Have you ever admired a beautifully made bed in a magazine or a hotel and wondered how they achieved that polished, luxurious look? More often than not, the secret lies in the often-overlooked details, like the strategic use of decorative pillows and their accompanying shams. A pillow sham isn't just another piece of fabric; it's a key element in creating a cohesive and stylish bedroom aesthetic. Understanding its purpose and proper use can transform your own bedding from ordinary to extraordinary.
Choosing the right bedding is an investment in your comfort and the overall ambiance of your sleep space. While functional pillows provide support for a restful night, pillow shams elevate the visual appeal of your bed, adding texture, color, and personality. They allow you to coordinate your bedding with your room's decor, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Furthermore, understanding the different types of shams and how to care for them ensures you can maintain a beautiful and long-lasting bedding arrangement.
What are the most frequently asked questions about pillow shams?
What's the difference between a pillow sham and a pillowcase?
The primary difference between a pillow sham and a pillowcase lies in their function: a pillowcase is designed for sleeping on and protects the pillow, while a pillow sham is purely decorative and intended for display. Shams typically have a more elaborate design and closure (often an envelope closure or zipper), and are removed before sleeping.
Pillowcases are made from soft, comfortable materials like cotton, linen, or silk, prioritizing comfort and hygiene as they come into direct contact with your skin while you sleep. Their closure is usually a simple open end or sometimes a zipper, designed for easy removal and washing. The main function of a pillowcase is to keep your pillow clean and to provide a comfortable sleeping surface. In contrast, pillow shams are all about aesthetics. They're often made from more luxurious or durable fabrics that may not be as soft against the skin, like velvet, damask, or embroidered cotton. They come in various styles, colors, and embellishments to coordinate with your bedding ensemble. Shams serve as a visual element, enhancing the overall look of your bed and bedroom. They are typically removed before bedtime to prevent wear and tear and to keep the decorative fabric clean. Think of them as the finishing touch, adding sophistication and style to your bedding.Are pillow shams actually meant to be slept on?
No, pillow shams are not typically meant to be slept on. They are decorative pillow covers designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed or seating area, and are generally removed before sleeping.
Pillow shams are primarily for decoration, completing the look of your bedding ensemble. They often feature embellishments like flanges (a decorative border), embroidery, or unique closures like zippers or envelope closures on the back. These features, while visually appealing, are often less comfortable than standard pillowcases designed for sleeping. Regular pillowcases prioritize comfort and ease of cleaning since they come into direct contact with your skin and hair throughout the night. Using a sham for sleeping could potentially damage the decorative elements and shorten its lifespan. Furthermore, the fabrics and construction of shams are not always as breathable or soft as those used in pillowcases meant for sleeping, which are usually cotton, linen, or silk. Maintaining the cleanliness of shams can also be more involved, as some may require special care, such as dry cleaning. Therefore, it's best to use standard pillowcases for sleeping and reserve your pillow shams for decorative purposes. This practice will keep your bedding looking its best and ensure a comfortable night's sleep.What materials are commonly used to make pillow shams?
Pillow shams are commonly made from a wide variety of materials, mirroring those used for bedding in general. The most popular choices include cotton, linen, silk, and various synthetic fabrics like polyester and microfiber, often in blends. The specific material selected impacts the sham's texture, durability, appearance, and ease of care.
The selection of material for a pillow sham often depends on the desired aesthetic and functional qualities. Cotton is favored for its breathability, softness, and affordability. Linen offers a more textured, relaxed look and is known for its durability and ability to become softer with each wash. Silk shams are prized for their luxurious feel, sheen, and hypoallergenic properties, but they are generally more delicate and require special care. Synthetic materials like polyester and microfiber are often chosen for their wrinkle-resistance, durability, and affordability. They can also be easily dyed and printed, allowing for a wider range of colors and patterns. Often, you'll find blends of natural and synthetic fibers, aiming to combine the best qualities of both. For example, a cotton-polyester blend offers the breathability of cotton with the wrinkle-resistance of polyester. The weight and weave of the fabric also contribute significantly to the overall feel and drape of the sham.How do I choose the right size pillow sham for my pillows?
To choose the right size pillow sham, first identify the type and dimensions of your pillow (standard, queen, king, euro, or decorative) and then select a sham that matches those measurements exactly or is slightly larger (no more than an inch or two) to ensure a snug, aesthetically pleasing fit.
