The first choice you’ll face is what the insert itself is made of.
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Down Inserts: These are filled with natural feathers, giving you a soft, luxurious feel that’s easy to fluff and shape. They offer that “chop” look designers love and feel extra plush on a bed.
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Down Alternative Inserts: A great option if you prefer hypoallergenic bedding or want something a little more structured. These inserts mimic the feel of down but tend to hold their shape better and can be easier to maintain.
Both options can look beautiful, it’s really about your preference for feel and maintenance.
The Golden Rule: Size Up Your Insert
Here’s the designer secret: always size your insert 2 inches larger than your pillow cover.
For example:
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A 20x20 cover should be filled with a 22x22 insert.
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A 24x24 cover should be filled with a 26x26 insert.
Why? A slightly larger insert fills out the corners, eliminates sagging, and gives your pillows that plump, custom look you see in magazines.
Bed Pillow Sizing Basics
When we’re talking about actual bed pillows (the ones you sleep on), size is all about the mattress:
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Twin bed: One standard pillow
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Full/Queen bed: Two standard or queen pillows
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King bed: Two king pillows
If you want to layer a designer look, start with your sleeping pillows and then add Euro shams, lumbars, or decorative throw pillows in front.
My Designer Tip
If you want that effortless, high-end feel, don’t skimp on the inserts. The right fill and the right size make even a simple cotton cover look luxurious. Think of inserts as the foundation, it’s what gives your pillow its shape, support, and style.
And in case you’re wondering where my favorite pillows come from everything you see here is from HiEnd Accents, with the exception of the Pendleton shams. Their inserts and covers are my go-to for creating that full, layered, designer look.
