50 Most Asked Questions About Pillow Covers (Answered)
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Introduction
Buying pillow covers seems simple—until you start comparing materials, sizes, inserts, waterproof fabrics, custom printing, and care instructions.
At HOSTECCO, customers ask us questions every day about:
- Pillow cover sizes
- Waterproof materials
- Custom printing
- Washing instructions
- Pet-friendly fabrics
- Shipping times
- Outdoor use
- Hidden zippers
- Fabric quality
So we created this complete FAQ guide to answer the most common questions in one place.
Whether you're shopping for home décor, outdoor spaces, custom gifts, or your own business brand, this guide will help you understand pillow covers like a pro.
Sizes & Fit
1. What is the most common pillow cover size?
18×18 inches (45×45 cm) is the most popular standard sofa pillow cover size worldwide.
2. What sizes does HOSTECCO offer?
We support many standard and custom sizes, including:
- 16×16 in
- 18×18 in
- 20×20 in
- 12×20 in lumbar
- 14×24 in
- 14×36 in
- 20×54 in
If you need a special size, you can contact customer service for customization.
3. Should pillow covers be the same size as the insert?
Usually yes for soft inserts. For a fuller look, some customers prefer a cover slightly smaller than the insert.
4. Can I use a larger pillow cover on a smaller insert?
Yes, but the pillow may look looser and less full.
5. What size works best for sectional sofas?
20×20 inch pillow covers are usually better for large sectionals because they look more proportional.
6. What size is best for lumbar pillows?
Popular lumbar sizes include:
- 12×20 in
- 14×24 in
- 14×36 in
7. Are pillow cover sizes exact?
Small measurement differences may occur because pillow covers are sewn products. Minor variations are normal.
Materials & Fabric Questions
8. What is the softest pillow cover material?
Velvet polyester is usually the softest and most luxurious feeling material.
9. What material is best for daily use?
Short plush polyester is one of the best choices for everyday comfort and value.
10. Which material is best for outdoor use?
Waterproof materials such as thick waterproof polyester linen or water-resistant fine linen are recommended for outdoor spaces.
11. Are waterproof pillow covers actually waterproof?
They are water-resistant and help prevent moisture, spills, light rain, and dew from soaking into the fabric immediately.
12. Which material is best for homes with pets?
Waterproof linen-style fabrics are generally better for pet homes because they resist scratching better than plush or velvet fabrics.
13. Why do velvet pillow covers feel more premium?
Velvet fabrics are softer, smoother, and visually richer than many standard fabrics.
14. What is the difference between short plush and velvet?
Velvet is softer and more luxurious, while short plush is slightly more practical and cost-effective.
15. Which materials produce the clearest printing?
Polyester-based fabrics usually produce the sharpest custom printing results, especially:
- Short plush polyester
- Velvet polyester
16. Are linen-style pillow covers real linen?
Many linen-style custom pillow covers are actually polyester-based fabrics designed to look like linen while improving print clarity and durability.
17. Are heavier pillow covers better quality?
Not always, but heavier fabrics are usually more durable and substantial.
18. Why does fabric weight matter?
Fabric weight helps indicate:
- Durability
- Thickness
- Softness
- Overall quality
Very lightweight fabrics are often less durable.
19. What is jacquard fabric?
Jacquard fabrics have patterns woven directly into the fabric instead of printed on the surface.
20. What are embroidered pillow covers?
Embroidered pillow covers use stitched decorative designs for a textured, premium appearance.
Custom Printing Questions
21. Can I print my own photo on a pillow cover?
Yes. Customers commonly upload:
- Pet photos
- Family pictures
- Artwork
- Logos
- Custom illustrations
22. What file formats work best?
PNG, JPG, and JPEG files are recommended.
23. What image quality is best?
High-resolution images with clear details produce the best printing results.
24. How can I check if my image is good enough?
Zoom in on your image before uploading. If the details still look clear, the print will usually work well.
