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Why Pillow Sizes are Important for Your Sleep Experience

Jonathan Stevens • Oct 19, 2020

Intro

If picked correctly, pillows can improve and enhance your sleep experience. Not only are there different types of pillows, but each come in different sizes. Think of your pillow as a mattress and your head as the "body" that lays on that mattress. Just like your regular body, you wouldn't pick a mattress size that's too small or too big, wouldn't you? Of course not! The pillow size you pick is just as important as the pillow type itself. Take time to choose which size fits your preference and you won't be disappointed.


Why pillow sizes are important

Graphic depicting different pillow sizes

Pillow sizes matter because they provide options for the sleeper, much like mattresses. You'll notice that the names for each pillow size is the same for mattresses sizes. That's because King-sized pillows were made for King mattresses, Queen-sized pillows were made for Queen mattresses, etc. But don't let that decide what pillows you get. Be creative and mix and match pillows for yourself!


It's also dependent on the fill volume of your pillow, which will help determine the loft, or thickness, of your pillow. Smaller pillows will have less volume to fill than larger pillows, which means they'll vary in comfort too.


Pillow Sizes

Pillow size cm. in.
Standard (51 x 66 cm) 20" x 26"
Queen (51 x 76 cm) 20" x 30"
King (51 x 92 cm) 20" x 36"
Euro Square (66 x 66 cm) 26" x 26"
Body (51 x 137) 20" x 54"

Standard

The Standard pillow size is the most common pillow size you'll find anywhere, since it can fit most mattress sizes. It is best used for side, back, or stomach sleepers since they tend to move less during the night. Combination sleepers may prefer a larger pillow size due to the fact they move constantly when they sleep.


A Standard pillow size is perfect for a twin mattress, since this mattress size can fit one adult or child comfortably. Two Standards can fit across a Full or Queen mattress for couples who don't mind the average pillow size.

Super Standard is a sub-category of the normal Standard pillow. The only difference is that it adds an additional 2 inches to its length. If you find the Standard pillow size a bit small, but a Queen too big, then a Super Standard is for you.



Queen

The Queen gives an extra 4 inches to its length compared to the Standard pillow. This size is also a great option for those who move around during the night. It should be noted that Queen pillows do not have their own pillow case size. Most often they need to be custom ordered or placed in a Super Standard pillow case.


A Queen pillow can fit across a Twin the same as a Standard pillow. 2 Queen pillows can also fit across a Queen and King bed nicely, with the latter giving more space between pillows.


King

The King is half a foot longer than a Queen pillow, offering adequate surface area for those who toss and turn at night. These are also great for back support while either sleeping or sitting on your bed. If you don't prefer a large Body pillow, you may opt for two King pillows for more specific comfort styles.


2 King pillows are great for King and Queen beds, but one can also fit snuggly on a Twin or Full mattress. King pillows can only fit into King pillowcases, which need to be bought with a King pillow.


Euro Square

Most pillows of this type come in a variety of sizes, which give options for those wanting specific dimensions for their pillows. The most common size is 26'' x 26'' square, and are most often used as decoration. If they are used to decorate your bed, they are commonly placed at the head of the mattress. They are typically not used to sleep on, but are meant to be used for other comforts, such as light reading or sitting-up on your bed.


Euro pillows originate from Europe, as their name suggests, specifically from Germany and Holland, where they are commonly used for regular sleeping.


Body

By far the largest pillow size there is on the market. Body pillows measure just over four feet in length, with its width being the same measurement as other pillow sizes. These pillows are perfect for side sleepers, providing adequate support for their backs or legs. Since they support the full length of your body, Body pillows are meant to run the length of your mattress, instead of its width.


Pregnant women may also use Body pillows as a means to support their back as they sleep on their side. Certain pregnancy pillows could also be termed as Body pillows since they can be as large as a person's torso. A pregnancy pillow can come in different sizes, however, with some being as small as a Euro pillow.


Be creative, and be comfortable!

Pillow sizes are important because they give sleepers options. If you tend to move around a lot while asleep, pick a larger pillow. If you prefer a more compact pillow because you don't move a lot, pick a smaller pillow. Remember, you can be creative with different pillow sizes, its whatever makes you comfortable that will be most important when shopping for pillows.

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