What’s the Right Pillow Size for the Best Sleep?
Standard pillow size is 20″ x 26″. It’s just the beginning when it comes to choosing the right pillow. Comfort matters, but size, loft, and fill also play a big role in your sleep quality. This guide covers common pillow sizes, specialty types, materials, and how to choose the best option based on your sleeping style and bed size.
| Pillow Type | Size (Inches) | Size (CM) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | 16" x 24" | 40 x 60 cm | Toddlers and small children |
| Standard | 20" x 26" | 50 x 66 cm | Twin, full, and queen beds |
| Super Standard | 20" x 28" | 51 x 71 cm | Slightly longer than standard |
| Queen | 20" x 30" | 51 x 76 cm | Queen beds, active sleepers |
| King | 20" x 36" | 51 x 92 cm | King and Cal king beds, back support |
| Superking (UK) | 20" x 35" | 50 x 90 cm | Superking/Emperor UK beds |
| Square (Euro) | 26" x 26" | 65 x 65 cm | Decorative, reading support |
| Body Pillow | 20" x 54" | 51 x 137 cm | Side sleepers, pregnancy support |
Choosing the right pillow size is about comfort and proportion. The right fit ensures visual balance and proper support for your bed size.
| Bed Size | Recommended Pillow Size(s) |
|---|---|
| Twin | 1 x Standard or Queen |
| Full/Double | 2 x Standard or Queen |
| Queen | 2 x Queen or King |
| King | 2 x King or 3 x Standard |
| Superking (UK) | 2 x Superking |
Measuring Your Pillow and Choosing the Right Type
To choose the right specialty pillow, start by measuring your current one accurately. Use a rigid tape measure, measure side to side (not diagonally), and round up to the nearest whole number.
With the correct size in hand, you can confidently explore pillow types that match your needs whether it’s a body pillow for full-body support or an orthopedic pillow for targeted relief.
| Pillow Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Body Pillow | Long pillow offering full-body support, great for side sleepers, pregnancy, and injury recovery |
| Euro Pillow | Square decorative pillow (26" x 26") for styling or sitting upright |
| Wedge Pillow | Triangular shape for sleeping at an incline, ideal for acid reflux, snoring, or reading |
| Orthopedic Pillow | Contoured for medical support to neck, shoulders, knees, or spine |
| Pregnancy Pillow | U- or C-shaped to support belly, back, and legs during pregnancy |
| Knee Pillow | Small cushion that fits between knees to align hips and spine for side sleepers |
| Travel Pillow | Compact (12" x 16") for portable use during travel |