What are the Dimensions of a Standard Toss Pillow?

Toss pillows, also known as throw pillows or decorative pillows, are a popular home decor accessory used to add comfort, color, and style to sofas, chairs, and beds. 

Standard toss pillows typically come in square sizes ranging from 12 x 12 inches, which is small and versatile, to 26 x 26 inches, offering a substantial presence. Rectangular toss pillows can measure 12 x 16 inches to 26 x 36 inches, adding variety to your decor.

In this article we’ll explore the dimension, shape, factors and other relevant things about toss pillow.

Standard Toss Pillow Dimensions

Most standard sized toss pillows range between 12 to 26 inches square. Here are some of the most common dimensions:

12 x 12 Inches

A 12 x 12 inch square pillow is on the smaller side for a toss pillow. The compact size makes them easy to tuck into corners or stack in groups on sofas and chairs. 

They’re also a good choice if you want to add pops of color without overwhelming a space.

16 x 16 Inches

The 16 x 16 inch square pillow is considered the most standard and popular toss pillow size. 

With its versatile medium scale, it looks proportional on most sofas, chairs, and beds. 16 inch square is a great all-around size that works for most home decor styles.

18 x 18 Inches

Slightly larger than 16 inches, the 18 x 18 inch pillows provide an ample, cozy look. 

They’re substantial enough to hold their own on larger sofas and sectionals. The large square shape also makes a bold statement when layered on beds.

20 x 20 Inches

A 20 inch square pillow has a generous, luxurious appearance that’s well-suited for oversized sofas or beds. Arrange a mix of 20 inch and smaller toss pillows together to create a lush, inviting look.

26 x 26 Inches

26 inch square pillows have a dramatic, substantial presence. They’re most commonly used as back support pillows on beds, or floor cushions for extra casual seating. 

Keep in mind their large size can overwhelm smaller sofas, chairs or accent areas.

Rectangular Toss Pillow Sizes

In addition to square pillows, rectangular shaped toss pillows are also popular. Here are some typical dimensions:

• 12 x 16 inches – Petite rectangle works well with square pillows
• 16 x 24 inches – Versatile mid-size rectangle, nice for sofas and chairs
• 20 x 30 inches – Generous, hotel suite-style rectangular pillows
• 26 x 36 inches – Oversized floor cushions or back support pillows

Rectangular pillows help add height and visual interest when mixed with squares on sofas or beds. They can also be used to fill narrow spaces like window seats.

Factors for Choosing Toss Pillow Size

When selecting the best pillow dimensions for your needs, keep these key factors in mind:

• Furniture size – Scale pillows to complement the furniture. For example, larger pillows for oversized sofas.
• Pillow quantity – Add more small/medium pillows than large ones for balanced arrangement.
• Location – Consider pillow visibility and functionality for couch, chair, or bed.
• Decor style – Coordinate pillow size with the room’s aesthetic – tailor to traditional, modern, or eclectic decor.
• Personal preference – Decide whether you want subtle or bold pillow statement.

In general, purchasing a variety of square and rectangular pillows in small, medium and large sizes will provide the most flexibility in designing your toss pillow arrangement.

Typical Number of Toss Pillows

Wondering how many throw pillows to buy for your space? Here are some recommended starting quantities:

• Loveseat: 2-4 pillows
• Sofa: 4-6 pillows
• Sectional: 6-10 pillows
• Armchair: 2-4 pillows
• King bed: 4-8 pillows
• Queen bed: 3-6 pillows
• Accent bench: 2-4 pillows

Keep in mind these numbers are general guidelines – your personal style and room size may call for more or less. Don’t be afraid to experiment with arranging and rearranging pillows until you find a look you love!

Toss Pillow Insert Sizing

In addition to the pillow cover dimensions, pay attention to the toss pillow insert size. 

Inserts are usually made 2 inches smaller than the cover size to account for the pillow seams and give it a full, pillowy shape.

For example, choose a 16 inch insert for an 18 inch cover or a 20 inch insert for a 22 inch cover. 

