How to Choose the Proper Pillow Insert for Your Pillowcase
Have you ever bought a beautiful pillowcase, only to find that it falls flat—literally—when you put in your old pillow insert? Choosing the right pillow insert can make a world of difference, transforming your pillowcase from a mere fabric cover to a cozy, supportive, and visually appealing addition to your home. Here’s how to make sure you pick the perfect insert every time.
Throw pillow inserts are essentially the inner cushion that goes inside the decorative cover of a throw pillow. They come in various shapes and sizes to fit different pillow covers, providing the necessary volume and support to the pillow.
First things first: what do you need this pillow for? If it's purely for decoration—perhaps for your living room or to add a pop of color to your bed—you’ll want an insert that maintains its shape and volume. Decorative pillows should look plump and inviting, so go for inserts with a high loft and firmness.
Choose the Right Size
Size matters when it comes to pillow inserts, sort of. A common rule of thumb is to use an insert that is 1-2 inches larger than your pillowcase, and even larger for larger pillows. This ensures your pillow looks full and luxurious, not flat and underwhelming. Avoid inserts that are too small, as they will make your pillowcase look sad and deflated. For example, if you have an 18x18 inch pillowcase, opt for a 20x20 inch insert. But where does this advice stem from? Feather and Down inserts which need that extra size to give the oomph.
In general, smaller pillows (12" x 12") only need an extra inch, while larger pillows (24" x 24") need an extra 2 or even 3 inches depending on the firmness of the fill material. That's right, firm fill material means the insert can be smaller than a feather insert if you're going for that stuffed look. For example, a 26x26 pillow case needs a 28 inch firm foam insert, a 30 inch poly stuffing insert, and a 32 inch feather or down insert if you want that truly plump look.
To throw a wrench in the plan, Poly Foam lumbar pillow inserts should be the same size as the pillow cover, while a feather or down insert should be the width and two inches taller. An 8x18 inch cover should have an 8x20 inch insert. And pillows with cording should have an insert no larger than 1-2 inch larger if not the same size and will usually look better with a foam insert.
Most pillowcases have a slight deviation from the stated size so may measure plus or minus 1/2 inch at most, but in general, a pillow insert an inch or two above the stated size will work fine. This small deviation comes from the sewing process and is perfectly normal.
When it comes down to it, it's all about what you prefer. We make it easy for you by offering pillow cases with inserts so you don't have to worry about any of this!!!
Now to Select the Fill Material
The fill material of your pillow insert is crucial for both comfort and aesthetics. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular options:
Down and Feather:
If you like to Karate chop your pillows, this is the insert you want! Down and feather inserts are soft and moldable. They’re great for decorative pillows but can be expensive and may cause allergies for some people. They also require regular fluffing to maintain their shape. These pillows tend to be flatter in general and will not have the stuffed look or feel.
Down Alternative:
These inserts are hypoallergenic and more affordable than natural down. This is a great option!
Polyester or Poly Foam:
Polyester inserts are budget-friendly, hypoallergenic, and easy to care for. They’re a good choice for decorative pillows and can create a number of different looks. Plus, they can be washed in a washing machine.
Wool:
Wool has emerged as a popular alternative to polyester fill, as it is more environmentally friendly. It remains harder to find and is not hypoallergenic.
Investing in high-quality throw pillow inserts can significantly enhance the comfort and longevity of your throw pillows. Quality inserts retain their shape and fluffiness over time, ensuring your pillows always look fresh and inviting. They also provide better support for your body, making them ideal for relaxation and lounging.
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