Skip to content
What is a euro sham in bedding?

Everything You Need to Know About Euro Sham Bedding

Have you ever looked at a perfectly styled bed and wondered, what’s that big, beautiful square pillow in the back? Yep, that’s likely a euro sham! If you’re dreaming of elevating your bedroom look, euro sham bedding is the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed. It’s one of those little details that makes your bed feel like it belongs in a boutique hotel or a dreamy Pinterest board.

euro sham bedding on a stylish European bed setup

Why Euro Sham Bedding Matters

Euro sham bedding isn’t just about looking pretty (though it does that effortlessly!). These oversized, square pillows—usually 26″ x 26″—bring a plush, polished look to your bed while offering comfy back support when you’re propped up reading or bingeing your latest show. Think of them as the perfect blend of style and function—adding depth, height, and coziness to your sleep sanctuary. Plus, they’re a lifesaver when you want to sit up with a good book and a cup of tea on a lazy Sunday morning.

How to Style Euro Sham Bedding

Match Your Euro Shams to the Duvet

For a cohesive look, pair euro sham bedding with your duvet cover. Place your euro shams behind your standard pillows, letting their size and pattern frame the rest of your bedding. This creates a layered, luxurious feel—almost like stepping into a boutique hotel suite. Matching everything in soft, calming earth tones can transform your room into a true haven of relaxation.

Mix and Match Textures

Want a bit more visual interest? Try mixing textures. Pair a velvet or linen euro sham with crisp cotton pillowcases or a patterned duvet. This combo adds depth and dimension, making your bed irresistibly inviting. I love the look of chunky knit euro shams in the winter months—they practically beg you to snuggle in. Not sure where to start? Our guide to layering bedding textures has plenty of inspiration.

Go Bold with Colors or Prints

Your euro sham bedding is also a chance to play with color! Bold prints or rich, deep hues can make a statement—just balance them with more neutral tones elsewhere. For example, a set of deep navy euro shams can anchor a bed dressed in soft grays and whites. Feeling unsure? Check out this bedroom color guide for expert-approved palettes.

Common Myths About Euro Sham Bedding

euro sham bedding myth-busting chart and pillow example

Myth: “Euro shams are just for decoration.”

Truth? While they’re undeniably stylish, euro shams are also incredibly functional. They offer fantastic back support for lounging or reading in bed. Pro tip: invest in high-quality inserts so your euro shams keep their shape and fluffiness over time.

Myth: “They’re too big for small beds.”

Not true! Even if you have a twin or full-size bed, a single euro sham can add just the right touch of polish and comfort. It’s all about balance. And remember, bedding is a personal expression—you get to set the rules in your own cozy space!

Euro Sham Bedding vs. Standard Shams: What’s the Difference?

Sham TypeShapeSizeBest For
Standard ShamRectangular20″ x 26″Front/middle pillow layers
Euro ShamSquare26″ x 26″Back layer, adding height & decorative flair

Tips for Caring for Your Euro Sham Bedding

  • Wash with care: Most euro sham covers are machine washable, but always check the label first—especially if they have delicate trims or embroidery.
  • Keep them fluffy: Fluff your euro pillows regularly to maintain their plushness and shape. I like to give mine a good shake every morning while making the bed.
  • Rotate seasonally: Swap out euro shams seasonally to keep your bedding looking fresh (think light linens for summer, velvets for winter). This not only keeps things interesting but also helps extend the life of your bedding.

Final Cozy Thoughts

Euro sham bedding is a simple way to elevate your bedroom’s style while adding cozy comfort. Whether you go for a matching look or mix up colors and textures, euro shams bring both beauty and practicality to your sleep space. Imagine curling up with your favorite book, leaning back into a plush euro pillow, and feeling instantly at ease. Ready to up your bedding game? Explore more styling ideas and expert tips on our blog and create a bedroom you’ll love to snuggle into every night.

 

Recent Posts
Categories
Share
Stay Informed

Sign up to receive relevant, science-based health and fitness information and other resources.