What Size Pillow Insert For A 18×18 Cover? (Find Out Now!)
Finding the right size insert for the pillows throughout your home is key to ensuring maximum comfortability and the best appearance, too. Today, we’re specifically going to be talking about pillows with dimensions of 18×18 inches. This can be classified as a square decorative pillow, as standard, queen, and king pillows used on a bed are much larger and rectangular in shape.
It is highly recommended to use a 20×20 pillow insert for an 18×18 pillow cover. For any pillow covers that are between 18×18 to 22×22 inches, you should always use an insert that is two inches larger on all sides to fully fill out the cover.
Let’s dive a bit deeper into the topic so you better understand pillow sizes and how they relate to the size of the insert that goes inside them.
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Why Should the Insert be Bigger than the Pillow Cover?
It is important for the insert to be larger than the pillow to make it look plump and full. If the insert is too small, the pillow will sag, making it uncomfortable and appear lower quality. On the other hand, inserts that are too large will either not fit or make the pillow feel too stiff.
Exceptions to the 2-Inch Recommendation
As we stated in the introduction, pillows that are 18×18 inches should have inserts that are 2 inches larger than the cover itself. However, pillows any smaller than that should have inserts that are only 1 inch larger. On the other end of the spectrum, any pillows 24×24 inches or larger will work best with inserts that are 3 to 4 inches larger than the cover.
Popular Insert/Filler Types
Feather down is one of the best options for pillows. The feathers will provide the firmness and support your pillow will need while the down will offer enough softness to make it even more comfortable. There should typically be a ratio of approximately 90% feathers to 10% down.
That said, we are going to take a closer look at both those materials as well as a couple other popular insert types.
Feathers
The feathers used in pillows typically come from the wings and back of common birds like ducks and geese. They are soft while still maintaining firmness and structure, which helps them hold their shape under pressure. However, they can easily feel hot and sometimes itchy if the quills of the feather poke through the pillow cover.
Down
The difference between feathers and downs is where they are located on the bird. Because of these different locations, the materials feel much different. Down filling consists of a group of soft fibers that are closest to the skin of a bird’s chest.
This material typically comes from swans, geese, or ducks. It is incredibly soft, naturally insulating, and cushiony. However, they are often associated with common allergies, and they tend to cost more.
Polyfill
Polyfill is a synthetic filling that functions as an alternative for down filling. It is affordable, lightweight, and hypoallergenic, which makes them an all-around great option. However, it doesn’t mimic the warmth that real down materials provide.
Buckwheat
These pillow inserts are made from buckwheat hulls, which are the outer shells of buckwheat seeds. They are breathable, hypoallergenic, and easily moldable. However, they are a bit noisier and have a crunchier feel to them.
Micro-beads
These inserts are filled with small polystyrene beads that allow for great airflow and support. While they are comfortable, they are not the most convenient options. This is because they are not environmentally friendly and can be very messy if they get out of the pillow.
Related Questions
Is there a difference between a pillow and a pillow insert?
No, the two terms are synonymous. Both pillow and pillow insert refers to the actual materials that then go inside the pillow cover.
What are the average sizes of decorative pillows?
The most common square deco pillows are 16×16, 18×18, or 20×20 inches. However, they can also be as small as 14×14 inches or as large as 30×30 inches.
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Final Thoughts
There are many different pillow shapes out there, which will impact the size of the insert. Therefore, it is important to note that this article is specifically talking about square deco pillows. No matter the pillow, the right size insert is necessary for a comfortable and luxurious-looking pillow.
Depending on the size of the pillow cover, the insert should be between one to four inches larger on average. When it comes to an 18×18 inch decorative pillow, your best bet is to purchase a 20×20 inch insert made from feather down. This will ensure maximum comfort and aesthetic appeal.
I am a copywriter and editor based in the Las Vegas area with nearly a decade of experience under my belt writing landing pages, cost guides, blog posts, newsletters, case studies, and social media content. I have a degree in Strategic Communication and experience working in both the account and creative spheres. My goal is to always be discovering new interests and bettering myself as a writer and editor along the way.
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