The 39 Best Throw Pillows of 2023 for Every Style

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AllModern’s Deaton Throw Pillow sets your pillowscape backdrop and layers beautifully with other styles.

<p>Amazon</p> 20 Best Throw Pillows of 2022 for Every Style

Amazon

20 Best Throw Pillows of 2022 for Every Style

The finishing touch to any room, throw pillows bring color, pattern, and texture to a space, no matter your palette or style. Whether you want to play it safe with a solid color or add a bit of whimsy with pattern or beading, throw pillows are the decor accents that give a room its personality.

“The pillows are the jewelry of a room, and what usually ties it all together” says Cindy Rinfret, owner and interior designer of Rinfret, Ltd. “If you’ve got artwork or colors that you’re trying to balance, the pillows are important in providing the ‘wow’ factor and defining the character of a room.”

And there are literally thousands of throw pillows on the market in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including, satin, knit, and faux fur. To arrive at the best throw pillows, we researched a variety of picks available online, keeping in mind size, material, and care instructions. In addition to consulting with Cindy Rinfret of Rinfret, Ltd., we also spoke to Stephanie Rapp, owner and principal designer of Stephanie Rapp Interiors, and Caitlin O’Keeffe, merchandise field manager at Serena & Lily.

There's not one single best throw pillow, since it comes down to style, preference, and what you already have in your room. However, we've pulled together some of our favorites to help you pull together your space, whether you're shopping for a bedroom, living room, or outdoor patio space.

One Kings Lane Riley Geometric Pillow

If you're looking for a throw pillow for a contemporary space, this geometric pick from One Kings Lane is our pick. Many pillow covers and inserts are sold separately, but this pillow comes with both. The pillow’s down fill boasts a high-end feel in addition to its stylish look.

The block-printed geometric motif on the front gives it a contemporary style that will fit right into a modern space. And with its simple elegance, it would also look right at home in a more traditional setting for those wanting to add a contemporary pop to their classic space. The downside is that it only comes in one color combination, but we do like that there are three different sizes to choose from.

Price at time of publish: $85

Product Details: Material: Cover is cotton; fill is down | Size: 18 x 18 inches, 20 x 20 inches, or 22 x 22 inches | Care Instructions: Blot stain and mix a small amount of dish soap with cold water to remove stains.

AllModern Deaton Throw Pillow

Corduroy is the quintessential fall fabric. Adding this corduroy throw pillow as the final touch to your room will make it feel approachable and comfortable—like an old friend.

As soon as the temperature starts to nosedive, you’ll want to snuggle up next to this pillow with a hot cup of tea. But remember, put this pillow away when the birds start chirping and the daffodils start peeping because corduroy can feel and look too heavy during spring and summer.

This pillow comes in classic fall colors like navy, mustard yellow, and brick red. The back of the pillow is solid, and the front features a subtle four-square pattern that adds a bit of texture. The purchase includes both the pillow and the cover, so you can start to decorate your space as soon as it’s delivered.

Price at time of publish: $38

Product Details: Material: Cover is cotton; fill is down | Size: 18 x 18 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean. Lay flat to dry.

The Citizenry Baya Lumbar Pillow

Your room will instantly feel brighter and more comfortable with this eclectic, lumbar pillow. It’ll take a neutral room to new heights with its vibrant jewel tones and geometric patterns inspired by those used by the Zapotec tribes of the Oaxaca region in southwestern Mexico. It’s handwoven with 100% sheep’s wool by women in Oaxaca and naturally dyed using native plant extracts. From start to finish, it takes three days to complete, and it’s made in a fair-trade environment.

The ethically handmade pillow celebrates people and culture while bringing your room to life. Although it’s expensive, you won’t need other throw pillows in your space after purchasing this statement piece.

Price at time of publish: $195

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% sheep's wool front with cotton back; insert material is not listed | Size: 12 x 48 inches | Care Instructions: Dry clean

Saro Lifestyle Nautical Down Filled Throw Pillow

If you are searching for beachy accessories to complete your coastal grandma vibe, this is the best throw pillow for you. This throw pillow is offered in several different designs, including an octopus and sea coral, and is trimmed with twine on a beige background for a bit of dimensional interest. The front of the pillow features a coastal creature, while the back is solid beige. With varying hues of blue and beige, this throw pillow brings the soothing relaxation of the beach right into your home.

