How To Choose The Right Size Pillow Insert For 12x20 Covers

Getting a good night's sleep starts with having the right pillow. And finding the perfect pillow means matching your 12x20 inch pillow cover with a properly sized insert. Selecting the ideal pillow insert dimensions may seem tricky. But with some simple measurement tactics and fill amount knowledge, you'll easily determine the right size insert for your needs.

Inside every great pillow lies a hidden hero - the pillow insert. This inner cushion provides support and fills out the pillow's shape. Choosing an insert with dimensions that fit the cover prevents shifting and maintains structure all night. Keep reading to become a pillow insert pro and find the perfect size for your 12x20 covers.

Understanding Pillow Insert Dimensions

Before measuring and shopping, it helps to learn some pillow insert basics. These key terms will help you navigate sizing:

• Insert Dimensions: The length x width size (e.g. 12x20 inches) listed for an insert.
• Fill Weight: The amount of stuffing by ounces inside the insert.
• Fill Material: The soft filling like down, feathers, foam or polyester.
• Density/Firmness: How fluffy and thick or flat and firm the fill is inside the insert.

Knowing these specs helps decipher what insert dimensions will work best. Standard sizes range from 12x20 inches for smaller pillows up to 26x26 inches for oversized decorator pillows. Now let's learn how to measure your covers to find the perfect match.

Measuring Your 12x20 Pillow Covers

Without precise cover measurements, finding well-fitting inserts is nearly impossible. Follow these steps to measure existing covers or ones you plan to purchase:

1. Lay the empty cover flat and smooth any wrinkles.
2. Use a soft tape measure across the width of the pillow.
3. Measure along the length from edge to edge.
4. Note measurements accurately, even 1/2 inch matters.
5. Repeat for all covers, as sizes may vary slightly.

This gives the base dimensions for comparison shopping. If covers are pre-purchased but unused, wash covers first since some fabrics shrink slightly. For best results, re-measure washed covers before buying inserts.

Typical 12x20 Cover Sizes

While called 12x20, actual cover sizes can vary:

• 12x20: Precise standard dimensions.
• 12.5x20.5: Fractional size differences are common.
• 11x18: May be labeled 12x20 but run small.
• 13x22: Could be oversized versions.

Don't rely on tagged dimensions. Always measure first, even for "standard" 12x20 covers. This ensures you find inserts that fit YOUR covers perfectly.

Choosing Insert Dimensions

Once cover sizes are recorded, it's time to pick insert dimensions. Consider these factors when deciding:

Exact Dimensions

Matching your cover's dimensions precisely, like 12x20, gives a smooth tailored look. Benefits include:

• No excess fabric or wrinkling.
• Keeps pillows from shifting around.
• Maintains structure and shape.

Exact fits work well for firmer inserts and decorative solid covers. But allow no margin for fill compression over time.

Oversized Dimensions

Sizing up 1 to 2 inches, like 12x22 or 14x20, allows extra fill. Benefits include:

• Maximizes plumpness and support.
• Prevents flat spots from use.
• Better accommodates fluffing and fill compression.

Oversized inserts provide a fuller shape. But excess fabric may bunch unattractively. This looks best with fluffy inserts and stretchy cover fabrics.

How To Choose

Consider these factors when picking insert dimensions:

• Cover Fabric: Stretchy fabrics like cotton blend better with oversized.
• Insert Fill: Fluffy down and feathers work well with extra room.
• Firmness: Firmer inserts fit precisely to maintain structure.
• coordinator : Precise dimensions give a polished made-to-match look.

When unsure, slightly larger is easier to work with. Allowing 1 to 2 extra inches over cover dimensions gives flexibility.

Pillow Insert Filling Amounts

Filling weight impacts pillow comfort and support. Consider these fill amounts:

• Low-Fill Inserts: Less than 12 oz. Gives a thin, soft feel.
• Medium-Fill Inserts: 12-20 oz. Provides some support.
• High-Fill Inserts: Over 20 oz. Maximizes firmness.

Go with lower fills for a cloud-like feel. Choose higher fills for extra support. Integrating both in different pillows creates the ultimate sleep experience.

Fill Material Differences

Beyond fill weight, materials impact quality:

• Down: Premium fills with unrivaled softness but less support.
• Feathers: Quilled fills with springy bounce but lower durability.
• Polyester: Budget-friendly with adjustability but less breathability.
• Foam/Latex: Responsive support and moldability but retains heat.

Try various fills in different pillows. Combining materials gives the ideal balance of cushy softness and sturdy support.

Density And Firmness

Inserts range from super-thick and firm to nearly flat:

• Low-Density: Thin, mushy and easily molded.
• Medium-Density: Lightly filled with some give.
• High-Density: Filled to capacity for maximum support.

Density impacts the insert thickness and feel. Try different densities in separate pillows for customizable comfort and support.

Once you've selected the perfect insert, use these tips for a smooth fill:

1. Keep the cover fully unzipped to avoid cramming.
2. Gently shake and fluff the insert before inserting.
3. Slowly insert the pillow, smoothing out fabric.
4. For oversized inserts, center and prevent uneven bunching.
5. Only zip the cover closed once insert is fully inside.

Taking your time during insertion prevents lumps and wrinkles. Remember to fluff and rearrange as needed after to perfect your pillow's look and feel.

Finding that ideal pillow insert size takes some pillow research. But understanding sizing, fill amounts, and smart insertion techniques helps create beautiful, comfortable beds. Follow the tips above to choose the perfect insert dimensions for your 12x20 pillow covers. Sweet dreams!