Do your pillows look a little… bare? You know those fancy pillows that make beds look like they belong in a magazine? They often have something special covering them, and that something is a pillow sham! But picking out the perfect pillow sham can feel like a puzzle. There are so many colors, patterns, and sizes! It’s easy to get lost in all the choices, and sometimes the ones you pick just don’t look quite right with your duvet or comforter.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! Choosing the right pillow sham isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a cozy and stylish haven in your own bedroom. In this post, we’ll help you unlock the secrets to selecting pillow shams that will make your bed look amazing and feel super comfy. You’ll discover how to match them perfectly, understand different styles, and even learn how to care for them so they stay looking great.
So, get ready to transform your bed from ordinary to extraordinary! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of pillow shams and find the perfect ones to complete your cozy retreat.
Our Top 5 Pillow Shams Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Pillow Shams Detailed Reviews
1. NTBAY Standard Pillow Shams – 2 Pack Brushed Microfiber 20×26 Sham Covers – Super Soft and Cozy
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your bedding with the NTBAY Standard Pillow Shams! This set includes two white pillow shams, each measuring 20×26 inches. They have a nice 2-inch decorative border, giving your pillows a polished look. These shams are made from premium brushed microfiber, which means they are super soft and feel great against your skin. They’re also designed to resist wrinkles, fading, and stains, making them easy to care for and keeping them looking good for a long time. They’re perfect for making any bedroom feel cozy and inviting, no matter the season.
What We Like:
- Super soft and cozy brushed microfiber feels great.
- They are resistant to wrinkles, fading, and stains, which makes cleaning easy.
- The 2-inch decorative flange adds a stylish touch to your pillows.
- They make a thoughtful and practical gift for many holidays.
- Easy to wash and dry with a machine.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package does not include pillow inserts, so you need to buy those separately.
These NTBAY pillow shams are a fantastic way to add comfort and style to your bedroom. They offer a luxurious feel and are built to last, making them a worthwhile addition to your bedding collection.
2. FLXXIE Microfiber Standard Pillow Shams Set of 2
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your bedroom with the FLXXIE Microfiber Standard Pillow Shams. This set of two dark grey pillow covers is designed for comfort and style. They fit standard pillows and have a soft feel that makes them perfect for a good night’s sleep. The envelope closure keeps your pillows tucked in neatly, and the durable microfiber fabric resists fading, wrinkles, and shrinking, so they’ll look great wash after wash.
What We Like:
- Super soft and comfortable microfiber fabric.
- Fade, wrinkle, and shrinkage resistant for long-lasting good looks.
- Envelope closure keeps pillows securely inside.
- Easy to wash and care for.
- Adds a simple, stylish touch to any bedroom or guestroom.
- A great gift idea for friends and family.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pillows are not included with the shams.
- The “2+” in the size might confuse some buyers about the exact dimensions.
These FLXXIE pillow shams are a simple yet effective way to refresh your bedding. They offer great value and a touch of cozy elegance.
3. PHF 100% Cotton Waffle Pillow Shams King Size
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your bedding with the PHF 100% Cotton Waffle Pillow Shams in a cozy Oatmeal color. These king-size pillow shams, measuring 20″ x 36″, are designed to add a touch of elegance and comfort to your bedroom. Made from soft, skin-friendly cotton, they offer a luxurious feel while keeping you cool and comfortable all night long. The beautiful waffle weave pattern adds a sophisticated touch, making your bed a more inviting place to rest.
What We Like:
- The exquisite waffle weave design looks classic and stylish, giving your bed a puffy and elegant appearance.
- They are made of 100% natural soft cotton, which feels good against your skin and is safe for your family.
- The pillowcases have a convenient envelope closure, which keeps your pillows secure and makes them easy to use.
- The fabric is breathable, helping you stay comfortable throughout the night.
- These shams are easy to care for with machine washing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package does not include pillow inserts, so you will need to buy those separately.
These PHF waffle weave pillow shams are a wonderful way to enhance your bedroom’s look and feel. They combine style, comfort, and practicality for a truly restful experience.
4. ROYALE LINENS Pillow Shams 2 Pack Standard Size 20×26 Inch – Brushed Microfiber – Bed Pillow Shams
Rating: 9.1/10
Looking to give your bedroom a cozy makeover? The ROYALE LINENS Pillow Shams, a set of two standard-sized shams in classic white, are a fantastic way to add a touch of hotel-style luxury to your bed. Made from 100% double brushed microfiber, these shams promise a super soft and comfortable feel that will make you want to snuggle up. They’re designed to be wrinkle-resistant and feature a stylish Oxford pillowcase look with a back overlap closure. Plus, they come with an elegant 2-inch decorative flange, adding a touch of sophistication to any room.
What We Like:
- Super soft and cozy feel thanks to the double brushed microfiber fabric.
- Wrinkle-resistant design means less ironing for you.
- Stylish Oxford pillowcase look with a decorative flange adds a chic touch.
- OEKO-TEX certified, meaning they’re made with safe materials and produced responsibly.
- Easy to care for with machine washability.
- Great gift idea for various holidays and occasions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pillow inserts are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
These Royale Linens pillow shams offer a wonderful combination of comfort and style. They are a simple yet effective way to elevate the look and feel of your bedding.
5. Elegant Comfort 2-Pack Sham Set Pinch Pleat Design
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your bedroom with the Elegant Comfort 2-Pack Sham Set! These shams feature a beautiful pinch pleat design that adds a touch of elegance to any room. Made from 1500 premium hotel quality microfiber, they offer both comfort and style. The grey color is versatile and will match many decor styles. Plus, they are easy to care for, wrinkle-resistant, and stain-resistant, making them a practical choice for busy households.
