Pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes. To help you choose the right size, we’ve put together this guide to show you what each pillow type is called, how it’s used, and what dimensions are typical for those models.
We hope that this post will make your next shopping experience easier!
How to Choose the Right Pillow Size
It’s important to know that the size and shape of the pillow you buy will depend on your personal preferences. You should also consider where you want to use it, so be sure to read all our tips before making a purchase!
Every type of pillow listed below is available with either down feathers, cotton, synthetic, solid memory foam, as well as shredded memory foam.
Standard Rectangular Pillow (20″ x 26″)
A standard rectangular-shaped pillow is mostly used for sleeping. You can also use it in combination with other pillows (e.g., when placed between your knees or ankles).
The measurements for a standard rectangular pillow are 20 inches x 26 inches. However, they can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Best for: Side and stomach sleepers and is most commonly for Twin size mattresses
Standard Square Pillow (20″ x 20″)
You can also find standard square pillows which have equal width and length dimensions. Since they are smaller than a rectangular-shaped pillow, this type is often placed at the top of another one to add support or enhance your bedroom’s decor.
Best for: Side and back sleepers (e.g., when placed behind the neck or lower back to help maintain a natural curve)
Queen Rectangular Pillow (20″ x 30″)
A queen-sized rectangular pillow is slightly larger than a standard one. Its length and width measurements are 20 inches by 30 inches, respectively. It’s also designed to be filled with down or synthetic fiber fillings but will usually have a removable cover for easier cleaning purposes.
Queen mattresses are also wider than standard ones, so if you own one and want to use a queen-sized pillow on your bed – it will need to be 20 inches by 30 inches.
Best for: Side sleepers; those who like extra pillows around them while sleeping
King Rectangular Pillow (20″ x 36″)
This type is the widest and longest of the three, with length and width measurements of 20 inches by 36 inches, respectively. It’s ideal for king-size mattresses or if you sleep alone and prefer to stretch out while sleeping in a queen-sized bed.
Best for: Side and back sleepers; people who like to move around in their beds when they’re asleep
Euro Square Pillow (26″ x 26″)
As you can tell from its name, the Euro pillow is designed for European-sized beds (26 inches by 26 inches) – which are also smaller than queen mattresses. Its dimensions make it great for adding support between your knees or ankles when sleeping.
Best for: Stomach sleepers, people who want to increase the head support of their bedding set, and those looking for a smaller pillow that will fit into tight spaces (such as between two pillows)
Toddler Pillow (13″ x 18″)
This type of pillow is designed for toddlers and young children. Since kids don’t need as much head support, their pillows are smaller than adult ones. They also tend to be less fluffy, so their filling won’t clump together or shift inside it with use.
Best for: Toddlers and children
Travel Pillow (12″ x 20″)
This type of pillow is designed to be used in cars, trains, and planes. It’s also the smallest one we’ve mentioned since it measures only 12 inches by 20 inches. Because they are so small, these pillows don’t feature removable cases or covers that can quickly get dirty when traveling.
Best for: People who like to sleep in the car, train and plane and those looking for a small pillow that can be taken anywhere (e.g., when camping or traveling)
