Sham in Bedding Explained — Styling, Sizes & Benefits Guide

A sham in bedding is a decorative pillow cover that adds style and elegance to your bed. Unlike standard pillowcases, shams are designed to enhance the visual appeal of your bedding ensemble while offering a versatile way to refresh your decor.

Key Takeaways

• Definition: A sham in bedding is a decorative pillow cover—different from a sleep pillowcase—used mainly for aesthetics.
• Sizes: Standard, king, and Euro shams let you build layered, hotel‑style arrangements with structure and symmetry.
• Styling: Layer back‑to‑front (Euro → standard/king → throws), mix textures, and swap seasonally for easy updates.
• Care: Wash gently every 2–4 weeks (or weekly if used often); rotate sets to maintain freshness and longevity.

Understanding Shams in Bedding

In short: A sham turns an ordinary pillow into a decorative accent with hidden closures and tailored details for a polished, made‑bed look.

A sham in bedding isn’t just about looks—it’s a small detail with a big design impact. It refers to a pillow cover, often used to disguise standard bed pillows and turn them into stylish showpieces. Unlike your everyday pillowcase, which serves a purely functional purpose, a sham adds flair. Most shams feature flanged edges, embroidery, or bold textures, and they close in the back with an envelope-style or zipper closure, hiding the pillow entirely. This creates a neater, more polished look when the bed is made.

Many people wonder if shams are necessary. While not essential for sleeping comfort, they’re a staple in well-styled beds—helping your sleeping space look put-together and inviting. If you’re focused on enhancing your sleep sanctuary’s vibe, they’re a simple upgrade that makes a difference. Learn more about the basics in our
bedding essentials guide.
For an in-depth definition, check out
Parachute’s guide to shams.

Summary: Shams are a design-focused bedding accessory that helps transform functional pillows into decorative features.

Types of Shams

Quick answer: Choose standard or king shams for rectangular pillows and Euro shams (26″ × 26″) for tall, luxe back layers.

Not all shams are created equal—understanding the different
types helps you style smarter. Here are the most common options:

• Standard Sham: Sized at 20″ × 26″, these are perfect for traditional pillows on full or queen beds. They’re a go-to for layered looks.
• King Sham: Measuring 20″ × 36″, these suit larger beds and offer great support for backrest or reading in bed.
• Euro Sham: These large square shams (26″ × 26″) are often placed behind standard or king pillows and lend a luxurious hotel-like aesthetic.

You might also see boudoir shams (12″ × 16″) or continental shams—both are smaller accent options great for layering. By combining different sizes and shapes, you can build a bed setup that feels personalized and professionally styled. For additional detail, explore
Boll & Branch’s overview of bed shams.

Summary: Choose sham sizes based on bed dimensions and desired styling layers—each size brings a distinct visual impact.

Styling Tips for Shams

At a glance: Layer Euro shams first, add standard/king shams, then finish with throws; mix textures and rotate seasonally.

Shams shine when they’re layered creatively. Whether you’re going for cozy farmhouse vibes or a sleek modern look, shams can help define your aesthetic. Here’s how to get it right:

• Layer Thoughtfully: Start with Euro shams at the back, then layer standard or king shams, and finish with throw pillows for dimension.
• Match or Mix: Use matching shams for symmetry, or mix textures and colors to add depth. For example, pair velvet Euro shams with linen standard shams.
• Change with Seasons: Swap out covers seasonally—warm, rich fabrics in fall and winter; cool, airy cottons in spring and summer.

Coordinate your shams with your duvet or comforter for a cohesive look, or use them to inject a pop of color. Need some style inspiration?
Browse our bedroom color schemes guide. Also, see Real Simple’s styling tips for bed shams.

Summary: Shams are a quick and impactful way to personalize your bed—layer, mix, and refresh them with the seasons for ongoing style.

Maintenance and Care

Essential tip: Wash gently on cold and rotate sets; delicate fabrics like silk or velvet may need hand washing or dry cleaning.

Because they’re decorative, shams don’t require as frequent washing as pillowcases—but cleanliness is still key. Dust and allergens can build up, especially if you lean on these pillows during the day. Here’s how to keep them looking fresh:

• Routine Cleaning: Wash every 2–4 weeks if the shams are purely decorative; weekly if they see regular use.
• Gentle Cycle: Machine wash on cold using mild detergent. Air dry or tumble dry low to avoid shrinkage and preserve embellishments.
• Fabric-Specific Tips: Silk or velvet shams often require hand washing or dry cleaning. Always check the care label.

Pro tip: keep an extra set of shams so you can rotate them between washes. It’s easier to maintain freshness without disrupting your room’s style. Explore more cleaning tips in our bedding care guide.

Summary: Regular gentle washing preserves your shams’ beauty and extends their lifespan—especially when rotated with backups.

Benefits of Using Shams

Bottom line: Shams boost visual harmony, add lounge‑friendly support, and offer an easy, budget‑smart way to refresh decor.

Why invest in decorative pillows you don’t sleep on? Because the value shams bring to your bedroom extends well beyond aesthetics. Here’s why they’re worth it:

• Visual Harmony: Shams tie your bedding elements together for a cohesive, styled look.
• Functional Design: They double as comfy backrests when reading or lounging.
• Flexible Decor: You can easily refresh your bed’s look by switching out shams instead of an entire duvet set.
• Added Protection: They act as a barrier between your pillow inserts and dust, oils, or pet hair.

In fact, many interior designers treat shams as “the throw rug of the bed”—small, swappable pieces that influence the entire feel of the space. If you love to redecorate often, shams are a budget-friendly way to experiment with trends. You can find beautifully styled examples on Sleep Foundation’s guide to shams.

Summary: From style to function, shams offer multiple benefits that make your bedroom feel complete and comfortable.

Adding shams to your bedding is a simple, affordable upgrade that pays off in both style and comfort. Whether you’re starting with a couple of Euro shams or going all-in on a full layered setup, these decorative covers add a tailored, cozy vibe to any bed. Explore even more cozy upgrades in our
sustainable bedding guide.

FAQ

What is the difference between a sham and a pillowcase?

A pillowcase is designed for sleeping and typically opens at one end, while a sham is decorative and often features a hidden envelope or zipper closure.

Can you sleep on a pillow with a sham?

Yes, but it’s not recommended for daily use—shams are best for decoration and occasional support, not for nightly comfort.

How often should shams be washed?

Wash every 2–4 weeks if decorative, and weekly if they’re in daily use. Rotate sets for better hygiene and style flexibility.

Do shams come with pillow inserts?

Usually not. Shams are sold separately so you can customize the insert’s firmness and material to your preference.

Related reading from Cozy Bed Quarters

• What is Bedding Sham? 7 Stylish Ways to Transform Your Bed Instantly
• Quality Bedding Upgrade
• Choosing the Right Bedding, Mattress, and Hygiene

Other reading we found popular

• Sleep Foundation — What Is a Bed Sham?
• Parachute — What Is a Sham?
• Real Simple — Pillow Shams vs. Pillowcases