In this post, I’m going to show you exactly how to set up pillows on your queen bed to make it feel like a luxurious hotel retreat.
I’ve spent years testing different pillow arrangements and have found the perfect setup that helped me transform my basic queen bed into the most comfortable spot in my home. My method has even gotten compliments from house guests who say they sleep better at my place than at home.
Ready to make your bed the coziest place ever? Let’s get started!
How Many Pillows to Use on A Queen Bed?
For my queen bed setup, I recommend using 4-6 pillows total.
Here’s my tried-and-tested breakdown:
2-4 sleeping pillows for daily use – I place two standard-sized pillows for each person. This gives options for different sleep positions throughout the night. Some folks might prefer one firm and one soft pillow.
2 decorative pillows – I’ve found this number works perfectly for a queen bed. It adds style without making the bed feel overcrowded.
Remember – the key is comfort, not quantity.
I learned this after years of having too many pillows that just ended up on the floor every night.
Understanding Different Pillow Types and Sizes
Let me walk you through the different pillow types I’ve used on queen beds.
After testing various combinations, I can help you pick the right sizes for your needs.
1. Standard Pillows: These measure 20 x 26 inches. I use standard pillows as my main sleeping pillows. They fit perfectly on a queen bed, leaving just enough space on each side. The size works well for most sleeping positions.
2. Queen Pillows: At 20 x 30 inches, queen pillows are my top choice for queen beds. They give extra width for those who move around at night. I find they look more balanced on the bed than standard ones.
3. King Pillows: These are 20 x 36 inches. While bigger than needed for a queen bed, I sometimes use them when I want fuller bed coverage. Keep in mind they might hang over the edges slightly.
4. Euro Shams: These are square pillows, usually 26 x 26 inches. I place them against the headboard as back support when I read in bed.
5. Decorative Throw Pillows: I mix these up with different shapes:
- Square pillows (18 x 18 inches or 20 x 20 inches)
- Lumbar pillows (14 x 22 inches) work great as a center accent
- Bolster pillows (7 x 20 inches) can add a nice finishing touch at the front
Step-by-Step Guide to Queen Bed Pillow Arrangement
1. Start with Large Shams (24″ x 24″)
For a queen bed, use three 24-inch square shams across the back. These create your base layer and add height against the headboard.
I find these work perfectly for sitting up to read or work in bed.
Key points for sham placement:
- Space them evenly across the back of your bed
- Ensure they sit flush against your headboard
- Check that there are no gaps between shams
2. Add Your Sleeping Pillows
Now it’s time for the pillows you’ll actually sleep on. I’ve found that four standard sleeping pillows create the perfect balance for a queen bed.
Choose between feather or synthetic based on your needs and comfort.
Material considerations:
- Feather pillows hold shape better but may cause allergies
- Synthetic options like Pillow Flex offer good support
- Keep all pillows the same height for clean lines
3. Choose Your Arrangement Style
This step lets you personalize your bed’s look.
Think about how you use your bed – do you sit up to read? Work on your laptop? Your daily habits should guide your choice.
Four style options:
- Forward-facing: All pillows standing up
- Stacked: Layered like a sandwich
- Mixed: Upright shams with stacked sleeping pillows
- Modern: Shams up, flat sleeping pillows
4. Finish with One Lumbar Pillow
The final touch is simple but important. A single lumbar pillow (16″ x 26″) adds that designer finish without making your bed look overdone.
I’ve learned through experience that this is all you need.
Placement tips:
- Center it in front of your other pillows
- Keep it proportional to bed width
- Choose a color that ties your scheme together
- Avoid adding extra decorative pillows
For a more detailed tutorial on Queen Bed Pillow Placement, check out the video by She Holds Dearly:
Tips for Perfect Pillow Arrangement on a Queen Bed
After years of helping clients with their bedding setups, I’ve found that a well-arranged queen bed makes a big difference in both comfort and style.
Here’s my simple guide to getting it just right.
- Keep shams at equal height against the headboard
- Match pillowcase colors for a clean, unified look
- Leave about an inch gap between each sham for a neat look
- Center each pillow carefully for perfect symmetry
- Fluff feather pillows daily to maintain their shape
- Face pillow openings toward the center of the bed
- Stand sleeping pillows upright for a fuller appearance
- Layer from largest to smallest, back to front
- Use only one decorative pillow to avoid clutter
- Make sure pillow sizes match on both sides
- Keep lumbar pillow centered at the front
- Replace pillow inserts yearly to maintain fullness
Pillow Arrangements Without a Headboard
Creating a stylish bed without a headboard requires some smart pillow placement.
I’ve found that the right arrangement can actually make up for the missing headboard and create a focal point all on its own.
Basic Foundation:
- Build height with three 24″ x 24″ Euro shams at the back
- Space shams evenly to fill the bed width
- Let them lean slightly against the wall for support
Creating Visual Interest:
I like to think of this setup as building layers. Start from the back and work forward:
- Place sleeping pillows at a slight angle for depth
- Overlap pillow edges slightly for a cohesive look
- Keep everything centered on the wall space
Final Touches:
- Add one lumbar pillow in the front for polish
- Make sure all pillows can stand independently
- Consider wall-mounted art above the bed to frame your arrangement
The key is stability – without a headboard, your pillows need to be self-supporting while looking intentional.
Coordinating Pillows with Bedroom Decor
Making your pillows work with your bedroom’s style is simpler than it seems.
I’ve learned that a few key choices can pull everything together beautifully.
Matching Bedding Sets:
- Pick out shams that match or complement your duvet cover
- Use solid-colored pillows with patterned sheets
- Mix textures while keeping colors consistent
Wall Colors and Artwork: When I decorate bedrooms, I always look at the walls first. Your pillow choices should pick up colors from your wall art or paint. This creates a flowing look that feels intentional and put together.
Accent Pieces: Consider your bedside elements when choosing pillow styles:
- Match metallic finishes on lamps with pillow trim
- Pull colors from your bedside rug into accent pillows
- Keep materials similar to other bedroom textiles
Interior Designer Tips on Pillow Arrangement
Think of your bed as the star of your bedroom’s show. Here’s how the pros make it shine:
Professional Secrets for Perfect Pillows:
- Use odd numbers for decorative items – three shams or five total pillows
- Place darker colored pillows in the back, lighter ones in front
- Mix up textures but stay in the same color family
- Stick to a maximum of three different patterns
Smart Styling Tricks: When I work with clients, I teach them these reliable techniques:
- Use pillow inserts one size larger than the cover for a fuller look
- Give each pillow a gentle chop at the top for that luxe feel
- Keep patterns at different scales – big, medium, and small
- Focus special details (like tassels or trim) on front pillows only
Remember: Great design often means knowing when to stop. Less really can be more when it comes to pillow styling.
The Bottom Line
Setting up your queen bed pillows isn’t just about following rules – it’s about creating your perfect sleep and relaxation space.
Remember, the right pillow setup does more than look good.
It turns your bed into a comfortable spot for sleeping, reading, or just unwinding after a long day. Whether you’re working with a headboard or not, these arrangements can transform your bedroom’s look.
Ready to try these tips? Start with the basics and adjust as you go.
Your perfect pillow arrangement might take a few tries to get right, but once you find it, you’ll notice the difference every time you walk into your bedroom.
What’s your favorite way to arrange your bed pillows? Let me know in the comments!