Pillows Size Guide
When people think about sleep, they usually focus on mattresses. But the right pillow size is just as important for proper neck support, spinal alignment, and all-night comfort. Choosing the wrong size can cause neck stiffness, poor posture, or even disrupt sleep quality.
This guide explains UK, US, European, and Asian pillow sizes, helps you match them with your mattress and sleep position, and highlights speciality and decorative pillow options.
Pillow Size Chart
| Pillow Type | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (cm) | Best Bed Size | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 20 x 26 | 51 x 66 | Twin, Full | Back & stomach sleepers |
| Queen | 20 x 30 | 51 x 76 | Queen | Combination sleepers |
| King | 20 x 36 | 51 x 92 | King, Cal King | Side sleepers & sitting up |
| Euro | 26 x 26 | 66 x 66 | Any | Decorative & support |
| Body | 20 x 54 | 51 x 137 | Any | Pregnancy & side sleepers |
UK vs US vs European Pillow Sizes
| Region | Common Pillow Sizes | Shape | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA |
Standard: 20 x 26 in (51 x 66 cm) Queen: 20 x 30 in (51 x 76 cm) King: 20 x 36 in (51 x 92 cm) |
Rectangular | Designed to match mattress sizes. Decorative Euro squares often used. |
| UK | Standard: 20 x 30 in (50 x 75 cm) | Rectangular | UK Standard ≈ US Queen. Pillowcases don’t fit US Standard. Fluffier than US versions. |
| Europe |
Square: 25 x 25 in (65 x 65 cm) Rectangular: 19.5 x 27.5 in (50 x 70 cm) |
Mostly square | Large square pillows common in Germany, France, Italy. |
| Asia |
Japan: ~17 x 21 in (43 x 53 cm) China/Korea: Similar to US Standard but slimmer/firmer |
Rectangular / specialty | Often filled with buckwheat; prioritise airflow & health. |
Which Pillow Size Fits Your Bed?
| Bed Size | Best Pillow Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Twin / Twin XL | 1 Standard pillow | 2 for extra support |
| Full (Double) | 2 Standard or Queen pillows | Balanced look |
| Queen | 2 Queen pillows | 2 Standards also work (slimmer look) |
| King | 2 King pillows | Or 3 Standards |
| California King | 2 King pillows | Best fit |
Pillow Sizes by Sleeper Type
| Sleeping Position | Recommended Pillow Size | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | King / Body pillows | Shoulder & neck support |
| Back Sleepers | Standard / Queen | Balanced loft |
| Stomach Sleepers | Slim Standard | Avoids neck strain |
| Combination | Queen | Versatile for all positions |
Specialty Pillow Sizes
| Pillow Type | Shape & Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Pillow | U-shaped, ~11 x 11 in (28 x 28 cm) | Neck support while travelling |
| Pregnancy Pillow | C- or U-shaped, up to 55 in (140 cm) | Full-body support |
| Orthopaedic Pillow | Contoured / cut-out | Neck/back pain, sleep apnea |
| Wedge Pillow | Triangular | Acid reflux, snoring, circulation |
| Body Pillow | 20 x 54 in (51 x 137 cm) | Side sleepers & pregnancy support |
Decorative Pillow Sizes
| Pillow Type | Shape & Size | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Euro Sham | 26 x 26 in (66 x 66 cm), Square | Adds layering & height |
| Lumbar Pillow | 12 x 20 in (30 x 50 cm), Rectangular | Lower back support |
| Accent & Throw Pillows | 16–24 in (40–60 cm), Various shapes | Style & extra comfort |
| Bolster Pillow | Cylindrical, variable length | Decorative & arm/neck support |
Pillow Fillings & Their Impact
| Filling Type | Feel | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Down & Feather | Soft, moldable | Back sleepers | May need larger size |
| Memory Foam | Firm, holds shape | Side sleepers | Feels taller than down |
| Latex | Supportive, breathable | Allergy-sensitive | Durable & hypoallergenic |
| Buckwheat | Adjustable, firm | Natural sleep solutions | Heavy, common in Japan |
| Polyester / Synthetic | Light, affordable | Budget-friendly | Flattens quickly |
The right pillow size is not just about comfort—it directly affects your spinal alignment, sleep quality, and overall health. From compact Standard pillows to luxurious King pillows, and from Euro decorative styles to body pillows for full support, there’s an option for every bed size and sleeping position. Before buying, always check both dimensions (inches + cm) and filling type to ensure the perfect fit. A well-chosen pillow makes your bedroom more stylish, your sleep deeper, and your mornings pain-free.
✅ Invest in the right pillow size today—and wake up refreshed tomorrow.
