A Complete Pillowcase Size Guide

If you are buying new pillowcases, before you can start with the fun part of choosing fabrics and colors, you first have to know what size you need for your pillow. If you’ve ever struggled to understand the difference between a standard, Oxford and king size pillowcase, this definitive guide will help you choose the right size!

What is a US standard pillowcase? 

A US standard pillowcase is smaller than the UK or European standard, because otherwise life would be far too easy. Measuring 20 x 26in, it is a more compact version of the queen pillowcase and is great for those who prefer a smaller pillow or who have a bit less bed space. 

What is a US queen pillowcase?

A queen pillowcase measures 20 x 29in and is designed to fit a standard pillow of the same size. It has a solid sewn edge and will fit your pillow snugly. A single standard pillow will fit nicely across the width of a twin bed and a pair will sit side by side on a queen bed. 

What is an Oxford pillowcase? 

An Oxford pillowcase will also fit any queen pillow, as the inside also measures 20 x 29in. The only difference is that it will have a wide flat hem around it that creates a border, for aesthetic purposes. 

How big is a king size pillowcase?

A king size pillowcase is designed to only fit over a king size pillow and is much longer than a standard. It measures 20 x 36.5in. A pair of king size pillows will fit perfectly side by side in a king or california king bed. They are also commonly referred to as super king pillowcases, XL, super long or large. It’s all the same, but check the size guide of where you’re buying from to be sure. 

What is a square pillowcase?

A square pillowcase will measure 25.6 x 25.6in and will fit a square pillow. Sometimes square pillowcases may also have a wide flap or hemp around the edge for decorative purposes, like the Oxford pillowcases. 

What is a pillow sham?

A pillow sham tends to be a thicker, more decorative covering. Shams are generally designed not to be slept on (as often they are quilted or embroidered which might not be as comfortable against your skin) but serve as an embellishment to the bed and to complete a bedroom aesthetic. Pillow shams may come in any of the sizes listed above. 

Now that you know what pillowcase size you need, you can move on to the far more interesting part of choosing the style! At Piglet in Bed, all our pillowcases are available in standard, queen, king and square, in all of our signature colors - perfect for mixing and matching with our bedding sets! We also stock 100% Merino wool pillows and British wool pillows, if you are looking for a natural alternative to feather and down.