Be sure to verify the insert size when purchasing pre-made covers and inserts to ensure good fit and proper proportions.

Popular Toss Pillow Styles

Beyond size, toss pillows are available in a wide array of shapes and construction styles. Here are some of the most common options:

Knife Edge

Knife edge pillows have a streamlined style with corners that are sewn and whipped stitched for a tapered edge. 

The tailored knife edge works well in modern, contemporary decor. This construction is common among solid color linen, velvet, or quilted pillow covers.

Self-Welting

The self-welting technique creates a pillow with a small rolled, rounded border. The welting gives structure and definition along the seams. Self-welting adds a touch of classic sophistication and works with embroidered and embellished styles.

Flange Edge

For a casual ruffled look, flange edged toss pillows have a extra strip of fabric inserted into the seams. 

Flange edges come in different widths and add textural interest and movement to solid prints and bold patterns.

Envelope Closure

Envelope closure pillows have overlapping fabric on the back secured with hidden magnetic closures or ties, giving a smooth, concealed finish. 

The envelope backing provides easy insert access and a tidy appearance for decorative fabrics like silks or jacquards.

Box Construction

Box constructed pillows have neatly finished seams with mitered corners for a squared effect. 

The sturdy edges highlight graphic prints and geometric designs. Quilted and outdoor pillows frequently feature box construction.

Consider the style of your room decor when choosing among the various toss pillow edges and construction. 

The options give great flexibility in finding just the right pillow aesthetics for you.

Toss Pillow Fill Materials

In addition to outer appearance, the inner fill material impacts a toss pillow’s properties like shape, longevity, and comfort. Here are the most common types of pillow fill materials:

Polyester Fiberfill

Polyester fiberfill is a traditional synthetic filling that consists of fluffy polyester fibers. It has good resilience and maintains an even shape. 

Polyester is a budget-friendly option for casual everyday pillows. Downsides are it tends to compress over time and gets lumpy.

Down Feathers

Pillows filled with goose or duck down have an irresistibly soft, luxurious feel. The fluffy downs have excellent loft and conform nicely to provide comfort. 

However, down fill can be expensive and requires more care to maintain its pillowy shape.

Down Alternative

For the cozy feel of down without the high costs, down alternative pillows are filled with polyester fibers spun to mimic properties of down. 

The synthetic fill has good bounce-back yet avoids potential allergies associated with natural down.

Memory Foam

Shredded memory foam as a toss pillow insert allows for shaping and molding support. 

It nicely conforms to provide neck, back and arm comfort when used as backrests. Memory foam retains its structure well but does not have as much squeezable plushness as other fills.

Feather

Pillows filled with duck or goose feathers provide medium-firm cushioning with good support. 

The quills allow airflow through the pillow. Feather fill is not as fluffy and compressible as down, but provides nice resilience at a lower cost.

When selecting fill material, weigh factors like desired softness, support, shaping, allergy concerns, maintenance and budget. 

Be sure to buy pillow inserts and covers suited to the fill material for proper longevity and performance.

Toss Pillow Materials Guide

Toss pillow covers come in a huge range of fabrics, colors, patterns, and embellishments to fit any style. Here is an overview of common pillow cover materials:

Cotton

Cotton toss pillow covers have a cool, breathable feel that works well in warm climates. The natural fiber also absorbs moisture and is easy to clean. Choose cotton in solids, stripes, prints or textured fabrics like seersucker.

Linen

Made from natural fibers of the flax plant, linen pillows have an organic, casual appeal. The fabric resists stains, wears beautifully over time and keeps its cool feel in warm weather.

Velvet

With its luxuriously soft, deep pile, velvet makes a bold style statement on pillows. Cotton or synthetic velvet wears well and comes in festive colors and patterns like floral, paisley and jacquard.

Wool

Natural wool fabric has a soft, cozy feel combined with soil and wrinkle resistance. Wool works beautifully for knit pillow covers and winter cabin decor. Watch for potential pilling issues over time.

