Sleep Better with the Right Pillow Size: Here’s How

Have you been struggling to get a good night's sleep despite having a comfortable mattress? Your pillow size might be the one to blame. Yes, the size of your pillow significantly impacts how well you sleep. But how do you pick the ideal cushion size for your requirements when there are so many options?

This blog post will discuss different pillows, from king size to California king size. We will cover everything related to pillow dimensions and provide tips on finding the perfect fit for a better, more restful sleep.

Pillow Size Chart (Dimensions)

Measure the breadth of your bed and compare it to the dimensions of each pillow in the pillow dimension table above to pick the best pillows for your comfort. Even if you can't measure your bed, we have you covered. Continue reading to learn more about each sort of pillow and which works best for different beds.

Standard Pillows

Size: 20 x 26 in | 51 x 66 cm

First, let's discuss the most popular kind of pillow: the regular pillow. This pillow, typically weighing 20 by 26 inches, is the typical choice for most individuals.

As the name implies, this pillow size is adaptable and works with beds of all sizes, from twin to California king. A standard pillow may be placed comfortably on a twin or twin XL bed, and two standard pillows can be placed side by side on a full or queen-size bed.

Standard pillow size is a practical and convenient choice for many, as pillowcases and other bedding accessories are easily found to fit it. Use pillowcases made for king—or queen-size pillows; they will work but might hang on ends loosely.

Super Standard Pillows

Size: 20 x 28 in | 51 x 71 cm

The super standard pillow is the best option if you want something longer and larger than a standard pillow. Its 20 by 28 inches dimensions provide a little more surface area for your head and neck, making it perfect for people who move about while they sleep or want a more substantial pillow.

Two super standard pillows can fit like ordinary pillows on a full—or queen-size bed. A queen, super standard, or ordinary pillowcase can be used with a super standard pillow. Standard pillowcase sizes fit more snugly, whereas queen pillowcases fit looser.

Queen Size Pillows

Size: 20 x 30 in | 51 x 76 cm

If you and your spouse share a queen-sized bed together but are not comfortable with a greater pillow gap, then go for queen-size pillows. A 20 x 30-inch standard pillow is a standard large pillow size. Its additional width effectuates more support and comfort.

It means I start with it in the morning and finish with that same mantra at midnight. This size suits individuals who constantly twist and turn as they doze. If your pillow makers have different measurements, you can purchase king-size pillowcases.

Euro Pillows Size

Size: 26 x 26 in | 66 x 66 cm

Next on the list is the Euro pillow, which has been increasingly well-liked lately. With 26 by 26 inches dimensions, this square-shaped pillow gives your bedroom a dash of sophistication and luxury. Its superior back support makes it a perfect option for people who like to read or watch TV while sitting in bed.

You'll need a European pillowcase to suit a Euro pillow. A square pillow will not fit any other pillowcase size, including queen, body, or standard.

King Size Pillows

Size: 20 x 36 in | 51 x 92 cm

If you have a king-sized mattress, getting a king-size pillow will be a great decision because it will offer you much comfort and support. This thick and fluffy pillow, which measures 20 by 36 inches, is a typical model and fits king-size mattresses. It also helps align the spine, and side sleepers love it. However, for king-size pillows, a standard/queen one is not suitable; therefore, you will also need pillowcases designed explicitly for them.

Body Pillow Size

Size: 20 x 54 in | 51 x 137 cm

The last pillows are also referred to as body-size pillows. They are thinner and much longer than the standard size of a pillow. These pillows, which measure 20x54 inches, are designed to support your whole body and serve as sleeping support.

They are great for people with back problems and pregnant women who need extra support. Body pillows are compatible with both king-size and queen-size beds.

Body pillows are not designed to be highly aesthetic items that will add to your home's decor; they aim to offer comfort and support. Side sleepers utilize them to support their upper arms, legs, and chests, reducing discomfort, pressure, and tossing and turning during sleep.

Other Pillows

After discussing the four primary categories of pillows, let's look at some with more peculiar sizes.

Travel Size Pillow

Standard pillows are larger in size than travel pillows. These little pillows are ideal for lengthy car journeys or flights because they are made especially for traveling. Like ourselves, travel pillows are shaped like a horseshoe to uphold the neck when sitting upright. Moreover, their small size makes them easy to carry around and use on the go.

Throw Pillows

Decorator pillows come in bright colors and are used in the yard or walkway. There will be shapes such as square, round, and rectangle. But, the primary purpose is not to lay down and rest but to add interior items like the touch of color or included space when no furniture is around. Cushions are throw pillows that are the most common way to do so, be it for your bed or couch, which usually give outside a warm and fashionable look.

