The Importance of Choosing the Right Pillow Insert for Your Pillow Covers
When it comes to styling your sofa or bed, pillows are a game-changer. They add comfort, color, and personality to a space. However, there’s one crucial detail that often gets overlooked: choosing the right pillow insert. Without the right insert, even the most beautiful pillow covers can end up looking flat, deflated, and uninviting. In this post, I’ll share why the right insert matters, how to select the perfect size, and why you should always opt for removable inserts. Let’s dive in!
Why the Right Pillow Insert Matters
Pillow inserts play a much larger role in the overall look and feel of your pillows than you might think. A good insert helps your pillow fill out its cover perfectly, creating that plump, luxurious look we all love. On the other hand, a flat or too-small insert can make your pillow look limp, lifeless, and, frankly, cheap.
When choosing the right pillow insert, think of it like a pair of shoes: the cover is the outer part, and the insert is the fit. If the insert is too small for the cover, the pillow will lose its shape and will appear deflated. Too big? It might look overstuffed or uncomfortable. The key is to find a balance that allows your pillows to retain their volume and structure.
Square Pillow Covers: Go One Size Up
For square pillow covers, I always recommend choosing an insert that’s one size bigger than the pillow cover itself. For example, if you have an 18” x 18” pillow cover, opt for a 20” x 20” insert. Why? A larger insert allows the pillow to fill the cover more fully, giving it that plump, inviting shape. This technique is especially helpful in creating visually appealing pillows that look cozy and luxurious, not limp and sad.
If the insert is too small, the pillow will have excess fabric around the edges, creating a “floppy” look. You want your pillows to look like they have a nice, full, well-stuffed shape. Going with a slightly larger insert ensures this!
Lumbar Pillows: Stick to the Same Size
When it comes to lumbar pillows, the rule changes a bit. For these long, rectangular pillows, it’s best to select an insert that’s the same size as the pillow cover. Unlike square pillows, lumbar cushions are meant to be more structured and form-fitting. By selecting a matching-sized insert, you ensure that the pillow will retain its shape and firmness, providing the perfect balance between comfort and style.
A lumbar pillow with a too-large insert can appear overly stuffed or hard, which defeats its purpose as a backrest. By sticking to the same size, you achieve the perfect level of support and a polished look.
Always Opt for a Removable Insert
It’s essential to choose pillows with removable inserts—never buy pillows where the insert is non-removable. Non-removable inserts tend to be stiff, uncomfortable, and cheap-looking. They often lack the plushness that makes a pillow feel luxurious, and they can’t be fluffed or adjusted to maintain their shape. A pillow with a removable insert, on the other hand, allows you to fluff and care for it as needed.
If you’re looking for quality removable inserts, I highly recommend down inserts from Pottery Barn. They provide soft, luxurious support and are available in a wide range of sizes. Another great option is Pillowflex inserts available on Amazon, which offer full, well-filled inserts in every size imaginable. They’re durable and easy to maintain, and they hold their shape beautifully.
Varying Pillow Sizes for a Stylish Look
One last tip: when styling your pillows on a sofa or bed, mix up the sizes! Varying pillow sizes adds visual interest and depth to the space. For example, pair a few large square pillows with smaller lumbar pillows or mix in some accent pillows in different sizes to create a balanced, layered look. This adds dimension and a curated feel to your design.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pillow insert may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of your pillows. Whether you’re working with square pillow covers or lumbar pillows, make sure your inserts are the right size for a fuller, more inviting look. And remember, always opt for removable inserts for flexibility and long-lasting appeal. A little attention to detail in your pillow inserts will elevate the design of your space and make your pillows look as plush and inviting as possible.
So next time you’re picking out pillows, don’t forget to select the right inserts—they’re the secret to making your pillows pop!