Buy a 24×24 pillow insert for a 22×22 cover to get the full, polished look most people want.
If you’re staring at a 22×22 cover and wondering what size pillow insert for 22×22 cover you actually need, the answer is almost always 24×24. Buying a 22×22 insert to match the cover exactly is the most common mistake people make — and it usually leaves your throw pillows looking deflated and underfilled rather than crisp and tailored.
Why A 24×24 Insert Fits A 22×22 Cover Best
The simple reason is geometry. A pillow cover is a fabric shell, and if the insert inside is exactly the same size, the cover stretches tight and the corners stay loose and empty. A slightly larger insert pushes outward, fills the seam lines, and gives the pillow that full, structured look you see in showrooms.
What About A 23×23 Or 25×25 Insert?
Size options between one and four inches larger can work, but the look changes with each increment. Here’s how the range breaks down:
- 23×23 insert: Adds a slight bit of plumpness without much bulk. Fine if you want a softer, low-profile pillow that still has a bit of structure.
- 24×24 insert: The most common and safest choice. Gives a full, classic look that suits standard accent pillows.
- 25×25 insert: Only if you want a very firm, overstuffed look or if your cover’s fabric is thick or textured and takes up internal space.
What To Measure Before You Buy
Most covers list their nominal size on the label, but tags aren’t always precise. A “22×22” cover can measure slightly smaller or larger depending on the brand, the fabric finish, and whether the cover has a decorative border that changes the usable interior space.
Measure the cover flat, seam to seam, before ordering. If the interior measures a bit under 22 inches, a 24×24 insert will still work well.
When you’re ready to pick the cover itself, our tested roundup of the best 22×22 pillow covers covers the options that work with standard 24×24 inserts.
Insert Size At A Glance
The table below compares the most common insert options for a 22×22 cover:
| Insert Size | Look Achieved | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 22×22 | Underfilled, loose corners | Almost nobody — usually a mistake |
| 23×23 | Soft, low-profile plump | Relaxed spaces, lightweight fabric |
| 24×24 | Full, classic, tailored | Standard accent pillows |
| 25×25 | Firm, overstuffed | Thick or textured fabric covers |
Where To Buy Inserts That Fit Right
Most home goods retailers sell 24×24 inserts in down, down-alternative, and polyester fills. Down and down-alternative inserts compress more easily and can look softer; polyester fills hold their shape longer and stay firm, which works well if you want the corners to stay visible and sharp, as noted in Boho Pillow’s sizing guide.
References & Sources
- Puffy. “Pillow Insert vs Cover Size: The Complete Guide.” Explains why sizing up two inches on square covers creates a fuller look.
- Boho Pillow. “How To Size Your Pillow Inserts.” Recommends inserts 1–4 inches larger than the cover with fill guidance.
- Erynhome. “Pillow Insert Size Guide.” Covers the common sizing-up rule for square throw pillows.