What Are Throw Pillows? | Decorative Cushions Explained

A throw pillow is a small decorative pillow placed on sofas, chairs, or beds to add color and style, not for sleeping.

For the full breakdown, see our best 20X20 Throw Pillows guide.

Throw pillows are the quickest way to change a room’s look without buying new furniture. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines a throw pillow simply as “a small pillow used especially as a decorative accessory.” You’ll find them stacked on couches, beds, and armchairs, where they bring color, texture, and a finished feel to a space. While they offer some back support when you’re lounging, their main job is visual, not comfort.

What Makes a Pillow a “Throw” Pillow?

The key distinction comes down to purpose. A throw pillow is designed as an accent piece, not a sleep aid. It’s usually smaller than a standard sleeping pillow—common square sizes run from 16 to 24 inches—so it sits well against a sofa arm or at the head of a bed without taking up sleeping space.

Most throw pillows share a two-part construction: an inner insert (the soft core) and an outer cover, often called a sham. This design explains why so many have removable covers, which makes cleaning and seasonal swapping easier. That said, not every throw pillow comes with a removable cover, so it’s worth checking before you assume a cover can be washed.

Common Sizes, Shapes, and Materials

Square throw pillows are by far the most common, but they are not the only option. Round, rectangular, and even novelty shapes exist, so the design possibilities are broad.

When it comes to materials, the choices match the fabric trends of home decor. Options include:

• Cotton and linen — casual, breathable, and easy to maintain.
• Velvet and chenille — soft, plush, and dressy.
• Suede and leather — textured and durable.
• Silk — luxurious but delicate.
• Microfiber — budget-friendly and resistant to stains.

Choosing a fabric depends on the room’s traffic. A busy family room might call for a tough microfiber, while a formal living room can handle the elegance of velvet. This material variety is a big reason throw pillows work in nearly any decor scheme.

Throw Pillow vs. Cushion vs. Accent Pillow

The word “cushion” covers a wide range of padded items, from sofa seat cushions to floor cushions. A throw pillow is a specific type of cushion: small, decorative, and not meant for primary seating support.

You’ll also hear these pillows called accent pillows or decorative pillows — those terms describe the same item’s styling role. In British English, the common name is scatter cushion, which reflects the casual way they’re tossed (or “scattered”) onto seating. So if you see that term in a UK-based decor article, it means the same thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are throw pillows comfortable to sleep on?

Not really. Throw pillows are primarily decorative, and they’re usually too small and firm to support your neck properly during sleep. They work fine as a light backrest while reading or watching TV, but for actual rest, a standard bed pillow is the better choice.

How do I clean a throw pillow?

If the cover is removable, unzip it and wash it according to the care label, usually on a gentle cycle. If the cover is not removable, spot clean the entire pillow carefully or take it to a professional cleaner. Always check the tag first, since materials like silk or velvet need special handling.

Can throw pillows be used outdoors?

Standard indoor throw pillows can be used on a covered porch, but they will degrade quickly in direct sun and rain. For outdoor spaces, look for pillows labeled “outdoor” or “weather-resistant,” which use fabrics designed to handle moisture and UV exposure.