The purchase includes both the pillow and the cover, but keep in mind that like many throw pillows, this one is hand wash only. A zipper closure on the back makes it easy to remove the cover from the insert for cleaning.

Price at time of publish: From $26

Product Details: Material: Cover is cotton; insert is down | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Hand wash

Etsy SpoonFlowerHome Midcentury Modern Throw Pillow

For spaces filled with clean-lined, organically shaped furniture and bright pops of color, this midcentury modern pillow will help tie your decor together. The fuschia, yellow, and orange abstract design on the pillow will add bright geometric style and is the perfect complement against woods and neutrals in a midcentury modern styled room.

Handmade in the USA, this square throw pillow has a lot of flexible buying options. The cover can be purchased with or without an insert. But, if you choose to purchase the pillow cover without the insert, it’s recommended that you buy a 20 x 20 insert in your preferred fill option for an overstuffed look. Depending on what exact look you’re going for, you can also choose from several different fabric options, including cotton, linen, sateen, and velvet, all around the same price point.

Price at time of publish: From $44

Product Details: Material: Cover is cotton, linen, sateen, or velvet; insert fill is cotton and polyester | Size: Cover is 18 x 18 inches; insert is 20 x 20 inches (optional) | Care Instructions: Wash in a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water

Ballard Designs Outdoor Throw Pillow

This outdoor throw pillow by Ballard Designs is a quality decor staple to freshen up any style patio or deck furniture. Made with Sunbrella fabric that is water-resistant, fade-resistant, and resistant to stains and mildew, this pillow will look its best from one season to the next. The pillow is also designed to dry quickly, so you won’t have to wait long after a rain shower to use them.

Available in 24 solid colors and stripes and a few different sizes, this pillow is designed to work with a variety of design styles and color palettes. However, keep in mind that the pillow cover is not removable, which could make bigger stains more challenging to clean.

Price at time of publish: From $32

Product Details: Material: Cover is Sunbrella acrylic fabric; fill is quick-drying poly | Size: 16 x 16 inches, 20 x 20 inches, or 12 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

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Anthropologie Luxe Faux Fur Pillow

This faux fur pillow from Anthropologie is a great choice to add cozy texture to a space. Some faux fur pillows may have a tendency to look cheap, but this one looks anything but. Made of a high-quality, durable polyester, it’s incredibly soft and stylish with a plush texture to it. It’s offered in six colors—light gray, pearl, brown, honey, peach, and blue—as well as two shapes: lumbar and square. This will be the warm and cozy pillow that you’ll fight off everyone for so that you get curl up to it every night.

While the cover is removable, unfortunately you can’t just easily throw it in the washing machine or even hand wash it—you’ll need to head to the dry cleaner with this one.

Price at time of publish: From $58

Product Details: Material: Cover is polyester; fill is 95% feather and 5% down | Size: 24 x 24 inches, 12 x 27 inches | Care Instructions: Dry clean

Pottery Barn Everywhere Velvet Pillow Cover Everywhere Velvet Pillow Cover

Velvet can make a space feel moody, yet high-end and cozy. This velvet pillow is so simple yet adds a touch of luxe wherever it lands. Plus, it pairs well with other styles, so that you can mix and match like a pro. Yarn-dyed to ensure long-lasting color, it comes in an assortment of hues, like midnight, adobe, and steel blue .

If you’re looking to swap out a summery pillow cover with one that’s luxurious and soft, you can purchase just the cover. But if you want a complete pillow, scoop up a down feather or down alternative insert with your cover.

Price at time of publish: From $50

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% cotton velvet; insert if down feather or down alternative, depending on your selection | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold

Serena & Lily Wiltshire Raw Silk Pillow Cover

This silk pillow is one of the most expensive pillows on our list, but its high quality is definitely splurge-worthy. With an eye-catching sheen, it will add visual depth, dimension, and a touch of elegance to your décor. The pillow is available in coastal blue, natural, persimmon, and chartreuse, all of which feature a delicate eyelash fringe along the sides.

