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10 Best Pillow Insert For Shams

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Pillow Insert For Shams

Choosing the right pillow insert for your shams can greatly impact both the appearance and comfort of your bed or sofa setup. It's not just about filling the cover; the right insert should fill out the sham nicely, feel comfortable to touch or lean against, and hold its shape over time. Understanding a few key features will help ensure that the pillow looks pleasing and suits your practical needs.
SizePillow insert size is simply the measured length and width of the insert, usually in inches. Sizing is important because it affects how plump and tidy your pillow looks inside the sham. Inserts can be smaller, the same as, or larger than the sham. For a fuller, more polished look, choosing an insert that is 1-2 inches larger than the sham often works best. For a softer, more relaxed feel or if you prefer easy fitting and a looser appearance, matching the insert size to your sham or a slightly smaller insert may suit you. Picking the size depends on whether you want a structured, 'full' look or a flatter, more casual one.
Fill MaterialThe fill material refers to what’s inside the pillow insert and greatly impacts comfort, weight, and feel. Common options include down (feathers), down alternative (synthetic fibers), and polyester. Down provides a luxurious, sink-in feel and is easy to fluff, but may not be the best for those with allergies. Down alternative feels somewhat like down but is hypoallergenic and easier to wash. Polyester tends to be firm, supportive, and budget-friendly, but might feel less 'squishy' and can flatten over time. Pick a fill based on your comfort preference, allergy needs, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.
Loft/PlumpnessLoft refers to how much the insert fills out the sham and how fluffy it appears. High-loft pillows fill shams out completely, creating a full, crisp look, while low-loft inserts give a flatter, softer feel. If you want a very tailored and structured appearance—say, for a formal bed display—go for high-loft inserts. For a more lived-in, cozy look, a lower loft might suit. Think about whether you prioritize appearance or comfort when making your choice.
Cover FabricThe cover fabric is the material that holds the fill together and can affect durability, feel, and allergen control. Common fabrics include cotton, polyester, and blends. Cotton is breathable and soft, making it pleasant if you’ll be leaning against the pillow often. Polyester and blends can be more durable and resist stains or moisture better. Choose a cover that matches how often you’ll use and clean the pillow, and whether you have fabric preferences for feel against the skin or allergen control.
WashabilityWashability means how easily you can clean the pillow insert, which matters for both hygiene and the lifespan of the insert. Some pillow inserts are machine-washable, while others require spot cleaning or professional cleaning, especially if they contain real down. If you anticipate frequent cleaning needs, such as in homes with children or pets, or if you have allergies, select inserts that can be easily washed and dried at home. For decorative-only shams that see little use, washability may be less important.