Ever looked at a perfectly made bed in a magazine and wondered how they got it so…fluffy? The secret often lies in the carefully placed decorative pillows, all wearing their own little outfits. Those outfits are typically sham bedding. They're not your everyday pillowcases meant for sleeping on; they're specifically designed for aesthetics, adding texture, color, and a touch of elegance to your bedding ensemble.
Understanding what sham bedding is and how to use it is crucial for elevating the look of your bedroom. It’s about transforming your bed from a purely functional piece of furniture into a stylish focal point. Knowing the difference between a sham and a standard pillowcase can help you curate the perfect bedding set, creating a space that is both comfortable and visually appealing. Investing in the right shams can make all the difference in achieving that designer-worthy look without breaking the bank.
What are the Most Common Questions About Sham Bedding?
What exactly is a sham bedding?
A sham bedding, also known as a pillow sham, is a decorative pillow covering designed to match or complement a bedding set. Unlike pillowcases, which are meant for sleeping on, shams are primarily for aesthetic purposes and are placed on top of sleeping pillows when the bed is made, creating a more polished and coordinated look.
Shams usually feature decorative closures, such as zippers, overlaps (envelope closures), or buttons, located on the back, making it easy to insert and remove the pillow insert. The front of the sham is often embellished with details like flanges (a flat border extending beyond the pillow's edge), embroidery, quilting, or other decorative elements. Shams come in various sizes to correspond with standard pillow sizes like standard, queen, and king. They are not intended for direct skin contact during sleep. The primary purpose of shams is decorative. They contribute to the overall style and visual appeal of the bed. Many bedding sets will include shams that are made from the same material as the duvet cover or comforter, allowing for easy coordination. They can also be used to add texture, color, or pattern to a bed, enhancing the room's decor. While sometimes used to prop oneself up while reading in bed, the texture or material may not be as comfortable as a traditional pillowcase, as they are made with a more decorative fabric than pillowcases, and are often removed before sleeping.What purpose do sham beddings serve?
Sham beddings primarily serve a decorative purpose, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a bed and bedroom. They are designed to coordinate with comforters, duvet covers, or other bedding sets, adding a touch of elegance, color, and texture. Unlike standard pillowcases, shams are not typically used for sleeping on; instead, they are strategically placed to create a visually appealing and polished look.
Shams act as a finishing touch, elevating the bedroom's style and creating a more inviting atmosphere. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns, allowing homeowners to personalize their bedding ensemble and reflect their individual taste. Often, they feature embellishments like flanges, decorative stitching, or embroidery, further contributing to their visual appeal. They can be used to introduce a pop of color, complement existing décor, or create a specific theme within the room. Beyond aesthetics, shams can also offer a practical benefit by providing support for reading or watching television in bed. While not designed for prolonged use as pillows, they can offer a comfortable backrest when propped against the headboard. Furthermore, strategically placed shams can help to visually balance the bed and the room, creating a more harmonious and well-designed space. They contribute to a layered look that makes a bed feel more luxurious and comfortable, even if they are not directly used for sleeping.How do I choose the right size of sham for my pillows?
To choose the right size sham, match the sham size to the corresponding pillow insert size. Standard shams fit standard pillows, king shams fit king pillows, and so on. Always measure your pillow insert if you are unsure, and consider the desired level of fullness, as some people prefer a slightly oversized sham for a plumper look.
The most common sham sizes correspond directly to standard pillow sizes. A standard sham typically measures 20x26 inches and is designed for a standard pillow. King shams measure around 20x36 inches and are made for king-sized pillows, while Euro shams are square, usually 26x26 inches, and intended for Euro pillows which are primarily decorative. Beyond the standard sizes, decorative shams can come in various shapes and dimensions. Boudoir shams, for example, are rectangular and smaller, adding a different aesthetic. When choosing, think about the overall look you want to achieve on your bed. More decorative shams tend to be less about sleeping and more for enhancing your bedroom's style. Always confirm dimensions to ensure a snug or relaxed fit based on your preference.What materials are typically used in sham beddings?
Sham beddings, primarily decorative pillow covers, are commonly made from a variety of materials mirroring those used in other bedding components. These include cotton, linen, silk, polyester, and various blends, chosen for their aesthetic appeal, durability, and ease of care.
