Best Throw Pillow Covers for a Stylish & Cozy Home
(Without Breaking the Bank)
Throw pillow covers are the unsung heroes of home décor. Think about it – they’re basically outfits for your pillows, letting you dress up your living room or bedroom in an instant. Swap a cover, and voila! your couch goes from drab to fab. In this playful guide, we’ll explore the best-rated throw pillow covers (yes, those with thousands of glowing reviews) and why they matter. From materials like cotton, linen, and velvet to the latest design trends, we’ve got you – and your pillows – covered. So grab a cup of tea, fluff up those naked cushions, and let’s dive in!
Why Throw Pillow Covers Matter
Have you ever walked into a room and felt something was missing? 🧐 Chances are, the pillows needed a change of clothes. Throw pillow covers are more than just protective fabric; they’re a quick and affordable way to refresh your space. Tired of your living room’s look? Instead of buying all new pillows (and drowning in a sea of stuffing), just slip on some decorative pillow covers. Suddenly, that plain sofa pops with color and personality.
Not only do pillow covers transform your décor, they also protect your inserts from spills, slobber (looking at you, Fido), and everyday wear. Plus, they’re so much easier to clean – unzip, toss in the wash, done. No wrestling an entire pillow into the washing machine. In short, throw pillow covers let you express your style while keeping things practical. They’re the secret sauce to an easy room makeover, whether you crave a cozy boho den or a sleek modern lounge.
Ready to meet the top contenders that shoppers adore? Let’s jump to our curated list of the top throw pillow covers that have earned high ratings and rave reviews for their style, quality, and value.
Top Throw Pillow Covers
We’ve rounded up some of the best throw pillow covers – the ones with the stellar customer ratings and reviews to back them up. Each pick is a fan favorite, bringing something special to the table (or couch!). We’ll cover their key features, what makes them stand out, approximate pricing, and include a handy links so you can easily check them out. Let’s fluff these up!
- Rating: 4.6⭐ (3000+ reviews) – Price: ~$15 for 4 covers
- Features: If you love a rustic farmhouse or boho vibe, this Fancy Homi set is calling your name. These 18 x 18 inch covers are made of soft plush striped corduroy fabric, complete with adorable fringe tassels on the edges for that chic boho touch. Each cover has a hidden zipper (discreet and smooth, so no scratched fingers) and comes in a neutral palette of cream, beige, and gray that blends with any décor. Reviewers rave about the quality craftsmanship – no loose threads or flimsy material here. The corduroy stripes add cozy texture without being scratchy. It’s a 4-pack of pillow covers for about the cost of a couple lattes, which is a steal for a whole room refresh. With so many positive reviews, people say this set instantly makes their living room look “like it jumped off a Pinterest board.” Snag the Fancy Homi Boho Pillow Covers to give your couch that trendy bohemian facelift.
- Check them out here: Fancy Homi Neutral Boho Pillow Covers (Set of 4, 18×18)
- Rating: 4.6⭐ (77,000+ reviews!) – Price: ~$10–$15 for 2 covers
- Features: When a product has over 77k reviews, you know it’s got a serious fan club. MIULEE’s velvet throw pillow covers are darlings in the pillow world. These come as a set of two 18 x 18 inch covers, crafted from luxuriously soft velvet that’ll make you want to cuddle your pillows all day. They’re available in a rainbow of colors – from jewel-toned emeralds and navy blues to neutral grays and blush pinks – so you can find the perfect match for your décor. The fabric has a slight sheen, giving your space a pop of luxury and color. Users love how buttery soft and smooth the material is, often comparing it to much pricier high-end pillows. Despite the budget-friendly price, they hold up well: fade-resistant and machine washable (just turn them inside out on gentle cycle). The hidden zipper is sturdy and unobtrusive. Whether you want to glam up a living room or add comfort to a bedroom, these MIULEE covers deliver. It’s no wonder they average 4.6 stars – comments mention that guests can’t believe these covers were such a bargain.
- Check out MIULEE Velvet Pillow Covers and treat your cushions to a velvet makeover.
