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WHAT SIZE IS A STANDARD PILLOW?

As someone who has been in the bedding industry for quite some time, we have seen many people struggle with finding the perfect pillow size for their needs. Pillow sizes are not one size fits all, and understanding the differences between them can make a significant difference in your sleep quality. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about standard pillow size, including why it matters, and finding the perfect pillow size for you.

What Size is a Standard Pillow?

CONTENTS

  • Why Pillow Size Matters?
  • Pillow Size Chart: Dimension Guide
  • Specialty Pillows Sizes
  • Different Types of Pillows & Materials
  • How to Measure a Pillow?
  • How to Choose a Right Pillow Size?
  • About SweetNight Original Pillow
  • FAQs

Why Pillow Size Matters?

The truth is just to give sleepers more options. Similar to beds, pillow sizes give the sleeper alternatives, thus they are important. You’ll note that names for some mattress sizes and some pillow sizes are identical. For instance, queen-size pillows for queen-size beds, and king-size pillows for king-size mattresses. But this isn’t the one and only rule you choose the pillow size, be imaginative, and create your own unique pillow combination.

There is also an argument that pillow size can affect your sleeping posture and comfort. Well, that makes sense, too. Same as mattresses, there is no such thing as the perfect pillow. A larger pillow enables people who have trouble staying to toss and turn without losing their head support. Without proper support, you may experience soreness and stiffness, which can negatively impact your sleep quality and overall health. Moreover, head support can be affected by the pillow loft, which also depends on the size of the pillow’s fill. 

Pillow Size Chart: Dimension Guide

Pillow Size Chart
Table header 0StandardSuper StandardQueenKingBody
Dimensions in inches
(Width×Length)
20 × 2620 × 2820 × 3030 × 2020 × 54
Dimensions in CM
(Width×Length)
51 × 6651 × 7151 × 7651 × 9251 × 137

There are five different pillow sizes available from many bedding companies: standard, super standard, queen, king, and body pillows. Each pillow has its own advantages and disadvantages. Finding the most comfortable fit will depend on your sleeping positions and other preferences.

Standard

The standard pillow is the smallest common pillow size and measures 26 by 20 inches. A twin or full-size mattress is suitable for a standard pillow. Two standard pillows would fill the width of a full mattress, which measures 54 inches(137.5 cm) wide. Nonetheless, twin mattresses are much smaller and can only accommodate one standard pillow. This pillow size can accommodate most sleeping positions but doesn’t suit sleepers who need a bigger surface area for high movement.

Super Standard

The length is 2 inches longer than the standard size, but 2 inches shorter than the queen size. At 28 by 20 inches, the super standard is the ideal intermediary pillow. A full or full XL cannot accommodate two super standard pillows, while a queen may. A super standard pillow would be suitable for a twin or full-size mattress if you choose to use just one.

Queen

A queen pillow measures 30 by 20 inches, and a queen pillow also has a few more inches in length and is slightly wider than a standard pillow. The extra length of queen-size pillows benefits people who frequently change positions while they sleep. With a combined width of 60 inches, two queen-size pillows can fit in perfectly for a queen mattress. One queen-size pillow will work if you want a twin bed to look fuller. Depending on the brand, some queen pillows can fit within normal pillowcases. Provided you enjoy a firmer or higher feel, standard size pillowcases can be utilized, manufacturers do make queen-size pillowcases if you ever want to purchase them.

King

King-size pillow is 10 inches longer than standard size pillow, which provides more surface area for combination sleepers, also, the extra length will support your neck even if you move about as you sleep, making it ideal for combination sleepers. The perception is that the king pillows should be placed on the king-size or California king size bed. Yet, two king-size pillows can be squeezed snugly, with no room between the pillows, across a queen-sized bed.

Body

A body pillow may be the last thing on your mind when you are pillow shopping, but do not cross them off your list just yet. A body pillow typically measures 54 by 20 inches, making it a perfect choice for pregnant women, people with joint problems, and people who need support for the entire length of their bodies as they sleep. Body size pillows are suggested for large beds since they provide you room to cuddle the pillow and spread out if necessary. For this kind of pillow, you’ll need particular body pillowcases.

Specialty Pillows Sizes

Except for the pillow sizes we mentioned above, there are some other specialty pillow sizes. They are designed for other uses and specialized needs.

Travel Pillows

Travel pillows are the smallest pillow and are available in rectangular and C-shaped. In essence, rectangular pillows are just smaller versions of regular pillows. Travel pillows are often referred to as toddler pillows and measure 12 by 16 inches, the compact size makes them perfect for long car drives and airplane flights.

C-shaped travel pillows are preferred by passengers because they wrap around their necks, relieving pressure right where it is most needed during the long journey.

Euro Pillows

Euro pillow is a square pillow at 26 by 26 inches, which also know as euro sham pillow. To improve the visual appeal of a space, these pillows are typically positioned behind the textured standard, queen, or king pillows. 

Wedge Pillows

Wedge pillows frequently measure 20 to 25 inches in width and length, with a height of 6 to 12 inches at its tallest part, which are typically composed of polyfoam or memory foam and have a triangular form. Wedge pillows can increase circulation for those who experience acid reflux, sinus pressure, and snoring. Besides, a wedge pillow can be used as a knee cushion when lying on your back or as a reading pillow.

Orthopedic Pillows

Orthopedic pillows are available in a variety of forms and sizes and are intended to support particular body areas. Its form follows orthopedic recommendations to make way for healthy sleeping positions. Knowing that getting the ideal orthopedic pillowcase will not be simple is important when searching for one. Because of its unique shape, you’ll definitely order a personalized one for yourself. But don’t forget to ask the manufacturer if the cushion comes standard with a pillowcase or if they offer them separately.

