Pillow Size 101: A Guide to Decorative Pillow Sizes

Choosing the right throw pillow or decorative cushion size makes styling your space easier. Use this quick guide to compare sizes, then scroll for simple details on how each one works. The right combination adds comfort, balance and a more finished look to your space.


Tonic Living's Pillow Sizes


  • 14x20 Lumbar – extremely versatile, great for layering, chairs, and small beds

  • 18x18 – well-suited for small spaces and layering

  • 20x20 – most common, versatile size for layering or styling on its own

  • 22x22 – foundation pillow, ideal as a backer for layering or styling on its own

  • 24x24 – oversized, best for beds and deep sofas and sectionals

  • 16x42 Bolster – extra long lumbar, perfect for beds


14x20 Lumbar Pillow: The Utility Player

A highly versatile size that adds dimension and interest, and acts as a tailored finishing touch.

  • Use on its own in an accent chair

  • Layer in front of 20x20 or 22x22 pillows on a sofa

  • Place centred on a bed or between two larger pillows

  • Ideal for twin or double beds, including kids’ bedrooms

Shop 14x20 Lumbar Pillows



18x18 Throw Pillow: The Space Saver


A slightly smaller alternative to 20x20, ideal for small space living.

  • Ideal for smaller spaces, including loveseats, chairs, and compact sofas

  • Easy to layer with larger pillows

  • Works well on twin or double beds



20x20 Throw Pillow: The Classic

Living room with Pierce Navy blue and Brooklyn Stripe Navy & Red pillows styled on a sofa – Tonic Living
The most common decorative pillow size, and the go-to size for building a balanced arrangement.

  • Versatile for chairs, sofas, couches, sectionals, and beds

  • Works as a base layer or adds a pop of colour/pattern

  • Pair with 22x22 pillows behind for a layered look

  • Use with a 14x20 lumbar styled in front

Shop 20x20 Pillows



22x22 Throw Pillow: The Foundation

Tonic Living Brussels 22x22 pillow in Sky Blue with linen-like texture styled with the Emmett Plaid Denim throw pillow.
A “sink-into-me” size that brings a full, layered look together.

  • Foundation pillow, ideal as a backer and anchor in a layered arrangement

  • Easy to pair with smaller pillows like 20x20 or lumbar sizes in front

  • Can be styled on its own or layered for a fuller look

  • Great for beds (full, queen, king), layer 2–3 behind a bolster

Shop 22x22 Pillows



24x24 Throw Pillow: The Plush Layer

Rexton Moss Stripe 24x24 cushions styled on bed with Manor Tapestry sage green bed bolster pillow
An oversized pillow that creates a fuller, more elevated look.

  • Largest standard pillow size

  • Best for bed styling, layer behind a bolster or smaller pillows

  • Works on deep sofas and sectionals

Shop 24x24 Pillows



16x42 Bed Bolster Pillow: The Bed Essential

A simple way to complete your bed styling or bedscaping.

  • Style on its own for a clean, contemporary look

  • Ideal for queen and king beds

  • Layer in front of 22x22 or 24x24 pillows

  • A finishing layer that pulls everything together

Shop 16x42 Bolster Pillows

 


They go by many names, including throw pillows, toss pillows, cushions, and decorative cushions. Whatever you call them, choosing the right sizes makes all the difference. Use this guide to mix, match, and layer with confidence.
Shop our full pillow collection to find the sizes and styles that work best for your space.

 

 

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