- Rating: 4.7⭐ (24,000+ reviews) – Price: ~$12–$18 for 2 covers
- Features: For those who crave ultra-cozy vibes, CaliTime’s chenille throw pillow covers are a top pick. Chenille fabric is known for its velvety corded texture (fun fact: “chenille” means caterpillar in French, named for its fuzzy feel!), and these covers deliver serious softness. Each set includes two 18 x 18 inch covers, and they come in various solid colors like teal, burgundy, navy, and neutral tones. The look is subtle yet elegant – a solid color with a slight sheen and touchable nap that adds depth to your decor. These are perfect for a fall or winter refresh, making any couch or bed feel warm and inviting. Customers give CaliTime covers high marks for durability and comfort; many note that the colors are true to the photos and resist fading even after many washes. The hidden zipper and strong stitching mean you won’t be dealing with broken seams or snags. One reviewer even joked that these covers survived “an entire movie marathon season” with kids and pets, and still looked new.
- If you want pillows that beg to be snuggled, CaliTime Chenille Pillow Covers are a must-see. They prove you can have both style and snuggle-factor in one.
- Rating: 4.5⭐ (2,700+ reviews) – Price: ~$22–$25 for 4 covers
- Features: Love to mix and match colors? This Topfinel set has you covered – literally. It includes four pillow covers in a coordinated color scheme (the popular option is an Orange/Teal mix, perfect for boho or fall décor) so you can effortlessly create a layered look. Each cover features double-sided designs, meaning you might get a solid velvet on one side and a subtle pattern or textured weave on the other – two looks in one! The material is a soft poly velvet that’s durable enough for daily use. People who bought this set appreciate how the colors complement each other, giving that professionally decorated feel without the guesswork. Arranging these on a sofa instantly adds visual interest through both color and texture. The quality is often described as “surprisingly high for the price,” with thick fabric and reliable zippers. These covers are also machine washable, which is great if you plan on rotating them seasonally. If you’re new to styling throw pillows, a curated set like Topfinel’s makes it easy – the work of pairing designs is done for you.
- Give your living room a quick style upgrade with Topfinel’s 4-Pack Velvet Pillow Covers, and get ready for compliments on your inner interior designer skills.
- Rating: 4.5⭐ (1,600+ reviews) – Price: ~$20–$25 for 2 covers
- Features: If you’re into the boho farmhouse trend (think Joanna Gaines-style cozy), the Foindtower fringe pillow covers will steal your heart. These 18 x 18 covers are crafted from a linen-cotton blend fabric in a neutral hue (the Olive Green and Natural Beige options are especially popular). What sets them apart are the short tassel fringe edges around each cover, adding a fun and chic texture. They strike the perfect balance between casual and stylish – the solid color keeps them versatile, while the fringed edges scream bohemian charm. Home decorators love using these on couches, accent chairs, or bedding to introduce an earthy, handmade touch. The fabric itself has that textured linen feel (breathable and “cool-to-the-touch,” as one reviewer noted), and it’s sturdy enough for everyday use. Do note, because of the fringe, the manufacturer recommends gentle hand washing or a delicate machine cycle to keep them looking their best. Customers report that even with pets and kids jumping on them, the Foindtower covers hold up well with no unraveling. They also appreciate the generous zipper opening which makes inserting pillows easy (no struggling or tearing fabric).
- Bring some boho flair into your space with the Foindtower Fringe Pillow Covers – they’re basically throw pillow earrings, giving that extra pop of personality!
- Rating: 4.5⭐ (29,000+ reviews) – Price: ~$12–$15 for 4 covers
- Features: Sometimes simple is best. The Thmyo 4-pack cotton pillow covers are plain solid-color covers that are wildly popular for a few great reasons. First, they’re made of 100% cotton – meaning they’re breathable, durable, and get softer with each wash. Second, you get four covers in one pack at an extremely budget-friendly price, which is perfect if you’re looking to outfit multiple pillows (think matching sets for sofa, love seat, and armchair). They come in a variety of colors (black, white, navy, red, etc.), but no fancy patterns or textures – just classic, cotton goodness. These covers are beloved by DIY enthusiasts and minimalists alike. Because they’re a solid canvas, you can even get crafty: some people use fabric paint or vinyl to personalize them, and crafters note that the cotton fabric takes well to iron-on designs and sublimation.
- See them here: Thmyo 100% Cotton Solid Pillow Covers (4-Pack, 18×18)
- The zipper is centered on the back for easy access, and it’s sturdy enough to handle those frequent insert swaps. Reviewers often mention using Thmyo covers for seasonal décor – for example, buying them in white to stencil on festive designs, or in colors that match holiday themes, then swapping them out after the season. They’re also great as basic pillow protectors under more decorative covers, since cotton is gentle on the skin. Keep in mind, cotton can fade in direct sunlight, so these are better suited for indoor use (they’re not treated for outdoor weather). Overall, the Thmyo covers prove that sometimes a simple, high-quality cotton pillow cover is exactly what you need.
