Pillow Sizes: What Size Pillow Do I Need? [Guide + Chart]

Key takeaways:

• Standard and king pillows are the most common pillow sizes available.
• Standard size pillows typically measure 20-by-26 inches or 51-by-6 centimeters, while king size pillows measure 20-by-36 inches or 51-by-91 centimeters.
• Pillow sizes vary widely, from versatile queen size pillows designed specifically for sleeping to specialty throw pillows for decoration.
• Factors like mattress size, pillow use, sleeping position, pillow materials, and more all play into determining the best pillow size for you.

Building the perfect sleep setup requires many rounds of trial and error — from trying out pillow sizes and bed sheet sizes to mattress firmness levels. While there is a wide range of different size pillows, finding the best pillow size for your needs primarily depends on your mattress size and your personal preferences.

Whether you want to know how a standard vs. queen pillow compares or you’re not sure how to pick the best pillow for your needs, this comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about pillows in general and Purple’s specific pillow dimensions.

Pillow Size Chart and Standard Dimensions

Most pillow sizes for beds are only different in length, like standard vs. queen pillows, though specialty and decorative throw pillows may showcase more variety. Average dimensions of common pillow sizes include:

When choosing a pillow, consider pillow height (or loft) — typically ranging from 4 to 7 inches tall —in addition to width and length to best accommodate your comfort needs.

Standard Pillow Size

Standard pillow dimensions: 20-by-26 inches

The standard-size pillow is the most common and versatile of all pillow sizes. Because of its relatively small dimensions, it pairs perfectly with all mattress sizes, from twin to California king.

At a modest 20-by-26 inches, the standard pillow size is fairly versatile for side, back, and stomach sleepers. Because of its limited length, a standard pillow may not be the best choice for restless sleepers; longer pillows offer more room to move around.

Super Standard Pillow Size

Super standard pillow dimensions: 20-by-28 inches

Though not as common as other pillow sizes, super standard pillows are two inches longer than a standard pillow, measuring 20-by-28 inches. They offer a bit more room without taking up as much space as a queen size pillow. Two side-by-side super standard pillows will be too long for a twin or full mattress but will work well on a queen or king mattress.

Queen Pillow Size

Queen pillow dimensions: 20-by-30 inches

At 20-by-30 inches, a queen pillow size is the next size up from a standard pillow. This slightly larger pillow offers more sleeping real estate for restless individuals who toss and turn at night while making longer beds appear fuller. 

Queen size bed pillows work well with most beds, from smaller twins to king mattresses. They also fit in most standard size pillowcases, so you won't need a new set of sheets just for your pillow. 

King Pillow Size

King pillow dimensions: 20-by-36 inches

At 20-by-36 inches, king size pillows are significantly longer than most other options, making them the number-one pick for active sleepers.

Because of their size, king size pillows are incredibly versatile day and night. Many people use their king size pillow to sit up in bed to relax, watch TV, or read. This size mimics the typical cushion of a couch while offering the support of a proper pillow. 

Comparing king vs. queen pillows, king size options are longer by six inches, filling out the width of a king bed better than a queen. King pillows are also more common, so you may have more options to choose from. If you’re looking for maximum comfort, a king size pillow may be the best option, but queen size pillows may be more versatile.

Larger beds like an Alaskan king mattress typically use king size pillows, though you may be able to custom-order larger pillows. Before you opt for king size pillows, make sure they’ll suit your needs and space by weighing the pros and cons.

Body Pillow Size

Body pillow dimensions: 20-by-54 inches

While generally considered a non-standard pillow size, body pillows have become increasingly popular as people aim to get more comfortable in bed. At a staggering 20-by-54 inches, these pillows are perfect for hugging, holding between your legs, or acting as a barrier between you and the edge of your bed.

Body pillows are more malleable than standard cushions, curving and twisting to suit your specific needs. Pregnant individuals can also use them as a wedge to keep themselves from rolling over at night.

Specialty Pillow Sizes and Dimensions

Aside from more common pillow sizes, you can also find specialty pillows for different purposes, from tailored comfort to decoration.

Throw Pillow Size

Throw pillow dimensions: 18 to 28 inches by 18 to 28 inches

Because throw pillows are intended for interior design and not necessarily function, they can come in a variety of non-standard sizes and shapes. 

The most common square throw pillow dimensions are 18-by-18 inches, but you can find throw pillows in various sizes. Some of the most popular square throw pillow options include:

• 20-by-20 inches
• 22-by-22 inches
• 24-by-24 inches
• 28-by-28 inches

Rectangular, lumbar, or back pillows are long, firm pillows designed to support your back or add dimension to your bedspread. Lumbar pillow sizes typically measure 12-by-20 inches.

All types of throw pillows are available in three common size ranges.

Euro Pillow Size

Euro pillow dimensions: 26-by-26 inches

Euro pillows are primarily used decoratively on a bed or sofa, though they can also provide added comfort for lounging. These square-shaped pillows typically measure 26-by-26 inches. 

Travel Pillow Sizes

Travel pillow dimensions: 12-by-16 inches (may vary)

Usually measuring a modest 12-by-16 inches, travel pillows are designed to fit into luggage for use on planes, trains, and long car rides. They come in different shapes, ranging from a C-shaped neck pillow to more traditional rectangular cushions.

This type of pillow aims to reduce neck pain and strain when sleeping on the go, but it can also be the perfect size for those who want to sleep with a pillow under or between their knees.

