Pillow shams—commonly referred to as bed shams—are decorative covers designed to enhance your bedding aesthetic. While they may resemble pillowcases, they serve a different function and offer a unique layer of style to any bedroom setup.
According to Wikipedia, as of 2024, bed shams continue to be a staple in luxury and designer bedrooms, providing both visual interest and versatility.
If you’re unsure what a pillow sham is, when to use it, or how it differs from a standard pillowcase, this guide from Cozy Bed Quarters covers everything you need to know.
Bed Sham vs Pillowcase: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Bed Sham | Pillowcase |
| Purpose | Decorative | Functional (sleeping) |
| Closure Type | Hidden flap, envelope, or zipper | Open-end or side envelope |
| Material | Embellished, embroidered fabrics | Breathable, sleep-friendly cotton |
| Placement | Front layer of pillows | Usually tucked beneath sham |
| Washing Frequency | Less frequent | Washed weekly |
Unlike pillowcases, bed shams are not necessarily designed for daily use. They are more of a decorative overlay that can coordinate with your comforter, quilt, or duvet cover.
For a detailed breakdown of bedding components, visit our Bedding Glossary.
Types of Bed Shams (And When to Use Them)
Shams come in several sizes and styles depending on your bedding setup. The most common include:
Standard Sham (20″ x 26″)
Perfect for twin or full-size beds.
King Sham (20″ x 36″)
Ideal for king and California king beds.
Euro Sham (26″ x 26″)
Square-shaped and often used as the back layer for pillows on large beds or couches.
Special-Design Shams
These may include ruffled edges, embroidered borders, or designer prints that match luxury bedding sets.
If you’re looking for the best bed sham for modern interiors, go for neutral tones in linen or cotton blends. Check out our post on trending bed design styles in 2025 for more inspiration.
How to Style Bed Shams Like a Pro
Bed shams offer an easy way to enhance your bedding’s depth and dimension. Try the following layouts:
- Layered Look: Place Euro shams at the back, followed by standard shams, and finish with decorative throw pillows.
- Monochrome Scheme: Match your sham color with duvet covers or throws for a minimalist vibe.
- Pattern Mixing: Combine subtle patterns with plain pillowcases to create visual interest.
You can even swap shams seasonally—light cotton or linen in summer, velvet or jacquard in winter.
Care & Maintenance: Keeping Bed Shams Fresh
Since bed shams aren’t slept on regularly, they require less frequent washing than pillowcases. However, maintenance is still key:
- Wash every 2–3 weeks
- Use gentle cycles to preserve embroidery
- Iron only on low settings (or steam for delicate fabric)
Storing shams in a dry, cool closet can extend their lifespan and maintain crisp edges.
Choosing the Right Bed Sham in 2025
If you’re buying new pillow shams this year, here are key factors to consider:
Material
- Cotton/Linen: Breathable and easy to clean
- Silk/Velvet: Great for luxury aesthetics
- Blends: Often more affordable and wrinkle-resistant
Size & Fit
Always match the sham to the pillow insert—oversized or tight-fitting covers will disrupt the bed’s look.
Closure Type
Hidden zippers and envelope backs are most common for modern decorative covers. Button closures are often seen in rustic or vintage designs.
2024 Insight: According to The Spruce, cotton-linen blend shams are leading in popularity due to their durability and neutral style options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Shams
What’s the point of a bed sham?
It provides a polished, designer look to your bed and acts as a decorative layer over functional pillows.
Can you sleep on a sham?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Most bed shams are made from decorative or textured fabrics that aren’t ideal for sleep comfort.
Are bed shams outdated?
Not at all. In 2024, interior designers still use shams to bring cohesion and structure to bed layering.
Do I need shams if I use throw pillows?
You can use both! Shams provide a structured, elegant look, while throws offer casual accents. For ultimate visual impact, layer them together.
Final Thoughts
The humble bed sham is a key component of a well-designed bedroom. Whether you’re decorating a small guest room or upgrading your master suite, understanding how to use and style shams can instantly elevate your bedding game.
At Cozy Bed Quarters, we don’t sell beds or bedding—but we do help you make the smartest bedding decisions. Whether you’re trying to choose between a bed sham vs a pillowcase, or looking for the best way to layer decorative pillows, our guides have you covered.