- If you want blank-slate covers or just crave the feel of natural fabric, check out Thmyo 100% Cotton Solid Pillow Covers (4-Pack, 18×18) Your pillows will thank you for the breathability.
- Rating: 4.6⭐ (1,900+ reviews) – Price: ~$16–$19 for 2 covers
- Features: Ready to get cozy? The JOJUSIS faux fur pillow covers are the definition of plush comfort. Each set comes with two 20 x 20 inch covers made from ultra-soft faux fur (with a short-pile “fuzzy” texture) on the front, and a smooth velvet microfiber on the back. Basically, it’s like hugging a teddy bear every time you grab your pillow. These covers are hugely popular for adding warmth and texture to a room – imagine them on your sofa during winter, or as accents on a bed for a touch of luxury.
- Despite the fluffiness, the JOJUSIS Faux Fur Plush Pillow Covers (Set of 2, 20×20) are machine washable; just use a gentle cycle and perhaps a laundry bag, then air dry or tumble low. (No one likes matted fur, so treat them kindly.) Users love that the zippers are color-matched and hidden along one seam, so all you see is the continuous fur. Style-wise, faux fur pillows instantly bring a bit of glam and comfort – they fit in shabby chic, modern luxe, and even kids’ rooms (a little princess or teen would adore these). Available in neutral tones like beige, cream white, and grey, as well as bold black or even pink, you can choose your vibe. A common review theme: “I bought these for the look, and was blown away by the feel – so soft!” Some also mention that initially there might be a little fluff shed, but a quick wash or brush takes care of it.
- If you want to add that wow factor and make your space irresistibly cozy, JOJUSIS Faux Fur Pillow Covers are a terrific pick. Fair warning: you may catch your guests absentmindedly petting your pillows… they’re that inviting!
Those are our top seven picks, but they’re certainly not the only great ones out there. Honorable mentions go to brands like DEZENE and GIGIZAZA (known for velvet and faux linen covers with tens of thousands of reviews), and Phantoscope for trendy patterned covers. But the selections above offer a broad mix of materials and styles to get you started on your throw pillow cover adventure.
Now that we’ve covered the who’s who of pillow covers, let’s talk materials – what they’re made of can make a big difference in both feel and function.
Material Comparison: Cotton vs. Linen vs. Velvet (and More)
Not all pillow covers are created equal – the material plays a huge role in how a pillow looks, feels, and lasts. Ever wonder if you should choose cotton, linen, or velvet pillow covers? How about chenille or faux fur? In this section, we break down the most common throw pillow cover materials and their benefits (or drawbacks) so you can pick what’s best for you.
- Cotton: A classic choice, cotton covers are soft, breathable, and easy to care for. They’re great for everyday use, especially in warm climates or if you like a natural feel. Cotton holds color well (so vibrant prints pop), but it can wrinkle and may fade under harsh sunlight. The upside is most cotton covers (like the Thmyo ones above) are machine washable and durable. They give a relaxed, casual vibe – perfect for a family room or bedding. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, cotton’s natural fibers are a win.
- Linen: Linen pillow covers scream effortless elegance. Made from flax fibers, linen has a textured, airy weave that keeps you cool. It’s stronger than cotton and can last years if cared for. Linen’s look is slightly rumpled and organic, which fits beautifully with farmhouse, coastal, or boho styles. On the downside, pure linen can feel a bit rough initially and wrinkles easily (it’s part of the charm). Many “linen” covers are actually cotton-linen blends or faux linen (polyester made to look like linen) to reduce cost and wrinkles. Either way, linen brings a high-end, natural aesthetic. Try linen or linen-blend covers in neutral tones for that Pinterest-worthy, laid-back look.
- Velvet: If you want to dial up the luxury and coziness, velvet is your friend. Velvet covers (usually made of polyester velvet for affordability) have a soft, plush pile that looks rich and feels indulgent. They often have a slight sheen that catches the light, giving depth to colors (jewel tones in velvet are gorgeous). Velvet is perfect for fall/winter or any time you want a space to feel warm and inviting. It’s also a top pick for glam or modern interiors. Good-quality velvet covers, like the MIULEE or GIGIZAZA ones, are usually machine washable on gentle and resist pilling. One consideration: velvet can attract lint or pet hair, so keep a lint roller handy if you have furry friends that love the couch too. Overall, velvet pillow covers add instant elegance – even if you throw just one velvet cushion into a mix, it elevates the whole scene.
