Pillow Covers 101: Materials, Sizes, Styles and Care

Pillow covers let you refresh a sofa, bed or covered patio while reusing the inserts you already own. This guide explains the choices that matter before ordering: size, fiber content, fabric texture, construction, intended use and care.

Pillow cover or pillow?

A pillow cover is the removable textile shell. The insert provides the shape and filling. HOSTECCO product listings are for covers unless a product page explicitly states that an insert is included. A hidden zipper allows the cover to be removed and changed.

Choose the correct size

Measure the insert from seam to seam after removing the old cover. For most everyday inserts, choose the same stated cover size. A soft insert up to 1–2 inches larger can sometimes create a fuller look, but a firm insert may put too much pressure on the seams. Read our complete pillow cover size guide.

Understand fiber content and fabric description

Fiber content tells you what the fabric is made from. Terms such as velvet, short-pile plush, linen-look, jacquard, embroidery and quilting describe its surface, construction or appearance. They should not automatically be treated as fiber names.

• Short-pile plush polyester: soft, fine-pile and intended for indoor comfort.
• Velvet polyester: denser, smooth-looking and soft, with light reflecting differently across the pile.
• Linen-look polyester: polyester with a visible woven texture inspired by linen.
• Cotton: used on selected products; check the exact product page.
• Cotton-polyester blend: used only when the fiber content is specifically identified.

See the pillow cover materials guide for a fuller comparison.

Indoor, outdoor and seasonal choices

Indoor pillow covers offer the widest range of textures and constructions. Water-resistant outdoor pillow covers are intended for covered outdoor spaces and occasional splashes. They are not fully waterproof because moisture can enter through zippers and seams. Seasonal designs make it easy to rotate a few focal pieces through the year.

Printed, woven and decorated surfaces

A digital print applies the visual design to the fabric surface. Jacquard or other woven designs are created through the weave. Embroidery and quilting add raised construction. Each method produces a different texture, so review the material and construction section on the product page instead of judging by the image alone.

Care and everyday use

Care instructions vary by fabric, print and decoration. Follow the selected product page. Close the zipper before cleaning, avoid harsh treatment of embroidery or raised surfaces, and spot-wipe minor marks on water-resistant surfaces when appropriate. Never assume water resistance means the cover can remain outdoors through heavy or prolonged rain.

How to create a balanced arrangement

1. Choose one focal pattern.
2. Repeat one or two colors in supporting covers.
3. Mix pattern scale rather than using several equally busy designs.
4. Add one contrasting texture.
5. Place larger pillows behind smaller accents.

Personalized options

You can create a cover from a photo, artwork or original design through Design Your Own Pillow Covers. Personalized orders can start from one piece. Use only images you own or have permission to reproduce.

Before checkout

Confirm the size, package quantity, material, print option and intended use. Review the Shipping Policy and Refund Policy, especially for personalized products.

See real product examples

• Custom Photo Pillow Covers for a personalized design example.
• Grey & Brown Short-Pile Plush Pillow Covers for a soft indoor fabric example.
• Hydrangea Water-Resistant Outdoor Pillow Covers for a covered outdoor use example.

Use the detailed guides above, or browse these product examples by fabric and intended use.