlap design allows for easy pillow insertion and removal, combining style with everyday convenience.
- Versatile Décor & Gift Choice: Refresh your home with these waffle pillow shams, perfect for beautifully styled beds, sofas, guest spaces, and cozy corners. Their timeless texture makes them a stylish choice for home décor lovers and new homeowners. A thoughtful gift for housewarmings, weddings, birthdays, and holidays.
- Easy Care & Lasting Quality: Machine wash cold with like colors and tumble dry low for easy care. Designed to stay beautiful wash after wash with no shrinkage and no pilling, maintaining its soft feel and signature waffle texture over time. For lasting beauty, handle with care around sharp objects, jewelry, and pet claws to protect the delicate weave.
Shams are made in fabrics such as cotton, polyester, linen, flannel, silk, and blends. When choosing one, consider not only its appearance but also how its fabric and trim feel and what care they require.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you check before buying?
- Size: Match the sham to the pillow category, then confirm the listing’s finished dimensions.
- Insert: Check whether a pillow is included; buy a separate insert if needed.
- Feel and details: Consider the fabric, decorative front, trim, and back closure.
- Care: Read the care instructions, especially for silk, lace, or other delicate embellishments.
Sleep Foundation’s guide, written by Logan Foley and last updated January 31, 2023, describes a sham as a decorative pillow cover used to add visual variety to a bedroom. Its role is styling, not serving as an essential sleep layer.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Natural Linen Fabric】 Made of grade natural ramie linen blend. Natural linen fabric makes it soft, comfortable, and breathable—good workmanship, tightly sewn. Color may be different in different light or on different screen
- 【Design with Flange Edges】 Boho pillow covers have flange at the edges All fabric edges are sewn well to prevent fraying The combination of the pure color and the classic linen edge makes the pillow covers more idyllic
- 【Ideal Decoration】Solid colors make spring pillow covers chic and versatile to suit every home style Great fit for home decors, living room, bedroom, patio, lawn, porch, balcony, couch, or sofa.Color may be different in different light or on different screen.
- 【Hidden Zipper】Hidden zipper is sewn on the back so that your pillows can easy insert or remove It also makes covers look more elegant. It is recommended to hand wash and gentle cycle for machine washing with low tumble dry Please note that do not iron the cover.
- 【Package Contents】Include set of 2 pillow covers (26x26"/ 65x65 cm, does not include the edge part) Please allow 1-2cm deviation because of hand-cutting and sewing. Not Pillow Inserts!
Rank #4
- Unique design: The envelope sealing design is easy to install and remove the pillow core, unlike a zipper that hooks onto your hair.
- Soft and comfortable: Our pillowcases are made of ultra-fine fibers, and the fabric is stain resistant and wrinkle resistant. Both sides have been treated with fleece, making them soft and comfortable. Good stitching and exquisite craftsmanship can also reduce loose threads.
- Retro Ruffle: The pillow cases edge adopts a lotus leaf edge design, elegant and romantic, simple and fashionable, reflecting the ancient materials and retro modern appearance, which is more attractive compared to ordinary pillowcases.
- Nursing method: It is recommended to use a chiller for cleaning, and it can be machine washed together with clothes of similar colors. Gently wash, do not bleach, and dry with a drum at low temperature.
- Package includes: 2 ruffled pillow covers, measuring 20 inches x 26 inches. Soft and smooth pillowcases help to fall asleep quickly and enjoy peaceful sleep every night, making them the best choice to give to friends or family.
Rank #3
- Exquisite Waffle Weave Design: The delicate waffle weave textured patternan elegant, three-dimensional look. With its exquisite design, breathable fabric, and comfortable hand feel, it creates a relaxing and restful atmosphere
- Natural Premium Fabric: Built with Natural Premium material, safe and skin‑friendly for you and your family. These Woaboy euro sham covers boast double‑sided waffle weave for a uniform luxurious look. Matching plush 3D texture on both sides ensures great comfort, with flexible styling options to elevate your home decor.
- Verstile Decoration: These pillow shams in neutral tones can fit most standard bed pillows, ideal for everyday use in master and guest bedrooms. It offers reliable support and comfort, and can also be used as a sofa lumbar pillow or reading pillow. Blends effortlessly with both modern farmhouse and boho décor, adding a chic, cozy touch to your space.
- Hidden Zipper: Discreet hidden zipper ensures a smooth, safe, and reversible sham, while the extended opening makes adding or removing inserts effortless. It can easily put and take out the pillow inserts. Please allow 1~2cm deviation because of hand-cutting and sewing. Color may be different in different light or on different screen
- Package & Dimensions: Covers Only, No Insert. Hand wash recommended. Machine washable within wash bag under gentle mode. Tumble Dry Low, Do Not Iron
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
