How to Choose the Perfect Throw Pillow Size

The right throw pillow cover can instantly elevate your living room, turning a basic sofa into a cozy, curated space. But let’s be honest — choosing the right size can be confusing. Should you go big and bold? Keep it small and simple? Or maybe mix it up?

Whether you're refreshing your space for the season or styling your living room for the first time, getting the pillow sizes right is just as important as picking the perfect color or fabric. In this guide, we’ll help you figure out how to choose the best size of pillow covers — from classic 18x18 inch throw pillow covers to elegant euro sham covers — to complement your furniture and your style.

Along the way, we’ll also point you to some of our most-loved Pillowhan collections like our Blue & Navy pillow covers and Rust & Terracotta pillow covers, so you can easily shop by look and feel.

And if you're just starting out on your home styling journey, be sure to check out our earlier blog posts:
👉 Everything You Need to Know About Pillowcases
👉 Throw Pillow Covers: The Ultimate Guide to Styling and Sizing

Let’s dive into the world of perfect pillow proportions.

Understanding Throw Pillow Sizes

When it comes to styling your couch or lounge area, throw pillow sizes can make a big difference — not just in how your space looks, but how it feels. From giving off a plush, inviting vibe to creating a more streamlined and structured look, the size of your pillow cover plays a subtle yet powerful role in your overall design.

Here’s a quick guide to the most popular pillow sizes and when to use them:

16x16 inch throw pillow covers: Best for smaller chairs, accent corners, or layering in front of larger pillows. They add just a touch of softness without overwhelming the space.
18x18 inch pillow covers: The classic go-to size for sofas and loveseats. They’re easy to style and work well in pairs or as a base layer when you’re mixing sizes.
20x20 inch throw pillow covers: Ideal for larger couches or sectionals. These create a bold, cozy statement and are perfect for lounging.
22x22 inch and above: These oversized cushions are perfect if you want to bring in extra comfort and a luxurious feel. They also work well on the floor for informal seating.
26x26 inch euro sham covers: Originally designed for beds, but we love using them on deep sofas or in reading nooks. They add that lush, full look.

💡 Pro tip: If you want your pillows to look extra full and plush, choose an insert that’s 1-2 inches larger than your pillow cover.

Looking for the perfect fit? Check out our Euro Sham Covers collection for styles that offer both structure and softness.

Assessing Your Living Room Space

Before you hit “add to cart” on a bunch of beautiful cushion covers, it’s worth stepping back to take a good look at your space. The size of your sofa, the layout of your living room, and even the ceiling height can influence which throw pillow sizes will look best.

Here’s what to consider:

1. Sofa Size & Depth

A large sectional or deep-seated couch can handle larger pillows like 20x20 or 22x22 inch pillow covers with ease. They add balance and don’t get lost in the cushions. On the flip side, if you have a smaller loveseat or a mid-century modern sofa with lower backs, 16x16 or 18x18 inch throw pillow covers might be more proportional and visually appealing.

2. Room Layout

Is your living room cozy and intimate, or open and airy? If you’re working with a compact space, oversized pillows might feel overwhelming. Choosing a mix of small-to-medium pillow covers in soft, coordinated tones — like those in our Beige Pillow Covers or Gray Pillow Covers collections — can keep things feeling fresh and open.

3. How You Use the Space

Do you lounge with a book, host movie nights, or is this more of a ‘look but don’t touch’ showroom? If comfort is key, go for larger, plush pillows that support your posture. If the look matters most, focus on aesthetics and layering — we’ll cover that in the next section.

✔️ Still unsure what works best? Explore our Shop by Color Category or Shop by Pattern Category to play with size and visual rhythm without the guesswork.

Mixing and Matching Pillow Sizes

Once you’ve figured out the right throw pillow cover sizes for your space, it’s time to have a little fun — because mixing sizes is where the magic happens. A thoughtful combination of small, medium, and large pillows adds texture, depth, and that designer-styled look we all love.

Here’s a foolproof formula to try:

Start big: Place two large 20x20 or 22x22 inch pillow covers on each end of your sofa as the base.
Layer in medium: Add one or two 18x18 pillow covers in front to soften the look.
Finish with small: Pop in a lumbar pillow or 12x20 inch throw pillow cover in the center for contrast and support.

This layering technique not only looks intentional but also gives your space that comfortable, lived-in feeling. You can keep things cohesive with a single color palette — like our White & Cream pillow covers — or go bold by mixing prints from the Green and Orange & Yellow categories.

💡 Don’t forget to vary textures too — mixing linen with velvet or cotton with boucle can make even the simplest arrangements look elevated.

Aligning Pillow Sizes with Pillowhan’s Product Categories

At Pillowhan, we know that finding the right throw pillow cover isn’t just about size — it’s about style, too. That’s why we’ve organized our collections to make it easier than ever to find the perfect match for your space.

Whether you’re looking for a minimal, neutral look or want to play with bold color combinations, our updated Shop by Color structure helps you pair your ideal pillow size with the perfect tone or texture.

Here’s how to match size + style effortlessly:

Larger sizes (24x24, 26x26, Euro sham) look stunning in bold or deep colors. Think Black pillow covers for modern elegance or Rust & Terracotta for an earthy, cozy vibe.
Medium sizes (18x18, 20x20) are your most versatile option. Browse our Gray, Pink & Blush, or Beige collections for timeless everyday charm.
Smaller sizes or lumbars (12x20, 12x16) are perfect for adding a pop of color or pattern — try Color Block or something unexpected like Red & Purple to make a bold statement.

And for the design lovers who enjoy experimenting, our Green and Orange & Yellow collections offer refreshing, energetic tones that pair beautifully with both large and small cushion covers.

Practical Tips for Selection

Choosing the right pillow cover size is only one part of the equation — the rest is all about making your space feel like you. Here are some practical tips to guide you as you mix, match, and layer your throw pillow covers like a pro:

✔️ Think in odd numbers

Styling in odd numbers (like 3 or 5 pillows) often feels more natural and visually pleasing. For example: two 20x20 cushion covers, one 18x18, and a lumbar pillow creates a balanced, effortless setup.

✔️ Stick to a color palette

Choose a color scheme that complements your furniture and walls. If you want a calm, cohesive look, go for neutrals from our White & Cream, Beige, or Gray collections. Want something fresh and fun? Try adding a pop from Green or Pink & Blush.

✔️ Mix textures

Pairing a soft velvet throw pillow cover with a natural cotton or linen one adds dimension and warmth to your space. Our handmade collection includes a wide range of textures to help you build the perfect mix.

✔️ Keep comfort in mind

If your living room is your go-to relaxation zone, make sure you actually want to lean on your pillows. Larger pillows and euro shams are great for back support, while smaller lumbar pillows support your lower back.

💡 Don’t be afraid to switch things up seasonally! In colder months, go for deeper tones and heavier fabrics; in spring and summer, lighten things up with airy colors and breathable textures.

Conclusion: Create Your Perfect Living Room Look

Choosing the right throw pillow sizes isn’t just about measurements — it’s about creating a space that feels balanced, comfortable, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re layering large euro sham covers for drama or sprinkling in smaller cushion covers for detail, the right combination can transform your living room from ordinary to stunning.

With Pillowhan’s wide selection of handmade, zippered, and washable pillow covers, finding your perfect size — and your perfect style — has never been easier. From Color Block designs to cozy Rust & Terracotta tones, we’ve got something for every room and every mood.

🛋️ Ready to style your living room like a pro?
Explore our full collection of throw pillow covers to find your favorite sizes and shades.