How to measure a pillow, lay it flat and use a tape measure to determine the width and length. Avoid measuring diagonally and round up to the nearest whole inch for accurate sizing.
When it comes to choosing the right pillow size, accurate measurements are crucial for a perfect fit. Measuring a pillow’s dimensions while lying flat and unstuffed along the seams is essential. In this guide, I will show you how to measure a pillow accurately using simple steps to ensure you find the right size for your pillow covers or inserts.
Understanding the correct method for measuring pillows will help you achieve a great fit for your home decor, ensuring that they look neat and proportional. Let’s dive into the details of how to measure a pillow accurately.
How to Measure a Pillow?
Why Measuring A Pillow Is Important
Measuring a pillow is crucial to ensure the right fit and to determine the appropriate size when replacing or purchasing a pillow. Whether you’re looking for a pillowcase, a replacement insert, or an entirely new pillow, proper measurements are key to finding the perfect match. It allows you to determine the right size for your needs, ensuring optimal comfort and support.
Ensuring The Right Fit
When selecting a pillow, whether it’s for an existing pillowcase or a new one, measuring it ensures the right fit. By taking accurate measurements, you can make sure that the pillowcase or cover fits snugly, preventing it from being too loose or too tight. A properly fitting pillowcase not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a comfortable sleep experience.
Determining Pillow Size For Replacement Or Purchase
Measuring a pillow is essential when you need to determine the size for replacement or purchase. Whether you’re replacing an old pillow insert or buying a new pillow, knowing the precise dimensions is crucial. It prevents you from buying a pillow that is too small or too large for your needs, ensuring that you get the right level of support and comfort.
Step 1: Gather The Necessary Tools
To measure a pillow accurately, you need to gather the necessary tools. Here are the essential items you will need before you begin measuring your pillow:
Soft Tape Measure Or Ruler
Make sure to have a soft tape measure or a ruler. These tools will allow you to measure the length and width of the pillow accurately. The soft tape measure is recommended as it can easily contour to the shape of the pillow, ensuring precise measurements.
Flat Surface To Lay The Pillow On
Prepare a flat surface to lay the pillow on for accurate measurements. This could be a table or any other smooth, even surface that allows the pillow to lay completely flat. Ensuring a flat surface will prevent any distortions in the measurements and provide accurate results.
Step 2: Measure The Pillow Width
After laying the pillow on a flat surface, the next step is to measure its width. This measurement is crucial in determining the appropriate pillow size for your needs. Follow the steps below to accurately measure the pillow width.
Lay The Pillow On A Flat Surface
Start by laying the pillow on a flat and even surface. This could be a table, countertop, or even the floor. Make sure the pillow is fully extended and not bunched up or folded.
Use A Soft Tape Measure Or Ruler To Measure The Width
To measure the width of the pillow, you can use either a soft tape measure or a ruler. Place the measuring tool at one end of the pillow and extend it across to the opposite end. Ensure that the tape is straight and aligned with the edges of the pillow. Take note of the measurement once you reach the other side.
If you are using a tape measure, be sure to read the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on your preference. For rulers, the measurements are usually marked in inches.
Pro tip: If your measuring tool isn’t long enough to cover the entire width, measure one side and then the other, adding the two measurements together to get the total width of the pillow.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure the width of your pillow. This measurement will come in handy when choosing the right pillow cover or pillowcase to ensure a perfect fit.
Step 3: Measure The Pillow Length
To measure the length of a pillow, use a firm tape measure and hold two corners of the pillow to the ground. Measure from one end to the other along the seams, ensuring not to measure diagonally or from the center to any side of the pillow.
Now that you have aligned your tape measure or ruler along the edge of the pillow, it’s time to measure the length. This step is crucial to ensure you get the right size pillow for your needs.
Align The Tape Measure Or Ruler Along The Pillow’s Edge
Start by aligning your tape measure or ruler along one of the pillow’s edges. Make sure it is straight and parallel to the edge for accurate measurement.
Measure From One End To The Other
Next, measure from one end of the pillow to the other, ensuring that you are measuring along the aligned tape measure or ruler. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on your preference.
It’s important not to measure diagonally or from the center to any side of the pillow, as this may result in inaccurate measurements.
If you are unsure of how to measure without a soft tape measure, you can use a firm carpenter’s tape measure instead. Simply hold two corners of the pillow to the ground and measure from one end to the other.
Remember that pillow dimensions always refer to the pillow cover’s width and length while lying flat unstuffed. The measurements are taken along the seams from corner to corner and are usually rounded up to the nearest whole inch.
By following these simple steps, you can accurately measure the length of your pillow and ensure you get the right size for your needs.
Step 4: Round Up To The Nearest Whole Inch
When measuring a pillow, always round up to the nearest whole inch for accuracy. Using a carpenter’s tape measure, measure the width and length along the seams, ensuring not to measure diagonally or from the center. This method ensures the correct pillow cover size for a snug fit.
Note The Measurement In Inches
To accurately measure a pillow, it is important to note the measurement in inches. This will help you determine the appropriate size pillow cover or pillowcase that you need. Remember, pillow dimensions always refer to the width and length of the pillow cover when lying flat and unstuffed. The measurements are taken along the seams from corner to corner, ensuring accuracy in sizing.
Round Up To The Nearest Whole Inch
Once you have measured the pillow, it is crucial to round up to the nearest whole inch. This step helps in ensuring that you select a cover or case that is slightly larger than the actual pillow size, allowing for a proper fit. Rounding up to the nearest whole inch is a common practice in the industry. It guarantees that the cover or case won’t be too snug and will easily slip on the pillow without distorting its shape. When rounding up the measurement, consider the closest whole inch.
For example, if your measurement falls between 16 and 17 inches, round up to 17 inches. This ensures that you have enough room for the pillow to fit comfortably inside the cover or case, without it being too tight or loose. When it comes to determining the right pillow size, accuracy in measurement and rounding up to the nearest whole inch are essential. This not only helps with finding the perfect pillow cover or pillowcase but also ensures a snug and polished look for your pillows.
So, don’t forget to note the measurement in inches and round up when selecting your pillow accessories. In conclusion, measuring a pillow can be done efficiently by noting the measurement in inches and rounding up to the nearest whole inch. These steps are crucial in finding the right pillow cover or pillowcase that fits perfectly and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your pillows.
Conclusion
Measuring a pillow accurately is essential to ensure the right pillow size and fit. Remember to use a firm tape measure, measure along the seams from corner to corner, and round up to the nearest whole inch. Avoid measuring diagonally or from the center.
By following these steps, you can find the perfect pillow size for a comfortable and stylish home decor. So go ahead, measure your pillows like a pro!
