What is a Bed Sham? Decorative Pillow Covers Explained
Ever walked into a hotel room and wondered how they make beds look so perfectly styled? The secret isn’t expensive sheets or fancy furniture; it’s bed shams.
These decorative pillow covers are taking over bedroom makeovers because they instantly transform any ordinary bed into a magazine-worthy centerpiece.
You might think bed shams are just fancy pillowcases, but they’re so much more. They hide your everyday sleeping pillows while adding color, texture, and style to your bedroom.
From budget-friendly cotton to luxurious velvet, shams come in every material and size imaginable. Ready to give your bedroom that polished, put-together look without breaking the bank?
Let’s explore everything you need to know about bed shams.
What is a Bed Sham?
A bed sham is a decorative pillow cover designed to make your bedroom look polished and put-together.
Unlike regular pillowcases, shams feature special closures like envelope backs, zippers, or buttons.
They’re meant to cover your pillows while you sleep during the day, creating a hotel-like appearance that hides everyday bedding.
Historical Background:
- Medieval Origins: The word “sham” originally meant “false” or “fake” in Old English
- 17th Century Europe: Wealthy families used decorative pillow covers to protect expensive linens
- Victorian Era: Bed shams became status symbols with intricate embroidery and lace details
- Early 1900s: Mass production made decorative bedding accessible to middle-class homes
- 1950s America: The Hotel industry popularized the “made bed” look with matching sham sets
Today’s bed shams serve both style and practical purposes in contemporary homes. Many people use them to instantly upgrade their bedroom’s appearance without buying new furniture.
Interior designers recommend shams as an easy way to add color, texture, and seasonal changes to bedding.
Modern shams come in countless fabrics, patterns, and sizes to match any decorating style from minimalist to farmhouse chic.
What Size Bed Sham Do I Need? Sizing Guide
Choosing the right bed sham size ensures your pillows look perfectly proportioned and professionally styled, whether you need standard 20″x26″ shams for smaller beds or oversized king 20″x36″ shams for luxury bedrooms.
1. Standard Sham (20” x 26”)
Standard shams are the most popular choice for twin and full-size beds. They fit perfectly over standard sleeping pillows without looking too big or too small.
These work well in guest bedrooms, kids’ rooms, and smaller master bedrooms. Most bedding sets include two standard shams as the default option.
2. Queen Sham (20” x 30”)
Queen Shams offer the perfect fit for queen-size pillows and beds. The extra 4 inches of width prevent that “pillowcase too small” look that bothers many homeowners.
They’re ideal for most master bedrooms and provide balanced proportions. Queen shams pair beautifully with Euro shams for layered styling.
3. King Sham (20″ x 36″)
King sheets are designed for king-size pillows and California king beds. The generous 36-inch width creates a luxurious, substantial appearance on larger beds.
These shams prevent your pillows from looking lost against a wide headboard. Many couples prefer king shams even with queen beds for that oversized, cozy feel.
4. Euro Sham (26″ x 26″)
Euro shams are square-shaped statement pieces that add height and drama to any bed. They’re typically placed behind regular shams to create layered, professional styling.
These work on all bed sizes and are perfect for adding pops of color or texture. Euro shams have become essential for that designer bedroom look seen in home magazines.
When choosing the right bed sham size, it helps to know standard pillow dimensions. Our guide to pillow size can help you effortlessly find your perfect fit
Different Types of Bed Sham Materials
From breathable cotton perfect for everyday use to luxurious velvet that adds warmth and texture, bed sham materials range from practical and affordable to luxury and high-maintenance, each offering unique benefits for different bedroom styles and budgets.
1. Cotton
Cotton shams are the most practical choice for everyday use in any bedroom. They feel soft against the skin and allow air to flow through, preventing that stuffy feeling.
Cotton handles frequent washing without losing shape or color over time. Most cotton sheets can go straight from the washer to the dryer without special care instructions.
2. Linen
Linen shams bring a relaxed, lived-in feel that’s perfect for casual bedroom styles. The natural texture adds visual interest while remaining incredibly strong and long-lasting.
Linen gets softer with each wash, developing a comfortable, broken-in quality over time. These shams work well in farmhouse, coastal, or minimalist bedroom themes.
