If you're reading this, chances are you've just purchased a new pillow cover but don't have an insert to go with it. You may be asking yourself: Is there a "right" size? Should I spend on a fancy feather down insert?
To help you out, we've decided to pull together a few basic tips that'll have you showing off your new, plump pillow in no time.
Tip #1 - Use larger inserts
A common misconception is to match the size of the pillow cover to the size of the insert. This often leads to saggy throw pillows that have an under-stuffed appearance. To avoid a sad-looking pillow, consider sizing up!
For example, if your new throw pillow cover measures 20 inches square, consider using a pillow insert that measures 22 inches square. This gives you plenty of material to work with, especially when it comes to squeezing extra fluff into those often-neglected pillow corners.
Using an insert that is one size larger than your cover is the best way to ensure your new throw pillow has that fluffy, magazine-quality appearance.
Be careful with the size you select though. We recommend only going one size up (e.g. 20" insert for an 18" cover, 22" insert for a 20" cover, etc.), or you might end up over-stuffing your throw pillow and potentially ripping the closure.
Bonus Tip: Placing cotton balls in the corners can help perk them up. Beware though - cotton balls quickly lose their shape, and are best suited for throw pillows in low-traffic areas or for home staging.
© PillowSplash - Bronze & Steel Bourgeois Pillow
Tip #2 - Use feather down inserts
Once you've selected a size for your pillow insert, the next factor you may want to consider is the material itself. There are two popular insert options:
1. Feather down inserts
2. Polyester fill, or "poly fill", inserts
The biggest advantage to feather down inserts is their ability to keep their shape longer - but this usually comes with a higher price tag. In fact, high-quality feather down inserts can end up costing twice as much as their poly fill counterparts. Their longevity may, however, offset higher up-front costs.
Its longevity makes feather down the recommended insert option, particularly for pillows placed in high-traffic areas.
Although they're more susceptible to shape-loss, synthetic inserts can still be a great choice. For example, if your throw pillow will be placed in a low-traffic spot, or staged solely for aesthetics, a poly fill will do just fine.
No matter which material you use, please make sure to follow all care instructions carefully, in order to extend the life of your throw pillow.
Bonus Tip: One of our favorite feather down inserts can be purchased in-store at Calico Corners (click here for more information). We've found these Calico inserts to hold their shape well, and we feel they're a great value (especially if you happen across a Calico coupon). In fact, we use these pillow inserts at home, and for all the photos you see here on our website!
To sum it up
Selecting the right pillow insert can be tricky, and it comes down to choosing the right size and material. At PillowSplash, we strongly recommend going one size up on your insert, and selecting durable feather down if your budget allows.
To shop the pillows you've seen here, or to browse our selection of handcrafted throw pillows, please click here.