Pillow Sizes & Dimensions Guide
Share
Fact checked
Reviewed by experts
Writers at Sleep Authority are supported by a research team conducting in-depth research about the topics. The editorial team reviews them for accuracy and facts to ensure the most authentic and accurate content is published. Sleep Authority does not offer any medical advice, and you should not rely solely on our content for your course of treatment. Consult your medical professional to discuss any health concerns, chronic conditions, treatment options, or diagnoses.
Updated
December 13, 2022
Quick read
7 mins to read
List of Content
We pay a lot of attention to the right mattress size for a good night’s sleep, and little do we think of the perfect pillow size. It’s a general myth that one size fits all, but pillow size has its relevance in happy napping. Finding the right sleeping pillow size is extremely important for each offers individualized benefits, yet the process seems mind-boggling.
So, in this blog, we will break down the various sizes of pillows available and understand how the wrong size pillow can affect you and your loved ones’ peaceful sleep!
Bed Pillow Sizes Chart
Four different pillow sizes are available based on standard specifications: standard, queen, king, and Euro. The following sizing chart outlines the dimensions of these four standard pillow sizes.
To learn more about mattress guides, dimensions and all things sleep, visit sleepauthority.com
| Bed Size | Mattress Measurements | Comforter Width | Comforter Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crib | 28 inches by 52 inches | 28 to 36 inches | 48 to 52 inches |
| Twin | 38 inches by 75 inches | 66 to 68 inches | 86 to 88 inches |
| Twin XL | 38 inches by 80 inches | 68 inches | 90 inches |
| Full (Double) | 54 inches by 75 inches | 81 to 84 inches | 86 to 88 inches |
| Queen | 60 inches by 80 inches | 86 to 88 inches | 96 to 100 inches |
| King (Eastern King) | 76 inches by 80 inches | 102 inches | 86 to 88 inches |
| California King (Western King) | 72 inches to 84 inches | 107 to 110 inches | 96 to 98 inches |
Standard Size Pillow Dimensions
A standard pillow size offers dimensions of size 20 by 26 inches, so they are well suited for twin beds, while two or three standard pillow sizes fit comfortably across a full or queen bed. They are the best outfit for different sleepers, be they stomach, side, or back sleepers. Besides, they can also be used as a backrest while you want to lay sprawled sipping your cup of morning coffee.
However, combination sleepers who turn and toss at night may not find this pillow size comfortable enough as it easily slides off when changing the sleeping position.
The best part about standard pillow sizes is they seize the budget and remain the choice for people looking for quality pricing.
Super Standard Size Pillow Dimensions
Some mattress brands also offer a slight variation of the Super Standard pillows. These pillow sizes measure 20 inches by 28 inches. As they tend to be 2 inches longer than a typical standard pillow, often they are interchangeably referred to as the elder sibling of a standard pillow.
So, if you want a bit longer pillow size than a standard but not as big as a queen or king-sized pillow, Super Standard Pillows have you covered.
Two super standard pillows might not be placed well in a full or a full XL mattress. However, you can easily accommodate it across one standard on a twin or full bed.
Since the difference between standard and super standard remains very slight, these pillow sizes may snug inside a standard pillowcase, measuring 20-21 inches by 30-32 inches.
Queen Size Pillow Dimensions
The size of a queen pillow measures 20 inches by 30 inches and is 4 inches bigger than a standard pillow size. This extra length aids restless sleepers in tossing and turning around without losing support.
A queen size pillow fits snug in a standard pillowcase. Some bedding manufacturers may have other sizes, but a standard and king are popular pillowcase sizes for queen pillow sizes.
One queen pillow can be placed across a twin, and two of them fit perfectly across a queen-size bed. Additionally, you can position two queen pillows tightly across a full while on a King or California King. They can be placed comfortably across the bed with extra space in between.
Also, you can use a standard pillowcase to comfortably fit a queen pillow, or if you want a looser look, you may opt for a king-size pillowcase instead. Perhaps this versatility is why bedding companies do not offer a queen-size pillowcase.
King Size Pillow Dimensions
A King size pillow measures 26 inches by 36 inches and snugs well to a combination sleeper due to its additional length. In addition, it is one of the largest pillow sizes, so combination sleepers who fidget a lot while sleeping may find it snuggly enough.
The size of a king pillow provides a snugly sitting position while you rest on a smaller mattress.
A King or California king bed can easily accommodate two king pillow fits, while a twin or full bed can only make space for one king-size pillow.
Body Size Pillow Dimensions
If you are new to pillow buying, little would you know about body-size pillows? Well, this specialized pillow is crafted for a special purpose. It can improve spinal alignment for side sleepers when retained between the legs.
A typical body pillow size measures 20 inches by 54 inches, and this extra length comes in handy for pressure point relief on the back and hips.
As they are specifically tailored to match the body’s shape, they make the best pick for a pregnant woman or anyone experiencing joint pain or sleepers wanting to have a prop up across the length of the body.
However, body pillow sizes are quintessential for spacious beds or mattresses and allow enough space to snug around or even sprawl if you need to. Be assured that body-size pillows work only with body-size pillowcases.
Why Pillow Size Matters?
The right pillow size provides a base or support for your spine alignment, thereby affecting your health. However, there is a chance you choose the wrong side of the pillow and wake up with a sore body the next day.
Especially if you move across your bed, you need a pillow to cradle your neck or shoulder. The support is needed to prevent back and neck aches, most often with the wrong bedding accessories.
Besides, not picking the right pillow can dramatically affect your bedroom’s aesthetic. Therefore, you must be careful when picking the perfect pillow size for your sleeping needs.
How to Measure a Pillow?
