Miya Pearson
Pillow shams are a decorative type of pillow covering, used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed. They are usually placed in front of pillowcases on the bed and are designed to match the more decorative elements of bedding, such as a duvet cover. While you can technically sleep on a pillow sham, they are not designed for this purpose and may be less comfortable due to the use of textured decorative fabrics. Pillow shams are typically removed from the bed during the night to keep them clean and avoid soiling them with oils from the skin or hair.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Decorative |
| Use | Placed behind regular pillows or used to encase pillows |
| Texture | Can be made from textured decorative fabrics |
| Comfort | Can be less comfortable due to bulky fabric |
| Maintenance | Require washing |
| Design | More elaborate, featuring embroidery, ruffles, quilting, etc. |
| Closure | Envelope closure, hidden zipper, velcro, or fabric overlap |
| Fabric | Cotton sheeting or quilted |
| Sleep | Can be used for sleeping, but not recommended |
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What You'll Learn
Pillow shams are primarily decorative
Pillow shams are often placed in front of pillowcases on a made bed. They can be used to decorate your bed by placing them behind your regular sleeping pillows or incorporating them into other areas of your home, such as seating areas and dining spaces, to add a touch of elegance and comfort. They can also be used to layer your bed, creating a quick and pleasing arrangement. Some people choose to place their shams behind their bed pillows as they sleep, adding a layer of padding between the sleeper's head and the headboard of the bed.
While you can technically sleep on a pillow sham, and some people do, that is not their primary purpose. Pillow shams may be less comfortable to sleep on due to the use of textured decorative fabrics, or because of bulky embellishments that can awkwardly bunch up. Additionally, some people choose to remove pillow shams from the bed during the night to keep them clean and avoid soiling them with oils from the skin or hair.
Ultimately, the choice of whether to sleep on a pillow sham or a pillowcase is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to use pillows covered by pillow shams as support beneath their pillows covered by pillowcases. Some luxury pillow shams are made from soft materials such as 100% organic long-staple cotton, which can be comfortable to sleep on.
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Pillow shams can be slept on, but that's not their purpose
While you can sleep on pillow shams, they are primarily designed for decorative purposes. Pillow shams are a type of pillow covering designed to encase pillows and transform them from functional items to stylish accents. They are typically more elaborate in design, featuring embroidery, ruffles, or quilting, and are often used to hide pillows behind a decorative façade. They are commonly placed in front of pillowcases or stacked on top of sleeping pillows to create a pleasing arrangement.
Pillow shams are usually finished on all four sides with an opening at the back to tuck the pillow into, ensuring the pillow is obscured when the bed is made. They often have a "flange" or flat piece of fabric bordering the pillow, which can be decorated or left plain. Shams are typically designed to match the decorative elements of bedding, such as a duvet cover, or to add a pop of colour to the room.
While some people do sleep on pillow shams, they are not specifically designed for this purpose. Shams may be less comfortable to sleep on due to the use of textured decorative fabrics or bulky flanges that can bunch up. Additionally, pillow shams are often made from different materials than pillowcases, which are designed to be soft and comfortable for sleeping. Pillowcases are typically made from breathable, natural fibres or silk, which can have added benefits for the skin and hair.
However, some luxury pillow shams are made from soft and comfortable materials, such as 100% organic long-staple cotton, and can be suitable for sleeping. Ultimately, the decision to sleep on a pillow sham or a pillowcase comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the firmer feel of a pillow encased in a sham, while others may find the texture and appearance of the sham distracting or uncomfortable.
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Pillow shams can be used for support behind your sleep pillow
Pillow shams are primarily used for decorative purposes. They are used to cover pillows to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedding and complete the look of your bedroom. Pillow shams are usually more decorative than pillowcases, featuring embroidery, ruffles, quilting, or other textures. They are typically placed in front of pillowcases on the bed and are commonly removed before sleeping.
While pillow shams are not designed for sleeping, some people do choose to sleep on them. Pillow shams can be made from a variety of materials, and some are soft enough to sleep on. However, the texture of the fabric and the bulkiness of the flanges may make them less comfortable for sleeping.