The choice of material for a sham bedding often depends on the desired look and feel. Cotton is a popular choice due to its breathability, affordability, and versatility. Linen provides a luxurious, textured look and is known for its durability, although it wrinkles easily. Silk shams offer a smooth, elegant appearance and are often used for more formal bedding sets. Polyester and microfiber are synthetic options that are wrinkle-resistant, easy to care for, and often more budget-friendly than natural fibers. Blends of different materials, such as cotton-polyester, are also common, offering a balance of desirable properties from each fiber. Beyond the basic fabric, embellishments and decorative elements can influence the overall material composition. For example, shams with embroidery, quilting, or other embellishments may incorporate additional threads or fillings made from various materials. The backing of the sham may also differ from the front, often utilizing a simpler, more durable fabric like cotton or a cotton blend to withstand repeated use and washing. The specific material used for the sham will also impact its care instructions, which should always be consulted before washing or cleaning.How are sham beddings different from pillowcases?
Sham beddings, often called pillow shams, are primarily decorative pillow covers designed to coordinate with a bedspread or comforter set, while pillowcases are primarily functional coverings intended to protect pillows and provide a comfortable sleeping surface.
Pillow shams usually have a flange or border around the edges and often feature embellishments like embroidery, quilting, or other decorative elements. They typically close with an envelope opening at the back or a zipper, concealing the pillow entirely for a neater, more finished look. Pillowcases, on the other hand, are designed for everyday use and comfort during sleep. They are generally simpler in design, made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or silk, and have an open end or a simple fold-over closure to easily slip over a pillow. Essentially, while both shams and pillowcases cover pillows, their purposes differ. Shams are for visual appeal, transforming ordinary pillows into decorative accents that enhance the overall aesthetic of the bedding ensemble. Pillowcases prioritize comfort and hygiene, offering a protective layer between your face and the pillow itself during sleep. Therefore, it is perfectly acceptable, and often advisable, to remove the shams before going to bed and use standard pillowcases for sleeping.Are sham beddings functional or decorative?
Sham beddings are primarily decorative, designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed rather than provide warmth or support during sleep.
While a standard pillowcase is meant to protect your pillow and provide a comfortable surface for your head, a sham pillowcase (or simply "sham") serves a different purpose. Shams are typically made from higher-quality fabrics and feature decorative elements such as flanges, embroidery, quilting, or embellishments. They're intended to coordinate with the overall bedding ensemble, adding visual interest and a polished look. Shams often come in different sizes and shapes than standard pillowcases. Euro shams, for example, are square and larger, creating a layered look when placed behind standard or king-sized pillows. Boudoir shams are rectangular and smaller, often positioned in front of other pillows for a final decorative touch. The stuffing inside the shams are typically decorative pillow inserts not designed for sleeping. Ultimately, the purpose of sham bedding is to elevate the style of a bedroom. While a sham *could* be used for sleeping in a pinch, it is generally not recommended due to the often rougher or more embellished fabric and because the interior pillow inserts tend to be less comfortable for sleep than traditional pillows.How do I properly clean and care for sham beddings?
Sham beddings are decorative pillow covers designed to coordinate with your bedding ensemble, adding a stylish touch to your bed. Unlike pillowcases meant for sleeping on, shams are primarily for aesthetic purposes and often feature embellishments like flanges, embroidery, or quilting. To properly clean and care for them, always check the care label first, as fabric types and embellishments will dictate the best cleaning method. Generally, machine washing on a gentle cycle with mild detergent is suitable for most shams, followed by low-heat tumble drying or air drying to prevent damage.
To elaborate, before washing any sham, take note of the material composition and any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Delicate fabrics like silk or velvet may require dry cleaning or hand washing to prevent damage. For machine-washable shams, pretreat any stains before washing. It's advisable to wash shams inside out to protect delicate details and prevent fading. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach unless specifically recommended for the fabric type. After washing, proper drying is crucial. Tumble drying on low heat is suitable for many shams, but air drying is generally gentler and helps to prevent shrinkage and damage to embellishments. To air dry, lay the sham flat on a clean, dry surface or hang it on a clothesline, avoiding direct sunlight which can cause fading. Once dry, iron the sham on a low setting if necessary, again paying attention to any embellishments that may be sensitive to heat. Proper storage in a breathable bag will also help maintain the quality of the sham over time.So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a clearer picture of what sham bedding is (and isn't!). Thanks for taking the time to learn a little more about bedding with me. I hope you'll come back again soon for more cozy tips and tricks to create your dream bedroom!