Avoid the Pillow Pile Up

How to change your pillows seasonally without breaking the bank or accumulating a million pillows.

Let’s face it, we all have that impulse to change things up with every new season. Magazines and catalogs bombard us with fresh fabrics and trends, and suddenly our living rooms feel like they need an update. But don’t panic—we’ve got some budget-friendly tips for you to refresh your space without hoarding a mountain of décor.

 

If you’re like me, accent pillows are a major seasonal temptation. Each season brings a new wave of fabrics and colors to swoon over.  I especially have a hard time as fabric vendors launch their new lines, I feel like a kid in a candy shop. But before you get carried away and end up with stacks of pillows that need their own closet, here are a few designer tricks to help you keep things under control while still giving your home a fresh look.

Tip 1: Keep Pillow Sizes Consistent

How many pillows do you currently have stashed in your closet? I used to stockpile pillows in every size imaginable—throwing them on beds, under beds and even piling them in the guest shower (yes, really). But it turns out there’s a simple trick to avoid turning your home into a pillow storage unit. Pick one size insert, say a 24-inch, and stick with it, keeping the insert and changing out only the cover.  This way, you won’t end up with a million different sizes fighting for closet space.

I keep two 24-inch pillows on each of my sofas and a 12” x 16” lumbar pillow on my favorite chair. I’m particularly fond of down feather inserts (shoutout to Pottery Barn!) because they maintain their shape and fluff up easily after a little beating. It’s worth the investment because down alternative pillows tend to lose their shape faster, making it necessary to buy new ones sooner than you'd like.

Pottery Barn Pillow Inserts

Tip 2: Store Smart, Save Space

At the end of each season, toss your pillow covers in the wash or dry clean them if necessary. Once they’re clean and fresh, store them away in a fraction of the space they’d take up in your closet. You’ll be surprised at how much room you’ll free up when you’re only storing the pillow covers—not all the bulky inserts!

Tip 3: Buy the Correct Size Pillow Covers

By the way, a 24” pillow insert does take a 24” Pillow Cover

You know that awkward feeling when your pillow cover is too big for your insert, and you’re left with a floppy, sad pillow? Well, we can avoid that situation altogether. If you’re using a 24-inch insert, choose a pillow cover that's one size smaller—22 inches works perfectly. This way, your pillow will have the right fit, look plump and inviting, and never leave you with that unsightly, saggy cover.

And here's a bonus pro tip: if you’re having custom pillows made, give the seamstress one of your inserts to ensure a perfect, snug fit.

Tip 4: Keep Those Feathers in Check

If you’ve got down pillows, you know the struggle—feathers on the floor, feathers on your couch, feathers everywhere! A great way to tackle this is to buy pillow covers that act like an extra layer of protection. Opt for waterproof, hypoallergenic, dust-proof, zippered encasements. These covers from Amazon will keep the feathers in place and make sure your pillows stay fluffy and pristine.

Where to Shop for the Best Pillow Covers

The right pillow covers can completely change the look and style of a room, so here's where to source like a designer:

For High-End Custom Covers and Designer Fabrics

• Etsy: Check out Pop O Color, and My Pillow Cover.  

• Coastal Home Pillows for beautifully made custom pieces.

Charleston Collection from Coastal Home Pillows

Thibaut Peony Garden in Spa Blue by Pop O Color

For Everyday and Budget-Friendly Options

• Amazon: It’s hard to beat Amazon’s selection for affordable, stylish pillow covers. I always find textured solids that add a little depth to my space. You can even splurge on a custom pillow and pair it with a simple, solid-colored one from Amazon to balance the look.

• Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and  West Elm change out selections seasonally. 

• Etsy, The Pillow Cover Store

Pottery Barn Colossal Handknit Pillow

Time to Empty Your Closets!

Now that you’ve got your pillow strategy in place, it’s time to embrace a more organized approach to seasonal décor. Instead of buying new seasonal pillows each year (and cramming them into overstuffed closets), focus on purchasing versatile, quality pillow covers that can be easily swapped out with the seasons.

By sticking with a consistent pillow insert size, using well-fitted covers, and choosing the right materials, you can transform your space each season without clutter or cost. So go ahead—refresh your home, embrace the seasonal changes, and keep those closets (and budgets) happy!