Complete Guide to Pillowcase and Pillow Sham Sizes


By Tom Jo
2 min read

Crib pillowcase is 14" × 14", the Standard/Twin/Full/Queen pillowcase is 29" × 20" with a 26-27" × 20" sham, the King pillowcase and sham are both 36" × 20".

Pillowcase and Pillow Sham Sizes

Type Pillowcase Dimensions Pillow Sham Dimensions
Crib 14" × 14" Not Common
Standard/Twin/Full/Queen 29" × 20" 26-27" × 20"
King 36" × 20" 36" × 20"

Crib Pillowcase

Crib pillowcases are specially designed for baby bedding. Their compact 14-inch square dimensions provide a perfect fit for infant pillows. These smaller sizes ensure safety and comfort for your little one. Remember that decorative shams are not typically made in crib sizes since baby bedding prioritizes safety over decoration.

Standard/Twin/Full/Queen Pillowcase

Standard pillowcase size used in homes. At 29 inches long and 20 inches wide, these pillowcases fit most standard bedroom pillows perfectly. They work well for twin, full, and queen-sized beds, making them a versatile choice for everyday use.

King Pillowcase

King-sized pillowcases offer extra length at 36 inches while maintaining the standard 20-inch width. These larger cases are ideal for king-sized pillows and provide additional comfort for those who prefer bigger pillows. They're commonly used on king-sized beds or as statement pieces on smaller beds.

Standard/Twin/Full/Queen Pillow Sham

Standard pillow shams are slightly smaller than regular pillowcases, measuring 26-27 inches in length. This snug fit creates a more polished, decorative appearance. The slightly shorter length helps the sham stay firmly in place and prevents sliding.

King Pillow Sham

King pillow shams match the dimensions of king pillowcases at 36 by 20 inches. These larger shams make excellent decorative statements on king beds or can be used as the backdrop for smaller accent pillows. The generous size allows for more elaborate decorative details and patterns.



 

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a pillowcase and a pillow sham?

A pillowcase is for daily use and protection, while a pillow sham is primarily decorative with more ornate designs and often has a flanged edge.

Can I use a standard pillowcase on a king-sized pillow?

it's not recommended as the standard size will be too small and may damage your pillow over time.

Do I need special pillowcases for memory foam pillows?

No, regular pillowcases work fine with memory foam pillows - just ensure you choose the correct size for your pillow dimensions.

Can I put a standard sham on a king pillow?

you should use a king-sized sham for king pillows to ensure proper fit and appearance.

Are European pillow shams a different size?

Yes, European shams are typically square and measure 26" × 26" or larger.

Why are my pillow shams smaller than pillowcases?

Shams are designed to fit more snugly for a decorative appearance, while pillowcases allow for easier insertion and removal.

Can I mix and match pillowcase sizes on my bed?

Yes, mixing sizes can create visual interest, but ensure each pillow has the correct size case or sham.

How do I know if my pillowcase is too big or small?

A properly fitted pillowcase should cover the entire pillow with a small amount of extra fabric for easy removal, but not so much that it becomes baggy.