- Chenille: As mentioned earlier, chenille is a fabric with a fuzzy, caterpillar-like yarn texture. Chenille pillow covers are cozy and soft with a subtle sheen. They often come in solid colors or simple patterns. Chenille strikes a nice balance between velvet and knit – soft like velvet, but with a more casual vibe due to its tufted texture. These are great for adding warmth without going full shine. They are generally durable, but take care to wash gently to avoid snagging the yarns.
- Faux Fur: Want to add drama or a touch of whimsy? Faux fur covers are all about texture. Whether it’s long shaggy fur or short mink-like fur, these covers are super soft and eye-catching. They work great as accent pieces – imagine a couple of faux fur pillows mixed in with solids on a sofa, instant chic! While faux fur can shed a bit and requires gentle cleaning, many are machine washable (like JOJUSIS, which advises a gentle cycle). These are fantastic in winter or in glam boho decors. Just be prepared for everyone to fight over the “fuzzy pillow” during movie night.
- Polyester “Linen” or Canvas: Many affordable pillow covers are made of polyester that mimics other materials. For example, “faux linen” polyester that has a linen-like weave, or canvas/outdoor fabric that is actually poly. These tend to be very durable, stain-resistant, and budget-friendly. They’re a smart choice for high-traffic areas or if you want outdoor throw pillow covers for the patio (polyester resists UV and water better than natural fibers). While they might not have the same luxe feel as real cotton or linen, they’ve gotten quite good at looking the part. And bonus: they hardly wrinkle and are super easy to clean.
- Leather or Faux Leather: A more niche choice, but trending in modern and eclectic designs. A faux leather pillow cover (often in caramel brown or black) can add a sleek, masculine or rustic touch. They’re usually made of vinyl or polyurethane, and are easy to wipe clean. Real leather covers exist too, giving a cool aged look, but they’re pricey and not machine washable. One leather pillow can break up a sea of fabric pillows in an interesting way. Just something to consider if you want to add variety.
In summary, choose your pillow cover material based on the look and feel you want (and a pinch of practicality). Cotton and linen = breezy, casual, and natural; velvet and chenille = cozy, plush, and inviting; faux fur = textured, fun, and glam; polyester blends = durable and easy-care; leather/faux leather = edgy and unique. Don’t be afraid to mix materials too – often the best pillow arrangements mix velvet with linen, fur with cotton, etc., for contrast.
Now that materials are under your belt, let’s talk style! What’s in vogue for pillow cover design these days?
Design Trends in Throw Pillow Covers
Just like fashion, home décor trends evolve, and throw pillow covers are no exception (they are basically fashion for your home, after all). The good news: you don’t have to renovate your whole room to embrace trends – a few new pillow covers can do the trick. Here are some current design trends in throw pillow covers that are making waves:
- Boho Chic & Global Inspired: Bohemian-style pillow covers continue to be hugely popular. Think covers with tassels, pom-poms, macramé, or tufted patterns. Earthy tones (terracotta, mustard, sage green) and global prints like Moroccan trellis or kilim motifs are in demand. These boho pillows add warmth and personality, and they pair well with rattan furniture, plants, and layered rugs. If you love an eclectic, collected look, grab some boho covers – they instantly give a travelers/artist’s loft vibe to a space.
- Neutral Textures: On the flip side, a big trend is layering neutral colors but playing up texture. For example, combining a cream knitted pillow, a beige linen pillow, and a white faux fur pillow on the same sofa. The monochromatic palette feels calm and modern, while the varied textures keep it interesting. This trend fits the popular farmhouse and Scandinavian (Scandi) styles, where whites, grays, and beiges dominate but are far from boring. Look for cable-knit pillow covers, braided textures, or rich fabrics like boucle (the nubby wool fabric that’s super trendy) in neutral shades.
- Bold Patterns & Colors: After years of all-neutral-everything, vibrant patterns are making a comeback. Designers are encouraging a bit of Maximalism – that means bold geometric prints, floral pillow covers, and even abstract art designs are trendy now.