Pregnancy Pillows

For many pregnant moms, pregnancy pillows are a lifeline. These pillows support and comfort a developing pregnant woman's body. Though they come in several designs, the most popular ones are C—or U-shaped, bigger than ordinary pillows.

This releases strain from the hips and back, enabling the pillow to support the full body. In addition to supporting nursing, pregnancy pillows may be used to pillow a new mother's body as she sleeps.

Knee Pillows

Knee pillows have become quite popular as a particular type of pillow. They're specifically designed to fit between the knees when you're sleeping, so they are called and made that way. They continue to be a prominent cause of low back pain and, once again, pressure on the hips and spasms to the lower back to relieve this. These three types of knee pillows come in different shapes and sizes: hourglass, triangular, and cylindrical. They are, in fact, an excellent choice for people who have undergone knee replacement surgery.

How to Pick the Right Pillow Size?

As it reads, picking the right pillow is as important as any other bedroom accessory in ensuring one rests well in one's sleep. Pillows support your head, neck, and spine throughout a night's sleep, and getting the wrong size will definitely cause headaches, pain, and much tossing and turning throughout the night.

With such a diverse range of sizes and available pillow options, one may need clarification regarding which is best. Let's discuss the main factors you must consider when choosing the pillow size that fits your needs.

1. Mattress

The derivation of the size of a pillow to be chosen primarily depends on the mattress size. The general rule is to match a pillow to the size of the mattress. For example, you should pair your queen-sized mattress with some queen-sized pillows.

This means not only will your cushions be a perfect match for your bed, but there will also be ample space and gaps that could interfere with the level of relaxation that you get while sleeping. Additionally, get the right pillow size, and you can give your bed a sleek and lovely look that everyone would like to stay.

2. Sleeping Position

Another thing to consider when choosing a good pillow size is your sleeping position. Different sleeping positions have varying support requirements, and the right pillow size may fulfill them. Side sleepers might require a firmer pillow to maintain the head and neck appropriately aligned with the spine.

For example, a back sleeper will need a medium-thick pillow to support the neck so it does not tilt down too much. A stomach sleeper should get a thinner pillow to relieve neck and spine strain. This reveals how important it is to consider the size of the pillow so that there is no discomfort and you get restful sleep throughout the night.

3. Cost and Value

The pillow size needed is also dependent on the product's attic value. Pillows are being sold at really varying prices, which means you should figure out which is of high quality and which is of low quality. However, low price is not always an indicator of low quality, so a pillow with a low price could be a great deal.

It is essential to weigh the budget against the benefits of the pillow before buying it. For example, other pillows have valuable supporting features, like memory foam or cooling technologies, which some may consider worth the cost.

4. Versatility

Size and versatility are the most critical factors when looking for the right pillow. Some people want one pillow size that is good for all sleeping positions, while others may want to choose different pillows for various sleeping positions.

The only thing is that the size of some particular pillow will be enough both for your back and front if you switch sides while sleeping. And it does an excellent job if the pillow is quite adaptable to your change of position as well. An excellent adjustable pillow will ensure you get the right type of support for your body's position, and, at the same time, it will make you feel comfortable, too.

5. Bedroom aesthetics

Your pillow's size should be compatible with the design and appearance of your room. In conjunction with a king—or queen-sized mattress, king—or queen-sized pillows can give a uniform and neat look.

However, two regular pillows positioned together may also appear symmetric and peaceful if you have a twin-sized bed. If you wish to create depth and texture in your room, pillow stacking could be just the perfect thing to do. And it looks fabulous on twin-sized beds, too.

How to Measure a Pillow?

It is not that difficult to measure a pillow. Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can do it:

Width: Measure the width of the pillow by taking a straight line from one side to the other. This should give you the pillow's length.

Length: Measure in a straight line from the top to the bottom of the pillow. Now you will know its size.

Thickness/Depth: To measure a pillow's thickness, you would put it on top of some books or similarly sized objects, and then you would take the pile to the height that the pillow can reach. From there, you can measure the height of those piled-up items.

You will need to decide whether the pillow's measurement in inches or centimeters is your best choice or which you are most comfortable with.

Do You Need A Pillowcase for Your Pillow?

Yes, pillowcases protect your pillow, and picking the right size will protect it even more efficiently and enhance its look.

Generally speaking, pillowcases are larger than pillows. The only exception is Euro pillowcases, which run small to give Euro pillows a more velvety appearance.

Most pillowcases fit a standard pillowcase, with a few significant outliers. Body pillows and king pillows require different pillowcases to accommodate their distinct sizes.