Sham Vs Pillowcase: What's The Difference?

Trying to design a cozy, eye-catching bed is not an easy task, especially when it comes to settling the sham vs. pillowcase debate. Which is the right choice for your space? With so many bedding options out there, it’s no wonder you might feel overwhelmed deciding between accessories that not only affect your room's style but also its comfort and practicality. Choosing wisely can turn your bed into a showstopper, but where do you start? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between shams and pillowcases, give you tips for pairing them, and help you arrange both for that perfect blend of style and function.

What is a Pillowcase?

A pillowcase is a removable cover designed to protect your pillow from dirt, oils, and general wear and tear, helping create a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. They’re usually made of cotton, linen, or silk, and they’re all about providing comfort, since they’re in direct contact with your face and hair every night. Pillowcases also come in endless colors, patterns, and sizes, giving you plenty of ways to match them with your bedding while ensuring daily practicality.

What is a Sham?

A sham is like a pillow’s dressed-up cousin! These decorative covers are made to enhance your bedroom’s visual appeal rather than for everyday sleeping. Shams often feature luxurious fabrics like velvet, brocade, or silk, along with fancy details such as embroidery or ruffles. While they can cover a pillow for sleeping, their real claim to fame lies in bed styling. They bring texture and elegance to your space and are usually available in standard or king sizes to fit decorative pillows or cushions.

Sham Vs Pillowcase: What’s The Difference?

Purpose and Function

Pillowcase:

• Made for practical use: it keeps your pillow clean and provides a soft, safe surface for your skin and hair.

• Perfect for daily use, enduring repeated washing and wear.

• Usually crafted from durable and washable fabrics like cotton or microfiber.

Sham:

• Created for decorative purposes, adding style and character to your bed setup.

• Pairs beautifully with bedding to enhance the room’s ambiance.

• Often made of delicate, luxurious fabrics, focusing more on looks than practicality.

Material and Fabric

Pillowcase:

• Typically made with practical materials like cotton, microfiber, or polycotton blends that are easy to care for.

• Favors breathability and comfort for a good night’s sleep.

• Silk pillowcases, known for their hypoallergenic benefits, also help protect hair and skin.

Sham:

• Often uses luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk, or linen for an upscale touch.

• Focuses on aesthetics, contributing rich textures to the overall bed design.

• Features artistic details like embroidery, piping, or decorative trims.

Closure Type

Pillowcase:

• Uses straightforward closures, like an envelope or zipper, for easy washing and secure pillow coverage.

• Prioritizes functionality over flair to withstand daily use.

• Zippered options keep pillows neatly in place all night.

Sham:

• Features decorative closures, such as overlapping fabric, ribbon ties, or buttons, to add charm.

• Closures may be hidden or highlighted, serving as part of the design.

• Sometimes includes bold button accents for extra flair.

Maintenance and Care

Pillowcase:

• Built for practicality, most can be tossed into the washing machine and dried without a hassle.

• Durable enough to handle frequent laundering with ease.

• Designed to be low-maintenance for everyday convenience.

Sham:

• Requires gentler care thanks to delicate fabrics, usually hand washing or dry cleaning.

• Can fade or show wear if treated harshly, so always follow care labels.

• Spot cleaning may be necessary to keep decorative details intact.

Do Pillow Shams Serve a Functional Purpose Like Pillowcases?

Sure, shams are mainly decorative, but they do more than just look pretty. They help keep pillows cleaner for longer, acting as a protective layer, though they’re not as practical for direct sleep. Some people even find them comfy for a quick nap or to use as a resting cushion while reading in bed. However, since shams are often made from fancy fabrics, they’re not always as breathable or comfortable for sleeping. They shine brightest as an extra layer of sophistication in your bedroom.

How Do Sham Materials Differ From Common Pillowcase Fabrics?

Pillowcases prioritize comfort, with materials like cotton, microfiber, or satin chosen for their softness and durability. They’re made to withstand everyday use and frequent washing. Shams, on the other hand, favor luxury fabrics like silk, velvet, or damask that make a style statement. These materials create rich textures but typically require more delicate care. Some shams even use high-thread-count cotton blends, giving them an edge over the standard pillowcase materials in terms of elegance.

What Are The Different Types Of Pillow Shams?