The insert is sold separately and not included in the price. However, it is readily available to buy on the website, so you can add both of the items to your cart. Heed the care instructions and get this pillow professionally dry cleaned. Silk is a delicate fabric, and you'll want to make sure this pillow always looks its best.

Price at time of publish: From $198

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% raw silk | Size: 22 x 22 inches or 18 x 24 inches | Care Instructions: Dry clean only

Yaya & Co Labyrinth Organic Linen Throw Pillow

If you not only want a stylish home but also one that includes sustainably sourced items, this is the best throw pillow for you. Made with organic linen and down feather, the pillow’s materials are 100% natural, and all of its artisans and makers are paid ethically to help support sustainable practices for both the earth and for people.

Available in six different colors with a contrasting stitched edge that adds visual interest, the pillow has a comfortable, casual charm to it. It’s also durable and soft, with a zipper closure that makes the cover easy to take off to clean. The company is also mindful of its customer’s unboxing experience—each order is packed with care in tissue paper with dried lavender sprigs, and every product includes a sachet of lavender from Provence, France.

Price at time of publish: From $98

Product Details: Material:  Cover is organic linen; insert is down feather | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable with like colors

Minna Shadow Pillow Cream

This pillow is handwoven on a pedal loom by skilled weavers from the mountainous region of Momostenango, Guatemala. They use thick, handspun wool for a very textural pillow, and the wool is dyed with sustainable, non-toxic dyes.

Custom-made, each pillow may look slightly different and offers a one-of-a-kind look. But this should be embraced; you’re buying something that hasn’t been mass produced. Remember, this handmade pillow costs a bit more because an artisan took time and passion to make it. And while it only comes in cream and indigo, these two colors mix, match, and layer well in most design schemes. The removable cover allows for dry cleaning.

Price at time of publish: $205

Product Details: Material:  Cover is 100% wool with a 100% cotton backing; insert is synthetic down with poly-cotton blend | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean or dry clean

Kelly Clarkson Home Remy Cable Knit Cotton Feather Throw Pillow

When the colder weather arrives, don’t just pull out your favorite, chunky cable knit sweater to warm you up, grab this lookalike throw pillow, too. It will instantly add warmth to your space as soon as you place it on your furniture. It’s an especially good choice for creating a custom layered look of pillows in a mix of textures on a sofa or bed.

It’s soft and comes with a feather and down insert for a plump and full look. The color choices are vanilla, grass, saffron, tangerine, and turquoise. The cover is removable if you have a spill, but hand washing is recommended.

Price at time of publish: From $35

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% cotton; insert is 95% duck feather and 5% down | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Hand wash

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L.L. Bean Wicked Plush Throw Pillow

This is the best throw pillow for those who enjoy soft and plush materials. This L.L.Bean throw pillow is the perfect lounging accessory to bring a cozy, hygge-like vibe to your space.

It’s available in four neutral options: antique white, federal gray, navy, and woodsmoke. These colors can be added to furniture to blend into a neutral space or help balance out a more colorful aesthetic.

The cover, which features fluffy fleece on one side and soft-brushed fleece on the other, is removable and can be machine washed. With everyone constantly vying for this pillow, you’ll want the option to add this to your laundry pile to keep it looking like new.

Price at time of publish: From $30

Product Details: Material: Cover and insert are 100% polyester | Size: 18 x 18 inches, 24 x 24 inches | Care Instructions: Machine wash and air dry

Artistic Weavers Whitley Faded Waffle Weave Cotton Throw Pillow

This vibrant, waffle weave pillow is the best throw pillow for those looking to add texture to their space. The pattern adds a bit of interest without being overwhelming.

The option to have a feather down or polyester fill gives you the ability to customize your throw pillows. They are also available in several different sizes, and you can also buy the cover with or without the inserts, so you can mix and match colors by season. The pillow comes in six colors: wheat, charcoal, coral, denim, rose, and mustard.

With a hidden zipper enclosure, you can easily remove the cover if you need to spot clean a stain or want to swap out covers by season.

Price at time of publish: From $22

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% cotton; insert is feather down or polyester fill, depending on your selection | Size: 18 x 18 inches, 20 x 20 inches, or 22 x 22 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Threshold Oversize Lumbar Woven Global Pillow

Lumbar cushions are designed to support your lower back and provide comfort, but let’s be honest, most are chosen for the added style that they bring to a room. And the striped pattern on this pillow will add visual interest to your space.