Measuring a pillow does not require any expertise. However, you have to be cautious when estimating the pillow size. An incorrect pillow size measurement will stream you through the hassles of buying the wrong one. So, use only a carpenter’s measuring tape to measure the side of the pillow. Never take measurements from the center.
Consider decimal reading, but round it off to the nearest number as measurements are always whole numbers for the perfect size of the pillow.
How to Choose a Right Pillow Size?
Multiple factors can alter your choice of a perfect pillow size, including mattress size, value, and bedroom aesthetics, to name a few. let’s work on the important ones!
Mattress Size: The mattress size is important in deciding which pillow size should best fit your bed. For instance, a twin bed will comfortably accommodate a smaller or standard pillow size. Similarly, two standard pillow sizes will leave open space on the width of a king mattress, so in this stance, consider a queen pillow size.
Sleep Position: Your sleeping position indeed affects your choice of pillow size. The standard pillow size goes well along with most sleeping positions. So, if you are a stomach or back sleeper, a medium loft of standard pillow sizes works sufficiently well to keep the spine aligned. However, consider folding your standard pillow for maximum comfort if you prefer a higher loft.
Having said this, king pillow size comes with extra volume that suffix side sleepers need. Besides, it is also good for back sleepers (with wide shoulders) who want to sprawl on the extra length. Additionally, a king pillow size option is ideal for stomach sleepers.
Adaptability: Standard pillow sizes make the best option for adults and children as they adapt to most mattress types. The standard size of the pillow enjoys being the only option for travel use. On the flip side, king pillows or body pillows act as backrest support when sitting up in bed and sipping your cup of coffee.
Aesthetics: Next to comfort, one major factor influencing your choice of pillow size is the bedroom’s aesthetics. The Euro pillows’ square shape enhances the bed’s decoration. Some also prefer keeping no open space at the head of the bed, thus favoring the largest pillow size, such as the king.
Cost & Value: The last factor determining your pillow size needs is cost. Standard pillow sizes are the best option that does not burn a hole in your budget, whereas king-size pillows rule with higher pricing, and besides, they only fit into king pillowcases. On the other hand, if you have standard and queen pillows in your home, you can interchangeably use the pillowcases for both pillow sizes. However, this may not be the case if you have two king pillows, as you will need two separate pillowcases for each.
Types of Pillows
Here is a list of different pillow types available in the market.
- Euro Pillows
A decorative pillow measuring 26 by 26 inches. They are mostly used as a decorative embellishment on a bed or a sofa. So, if you want to prop up your bedroom look, give it a try.
- Travel Pillows
The most convenient type of pillow for travel purposes. As they measure 12 by 16 inches, you can use them during your plane or car journey. This square-shaped pillow can also be used on a toddler’s bed.
- Throw Pillows
Throw pillows drastically enhances the elegance of your room. Mix n match with some color and pattern to give a pulchritudinous look to your sofas. Throw pillows measure 18 by 18 or 20 by 20 inches.
- Lumbar Pillows
Long and narrow is what defines this pillow type. They measure 12 inches by 19 inches or 12 inches by 20 inches with rectangular shapes. They provide much-needed support to the lower back and, at the same time, add vibrant hues to the bedding.
- Down or Feather Pillows
Down pillows are highly fluffy and soft. Down is the undercoating of a bird’s feather and is the softest part found at the bottom of a feather, traditionally used as a pillow filling. Being expensive, they are naturally breathable and help to regulate body temperature. The firmness and loft of such pillows depend on the amount of fill. The more they fill, the more is the comfort and longevity offered.
- Polyester Pillows
Comparatively cheaper than down pillow sizes, polyester pillows do not last against other pillow fillings. The only advantage that comes with them is they can be machine washed. And not to forget, they are hypoallergenic, so in case you are prone to allergy, go for this type of pillow.
- Memory Foam Pillows
They are made from sponge-like material like memory foam or torn memory foam parts and are so named. Memory foam pillows are an excellent choice for people wanting to relieve stress from pressure points.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide would’ve helped you understand different pillow sizes for maximum health benefits. The standard pillow size is the most common, but some sleepers prefer larger or even smaller than the standard pillow size based on their sleeping and mattresses’ needs. So whether you want a pillow for your sleeping needs or improve your home’s aesthetic, there is a perfect pillow size specifically tailored for you!
FAQs
Queen pillow size fits comfortably in a standard size pillowcase. This versatility is helpful, so you need not buy a different size for the pillowcase unless you want a looser look.
Most hotels use standard-size pillows, measuring 20 inches by 26 inches. Standard pillow sizes accommodate most body sizes and shapes and are best suited for all types of sleepers.
When it comes to pillows, you want something that supports the neck, back, and spine and matches the quality of your mattress. So we recommend using soft and breathable pillows with plush support from Nectar Sleep, Dream Cloud, and Awara.
This website does not offer medical advice nor professional medical services; rather, it is provided solely for educational, informational, and/or entertainment purposes. Individuals seeking medical advice should consult a licensed physician. The information provided should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any condition, disease, or injury. When you have a medical condition, you should always talk to licensed doctor or other certified medical professional. You should never delay seeking professional medical advice or treatment based on the contents of this website. Call 911 or immediately go to the nearest emergency room if you think you may have a medical emergency. The contents of this website are provided “as-is”, Sleep Authority and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, employees, contributors disclaim any warranty of the information contained herein. Please contact using contact form to report any errors, omissions, misinformation, or abuse.
Sleep Authority is brought to you by Resident, the company that brings you Nectar, DreamCloud, Awara, Wovenly, Bundle, Home Well Designed and Level Sleep.