Pillow shams are decorative pillow covers designed to enhance the look of your bedding ensemble, often placed on pillows that are used primarily for decoration rather than sleeping. They come in standard sizes that correlate with pillow sizes. Using a sham that is too small will result in a lumpy and misshapen pillow, while a sham that is too large will look baggy and unkempt. Therefore, accuracy is key. When measuring your pillow, measure the length and width at the widest points. If your pillow is slightly over the standard size, round up to the nearest sham size. For example, a pillow that measures 21 x 27 inches should use a standard sham, which is generally designed for pillows measuring 20 x 26 inches. The slight extra space will allow the pillow to fill out the sham nicely. Remember to check the product description or label of the sham to confirm its exact dimensions before purchasing.Can you iron a pillow sham, and if so, how?
Yes, you can iron a pillow sham, and doing so can enhance its appearance. The general method involves using a low to medium heat setting on your iron, depending on the fabric, and ironing the sham while it is slightly damp. It’s crucial to check the care label for specific instructions to avoid damaging the material.
Ironing pillow shams helps to remove wrinkles and creases, giving them a crisp, polished look, especially important if you're aiming for a more formal or styled bedroom aesthetic. Before you begin, always check the fabric composition. Cotton and linen shams can usually tolerate higher heat settings, while more delicate fabrics like silk or satin will require a much lower temperature and potentially a pressing cloth to prevent scorching or damage. When ironing, it's best to work on a clean ironing board. Lightly mist the sham with water if it's completely dry, or iron it immediately after washing while it's still slightly damp. Iron the sham inside out first to protect any embellishments or delicate details on the front. Finally, turn it right-side out and iron the front, taking extra care around any embroidery, ruffles, or other decorative elements.What is a pillow sham?
A pillow sham is a decorative pillow covering that's designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of bedding, often matching or complementing a comforter, duvet cover, or bedspread. Unlike regular pillowcases which are primarily functional for sleeping, shams are mainly ornamental and used for display.
The primary purpose of a pillow sham is decorative. They are placed on pillows to add a stylish touch to a bed, creating a more polished and visually appealing look. Shams often feature decorative details such as flanges (flat borders), embroidery, quilting, or special closures like envelope closures or zippers on the back, making them distinct from standard pillowcases. These pillows are usually placed in front of sleeping pillows when the bed is made. Pillow shams come in various sizes and styles to match different bedding sizes and aesthetic preferences. Standard, queen, and king sizes are common, but specialty sizes and shapes also exist. They are available in a wide range of fabrics, colors, and patterns, allowing them to be coordinated with other bedding elements to create a cohesive and stylish bedroom décor.How often should I wash my pillow shams?
Pillow shams, which are decorative pillow covers, should ideally be washed every 1-2 weeks. This frequency helps to remove dust, allergens, oils, and dead skin cells that accumulate and can impact hygiene and potentially trigger allergies or skin irritations.
Pillow shams, unlike pillowcases intended for sleeping, are primarily decorative and often adorn beds during the day. While you might not directly sleep on them, they still collect environmental dust, pet dander, and any oils or lotions transferred from your hands when adjusting pillows. Regular washing prevents these particles from building up and potentially affecting the air quality in your bedroom, especially important for individuals with sensitivities. Consider washing your pillow shams more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or a tendency to eat or drink in bed. If a sham has a noticeable stain, address it immediately to prevent it from setting in. Always check the care label for specific washing instructions, as delicate fabrics or embellishments might require special handling, such as hand-washing or dry cleaning. Proper care will extend the lifespan of your shams and keep them looking their best.Are all pillow shams decorative, or do some serve a functional purpose?
While pillow shams are primarily decorative, some can serve a dual purpose by also protecting the pillow underneath. The degree to which they're functional depends largely on the material and construction of the sham itself.
Pillow shams are designed to cover pillows used primarily for aesthetics, completing the overall look of a bed ensemble. They often feature elaborate designs, embellishments like flanges (a flat border around the edge), embroidery, or unique closures like zippers or envelope closures in the back. These features are primarily for show, and while a standard pillowcase is intended for sleeping on, shams typically are not. However, a sham made of a durable, washable fabric like cotton or linen can offer a degree of protection for the pillow insert. If the sham is easily removable and washable, it helps keep the pillow clean from dust, oils, and allergens. In this way, even though its main purpose is decorative, it also performs a functional role. It's important to consider the ease of care when choosing shams, especially if you intend for them to provide some level of pillow protection. Some people might choose to occasionally lean against shams while reading in bed; therefore, durability is something to keep in mind.And that's the lowdown on pillow shams! Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what they are and how they can add a touch of style to your bedroom. Thanks for stopping by, and we hope you'll visit again soon for more helpful tips and insights!