It only comes in black and brown, but fortunately, these neutral colors match most decor. It has a polyester fill so you don’t have to worry about fluffing your pillow before guests arrive. It’s also Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified, meaning that it’s been tested and verified as free from harmful levels of more than 300 substances.

Price at time of publish: $25

Product Details: Material: Cotton cover with polyester fill | Size: 27 x 15 inches | Care Instructions:  Spot or wipe clean

Strick & Bolton Lindi Leather 22-inch Throw Pillow

This square leather pillow will add a high-end feel and warmth to your space. And it’ll fit right into pretty much any interior style, whether your decor is contemporary, rustic, or farmhouse. With its distressed, dyed cover and contrasting natural, cotton back, this pillow looks like it’s been a well-loved accessory in your house for years. Plus, leather will age and soften over time, giving it an even more lived-in, vintage feel.

The feather and down insert is ideal—it adds to the pillow’s luxurious feeling, making it both soft and supportive. There are several neutral colors to choose from, but it’s only available in one square size. Layer this pillow with other pillows of different materials and textures for a warm palette.

Price at time of publish: From $68

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% leather with a natural cotton back; insert is feather and down | Size: 22 x 22 inches | Care Instructions:  Spot clean

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Lush Decor Round Pleated Soft Velvet Decorative Pillow

Mixing and matching a few different decorative pillows adds layers and texture into any space. This round throw pillow instantly adds visual interest and will make any space more inviting. Its velvet fabric is soft and gives it an attractive sheen, while the pleated design and tufted button center adds a chic element. If you’re just looking to add a little something extra to your design scheme, this accent pillow packs a big punch.

This pillow is offered in seven different colors, and it’s made with polyester fill to help maintain its circular shape.

Price at time of publish: From $20

Product Details: Material: 100% polyester | Size: 15 x 15 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Sunday Citizen Snug Waffle Throw Pillow

If comfort is your main priority, the Snug Waffle Throw Pillow is the best throw pillow for you. The outside features buttery soft, textured fabric, and the inside is made with memory foam. Even better, the waffle knit cover is both removable and washable, so cleaning the pillow is simple. It’s available in 11 colors including marigold, denim, coal, off white, taupe, and grape.

Price at time of publish: $75

Product Details: Material: 100% microfiber cover, memory foam fill | Size: 20 x 20 inches  | Care Instructions: Cover is machine washable in gentle cycle

West Elm Tufted Stripe Indoor/Outdoor Pillow

This throw pillow will add color, pattern, and texture to your space—whether inside or outside. Because of its water-resistant fabric, it can be used on your patio or in your living room. Its tufted stripes will add subtle texture. It’s also versatile and can be used in a variety of aesthetics, whether your style is eccentric maximalist or minimal modern.

Price at time of publish: $40

Product Details: Material: Cover is 100% cotton, fill is 100% polyester | Size: 24 x 24 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean only

Anthropologie Cozy Bouclé Pillow

If you were a fan of our boucle chair, then this pillow is a must have. This plush pillow has a knotted, yet soft, design that instantly adds texture to your space. It’s available in ivory, light gray, neutral, maize, and dark turquoise.

Price at time of publish: $58

Product Details: Material: 63% polyester, 37% cotton, polyester fill | Size: 18 x 18 inches, 22 x 22 inches, or 16 inch round  | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Bearaby Hugget Knot Pillow

This throw pillow is both practical and stylish. Sustainably made from rubber trees and organic cotton, the Bearaby Hugget pillow is gently weighted to help provide stress relief. There are three different sizes and weights to choose from, as well as eight colors. Depending on what size you get, it can be used as a stress ball, a cushion for sleeping, or a huggable pillow.

Price at time of publish: From $29

Product Details: Material: 100% cotton, foam fill  | Size: 4 x 4 inches, 8 x 8 inches, or 11 x 11 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Uncommon Goods Dog Face Pillow

Dog lovers will be head over paws for this throw pillow. Made from 100% wool, you can order this pillow with the design of pug, corgi, dachshund, golden retriever, and more of your favorite pups. The pillow is handmade in India and measures 8 x 12 inches.