Pillow shams come in a variety of styles, each designed to add a unique touch to your bedding. Understanding the different types can help you choose the perfect look and feel for your bedroom.

Standard Shams

Standard shams are designed to fit standard-sized pillows, typically measuring 20 by 26 inches. They’re a classic choice for most beds and offer a polished, cohesive look when paired with matching bedding.

King Shams

King shams are larger, measuring about 20 by 36 inches, and are made to fit king-sized pillows. They’re ideal for king or California king beds, providing extra coverage and a luxurious, hotel-inspired appearance.

Euro Shams

Euro shams are square, usually 26 by 26 inches, and add height and dimension to your bedding arrangement. They’re often used as decorative accents and can be layered behind your standard or king pillows for a plush, inviting look.

Boudoir Shams

Boudoir shams are smaller, typically 12 by 16 inches, and are perfect for adding a decorative touch to your bed or even an accent chair. Their petite size makes them versatile for layering or highlighting a special fabric or design.

Continental Shams

Continental shams are similar to Euro shams but are slightly larger, often measuring 26 by 31 inches. They’re popular in European bedding styles and add a sophisticated, oversized look to your bed.

Decorative Shams

Decorative shams come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, often featuring embellishments like embroidery, piping, or unique fabrics. They’re meant to be statement pieces that showcase your personal style and elevate the overall look of your bedding.

Are Pillow Shams Only For Decorative Use?

Well, mostly! Shams shine when it comes to transforming your bed’s aesthetics, but they’re not strictly decorative. If you’ve got a sham made from something soft, like silk, you might just enjoy sleeping on it. That said, they’re usually not as tough as pillowcases, so they may not handle nightly wear and tear as well. Want the best of both worlds? Use a regular pillowcase underneath the sham for a balance of comfort and style.

What's the Best Way to Coordinate Shams and Pillowcases in Bedroom Decor?

Ready to style your bed like a pro? Start by choosing shams and pillowcases that match or complement your bedroom’s color scheme. Layering is key. Place practical pillowcases at the back for a comfy foundation, then add eye-catching shams in the front. Try mixing textures, like pairing smooth cotton pillowcases with velvety or embroidered shams, to spice things up. Don’t be afraid to introduce bold colors or patterns through your shams. They’re a great way to bring personality to a neutral room.

How Do The Care Instructions Differ Between Pillow Shams And Pillowcases?

If you’re all about easy maintenance, pillowcases have the upper hand. Most are made to be machine washable and stand up to constant cleaning. Shams, because of their delicate fabrics and embellishments, need a bit more TLC. Hand washing, dry cleaning, or even spot cleaning may be required, depending on the fabric. Checking the care label is a must to avoid any laundry day mishaps, especially with vibrant or intricate shams.

What Are The Common Misconceptions About Using Pillow Shams?

A big myth is that shams don’t serve any practical purpose, but they do protect your pillows and make your bed look amazing. Some think shams are strictly for formal interiors, that’s not true! They work in casual and modern settings too. You might’ve heard shams are hard to care for, but many are designed with easier maintenance in mind nowadays. Also, while some assume shams are uncomfortable, softer options like silk can feel downright luxurious for lounging or sleeping.

How to Choose Between a Sham and a Pillowcase for Your Bedroom Style

• For practicality and comfort, stick with pillowcases. They’re tough, easy to clean, and designed for nightly use.

• If you’re looking for a decorative touch, go for shams. They add layers, texture, and elegance to any bed.

• Love luxe fabrics like silk or velvet? Shams can bring those indulgent textures to your bedroom.

• Think about how your bedroom is styled. Modern? Boho? Traditional? There’s a sham design for every vibe.

• Don’t choose, use both! Let pillowcases handle the functionality while shams make your bed Insta-worthy.

Conclusion

Pillowcases and shams each bring something unique to the table. While pillowcases focus on comfort and practicality, shams add style and sophistication. When you appreciate what each offers and look after them, you can create a bedroom that’s equal parts functional and stunning.

Want to elevate your sleep and style? Check out Miracle Made's luxurious 100% cotton pillowcases. Their classic-meets-modern designs let you reflect your personality without breaking the bank.

Sources:

1. What is Polycotton Fabric? | IceFabrics

2. Silk Pillowcase Benefits | Sleep Foundation

3. Historic Patterns: Damask | History Repeating