Faux Fur

For playful, glamorous style, faux fur pillows come in a rainbow of fun colors like pink, blue and metallic. The pile comes in varied lengths and textures. Faux fur requires gentle vacuuming to remove dust and debris.

Outdoor

Outdoor pillow covers resist fading, mold and mildew in all weather conditions. Materials like polyester, acrylic and olefin are solution-dyed for maximum colorfastness. Water-resistant coatings prevent stains.

Embellished

Dress up solid colored pillows with trims like fringe, tassels, embroidered accents, decorative cording, buttons and brooches. Or opt for bold beaded, sequined and needlepoint pillow designs.

With the wide range of available fabrics and embellishments, you can easily find toss pillows to match your room’s decor style – whether it’s coastal charm, modern minimalism or traditional opulence. 

Refer back to this handy material guide when shopping.

Toss Pillow Care Tips

Toss pillows see a lot of use, so it’s important to care for them properly to maintain their shape and beauty. Here are some helpful care tips by fabric type:

Cotton/Linen

• Machine wash warm and tumble dry low.
• Avoid bleach – use non-chlorine products only.
• Iron on medium heat if needed.

Velvet/Wool

• Professionally dry clean only to protect fibers and pile.
• Use a fabric shaver to gently remove surface pills or fuzz.
• Steam to freshen and smooth pile as needed.

Outdoor

• Check tags – many can be machine washed and air dried.
• Rinse off stains promptly before setting. Use a mild detergent.
• Allow to fully air dry before placing back outside to prevent mold.

Embellished

• Dry clean only to protect delicate trims and decorations.
• Avoid any heat or harsh chemicals.
• For spot cleaning, use a mild solvent and gentle blotting.

All Fabrics

• Fluff and rotate inserts regularly to maintain even fill distribution and shape.
• Vacuum panels and seams occasionally to remove accumulated dust and dirt.
• Store pillows flat during off seasons or periods of non-use to prevent creasing.

With proper care and cleaning suited to the fabric, your beautiful toss pillows will retain their shape, color and appeal for many years of stylish service.

Toss Pillow FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about toss pillow dimensions, styles, and selection:

What Are Standard Toss Pillow Sizes?

The most common dimensions are 12” to 26” square. 16” and 18” square are popular medium sizes. Rectangular pillows like 16”x 24” are also standard.

How Many Throw Pillows Should I Get?

General guidelines are 2-4 pillows for armchairs, 4-6 for sofas, and 4-8 for beds. Mix various sizes for visual interest.

What’s The Best Pillow Fill Material: Down, Polyester Fiber, Memory Foam?

It depends on your preferences! Down and down alternative provide the fluffiest feel. Polyester is budget-friendly. Memory foam offers ergonomic support.

How Do I Choose The Right Pillow Fabrics?

Consider your room’s decor, color scheme, and style tastes. Opt for easy-care cottons and linens for casual decor. Choose rich velvets or embellished fabrics for elegant spaces.

What’s The Best Way To Arrange Toss Pillows On A Sofa?

Start with a larger pillow in the center for the focal point. Flank with two medium pillows, then place your smaller accent pillows on the ends. Angle pillows for depth and interest.

How Often Should I Fluff And Adjust Toss Pillows?

Fluff and rearrange your toss pillows daily or anytime they look flat or disheveled. Regular fluffing helps preserve the pillow shape and fullness.

Summary

Toss pillows are available in a range of square and rectangular dimensions spanning anywhere from 12 to 26 inches. Standard sizes like 16, 18, and 20 inch squares work well for most home decor needs. 

Mix and match different shapes and scales for an attractive, cohesive arrangement. 

Beyond size, also consider pillow construction, fabrics, embellishments and fill materials to select pillows that complement your existing room decor.

Properly caring for your toss pillows by washing, drying, and fluffing according to fabric recommendations will help ensure they retain their beauty over many years of use. 

With the right combination of sizes, styles and fabrics, you can use toss pillows to easily change up the look of any space.