3. Velvet
Velvet shams create instant luxury and warmth during the fall and winter months. The rich texture catches light beautifully, adding depth and visual interest to plain bedding.
Velvet provides extra coziness when temperatures drop, making bedrooms feel more inviting. These shams require gentle care but make a stunning statement piece.
4. Silk/Satin
Silk and satin shams offer unmatched smoothness and shine for formal bedroom settings. They feel cool and slippery, which some people love for their temperature-regulating properties.
These materials photograph beautifully and create that high-end hotel appearance. However, they need hand washing or dry cleaning to maintain their lustrous finish.
5. Blends & Synthetics
Synthetic blend shams offer the best value for budget-conscious shoppers seeking style. They resist wrinkles better than natural fibers, staying crisp-looking longer between washes.
Many blends combine cotton comfort with polyester durability for everyday use. These shams are perfect for busy households or rental properties.
How to Style a Bed with Shams
Start by placing Euro shams against your headboard, then layer standard or queen shams in front for depth and visual interest.
Mix different textures like smooth cotton with bumpy linen or soft velvet to create a rich, inviting look that begs to be touched.
Use color contrast strategically, pair neutral shams with bold throw pillows, or choose shams in complementary colors that pop against your duvet cover.
Change your shams seasonally to keep your bedroom feeling fresh: light whites and blues for summer, warm oranges and deep reds for fall, cozy plaids for winter, and fresh pastels for spring.
Add a coordinating throw blanket at the foot of the bed to tie everything together and create that perfectly styled, magazine-worthy appearance.
How to Care for a Bed Sham
- General Washing – Always use a gentle cycle with cold water to protect fabric fibers and prevent colors from fading or bleeding.
- Drying – Air-dry flat, or tumble-dry on low heat to avoid shrinkage and maintain the sham’s original shape.
- Ironing – Press cotton and linen shams lightly with medium heat, but never iron silk or velvet materials.
- Protecting Embellishments – Turn shams inside out before washing, and place them in mesh laundry bags to protect buttons, zippers, and decorative details.
- Storing – Store clean shams in breathable cotton bags or linen closets, never in plastic bags, which can cause yellowing.
- Seasonal Maintenance – Switch between lightweight summer fabrics and heavier winter materials to match both weather and your changing decor themes.
Bed Sham vs. Pillowcase: Key Differences
Bed shams and pillowcases might cover pillows, but they serve completely different purposes in your bedroom. While pillowcases focus on comfort and protection during sleep, shams prioritize style and visual appeal during daytime hours.
| Feature | Bed Sham | Pillowcase |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Decorative with embellishments. | Plain or patterned for comfort. |
| Closure | Envelope, zip, or buttons. | Open-end or simple flap. |
| Use | Daytime decor. | Sleeping protection. |
| Material | Luxury or textured fabrics. | Soft, breathable fabrics. |
Summing It Up
Bed shams are the easiest way to upgrade your bedroom without spending a fortune on new furniture.
From standard cotton shams for everyday use to luxurious velvet options for seasonal styling, there’s a perfect sham for every home and budget.
Remember the key points: choose sizes that match your pillows, mix textures for visual interest, and don’t forget proper care to keep them looking fresh.
Start with basic cotton shams if you’re new to decorative bedding, then experiment with different materials and colors as you get comfortable.
Your bedroom deserves that hotel-quality look. Try swapping out your regular pillowcases for stylish shams and see the instant difference they make.
Love decorating? Find more home decor inspiration you’ll adore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Purpose of a Bed Sham?
Bed shams hide your regular sleeping pillows during the day to create a polished, decorative bedroom appearance.
What Does a Bed Sham Look Like?
A bed sham looks like a pillowcase with special closures (envelope back, zipper, or buttons) and often features decorative details like piping or embroidery.
What Is a Sham in Bedding Terms?
In bedding terms, a sham is a decorative pillow cover designed for style rather than sleep, typically used to dress up beds during daytime hours.
What Is the Point of a Sham?
The point of a sham is to instantly upgrade your bedroom’s appearance by covering everyday pillows with beautiful, coordinated fabric covers.
Are You Supposed to Sleep on Shams?
No, you’re not supposed to sleep on shams – remove them at bedtime and replace them in the morning for that fresh, styled look.