Price at time of publish: $25

Product Details: Material: Wool  | Size: 8 x 12 inches  | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Pillowfort Character Weighted Plush Throw Pillow

If your kid is looking for a way to add some more personality to their space, this throw pillow from Target will do just that. The throw pillow is available in four adventurous characters: a cheetah, unicorn, pink dinosaur, or green dinosaur. In addition to being a cute and fun bed accessory, the pillows are also weighted, which can help soothe anxiety symptoms.

Price at time of publish: $20

Product Details: Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex | Size: 24 x 11 x 7 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Urban Outfitters Checkerboard Throw Pillow

If you loved the TikTok-famous checkered blanket, you’re going to want to add this pillow to your cart as soon as possible. This taupe and white checkered throw pillow is slightly textured, so it will add both a pattern and texture to your space.

Price at time of publish: $39

Product Details: Material: 100% cotton; polyester, olefin fill | Size: 18 x 18 inches  | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Phantoscope Modern Polyester Throw Pillow, Set of Two

Display these throw pillows to make your room feel cozy and welcoming, even in the warmer seasons. We love the white color, but the set can also be purchased in pink, yellow, brown, gray, and more. The pillows feature a removable cover with a hidden zipper, which makes cleaning them fast and easy.

Price at time of publish: $39

Product Details: Material: Polyester and polyester blend | Size: 18 x 18 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable

Area Gemma Decorative Pillow

Reminiscent of your favorite quilt, this throw pillow is perfect for a hygge-filled day of relaxation. The pillows are filled with feather down, and either the beige or charcoal options would be a great addition to just about any space.

Price at time of publish: From $120

Product Details: Material: 100% linen, feather/down | Size: 17 x 19.5 inches or 16 x 30 inches | Care Instructions: Not listed

Giraffe At Home Luxe Leopard Throw Pillow

If you’re feeling wild, add this soft leopard-print pillow to your space. The faux-fur throw pillow is a versatile pick that would look at home as a pop of personality in a neutral room or as part of a vibrant, maximalist room.

Price at time of publish: $82

Product Details: Material: 100% polyester faux fur with 57% rayon, 43% acetate trim | Size: 17 x 17 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable, dry flat

Threshold 2 Pack Chenille Square Throw Pillows

Add a pop of color to your bed or couch with this solid-colored pillow set. The two-pack of throw pillows is available in eight colors including black, cream, gray, pink, and yellow. And because it’s sold in a pack of two, you get more bang for your buck with this affordable option. A brighter color, like the yellow, will provide your space with color and personality. Add a neutral color to a pillowscape with an abundance of prints and patterns for balance.

Price at time of publish: $20

Product Details: Material: Chenille cover and polyester fill | Size: 18 x 18 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Corby Geometric Tupelo Honey Kilim Pillow

Geometric shapes can add a modern, abstract look to a solid couch or neutral-toned bed. The Corby Geometric Tupelo Honey Kilim Pillow is available in three colors: tupelo honey, mist blue, and ink black. The front is handwoven with wool, and the back features natural linen and cotton. You can pick between a feather or down alternative insert, so you can choose what is most comfortable for you.

Price at time of publish: $70

Product Details: Material: Wool, cotton, linen  | Size: 23 x 23 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean only

Phantoscope Pom Pom Velvet Series Decorative Throw Pillow, Set of Two

Barbiecore decor is rising in popularity, and these bright pink throw pillows with pom poms will add a pleasant pop of color to your space. The velvet pillow covers have a hidden zipper, meaning it’s a breeze to remove to launder. If Barbiecore isn’t your aesthetic but you still want to add a fun, feminine touch, the pillow set is also available in white, gray, green, navy blue, orange, purple, red, or yellow.

Price at time of publish: $34

Product Details: Material: Polyester blend and velvet | Size: 12 x 20 inches, 18 x 18 inches, 20 x 20 inches, or 22 x 22 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable

Rifle Paper Co. x Loloi Embroidered Blossoms Pillow

For floral lovers, this Rifle Paper Co. throw pillow is the perfect home accessory. The bright pillow features embroidered flowers on the front, and a solid, deep red color on the back. The cover can easily be removed to clean, but avoid laundering it in the washing machine.