Purple Pillows Sizes and Dimensions

Purple has a well-designed range of pillow sizes for every type of sleeper, with different filling and size options for cloud-like comfort and exceptional support no matter what size you choose.

Check out the Purple pillow comparison below to see all standard and king size options available.

Purple also offers specialty size pillows to accommodate your needs:

• Kids’ Purple Pillow®: Measuring 13-by-18 inches, this smaller version of the Purple Pillow® offers adaptive support for younger sleepers.
• Purple Harmony™ Anywhere Pillow: At 13-by-16 inches, this travel pillow features our GelFlex® Grid and Talalay Latex in a compact size.

From the temperature-balancing GelFlex® Grid in our best-selling Purple Harmony™ Pillow to the ultra-fine fibers in our Purple Cloud™ Pillow, we have something for everyone.

How To Choose the Right Pillow Size

Choosing the right pillow for you depends on several factors. Here’s what you need to consider before choosing what size pillow you should get.

Mattress Size

The size of your mattress plays a significant role in your ideal pillow size. Certain pillow sizes may be too long to fit comfortably on smaller mattresses, while others may look out of place on larger mattresses. Consider mattress width and the following recommendations for how many pillows of each size may work best for your bed size.

Pillow Use

Consider how you intend to use your pillow to determine the best pillow size. If you think a new pillow size might help you get more deep sleep, you’ll likely want to opt for a pillow that offers enough space for you without crowding your bed.

A body pillow may be a good choice if you’re looking for sleep support during pregnancy, but a smaller pillow may be better to put between your knees while you sleep.

Occupancy

If you share a bed with your partner, make sure your mattress size can comfortably fit two pillows. If you sleep alone but still want to use two pillows or one standard pillow and one body pillow, make sure your mattress can accommodate them.

Sleep Position

Different pillows are better suited for different sleeping positions, with pillow height being the primary consideration. For example, the best pillows for side sleepers often have a higher loft than those for back and stomach sleepers.

Think about how you normally sleep to help determine the best pillow size for a supportive, comfortable night’s sleep. Choose a pillow firmness that keeps your neck aligned and feels comfortable for your sleep position.

Pillow Materials

A pillow’s inner materials have a major impact on comfort while sleeping. Types of pillow stuffing include: 

• GelFlex® Grid: Purple’s GelFlex® Grid is a proprietary hyper-elastic polymer designed to provide soft support and breathability. From the smallest Purple Harmony™ Anywhere Pillow to the biggest Purple Freeform™ Pillow, we have GelFlex® Grid options for every sleeper.
• Foam: Pillows made from foam materials like memory foam or poly foam contour to your head and neck for exceptional support. Purple’s DreamLayer™ Pillow combines the GelFlex® Grid with MicroAir™ Foam for a soothing, contoured feel.
• Latex: Latex pillows are known for their excellent breathability and bouncy resilience. The Purple Harmony™ Pillow uses high-quality Talalay latex for long-lasting comfort.
• Down and down alternatives: Down pillows are made with real quill-less feathers, where down alternative pillows have synthetic polyester microfibers. The Purple Cloud™ Pillow and TwinCloud™ Pillow both feature a fluffy down alternative filling in 17-by-24 and 17-by-34 size options.
• Adjustable: Adjustable pillows allow you to shape the pillow to your preferences. The Purple Freeform™ Pillow contains our MicroFlex™ Moon Foam wrapped with GelFlex® Grid in 18.5-by-26 and 18.5-by-36 options.

Cost

The average cost of a pillow depends on factors like materials used, quality of materials, construction, and pillow size. Materials like down and latex tend to be more expensive, while polyester and cotton cost less. Larger pillows, like king size pillows, tend to cost more than smaller options.

The ultra-fine fibers in our affordable Purple Cloud™ Pillow offer the luxuriously soft, plush feel of a down alternative while supporting the head and neck.

How To Measure a Pillow

To accurately measure your pillow, all you need to measure your pillow is a hard tool like a ruler or meter stick for accurate results. Using something soft like a measuring tape may seem more intuitive, but this will usually result in warped measurements that could make it difficult to choose the right bedding and pillowcase sizes. It may also be helpful to have someone hold the two corners of the edge and pull it tight while you measure. 

Follow these simple steps to measure your pillow:

1. Remove the pillow from its pillowcase, if applicable. 
2. Lay the pillow on a flat surface.
3. Measure the short end of the pillow first, making sure to measure along the edge from corner to corner, not across the top or center of the pillow. This is the pillow’s width.
4. Next, measure the longer side of the pillow, again ensuring that you measure along the edge. This is the pillow’s length. 

Pillow measurements are typically written as width by length. For example, if the measurement for the shorter side of the pillow is 16 inches, and the measurement for the longer side is 24 inches, your pillow dimensions are 16-by-24 inches.

Find Your Perfect Pillow With Purple

Pillow sizes range widely from small travel-size pillows and standard bed pillows to square decorative options and larger body pillows. No matter what type of pillow you prefer, there’s a Purple pillow for you. Most of our pillows are available in standard and king sizes to meet your needs and suit your space.

Try the innovative Purple Harmony™ Pillow to experience unparalleled comfort with the cooling, responsive feel of the GelFlex® Grid for your best night’s sleep yet.

The Greatest Pillow Ever Invented™

Cooling comfort with a luxurious, weightless feel and responsive support.

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