If you’ve ever admired a beautifully made bed and wondered about those stylish pillows up front, you’re probably asking, What is bedding sham? Let’s dive into this fun and functional accessory that can instantly level up your bedroom’s charm. It’s more than just decor—it’s about creating a comforting, cozy environment where you love to relax at the end of the day.
Quick Takeaways
- A bedding sham is a decorative pillow cover that adds style and personality to your bed.
- They’re not meant for sleeping but for showing off!
- Shams come in various sizes, patterns, and fabrics for ultimate customization.
- They pair beautifully with duvet covers to complete your bed’s look.
- You can find them everywhere from boutique shops to online retailers.
So, What Is Bedding Sham Exactly?
Think of a sham as the jewelry of your bed—pretty, eye-catching, and the final touch that makes everything pop. While pillowcases are for sleeping, shams are for styling. They usually feature envelope closures and decorative flanges or trims. These beauties are made to be seen, not slept on.
They also serve a minor protective role, keeping your pillows clean when not in use.
Why Use a Sham?
Besides looking fabulous, shams let you play with textures, patterns, and colors. Want your room to feel like a breezy seaside escape or a luxurious hotel suite? Shams help set the tone. And when guests drop by? Toss those shams on the bed, and boom—your space looks instantly polished. Plus, they’re an affordable way to refresh your room without needing a complete makeover.
Different Types of Shams
- Standard Sham – 26″ x 20″: Great for twin and full beds.
- King Sham – 37″ x 20″: Ideal for king beds or when you want a grand look.
- Euro Sham – 26″ x 26″: These square shams are perfect for back layers and add height.
Choosing the Right Fabric
From cozy to elegant, there’s a sham fabric for every vibe:
- Cotton: Breathable and everyday-friendly.
- Linen: Airy and effortlessly chic—hello farmhouse charm.
- Silk: Smooth and luxurious, but requires gentle care.
Each fabric brings its own mood to your space. Cotton keeps things light and casual, linen offers that well-loved vintage feel, and silk turns your bedroom into a soft, luxurious retreat.
Patterns That Pop
Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, there’s a sham design to match. Try these:
| Pattern | Style Vibe |
|---|---|
| Florals | Soft, feminine, timeless |
| Geometric | Modern and bold |
| Stripes | Crisp and classic |
| Paisleys | Eclectic and artsy |
| Damask | Regal and elegant |
How to Pair Shams with Duvet Covers
Matching your shams to your duvet cover creates a cohesive, calm look. But don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try pairing patterned shams with solid duvets, or layer textures for extra depth. Want that layered hotel-bed vibe? Place Euro shams at the back, standard shams in the middle, and decorative pillows up front. This setup not only adds luxury but also offers great back support when lounging or reading in bed.
Taking Care of Your Shams
- Wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
- Air dry or tumble on low to avoid shrinkage.
- Iron if needed, especially for silk or linen.
- Store in a dry place or storage bag to keep dust-free.
- Keep your bed fresh by learning how to clean your mattress.
Where to Buy Shams
You’ll find a wide variety of shams at:
- Home decor stores – Ask staff for design tips!
- Bedding boutiques – Great for specialized designs.
- Department stores – Budget-friendly and versatile.
- Online marketplaces like Ambesonne or Pinterest for custom finds.
Finishing Touches
Shams aren’t the only way to dress your bed. Throw in a few textured pillows, a cozy throw blanket, or a coordinating bed skirt. It’s all about creating that relaxing, personalized sanctuary where you can unwind at the end of the day. Don’t underestimate how small touches like a color-coordinated sham or plush throw can shift your bedroom’s entire mood.
Need help with your mattress setup? Check out these popular mattress types for a complete bedding upgrade.
Wrap-Up
What is bedding sham? It’s your bed’s secret weapon for style. Whether you keep things soft and subtle or go bold and beautiful, a few well-chosen shams can totally transform your space. Have fun mixing, matching, and layering until your bed feels like the coziest spot in the house!