The right throw pillows can tie a room together, but picking them involves more than just color. You need to consider fabric durability, filling, and construction to ensure they look good and feel good for years, not just months. Think about how you’ll use them: are they purely decorative, or will someone actually lean on them?
Fabrics that stand up to daily life
Your choice of fabric dictates how your throw pillows will wear. For high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets, opt for robust materials.
Natural fibers
- Cotton: A versatile choice, cotton is breathable and relatively durable. Look for tighter weaves like canvas or denim for better wear resistance. Pre-shrunk cotton is ideal to prevent shrinkage after washing.
- Linen: Known for its elegant drape, linen can be prone to wrinkling. For durability, choose heavier weight linen or blends that incorporate linen with cotton or polyester.
- Wool: Offers warmth and a cozy texture. Wool is naturally durable and resistant to pilling, but can be more expensive. Ensure it’s treated for washability if you plan to clean it often.
Synthetic fibers
- Polyester: Often blended with other fibers, polyester is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and generally easy to clean. It’s a cost-effective option that holds color well.
- Acrylic: Mimics the look of wool but is more resistant to stains and fading, making it a good choice for outdoor or sun-drenched spaces.
- Olefin (Polypropylene): Highly resistant to stains, moisture, and mildew, making it excellent for outdoor use or very active households. It’s also colorfast.
- Performance fabrics: Brands offer specific performance fabrics designed for extreme durability, stain resistance, and ease of cleaning. These are ideal for families with young children or pets.
Textured and delicate fabrics
Fabrics like velvet, silk, faux fur, and heavily embroidered materials are beautiful but require more care. Reserve these for low-traffic areas or use them as accent pillows that won’t be constantly handled. Spills and friction can damage these delicate textures quickly.
Filling matters for comfort and shape
The filling inside your throw pillow is crucial for both comfort and how well it holds its shape. Cheaper pillows often use inferior fillings that flatten out quickly.
Down and feather
Down (soft under-feathers) and feather fillings offer a luxurious, plush feel. They are moldable, allowing you to easily karate-chop them for a designer look. However, they can be expensive, may trigger allergies, and require specific cleaning methods. Feather fillings can also sometimes poke through the fabric.
Polyester fiberfill
This is the most common and affordable filling. Quality varies greatly. High-quality polyester fiberfill can be resilient and comfortable, but cheaper versions compress easily and lose their loft. Look for descriptions like ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘resilient’ fiberfill.
Foam
Foam inserts, particularly high-density foam, offer firm support and retain their shape well. They are often used in outdoor or performance pillows. Foam can be less comfortable for leaning against for extended periods and may have an initial chemical odor.
Blends
Many pillows use a blend of down and feathers, or polyester with some down alternative, to balance cost, comfort, and durability. A mix of down and feather is common, offering a good balance of softness and structure.
Size and placement: Making them work for your space
The scale and placement of your throw pillows significantly impact the overall look and feel of your room. Using the wrong sizes can make a sofa or bed look cluttered or sparse.
Common pillow sizes
Throw pillows come in standard sizes, but custom sizes are also available. Common square sizes include 16×16 inches, 18×18 inches, 20×20 inches, and 22×22 inches. Lumbar pillows typically measure 12×20 inches or 14×36 inches. Bolster pillows can vary widely.
Layering pillows
For sofas and sectionals, layering pillows adds depth and visual interest. Start with larger pillows (e.g., 20×20 or 22×22 inches) placed against the back of the sofa. Then, add smaller square pillows (e.g., 18×18 inches) or lumbar pillows in front. A final accent pillow in a contrasting texture or color can complete the look. Avoid overcrowding; aim for a balance that allows comfortable seating.
Pillows on beds
On a bed, pillows play a functional and decorative role. Start with your sleeping pillows, then add a row of Euro shams (26×26 inches) against the headboard. Layer standard or queen-sized shams (20×26 inches) in front of the Euros. Finally, add decorative throw pillows in various sizes and shapes towards the foot of the bed or in front of the shams. This layered approach, as seen in many bedroom decorating designs, creates a plush and inviting look.
Consider the furniture scale
A large sectional can handle multiple, larger pillows, while a small accent chair might only need one or two smaller pillows. Too many or too large pillows can overwhelm smaller furniture pieces. Referencing decorating tips for makeovers can help you visualize scale.
Construction and care: Ensuring longevity
Beyond fabric and filling, the way a pillow is constructed and how you care for it affects its lifespan.
Zippered covers
Pillows with zippered covers are significantly easier to clean. You can remove the cover and wash or dry clean it according to the fabric instructions. This prevents the entire pillow from becoming matted or losing its shape in a washing machine.
Seams and stitching
Inspect the seams. Well-constructed pillows have strong, reinforced seams. Look for double-stitching, especially on corners, to prevent them from splitting under pressure. Loose threads or poor stitching are red flags.
Care labels
Always check the care label. Some pillow covers are spot-clean only, while others are machine washable. Down and feather fillings often require professional cleaning or very specific washing instructions to avoid clumping.
Preventing fading and wear
If your pillows are in a sunny spot, choose fabrics resistant to UV fading, like acrylics or performance fabrics. Rotate pillows periodically to ensure even wear. For outdoor pillows, consider bringing them inside during inclement weather to extend their life.
When to choose decorative versus functional
Understanding the primary purpose of your throw pillows helps in making the right selection.
Purely decorative accents
If pillows are just for show, you can lean towards more delicate fabrics like silk, rich velvets, or intricate embroidery. They don’t need to withstand compression or heavy use. Think of them as finishing touches, similar to how you might approach bedroom decorating themes where visual appeal is paramount.
Functional comfort
For pillows that will be used for back support, napping, or frequent lounging, prioritize durable fabrics and resilient fillings. Comfort and washability become key factors. Avoid overly stiff or abrasive fabrics that might be uncomfortable for prolonged contact.
Common mistakes to avoid
Selecting throw pillows can seem simple, but a few common missteps can lead to disappointing results.
Overcrowding
Too many pillows can make a sofa or bed look messy and unusable. Stick to a curated number that complements the furniture without overwhelming it.
Mismatched scale
Using pillows that are too large or too small for the furniture can throw off the room’s balance. Always consider the proportions of your seating or bedding.
Ignoring fabric care
Choosing a beautiful but difficult-to-clean fabric for a high-use area is a recipe for stains and wear. Be realistic about your lifestyle and maintenance tolerance.
Using outdated styles
Throw pillows are a relatively easy and inexpensive way to update your decor. Holding onto pillows with dated patterns or shapes can make your entire room feel old-fashioned.
By focusing on fabric, filling, size, construction, and intended use, you can select decorating throw pillows that not only enhance your space aesthetically but also provide lasting comfort and durability.