If you choose to use a pillow sham for sleeping, it is important to consider the material and texture to ensure comfort. Pillow shams made from soft materials like 100% organic long-staple cotton can be comfortable to sleep on. Additionally, using a pillow sham with a larger pillow inside, such as a queen pillow in a standard sham, can provide a firmer feel.
Ultimately, the decision to use a pillow sham for sleeping is a matter of personal preference. Pillow shams can be a stylish and practical addition to your bedding, offering both comfort and decorative appeal.
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Pillow shams are usually placed in front of pillowcases on the bed
Pillow shams are primarily used for decorative purposes and to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedding. They are usually placed in front of pillowcases on the bed to create a stylish and sophisticated look. While you can sleep on pillow shams, they are not designed for that purpose and may be less comfortable due to the textured decorative fabric and bulky flanges.
Pillow shams are coverings designed to encase pillows and transform them from functional items into stylish accents. They add a layer of sophistication to your bedding ensemble and are typically more elaborate in design, featuring embroidery, ruffles, piping, or quilting. Shams usually have an envelope closure at the back or a hidden zipper to completely encase the pillow. The term “sham” refers to a false front, hiding your normal pillow behind a decorative facade.
When styling your bed with pillow shams, there are a few standard arrangements that are commonly used. One simple approach is to lay your sleeping pillows flat against the mattress, with the cuffs pointed outward toward the edges of the bed. Then, stack pillows with decorative shams on top of them, creating a quick and pleasing arrangement. Some people also choose to lean decorative accent pillows against the stack for added interest.
Another option is to lean your sleeping pillows against the headboard, with the cuffs facing the edge of the bed. You can then display several Euro-size pillows dressed in shams in a clean or overlapping row. Finally, place two standard or king-sized pillows, also in shams, in front of the Euro pillows. This arrangement allows you to display pillows of different sizes, fabrics, textures, and colors in a symmetrical and eye-catching way.
While pillow shams are primarily decorative, some people do choose to sleep on them. It is a matter of personal preference, and some luxury pillow shams are made from soft fabrics that are comfortable for sleeping. Additionally, pillow shams can provide support behind your sleeping pillows, adding a layer of padding between your head and the headboard. However, it is important to note that pillow shams may be less comfortable for sleeping due to the decorative elements and bulky fabric.
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Pillow shams can be washed
Pillow shams are decorative covers used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedding. They are usually more elaborate in design, featuring embroidery, ruffles, or quilting. While you can sleep on pillow shams, they are not designed for this purpose and may be less comfortable due to their decorative fabrics and bulky flanges.
When washing pillow shams, it is best to wash them separately from other items to avoid potential damage. Machine washing is suitable for most pillow shams, but some may require hand washing if they have delicate features such as beading, embroidery, or ornamental details. If hand washing, use cold water and a gentle detergent, gently swishing the sham in the water and rinsing thoroughly before hanging it up to dry.
For machine washing, use a front-loading washer without an agitator if possible, as it is gentler on the fabric. Warm water and a delicate cycle setting are recommended, along with a mild detergent. If using a machine with an agitator, balance the load by carefully placing the shams on each side and select a very gentle cycle.
Pillow shams made from delicate fabrics like silk or wool may require dry cleaning instead of washing at home. Always refer to the care instructions for your specific pillow shams to ensure they are washed correctly.
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Frequently asked questions
Pillow shams are a type of pillow covering designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedding. They are usually more decorative than pillowcases, featuring designs such as embroidery, ruffles, or quilting. Shams typically have an opening at the back where you tuck the pillow.
While you can sleep on pillow shams, they are primarily designed for decorative purposes. Pillow shams may be less comfortable to sleep on due to the use of textured decorative fabrics. Some people use pillow shams as support behind their sleeping pillows or to elevate their heads while sleeping.
Pillowcases are typically used for sleeping and are designed to keep pillows clean. They usually have a simple design with an open end or a flap closure and are made from the same fabric as the bedsheets. Pillow shams, on the other hand, are more decorative and elaborate, often featuring intricate designs and closures.