- Jewel tone colors (deep emerald, sapphire blue, rich mustard, spicy orange) are hot, often in velvet or embroidered forms. Don’t be shy about adding a couple of punchy patterned pillows to your mix. For instance, a couch in a neutral color can be brought to life with one geometric print cover and one bold floral cover amidst solid pillows. It’s an easy way to test out a trend and add a focal point. Tropical and botanical prints are especially popular in warmer months, bringing a bit of nature inside.
- Personalized & Novelty Designs: Another fun trend is using pillow covers to show off your personality or celebrate seasons. Covers with witty quotes or sayings (in pretty script or typeface) have been popular for a while in farmhouse décor. Also, seasonal themes – like fall pillow covers with pumpkins or plaid, Christmas pillow covers with reindeer or snowflakes, etc., are perennial favorites. People love swapping these out as an easy festive touch. And thanks to many small businesses, you can even get custom pillow covers with your family name, a world map, pet portraits – you name it. If you have a unique idea, chances are there’s a pillow cover (or a maker on Etsy) for it!
- Sustainable & Eco-Friendly: With growing eco-consciousness, some consumers look for pillow covers made of organic or recycled materials. Covers made from organic cotton, hemp, or even upcycled fabric (like old hand-loomed textiles, denim, or grain sacks) are trending in niche décor circles. They not only add a unique story to your space but also feel good to use. While this trend is still emerging on Amazon, you might find options labeled as eco-friendly or OEKO-TEX certified (meaning the fabric was tested for harmful substances). It’s a small way to make your home greener and support sustainable products.
- Mixing Shapes and Sizes: This is more of a styling trend, but worth noting. Instead of only standard squares (18×18 or 20×20), decorators are incorporating lumbar pillows (rectangular) and even round throw pillows. A long lumbar pillow with a cool cover (say, mudcloth print or chunky knit) looks awesome centered on a sofa or bed, flanked by smaller square pillows. Don’t hesitate to mix a 12×20 lumbar cover or a 16×26 with your other pillow covers for a designer look. Different shapes break the monotony and can be functional too – lumbar pillows are great for back support.
In a nutshell, today’s throw pillow trends span from boho textures and neutral luxury to bold artistic statements. The key is to have fun and not be afraid to change things up. The beauty of pillow covers is that they’re temporary and affordable – you can be “trendy” this season and swap out for a new look next season. (Your closet might get jealous of how easily your living room can change outfits!)
Up next, an important part of pillow cover ownership: knowing how to keep them looking fresh. Let’s talk care and maintenance.
Care Instructions for Throw Pillow Covers
You’ve dressed your pillows in stylish covers – now let’s make sure they stay clean and vibrant. The good news is that most throw pillow covers are easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you maintain and clean your pillow covers so they last for many cozy movie nights to come:
- Read the Label: It sounds obvious, but always check any care tag or the product info when you buy the cover. Different materials have different needs. For example, cotton and polyester blends are usually machine washable, whereas delicate fabrics like silk or embellished covers might be dry clean only. When in doubt, follow the recommended instructions to avoid shrinking or damaging the fabric.
- Regular Cleaning: For covers on frequently used pillows (like those on your couch that see the most lounging), aim to wash them periodically. A general rule of thumb is every 1-2 months for covers in high-traffic areas, and seasonally for ones that are more decorative or rarely touched. This keeps dust and dirt from settling in. If the covers are in a home with pets, you might need to clean more often due to fur and odors – use your judgment (and nose!).
- Machine Wash Tips: Before washing, zip the covers closed and turn them inside out. Zipping prevents the zipper from snagging other items or the cover itself. Inside-out washing protects any embroidery or surface texture from too much friction. Use a gentle cycle with cold water for most covers, and a mild detergent. Cold water helps prevent colors from bleeding or shrinking the fabric (especially important for cotton or linen). Washing covers separately or with like colors is smart in case of any minor color run. Avoid using bleach on your covers, unless it’s a white cotton cover and you’re treating a stain – even then, spot test first.
- Drying: The safest route for drying is air dry or tumble dry on low. High heat can shrink fabrics (like cotton, linen) or damage textures (like faux fur or velvet). If air-drying, put the covers on a drying rack or hang them – they actually dry fairly quick since they’re just fabric. If you use the dryer, low heat or air fluff is best, and remove them while slightly damp to avoid wrinkles. Pro tip: to reduce wrinkles, you can put the covers back on the pillow inserts while they’re a tad damp – they’ll dry stretched to shape and be relatively wrinkle-free!