What We Like:
- Stylish Pinch Pleat Design: The pleated texture looks very chic and modern.
- Soft and Comfortable Microfiber: The 1500 premium microfiber feels soft against your skin for a good night’s sleep.
- Wrinkle and Stain Resistant: You don’t have to worry about ironing, and they resist stains, which is great for easy living.
- Durable Build: These shams are made to last and get even better with each wash.
- Easy to Care For: Just toss them in the washing machine and dryer for simple cleaning.
- Versatile Style: The timeless design and grey color fit well in bedrooms, guest rooms, or kids’ rooms.
- Protects Pillows: They keep your pillows clean and protected.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Accuracy: Sometimes the actual color might look a little different on screen than in person.
- Pillow Fit: While they are standard/queen size, some users might find them a bit snug or loose depending on their specific pillows.
Overall, the Elegant Comfort sham set offers a great combination of style, comfort, and easy care. They’re a fantastic way to refresh your bedroom’s look without a lot of effort.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Pillow Shams
Pillow shams are like the fancy outfits for your pillows. They make your bed look put-together and stylish. But choosing the right ones can be tricky! This guide will help you pick the perfect pillow shams for your bedroom.
Why Use Pillow Shams?
Pillow shams do more than just look pretty. They protect your regular pillows from dust and dirt. They also add a layer of comfort and style to your bed. You can use them for sleeping, but many people use them mostly for decoration.
Key Features to Look For
Closure Type
Shams have different ways they close. Some have a hidden zipper, which gives a neat look. Others have an envelope closure, where fabric overlaps like an envelope. Some might have buttons, which can add a decorative touch.
Size and Fit
Pillow shams need to fit your pillows snugly. Standard shams are for standard pillows. King shams are for king-sized pillows. Make sure you know the size of your pillows before you buy.
Design and Style
Shams come in all sorts of colors, patterns, and textures. Think about the style of your bedroom. Do you like a simple, clean look? Or do you prefer something bold and colorful? Shams can have ruffles, embroidery, or quilting for extra flair.
Important Materials
Cotton
Cotton is a very popular choice. It’s soft, breathable, and easy to care for. Cotton shams are good for all seasons. You’ll find many types of cotton, like Egyptian cotton, which is extra soft.
Linen
Linen is a natural fiber that feels cool and crisp. It’s very durable and gets softer with every wash. Linen shams are great for warmer weather.
Polyester
Polyester is a synthetic material. It’s often blended with cotton. Polyester shams are usually wrinkle-resistant and hold their color well. They can be very affordable.
Silk
Silk shams are luxurious and feel very smooth against your skin. They can be good for your hair and skin. However, silk requires special care and can be more expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Stitching
Look for shams with strong, even stitching. This means they are made well and will last longer. Loose threads or uneven seams can be a sign of lower quality.
Fabric Weave
The way the fabric is woven affects its feel and durability. A tight weave usually means a higher quality fabric. Percale cotton, for example, has a crisp, tight weave.
Dye Quality
Good quality shams use dyes that won’t fade easily. Check reviews to see if customers mention colors washing out. Vibrant colors that stay bright after washing are a good sign.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Use
Many people use shams as part of their everyday bedding. They add a polished look to the bed even when you’re not sleeping on them. They can be easily removed for washing.
Decorative Accents
Shams are often used as decorative pillows on top of your sleeping pillows. They add texture and color to your bed. You can mix and match different shams for a unique look.
Guest Rooms
Pillow shams make guest rooms feel more welcoming and hotel-like. They add a touch of luxury and comfort for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pillow Shams
Q: What is the difference between a pillowcase and a pillow sham?
A: A pillowcase is usually plain and meant for sleeping. A pillow sham is often more decorative and has a border or flange around the edge. It also typically closes in the back with an envelope closure or buttons, while pillowcases usually have an open end.
Q: How do I choose the right size sham?
A: You should match the sham size to the size of your pillow insert. Common sizes are Standard, Queen, and King. Check the dimensions of your pillows before buying shams.
Q: Can I sleep on pillow shams?
A: You can, but most shams are designed more for decoration. The decorative edges or embellishments might not be comfortable for sleeping. It’s often best to use them as an accent and sleep on regular pillowcases.
Q: How do I wash pillow shams?
A: Always check the care label on the shams. Most cotton or polyester shams can be machine washed in cold water and tumble dried on low heat. Delicate fabrics like silk or linen might need special washing instructions.
Q: What is a flange on a pillow sham?
A: A flange is a decorative border that extends beyond the edge of the sham. It adds a more formal or elegant look to the pillow.
Q: Are shams always sold in pairs?
A: No, shams are often sold individually. You can buy as many as you need to create the look you want for your bed.
Q: What is the best material for pillow shams in hot weather?
A: Linen or lightweight cotton are excellent choices for hot weather. They are breathable and help keep you cool.
Q: Can I mix and match different sham designs?
A: Absolutely! Mixing and matching shams is a great way to add personality and style to your bed. Try combining different patterns, textures, or colors.
Q: How do I keep my pillow shams looking new?
A: Follow the washing instructions carefully. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach. Ironing them on the correct setting can also help them look their best.
Q: What is an envelope closure on a sham?
A: An envelope closure is a type of opening where one side of the fabric overlaps the other, like an envelope. This keeps the pillow insert securely inside the sham without zippers or buttons.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.