Pregnancy Pillows

Pregnancy pillows help pregnant women sleep more comfortably. They are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and fillings to support a person’s growing body during pregnancy. Although the standard pillow and body pillow can help pregnant women fall asleep with their large size, a vast range of shapes adapts to different sleep needs during pregnancy. U-shaped design with the prongs supporting the back and stomach of the side sleeper while the head rests on the curve of the U, other shapes like bean shape, can fit under your baby bump or between your knees. Such pillows come with either permanently attached or specially constructed pillowcases.

Lumbar Pillows

As long, narrow pillows that support the lower back, lumbar pillows bring comfort to any sort of seating. Although rectangular lumbar pillows are accessible in an array of sizes, the most popular dimensions are 12 by 19 or 12 by 20 inches.

Different Types of Pillows & Materials

There are numerous varieties of pillows available, and each has advantages and disadvantages. The most popular pillow materials are memory foam, down, synthetic, and latex.

Memory foam pillow

Memory foam pillows are dense and sponge-like, they provide excellent support and renowned body-conforming qualities, but they can be hot and retain odors. A solid block of memory foam or pieces of ripped memory foam can be used to create memory foam pillows. For those who like more constant support, solid memory foam pillows are better.

You may be interested in How to clean a memory foam pillow?

Down or feather pillow

Down pillows are soft and comfortable, but they can be expensive and require regular fluffing. The softest component of a bird’s feather, known as the down undercoating, is located near the base of the feather and is usually utilized as pillow stuffing. The fill power of such pillows determines their firmness and loft. The durability and comfort of the cushion are stronger the more fill there is.

Polyester pillow

Little, curled polyester fibers manufactured by humans make up polyester fiberfill, often known as polyfill stuffing. Polyester pillows are more affordable compared to other pillow types, while they don’t last as long as others.

Latex pillow

As a well-known natural foam, latex is made from the sap of a particular rubber tree. Since latex foam is exceedingly difficult to extract, thus it is pricey. They are also available in blocks or shredded forms similar to memory foam.

What is the best type of pillow?

The best pillow type will rely on your personal requirements and preferences. While some people want softer pillows, others favor firmer ones. Down pillows are perfect for people who want a soft and comfortable pillow, while memory foam pillows are great for people who need extra support. It is essential to take into account your sleeping position, any current health concerns, and personal preferences. 

How to Measure a Pillow?

How to Measure a Pillow?

Measuring pillows is not like pulling hen’s teeth, but if you record the incorrect measurements, your pillow will be the incorrect size. Use carpenter’s measuring tape instead of the soft tailoring measuring tape to measure a pillow. Measure the pillow’s length from one end to the other by putting two of its corners on the ground. Measurements should never be taken from the center, always measure the sides. A decimal reading could be obtained when you are measuring. However, pillow dimensions are always given in whole numbers, as a result, round up to the nearest number.

How to Choose a Right Pillow Size?

There are numerous varieties of pillows available, and each has advantages and disadvantages. The most popular pillow materials are memory foam, down, synthetic, and latex.

Sleep positions

A suitable pillow should support your neck and head during your sleep, but not to the point that your neck is angled awkwardly. For instance, if you sleep on your side, your shoulder carries the weight, so a bigger, firmer pillow would give your neck the support it needs while reducing some of the weight on your shoulder. In addition, a bigger pillow provides more area for side sleepers when they turn over.

Personal preference

Everything depends on your preference and the size of pillow that makes you most comfortable. Make sure your head, neck, and spine are appropriately supported by your pillow and mattress. This is a decent indication of a pillow’s size.

How to choose a pillow for kids?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) states that around the age of 18 months, parents can normally start putting a pillow on their child’s bed. Before that, the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) might be boosted by a child’s sleeping environment’s soft surfaces and crowding. Nevertheless, you don’t necessarily need to offer a pillow for your 18-month-old child. If your child seems comfortable at night, there is no need to force them to use a pillow, as many toddlers can sleep well without one. Although it is feasible to acquire their first pillow around 18 months old, sleeping habits usually develop until they are 24 months old, and pillows may not be necessary.

Knowing what to look for when buying a pillow for your child before you go shopping is useful.

  • Material. Children who tend to be allergic to environmental allergens should use a pillow that is hypoallergenic, which is made to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold on pillows over time.
  • Pillow height. Pillow height is also known as the pillow loft, but not the higher the pillow the better. The pillow loft should also follow the age and height of the corresponding increase. At the age of two, the pillow height is generally controlled at about 4-6 cm is optimal. A study showed that the pillow loft depends on sleeping positions, and the best option for pillow loft is to maintain the normal physiological curvature of the neck when lying on the back and side.
  • Filling. Nowadays, eco-friendly materials like buckwheat and hemp are now commonly used to fill pillows, but toddlers shouldn’t use such (partially because of the choking hazard). Allergies can also be triggered by down feathers.
  • Size. A toddler doesn’t require a pillow that is regular or queen size. The typical size of a toddler pillow is 13 by 18 inches, which is more suited to smaller heads and smaller mattresses!

About SweetNight Original Pillow

SweetNight Original Pillow

Our original pillows are made of 100% gel-infused shredded memory foam and offer great support and cooler comfort. The waterproof and hypoallergenic cover protects your pillow from dust mites and unexpected liquids. 

WHAT SIZE IS A STANDARD PILLOW

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