- Ironing/Steaming: For materials like linen or cotton, you might want to iron the covers to get that crisp look. Feel free to do so on the appropriate heat setting (again, inside out is safer, especially for dark colors). A steamer is also a gentle way to remove wrinkles without direct heat – great for velvet (which shouldn’t be ironed directly, as it could crush the pile). Velvet covers can often be refreshed with a handheld steamer; just steam the wrinkles out and fluff the fabric with your hand. Avoid ironing any fabric that has embroidery, sequins, or very fine fibers like faux fur – those typically don’t take well to heat.
- Spot Cleaning: Spills happen – a drip of coffee or a smudge of chocolate on a pillow (oops!). For small stains, it’s often not necessary to wash the whole cover. Do a quick spot clean: dab the area with a clean cloth and mild soapy water. Blot, don’t rub, to lift the stain. Many outdoor fabric or polyester covers are actually very stain-resistant and will clean up with just water and a little dish soap. For oil-based stains (like salad dressing), a tiny drop of dish soap can help break it up. After spot cleaning, you can rinse that spot by blotting with plain water, then let it air dry.
- Avoid Over-Stuffing: While not a cleaning tip per se, this is important for maintaining your covers. Don’t force an insert that’s too big into a cover – it can strain the zipper or seams. It’s good to use inserts 1-2 inches larger than the cover for a plump look (e.g., 20″ insert for 18″ cover), but if the cover is ripping at the seams or the zipper is gaping, that’s overkill. Likewise, gently fluff or karate-chop your pillows (if you like that look) – just don’t yank on the fabric too hard. A bit of TLC in handling goes a long way.
- Storage: If you swap your pillow covers seasonally (holiday covers, summer prints, etc.), store the off-season covers clean and dry. It’s best to wash and completely dry covers before storing so you’re not attracting bugs or mold. Store them in a cool, dry place. You can fold them and put in a zip-top plastic bag or a fabric storage bin. To keep them smelling fresh, you might toss in a little sachet of lavender or dryer sheet. When it’s time to use them again, they should be fresh and ready – maybe just a light iron or fluff needed.
Follow these care tips, and your throw pillow covers will continue to look as vibrant and inviting as the day you bought them. After all, you spent time choosing the perfect ones – let’s keep them looking perfect!
With cleaning and maintenance covered, let’s wrap up with some quick FAQs. You might still have a few burning questions about throw pillow covers, so let’s address those before we send you off on your pillow-covering spree.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Throw Pillow Covers
Q: Do throw pillow covers come with pillow inserts?
A: Typically, no – most throw pillow covers are sold without inserts (unless explicitly stated as a pillow with insert). This is pretty standard. The idea is you might already have inserts, or you can choose your own insert (down feather, polyester fill, memory foam, etc. to your liking). All the products we listed above are “cover only.” When shopping, look for wording like “pillow cover” or “pillowcase.” If it says “pillow” or “cushion” without mentioning cover, then it might include the insert – but 9 times out of 10, you’re just getting the cover. The upside is that separates make it cheaper to collect various covers and store them (way easier to tuck away a stack of covers than a bunch of full pillows!). Just be sure to have the right size inserts on hand. Pro tip: if you need inserts, Amazon and home stores sell them – a good down alternative insert or feather insert will make your pillows look plump and high-end.
Q: What size insert should I use for my pillow cover?
A: This is a great question because sizing can affect the look of your pillow. The general rule: use an insert that’s slightly larger than your cover to get a full, plush pillow. For example, for an 18″x18″ cover, a 20″x20″ insert often gives a perfect snug fit (no saggy corners). If the cover is 16″, use an 18″ insert, and so on. Many designers follow the “2-inch rule” for covers 18” and up. For smaller covers (like 12” or lumbar pillows), 1 inch larger is enough. The only exception is if the insert is very stiff or overstuffed, then equal size can work, but most polyfill inserts have some give. Using a too-small insert will make the pillow look flat and underwhelming (nobody wants a flabby pillow!). So err on the side of a bit bigger. You’ll thank us when your pillows look like those fluffy ones in magazine photos.
Q: How can I stop my pillow covers from fading or discoloring?
