Blog - Pillow Inserts

You’ve picked out the perfect pillow covers. The colors are right. The textures sing. But once you pop in your old insert… something feels off. Flat. Lifeless. Underwhelming.

Here’s the truth: The secret to that designer-worthy pillow look? It’s not just the cover—it’s what’s inside.

Why Loft Matters

Interior stylists and home bloggers alike swear by one trick: using feather or down-alternative inserts instead of standard polyester. Why? Because they give your pillows that full, plush look you see in high-end showrooms or Pinterest-worthy rooms.

A flat pillow can cheapen even the most beautiful cover. But a pillow with enhanced loft instantly elevates a space—adding softness, depth, and that lived-in-but-curated vibe we all love.

Feather vs. Down-Alternative: Which Should You Choose?

Feather Inserts
Natural and breathable, feather fills give weight and shape. They mold easily and can be fluffed back to life with a quick karate chop (yes, that’s a thing). If you’re after that plump, casual-luxe look, these are gold.

Synthetic Down Inserts
Great for allergy-sensitive households, down-alternatives mimic the softness and bounce of real down without the allergens. They’re cruelty-free, machine-washable, and still offer that rich, cozy fullness.

The Pro Stylist Trick: Sizing Up

Want your pillows to look extra plush? Always size up your inserts. For example:

For an 18x18" pillow cover, use a 20x20" insert.
For a 20x20" cover, go with a 22x22" insert.

This small detail makes a huge difference in how your pillows hold shape and look on your couch or bed.

Where to Use Lofty Inserts

On your sofa: Use oversized, fluffy inserts to add dimension. Mix sizes and textures, but keep the fill consistent to maintain visual weight.
On the bed: Layer larger feather inserts behind smaller decorative ones for a layered, hotel-inspired look.
Accent chairs or reading nooks: Even one properly filled pillow can cozy up a corner instantly.

Pillow styling is one of the easiest ways to update your space. But don’t stop at the cover—invest in quality inserts that give you that full, sink-in softness and elevated look.

Next time you’re tempted to toss in a flat poly insert, ask yourself: What would a home stylist do?
(They’d size up and go feather, every time.)