Pillows play a bigger role in your bedroom than you might think. They’re not just there to support your head while you sleep, they also help define the style and feel of your bed. But if you’ve ever browsed through bedding sets or tried to dress up your bed, you’ve probably stumbled upon two very similar-looking items: shams and pillowcases.
So, what’s the difference? Do you really need both? While they may look alike at first glance, shams and pillowcases serve two very different purposes. In this guide, we’ll break down what sets them apart, how to use them together, and how to care for each so your bed looks great and feels even better.
What Is a Pillowcase?
Pillowcases are the practical, everyday covers that go over your sleeping pillows. They’re designed for comfort and hygiene, protecting your pillow from dirt, sweat, and oils. Most people are already familiar with pillowcases because they come standard in sheet sets and get swapped out regularly.
Key traits of a pillowcase:
- Meant for daily use
- Typically made from the same material as your sheets (like cotton, linen, or sateen)
- Has an open end or envelope closure for easy access
- Washed frequently, usually once a week
Pillowcases are all about function. They’re soft against your skin, breathable, and simple in design so you can rest easy without irritation or distraction.
What Is a Sham?
Pillow shams, on the other hand, are the decorative counterparts to your pillowcases. They’re often used as part of a coordinated bedding set to give your bed a polished, styled appearance. While they technically cover a pillow too, their job is to elevate your bedroom’s look, not to be slept on every night.
What sets a sham apart:
- Designed for display, not sleep
- Often features decorative details like flanges, piping, embroidery, or bold fabrics
- Usually has a hidden zipper or envelope-style back closure
- Pairs with duvets or quilts rather than sheet sets
Shams are commonly used to cover extra pillows that sit in front of or on top of your sleeping pillows. They’re an easy way to add dimension and color to your bedding without fully committing to a redesign.
Why the Difference Matters
While it’s easy to assume you can just throw whatever pillow cover you have onto any pillow, understanding the difference between shams and pillowcases can make a big impact on both your sleep quality and the overall look of your bed.
Pillowcases are meant to be soft and breathable, making them ideal for your nightly routine. Shams, however, are built to hold their shape and enhance the visual style of your space. Mixing them up can lead to discomfort (nobody wants to sleep on sequins or stiff embroidery!) or a bed that looks a little underdressed.
How to Use Shams and Pillowcases Together
You don’t have to choose between shams and pillowcases in fact, using them together is the key to a bed that looks great and feels cozy. Here’s how to layer them:
- Start with your sleeping pillows in pillowcases. These go closest to the headboard and are your go-to for comfort and function.
- Layer in shams next. Standard shams fit regular pillows and sit in front of the sleeping pillows. Euro shams (which are square) can be placed behind everything to add height and drama.
- Finish with accent pillows. Smaller decorative pillows can tie everything together and bring in additional texture or color.
This layered look gives your bed a styled, intentional feel like something out of a boutique hotel or home design magazine.
Care Tips for Each
Since they serve different purposes, pillowcases and shams also have different care routines. Pillowcases should be washed frequently, once a week is ideal. Because they come into contact with your face and hair, they can collect oils, skin cells, and product residue. Wash them in warm or cool water with a gentle detergent, and avoid harsh fabric softeners if you’re prone to skin irritation.
Shams, on the other hand, can go longer between washes since they don’t get as much direct use. Every few weeks (or monthly) is usually enough unless they’re visibly soiled. Be sure to read the care labels. Some decorative fabrics or trims may require a delicate cycle or air drying to preserve their shape and texture.
At the end of the day, the easiest way to remember the difference is this:
- Pillowcases = comfort and cleanliness
- Shams = style and structure
They’re not interchangeable, but they are complementary. Each plays an important role in your bedding setup, and when used together, they help create a space that’s both inviting and elevated.
Your Bed, But Better
Understanding the roles of shams and pillowcases is a small shift that makes a big difference. With the right combination, you get a bed that’s not only cozy enough to crawl into after a long day, but also beautiful enough to show off. Whether you're building a minimalist, crisp setup or something layered and luxe, using both gives you flexibility and polish.
Looking to refresh your bedding or complete your set? Explore our collection of pillowcases and shams designed to work together beautifully, wash after wash.