Price at time of publish: $90

Product Details: Material: 100% cotton; poly fill | Size: 22 x 22 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean

Pottery Barn Modern Farmhouse Striped Indoor/Outdoor Lumbar Pillow

If modern farmhouse is your style, you’ll love this lumbar throw pillows from Pottery Barn. Add it to your couch, bed, or outdoor patio furniture to provide a fun pop of classic color and style. This pillow is also an eco-friendly pick—the polyester fibers are made from recycled water bottles.

Price at time of publish: From $39

Product Details: Material: 100% polyester | Size: 16 x 26 inches | Care Instructions: Spot clean with a damp, white cloth and air dry

Groovy Classic / Retro Vintage 70's Gifts Retro Vintage Geometric Shape No.2 Throw Pillow

For a totally groovy look, this retro rainbow pillow will transport you to the 1970s. Made with 100% polyester, this doubled-sided pillow will add vintage warmth wherever you choose to place it. Spot clean or dry clean when needed.

Price at time of publish: $20

Product Details: Material: 100% polyester | Size: 16 x 16 inches or 18 x 18 inches | Care Instructions: Spot or dry clean

DWELLhomeshoppe Personalized Zip Code Lumbar Pillow

The perfect housewarming gift, this custom zip code lumbar pillow will add a personalized touch to a couch, bench, or bed. For the pillow itself, you can choose between two colors: white or natural. For the text, there are 12 different colors to choose from, including blush, mauve, black, gold, plum, or navy. You can also choose between a polyester fill or faux down fill.

Price at time of publish: From $25

Product Details: Material: Cotton, down, polyester | Size: 24 x 12 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable on gentle cycle. Spot clean in between washes. 

Better Homes & Gardens Tan Arches Decorative Pillow

Arches have been gaining popularity for modern home decor, and this throw pillow from our collection at Walmart provides the perfect blend of modern and cozy. The arch on the pillow is tufted to provide extra dimension and texture, and the pillow is filled with soft down alternative. It’s available in several different neutral colors including vanilla dream, dark tan, and greystone.

Price at time of publish: From $20

Product Details: Material: 100% cotton with down alternative fill | Size: 24 x 14 inches or 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: 

Ikea Stockholm Throw Pillow

For a funky modern look, this affordable throw pillow from IKEA will add visual interest to your space. The bold black and white pillow is made with a 100% cotton cover and duck feather fill. The cotton is sustainably sourced, making this an environmentally-friendly and stylish choice.

Price at time of publish: $25

Product Details: Material: 100% cotton cover, duck feather fill  | Size: 20 x 20 inches | Care Instructions: Turn the cover inside out and machine wash in cold water

Uewidiod Nordic Minimalist Modern Home Plush Flower Decorative Pillow

This is the perfect choice for those wanting to add a modern, eclectic touch to their living space. The plush, flower-shaped pillow is available in four colors: white, green, red, and yellow. It’s both quirky and minimalist, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Price at time of publish: $20

Product Details: Material: Cotton  | Size: 17.1 x 17.1 inches | Care Instructions: Machine washable

Crate & Barrel Cotton Sari Silk Throw Pillow with Down-Alternative Insert

For a high quality, solid throw pillow with subtle texture, you can’t go wrong with this silk throw pillow. The back of the pillow features plush velvet—we love the combo of textured silk and velvet in one pillow. You can choose from a down alternative or feather fill and between five colors: aqua, blue, dark gray, light gray, and yellow.

Price at time of publish: $55

Product Details: Material: 100% silk front, 100% cotton velvet back, down alternative or feather fill | Size: 20 x 20 inches  | Care Instructions: Dry clean only

West Elm Decorative Pillow Inserts

These pillow inserts from West Elm are available in a wide selection of sizes at a reasonable price. You can choose from nine different sizes and two fill options. A feather down insert is extra plush and stuffed with 100% feather down, while the down alternative insert is plush and stuffed with 100% hypoallergenic polyester.

Both have a 230-thread-count cotton cover, and both are machine washable. The inserts are also sustainably sourced and are made using recycled or consciously-grown materials. If you need multiple inserts, you can bundle and save by purchasing a set of two.

