Pillowcase Size Guide
What are the different pillowcase sizes?
We sell the most common pillowcase sizes; these are standard pillowcases, super king pillowcases and large square pillowcases.
Choosing the correct size pillowcase is about more than making your bed look beautiful. It will also mean your pillow feels more comfortable. If you squeeze your pillow into a pillowcase that's too small, the fill won't have enough space, and it will feel harder than it should and may even feel lumpy. Trying to fit a pillow into a pillowcase that is too small can even damage your pillow, especially if you have a memory foam pillow or a pillow with a central core of more a supportive fill. Using a pillowcase that's too large for your pillow is no better as it will result in loose fabric around your pillow. As well as looking unsightly, this can affect your sleep - the fabric can crease or ride up as you sleep, creating an uncomfortable sleeping surface. What's more, using a pillowcase that's too large can mean your pillowcase is more likely to slip off your pillow thanks to the looser fit. This can mean you end up sleeping directly on your pillow or pillow protector, which can be less hygienic and may affect the life of your pillow.
What is the standard pillowcase size?
A standard pillowcase is designed to fit a standard pillow - 50cm x 75cm. It's the pillowcase size you're most likely to see in the shops and in other people's homes. Standard size pillows are perfectly suited for single beds, doubles and king size beds.
If you're looking for standard pillowcases, you'll be spoilt for choice at Soak&Sleep. All our ranges include standard size pillowcases. Choose between our much-loved Egyptian Cotton ranges, available as 200TC, 400TC and 600TC, or add some continental chic to your bedroom with a French Linen pillowcase. Your pillowcase can even help prevent morning frizz - our Mulberry Silk pillowcases are all available as standard sized pillowcases and are renowned for the way they feel so indulgently smooth. Have fun with your standard sized pillowcases by choosing a colour that complements your bedding or bedroom accessories. All our standard pillowcases are sold in pairs.
What’s the difference between housewife and oxford pillowcase sizes?
Some people might think that Oxford pillowcases and Housewife pillowcases are different sizes, but this is not the case. They have the same internal dimensions but have a considerable difference on the outside. Oxford pillowcases, have a wide stitched hem around the edge which acts as a border. This border is normally around 5cm deep, but may be larger or smaller. In contrast, Housewife pillowcases have no border. Instead, they have a sewn edge which fits neatly around the pillow edges. The border on Oxford pillowcases is simply there for decoration. Many people prefer Oxford pillowcases because of the way they add a touch of elegance or extravagance to your bedroom. They can also make your pillows look bigger; perfect if you want to make a statement in your bedroom. Housewife pillowcases are more minimalist, but are also easier to care for - because they don't have a fabric border, you can get away without ironing a housewife pillowcase!
Superking and King size pillowcase dimensions
A superking pillowcase fits superking pillows, measuring 50cm x 90cm. Superking pillowcases are sometimes referred to as king size pillowcases. A superking pillowcase will accomodate the extra generous proportions of your superking pillows, trying to squeeze a superking pillow into a standard pillowcase will result in a lumpy or mishapen pillow that will affect your comfort and your sleep. Choose from a wide range of superking pillowcases, such as our much-coveted slubby French Linen superking pillowcases, luxuriously smooth Mulberry Silk superking pillowcases or the hoteliers' favourite 600 thread-count Egyptian Cotton superking pillowcases. The extra width of superking pillowcases makes them the perfect choice for larger beds such as superking beds. Superking beds are 180cm wide, so two superking pillows fit perfectly in this space, side by side. You can use superking pillows for smaller beds if you wish, but they won't fit as neatly.
Junior pillowcase size
A junior pillowcase fits junior pillows measuring 40cm x 60cm. They are sometimes called toddler pillows and are designed for young children. A junior pillowcase will fit the smaller dimensions of a junior pillow snugly, without excess fabric that can get in the way of your little one sleeping restfully. The NHS advises that a junior pillow is acceptable for babies and children aged one and over. Babies younger than one should not use a pillow as it can be a suffocation risk. A junior pillow is a great choice for young children and, depending on your child's preferences, may be suitable up until around eight years old.
Square pillowcase dimensions
A square pillowcase is suitable for pillows that measure 65cm x 65cm. If you choose an Oxford pillowcase, the decorative border will make your pillow appear slightly larger. Square pillows can be used on their own but work best when combined with rectangular pillows, adding extra height and depth to the head of the bed and creating a luxurious and inviting appearance. On a more practical level, a square pillowcase provides a perfect surface to lean into as you read, watch TV or enjoy your morning cup of coffee. Choose your square pillowcases from a variety of ranges. Our indulgent 1000 thread count Supima Cotton square pillowcases have legions of fans, all testifying to the silky smoothness of the range. Don't want to blow the bank? Our classic 200 thread count Egyptian Cotton square pillowcases are affordable, blissfully easy to care for, and need minimal ironing.