25. What happens if my image is blurry?
If an uploaded image appears too blurry, our team may contact the customer before production.
26. Can I print logos or text?
Yes. Logos, quotes, and graphic designs are all supported.
27. Can I customize both sides?
Yes. Most custom pillow covers are double-sided by default.
28. Can the front and back use different images?
Yes. AB-side printing is available, although pricing may be slightly higher because production and quality inspection are more complicated.
29. Can I order just one custom pillow cover?
Yes. HOSTECCO supports orders starting from just one piece.
30. Are custom pillow covers popular gifts?
Very popular. Common gift themes include:
- Pet memorial pillows
- Family photo pillows
- Anniversary gifts
- Personalized home décor
31. Can designers use their own artwork?
Absolutely. Many designers and small businesses use custom pillow covers to sell their own designs.
Washing & Care Questions
32. Are pillow covers machine washable?
Most pillow covers support machine washing.
33. How should waterproof pillow covers be cleaned?
For waterproof fabrics, wiping with a cloth is often recommended because excessive machine washing may gradually reduce waterproof performance over time.
34. Will pillow covers shrink after washing?
Polyester-based fabrics are usually very stable. Natural fiber blends may shrink slightly depending on washing conditions.
35. Can I tumble dry pillow covers?
Low heat or air drying is generally safer for maintaining fabric quality.
36. How often should pillow covers be washed?
Most indoor pillow covers can be washed every few weeks depending on use. Outdoor covers may need more frequent cleaning.
Design & Style Questions
37. Should all my pillow covers match?
Not necessarily. Coordinated colors and mixed textures often create a more natural and stylish look.
38. How many pillows should I put on a sofa?
Most standard sofas look best with 3–5 pillows.
39. What pillow colors are easiest to style?
Neutral colors such as beige, gray, white, navy, olive, and black are easiest to match with different interiors.
40. Are bold patterns still trendy?
Yes. Abstract, boho, and textured pillow designs remain popular in modern home décor.
41. What pillow cover styles work best for luxury interiors?
Velvet, embroidery, jacquard, and cut velvet styles are commonly used in luxury spaces.
Outdoor Pillow Questions
42. Can outdoor pillow covers stay outside all the time?
Waterproof covers are designed for outdoor use, but bringing them inside during extreme weather can extend their lifespan.
43. Will outdoor pillow covers fade in the sun?
Long-term direct sunlight may gradually affect color over time, especially in very strong UV environments.
44. Are waterproof pillow covers uncomfortable?
Modern waterproof fabrics are much softer than older outdoor materials. Thick waterproof polyester linen combines softness with durability.
45. What’s better for outdoor use: fine linen or thick waterproof polyester linen?
Thick waterproof polyester linen is usually more durable, softer, and more abrasion-resistant. Water-resistant fine linen is lighter and more budget-friendly.
Shipping & Orders
46. How long does shipping usually take?
Standard international shipping usually takes about 7–12 business days after processing.
47. Can I track my order?
Yes. All orders include tracking information.
48. Do I need to pay import taxes?
Most customers in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and many European countries usually do not need to pay additional import duties. Some countries may have local customs charges.
49. What if my package arrives damaged?
Customers can contact customer service for refund or replacement assistance if transportation damage occurs.
50. Can custom pillow covers be refunded?
Quality problems, printing defects, or shipping damage may qualify for refunds or replacements. Customer-upload mistakes or incorrect size selections are generally not refundable.
Final Thoughts
Pillow covers may seem simple, but the right material, size, printing method, and functionality can make a huge difference in comfort, durability, and home style.
At HOSTECCO, we focus on combining:
- Professional custom printing
- Comfortable materials
- Waterproof functionality
- Flexible sizing
- Reliable international shipping
Whether you're decorating your home, designing gifts, or building your own brand, understanding pillow covers helps you make better long-term choices.