A: Fading can happen due to sunlight exposure or harsh washing. To keep colors vibrant: avoid leaving pillows in direct sunlight for extended periods, or rotate them if one side gets all the sun. UV rays can dull colors (cotton especially is prone to this). If you have outdoor pillows, make sure the covers are made from outdoor fabric or specified as fade-resistant. When washing, use cold water and mild detergent; hot water can fade dyes faster. Also, don’t use bleach on colored fabrics. Another tip: wash covers inside out to protect the outer color. If you’re really concerned about a particular vibrant cover, hand wash it separately the first time to see if any dye bleeds. But generally, high-quality pillow covers are made to hold color well. Many of the Amazon favorites (like MIULEE velvet or CaliTime chenille) have lots of reviews praising that the color stayed true even after washing. So, follow good laundry practices and your covers should stay bright.
Q: Are throw pillow covers standard sizes?
A: The most common sizes you’ll find are 18×18 inches and 20×20 inches for square throw pillows, and 12×20 (or 12×24) for lumbar (rectangular) pillows. Those are kind of the standard decorative pillow sizes that come with couches or bedding sets. However, you can find covers in a range of sizes: 16×16, 22×22, 24×24 (Euro sham size), and other lumbar dimensions like 16×26, etc. Measure your inserts or the pillows you want to cover to be sure. If you have a couch with those big back pillows, you might even need larger (some back pillows are 24” or larger – there are covers for those too!). Also note, sometimes a cover might be listed as “18×18” but actually measure slightly smaller, like 17.5” – this is often intentional so that a standard 18” insert fits tightly. The product description or reviews usually mention if sizing runs small or true. In summary, yes there are standard sizes, but double-check the specific dimensions given and remember the insert rule above for a plump fit.
Q: Can I use indoor throw pillow covers for outdoor pillows (or vice versa)?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal in the long run. Outdoor pillow covers are typically made from special fabrics (like polyester canvas or acrylic) that resist water, mildew, and UV fading. They’re built to handle sun and rain. Indoor pillow covers (cotton, velvet, etc.) might fade in the sun and certainly won’t like rain or moisture – they could get moldy or degrade. If you have a covered porch, using indoor covers out there is fine as long as they don’t get wet or sit in intense sun. But for patio furniture that gets rained on, stick to covers specifically labeled for outdoor use. Conversely, outdoor covers can be used indoors – they’re usually durable and stain-resistant (great for kids/pets situations). Just note outdoor fabrics sometimes have a bit of a different feel (not as soft as a velvet or cotton), but newer ones are quite comfortable. If you love a pattern on an “outdoor” pillow cover, don’t hesitate to use it inside – nobody will know, and the bonus is it’ll be tough as nails.
Q: What’s the easiest way to style throw pillows with different covers?
A: This could be a whole article in itself, but in a nutshell: mix up your pillows with a combo of solids and patterns, vary the textures, and use an odd number of pillows for balance. A popular formula for a sofa is 5 pillows: two large (20”) at the ends with a solid color or subtle texture, two medium (18”) in front of those with a pattern or contrasting color, and one lumbar or smaller accent pillow in the center with a unique print or texture. For example, you might do two beige linen 20” covers, two 18” covers – one in a floral print that has pops of color, another in a complementary solid velvet – and a 12×20 lumbar in a stripe or with tassels to tie it together. The key is to pick up a color from one pattern in another pillow so they feel coordinated. Also, vary the scale of patterns: if you have one busy pattern, pair it with a simpler pattern (like wide stripes) or solids, so it doesn’t get too chaotic. And don’t be afraid to experiment! Throw pillow covers are low commitment. You can try different arrangements until it feels just right. Check out inspiration photos (search “throw pillow arrangement” or browse Pinterest) – you’ll notice the best looks mix patterns (floral + geometric + solid), textures (knit + velvet + smooth cotton), and shape (some square, one lumbar). Have fun with it; your couch is your canvas.
FeelsComfort.com Thoughts:
Throw pillow covers are the easy secret to keeping your home décor fresh and stylish. They let you play with color and design trends without breaking the bank. Hopefully, this guide has armed you with the knowledge to pick out the best throw pillow covers that suit your taste – whether you’re a boho-chic lover, a fan of velvet glam, or a minimalist at heart. Remember to consider material, enjoy the design process, and care for them well. Now go forth and give those pillows a makeover! Your couch will thank you, and your eyes will love the new view. Happy decorating and pillow-cover hunting! 🛋️✨
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