You’ve probably seen beautiful beds in home magazines or hotel rooms that look perfectly styled. One of the hidden design secrets behind that layered, elegant look is a simple bedding accessory called a bed sham. But what exactly is it?
In this article, we’ll explain what a bed sham is, how it differs from a regular pillowcase, and why it’s an easy way to make your bedroom feel more polished and welcoming.
What Is a Bed Sham?
It is a decorative cover for a pillow. While pillowcases are made for sleeping, shams are usually used to enhance the appearance of the bed. They come in different sizes and styles, often with fancy stitching, flanges (the decorative edges), or patterned fabrics.
Bed shams typically have an opening in the back, so you can easily slide in a pillow. Because they’re meant for decoration rather than comfort, people often use lower-cost pillows inside them.
Why Use a Bed Sham?
Using a bed sham can make your bed look more stylish and complete without much effort. Here are a few reasons you might want to use them:
Adds style to your bed: Shams help create a well-styled look by covering your pillows with attractive fabrics and patterns.
Provides layering: They add height and texture when layered with standard pillows and throw cushions.
Easy to change: You can switch out your shams seasonally to refresh your room without replacing all your bedding.
For example, you could use a soft linen sham in summer and a velvet one in winter for a cozy upgrade.
Bed Sham vs Pillowcase: What’s the Difference?
Though they both cover pillows, bed shams and pillowcases serve different purposes. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Feature | Bed Sham | Pillowcase |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Decorative | Practical (used for sleeping) |
| Fabric Style | Often textured or patterned | Smooth and soft for comfort |
| Pillow Access | Opening in the back or middle | Open-end or envelope style |
| Use During Sleep | Usually removed before bed | Stays on the pillow overnight |
So, while pillowcases are about comfort and cleanliness, shams are mostly about style.
How to Use Bed Shams Effectively
Now that you know what a bed sham is, how can you use it to improve your bedroom setup?
1. Create a Layered Look
Start by placing Euro shams (the large square ones) at the back, followed by standard or king shams. Place your regular sleeping pillows in front, and finish with a few throw pillows. This layered approach makes your bed look full and inviting.
2. Coordinate With Your Bedding
Choose a match or complement your duvet or quilt. This helps tie your bedding together, making it feel like a complete set.
3. Switch With the Seasons
Changing your sheets can keep your bedroom looking fresh. Go for lighter fabrics in warmer months and richer textures in colder ones.
Can You Sleep on a Bed Sham?
Although sleeping on a bed sham is not harmful, it’s not recommended. Shams often have decorative elements like buttons, embroidery, or textured fabric that can be uncomfortable. For the best sleep, remove them before bed and use regular pillowcases.
If you have guests, it’s a good idea to provide both shams and pillowcases, so your bedding looks good while still being functional.
For a more in-depth understanding of bedding health and comfort, visit The Sleep Foundation to learn what fabrics are best for sleep.
How to Clean
Most bed shams are machine washable, but it’s always a good idea to check the label. Since they’re decorative, they don’t need to be washed as often as your pillowcases. Washing them every few weeks or monthly should be enough.
To keep them looking nice:
Wash on a gentle cycle
Avoid harsh detergents
Air dry when possible, or use low heat
For tips on washing different types of bedding, you can refer to Martha Stewart’s bedding care guide.
Final Thoughts
A bed sham is a small but powerful way to improve the look of your bedroom. It gives your space a more finished and thoughtful design, and it’s easy to add to your existing bedding setup. Whether you prefer a clean, minimal look or something bold and colorful, there’s a bed sham out there that fits your style.
And since they’re removable and easy to clean, shams also make it simple to update your bedroom’s appearance throughout the year.If you’re looking for well-designed bedding options, check out Cozy Bed Quarters for ideas and shams that suit every style.
