Pillow Sizes and Styles

How to Choose a Pillow Size

The right pillow size can contribute to restful sleep by enabling you to find a comfortable position. Factors to consider when choosing a pillow size include the size of your mattress, your typical sleep position, your budget, your bedroom aesthetic, and how you intend to use your pillow.

What Size Is Your Mattress?

Your mattress size dictates the maximum size of your pillow, since you probably don’t want a pillow that hangs off the edge of the bed. Most pillows measure 20 inches wide and are designed for the sleeper to rest their head a short distance from the headboard while still leaving enough room on the rest of the mattress. That means the most important variable to keep in mind is the pillow length, which generally ranges from 20 to 36 inches.

If you sleep with a partner, divide the width of the mattress by 2 to calculate the maximum possible pillow length. For example, a queen size mattress that is 60 inches wide can fit two 20-by-30 queen pillows.

What’s Your Sleeping Position?

Sleeping position affects the way you use your pillow. Longer king size pillows allow more room for the head and shoulders, which may be attractive for back sleepers. By contrast, shorter standard or queen pillows allow side sleepers to sleep right up to the edges of the pillow.

Pillows can also help relieve tension when used in different areas. A standard or Euro size pillow can be tucked under the legs or the lower back when sleeping on your back. Similarly, a small pillow can support your knees if you sleep on your side, and a thin pillow under the midsection can ease discomfort for stomach sleepers.

What’s Your Budget?

Standard pillows tend to be the most affordable, followed by queen and then king pillows. Euro size pillows may be more difficult to find, and they may be more expensive.

Keep in mind that larger pillows also require larger pillowcases, which can add to the overall cost. Standard and queen size pillows can often use the same pillowcases, although using a standard pillowcase for a queen size pillow may increase its firmness and loft.

Versatility

Many people prefer standard or queen size pillows, as they work with most mattresses and are more practical for traveling. On the other hand, larger sizes such as a king may double as a body pillow, and they make a more comfortable backrest when sitting up in bed. Consider all the possible positions for your pillow before settling on a size.

What Look Do You Like?

In addition to forming a crucial part of your sleep setup, pillows also add a decorative element to the bedroom. Your bedroom may benefit from an artful pile of standard pillows or a thoughtfully placed square Euro pillow. Those who prefer a minimalist look may opt for the neat lines of queen or king size pillows.

Specialty Pillows

Specialty pillow sizes include designs intended for specific body parts or unique needs.

Body Pillows

Body pillows are extra long, usually measuring 20 by 54 inches. They are meant to be used for support in different areas of the body. For example, side sleepers can hug a body pillow between the legs to help keep the hips in line. Pregnant people can also use body pillows to prop up the midsection and ease back pain.

Knee Pillows

Most knee pillows are smaller than regular pillows and are designed with a thinner center and flared ends. The middle section can be tucked under the knees when back sleeping or between the knees when side sleeping, while the flared ends help the pillow stay in place. Because the middle is thinner than most regular pillows, knee pillows provide just the right amount of support for spinal alignment without overextending the knees.

Neck & Travel Pillows

Several types of pillows feature special designs to support the natural curvature of the neck. Cervical pillows are higher under the neck and lower under the head area. U-shaped travel pillows adapt this concept for upright sleeping, with an open space for the head and a wraparound design that helps support the neck.

Pregnancy Pillows

Pregnancy pillows come in many styles, but they typically feature some variation of a large U-shape or C-shape. They are designed to wrap around the body and support a baby bump to take pressure off the back and hips when you’re lying on your side.