Price at time of publish: From $15

Product Details: Material: Down alternative or feather down | Size: 16 x 16, 18 x 18, 20 x 20, 24 x 24, 12 x 21, 14 x 36, 12 x 16, 12 x 46, and 14 x 26 inches | Care Instructions: Machine wash in a commercial washer and tumble dry low

What to Know About Throw Pillows Before Shopping

Size

Throw pillows are offered in a variety of sizes. And there really is a rhyme and reason in how to choose them so that they’ll work in harmony in creating a cohesive pillowscape for your furniture.

“Size-wise, it’s important to scale throw pillows to your sofas,” says Cindy Rinfret of Rinfret, Ltd. “We use 22-inch down and feather throw pillows. On a regular three-seat sofa, we’d use four and possibly a lumbar in the middle. On a loveseat, we’d use a 19-inch, something a little bit smaller. It has to be proportioned with the size of the sofas.”

Fill Material

Typically, you’ll see the following types of inserts: polyester, feather, down, a combination of feather and down, and down alternative.

Polyester is stiff and won’t offer the comfort level of a down or down alternative pillow. However, it works best in pillows that need to maintain a certain shape. It’s also a synthetic material, so if you want to stick with natural materials, another pillow may be a better choice. With that said, some companies are using polyester responsibly, testing for harmful substances and certifying the product nontoxic.

A feather or feather and down pillow insert is the softest and fluffiest of pillow inserts, but you will need to fluff it regularly so it doesn’t look too flat. And if you’re allergic to feathers or down, a down alternative insert is also soft and luxurious.

Care Instructions

Since throw pillows may have decorative accents and embellishments, or come in a high-end fabric, think about your lifestyle and where you’re placing them before choosing a pillow for your space.

“If you have dogs and kids, you might want to buy a throw pillow with a performance fabric,” Rinfret says. “But generally, the throw pillow covers can be zipped and unzipped and sent to the dry cleaner.”

Your Questions, Answered

How do you clean a throw pillow?

After shopping for the perfect throw pillows, you’ll want to know how to clean them so they can look their best. And fortunately, most throw pillows have a removable cover that can either be machine washed, hand washed, or dry cleaned.

A good rule of thumb is to read and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Overall, most throw pillow covers and pillow inserts can be spot cleaned with soap and water, and some quality inserts can even be machine washed in a commercial washing machine.

How do you style throw pillows?

There are some basic principles to follow in curating a mix of pillows, but at the end of the day, it’s your chance to personalize your space.

“When choosing a throw pillow to complement your living space, first consider where the pillow is going in the room,” says Caitlin O’Keeffe, merchandise field manager at Serena & Lily. “For a sofa, a layered look with multiple sized pillows with pops of color and textures will add dimension and visual interest. A lounge chair with an upholstered back works best simply paired with a lumbar pillow, while a harder framed chair could benefit from a square pillow that also doubles as a cushion.”

“Build the look around a single statement pillow that has dynamic patterns and textures such as tassels, corduroy, or embroidery details, and then balance out the selection with a solid color pillow to set the backdrop,” O’Keeffe adds.

Stephanie Rapp, owner and principal designer of Stephanie Rapp Interiors, looks for a mixture of textures and finishes in pillows, “So maybe a touch of wool with a woven [pillow], or fur or velvet paired with a woven [pillow] and a couple of different shapes, like a large 24-inch square with a lumbar,” she says.

What size throw pillows do you need?

Choosing the size of throw pillows depends on the scale of your furniture, but Rapp says it’s better to go oversized than undersized.

“Here’s an insider tip,” Rapp says. “If you’re buying pillow covers, I like to oversize the insert. So, if you’re buying a 22-inch pillow cover, buy a 24-inch insert, and then it really looks like a designer pillow. There’s nothing worse than having a flat pillow.” 

Who We Are

Jennifer Carmichael is a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens. To make this list, she researched a variety of throw pillows, keeping in mind material, size, and care instructions. She also consulted Cindy Rinfret, owner and principal designer at Rinfret, Ltd.;  Stephanie Rapp, owner and principal designer of Stephanie Rapp Interiors, and Caitlin O’Keeffe, merchandise field manager at Serena & Lily.