Choosing a throw pillow for a couch requires some thought. You've probably considered the type of pillow or the color you're looking for, but it's also important to think about the things you can't see – like the fill material. Curious about what type of pillow is best for your lifestyle? Looking for help with the details of picking out the right throw pillow? Read below for our tips and tricks.

Types of Throw Pillows for Couches

Aside from your typical throw pillow, you might also consider a few other popular styles. Below, we're going over four popular pillow types, including throw, lumbar, floor, and Euro pillows.

Throw Pillow

Throw pillow is a catchall phrase for most of the pillows we feature on-site. Throw pillows that are made from delicate materials or have intricate beadwork can be used as decor. Larger, fluffier throw pillows can be used to add a layer of comfort to your sofa. Many throw pillows can serve multiple purposes; they look beautiful, add visual interest, and create a comfy landing spot.

Lumbar Pillow

A lumbar pillow is long and typically rectangular in shape, but it can have rounded edges. These pillows are thought to support your lower back, which is why it has "lumbar" in its name. Lumbar pillows are decorative in nature and come in a variety of textures and patterns. A lumbar pillow is usually placed alone at the center of a pillow arrangement between two or four pillows.

Floor Pillow

A floor pillow is wide, flat, and generally square-shaped. Floor pillows are fluffy, but not quite as padded as a typical throw pillow. They can be used in a variety of ways. Choose a couple of solid-colored floor pillows and toss one on each of the far ends of your sofa for some extra oomph. Use them as extra seating for guests. Prop a few up against a coffee table to have a makeshift "picnic" in front of a movie.

Euro Pillow

A Euro pillow – sometimes called a Euro sham – is a large square pillow that's typically 26" x 26". Euros are typically used on beds, but they can just as easily be used on a sofa. Because Euros are larger than a typical throw pillow, you'll want to place these pillows on the outer ends of the sofa so smaller pillows don't get lost behind them.

How to Choose a Throw Pillow

Now that you've determined the types of pillows you need for your sofa, it's important to look at a few other deciding factors, such as color, fill material, and cover material.

Color

Whether you lean toward a warm color palette, love cool tones, or live in a world of neutrals, there are plenty of color options to choose from. We recommend alternating between large, solid-colored pillows and small, patterned pillows for a textured appearance. If you choose large pillows in a solid neutral, you will be able to use them as the starting point for years of artful pillow arranging. Simply switch out the smaller, patterned pillows when you need a change. For more pillow inspiration, read our guide How to Arrange Pillows on a Sofa.

Cover Material

To choose a cover material, you'll want to first consider the purpose of the pillow. If the throw pillows you're choosing will be used for everyday lounging or Friday night movies, choose a durable, easy-to-care for material. We recommend cotton, linen, or polyester. These materials are often machine-washable, making it that much easier to clean up if the pups plan to join you on the sofa.

If you're choosing a throw pillow that's purely for decoration, feel free to opt for a luxe material like velvet, silk, or suede. These pillows are typically spot-clean or dry-clean only, so make sure to handle them with care.

For an indoor pillow that you can also use outside, choose a strong fabric like Sunbrella or jute. These pillows won't fade in the sun, and they'll add extra padding to a dining or lounge chair.

Fill Material

Aside from the cover material, it's important to consider the pillow's fill material – especially if anyone in your household has allergies.

Down/Feather: A feather down pillow is filled with feathers from ducks or geese. These pillows are lightweight and malleable, perfect for getting cozy on the sofa. Feather down pillows last for a long time, but they cause a reaction if someone has a bird allergy.

Polyester/Polyfill: Polyester pillows, or polyfill, are crafted from synthetic polyester fibers. These pillows mimic the comfortable feeling of down feathers without allergens. While polyester pillows are affordable and comfortable, they may not be as durable as feather down is long-term.

Cotton: Cotton throw pillows are comfortable and naturally hypoallergenic. Cotton pillows are a little firmer than polyester pillows, which can create better support if you'll occasionally be working from the sofa or want to prop up for a meal.

Eco-Fill: These pillows are created with 100% recycled fibers. They are durable, supportive, and long-lasting. They are also nontoxic, giving you a green pillow choice.

Covers & Inserts

While choosing throw pillows for a couch, it's smart to consider all your options. If you have comfortable pillows but are longing to make an easy design update, keep the pillow inserts and shop for pillow covers. Pillow covers lie flat and are easy to store, so you can always change these up seasonally.

If you already have pillow covers you love but the inserts need a little bit of TLC, you can purchase new inserts separately. Choose something that's nice and fluffy – either with duck down feathers or hypoallergenic polyester down.

Opt for a pillow insert and cover combo for the quickest update and a whole new look. You'll have the most options to choose from and you just might find your new favorite pillow pattern.

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