Spice up your seating with throw pillows

Think of your living room. Now, imagine it with a splash of colour and a dash of personality — that’s what throw pillows can do. These little cushions are more than just a comfy prop, transforming any space from blah to brilliant. Whether lounging for a movie night or having friends over for tea, a well-chosen throw pillow makes every seat more inviting, from sofa cushions to outdoor cushions. 

Comfort meets style

It’s not just about comfort; throw pillows also bring a touch of elegance to your seating. With many textures, colours and designs, these accessories are your secret weapon for adding a personal touch to your home decor. Whether you prefer the plushness of velvet, the crispness of linen or the softness of cotton, there’s a texture to suit your taste. And the patterns? They're limitless. From striking geometrics to delicate floral prints, there’s always a pillow that speaks your style.

Picking your pillow pals

By considering a few aspects when choosing your throw pillows, you can ensure they not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also meet functional needs, making your spaces both beautiful and comfortable.

1. Think texture

When selecting throw pillows, playing with texture can dramatically enhance the look and feel of a room. Textures add depth and can evoke different moods or atmospheres. For instance, velvet pillows exude extravagance and make a space feel more opulent, while knitted cotton or burlap offers a rustic, homely vibe. Mixing textures is like creating a tactile conversation between your décor elements. A smooth silk cushion paired with a rough, woven one can create an intriguing visual and tactile contrast that makes your space more engaging.

2. Colour your world

Colour is a powerful decorating tool, especially with throw pillows, as they allow you to introduce bold dashes of colour that can change the mood without the commitment of painting walls or buying large pieces of furniture. If your room has a neutral colour scheme, adding bright pillows can make the space vibrantly pop, offering an instant uplift. Conversely, if your room is already vibrant, choosing pillows in muted tones can bring balance and subtlety to your décor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns that combine multiple hues to weave together various elements of the room.

3. Size matters

Throw pillows' size and shape are crucial in their visual impact and functionality. Standard square pillows (around 18-24 inches) provide great back support and are great for deep sofas. Smaller pillows (around 16 inches) can be used for decorative accents and work well on sleeker, modern furniture. Oblong or lumbar pillows provide lower back support in deeper seating or add a layer of comfort to a bed. 

An arrangement of different-sized pillows creates a dynamic and inviting look, inviting you to plop down and relax. This variety also allows for more creative stacking and layering, making your seating look plush and well-curated.

Keep your throw pillows perky: tips for care

By focusing on a few key care aspects, you can keep your throw pillows looking as good as new, making your home feel welcoming and stylish year-round.

1. Wash wisely

Properly washing your throw pillows is essential for keeping them fresh and vibrant. It’s important to always check the care label on your pillow covers before washing, as the material dictates the best cleaning method. For instance, cotton and polyester are generally machine washable, which makes them easier to maintain. Delicate fabrics like silk or wool might require hand washing or professional cleaning to avoid damage. 

Spot cleaning with a mild detergent solution is usually safe for pillows that cannot be removed from their fills. Following the right washing guidelines will help your pillows maintain their colour and texture.

2. Fluff frequently

Fluffing your pillows isn't just about maintaining their shape; it's also about keeping them comfortable and inviting. Regular fluffing helps to redistribute the fill material, preventing it from becoming lumpy or flat. Fluffing is particularly important for feather or down pillows as it helps keep the filling evenly distributed and prolongs the pillow's loftiness. 

For synthetic fill pillows, regular fluffing helps maintain their resilience and support. You can fluff your pillows by hand or give them a quick toss in the dryer on a no-heat setting with a couple of tennis balls to help plump them up.

3. Seasonal swaps

Changing your throw pillows with the seasons is not only a fun way to refresh your decor, but it can also extend the life of your pillows. Lighter fabrics like linen or cotton are great for spring and summer, providing a breezy, airy feel to your spaces. For autumn and winter, switch to richer textures like velvet, wool or faux fur to add warmth and comfort. 

Seasonal swaps also prevent wear and tear from constant use, as each set of pillows gets a break for part of the year. Additionally, this practice allows you to clean and store pillows properly when not in use, ensuring they're fresh and ready for their next season.

Beyond the throw pillows

Styling your home with throw pillows offers a great opportunity to play with different design elements. When combined with other home décor items, throw pillows can create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Here’s some aspects that go well with throw pillows to style up your home:

1. Coordinating throws and blankets

Pairing throw pillows with coordinating blankets and throws can enhance your living space's comfort and visual appeal. Choose throws that complement the texture or colour of your pillows. For example, a knitted throw can pair beautifully with a simple, solid-coloured pillow, while a plush velvet throw might look great with a patterned pillow.

2. Area rugs

Area rugs and throw pillows are great for adding warmth and layers to your room. You can match the colours and patterns to create a uniform look or mix contrasting styles for a bold, eclectic vibe. The textures and colours of the area rugs can be echoed in your pillows to unify the space and make it feel grounded.

3. Curtains

Curtains are another way to harmonise the décor with throw pillows. Matching the fabric or colour of your curtains with your pillows can pull the room together. Alternatively, choosing contrasting but complementary styles can add depth and interest to your space.

4. Wall art

Wall art can complement throw pillows by reinforcing a room's colour scheme or theme. Choose artwork with similar or contrasting colours, styles or themes with your pillows. This connection between your wall art and pillows can subtly tie the room’s decor elements together, creating a well-rounded look.

5. Decorative trays and coffee table books

Accessorise coffee tables or ottomans with decorative trays and coffee table books that reflect the colour or theme of your throw pillows. This adds visual interest and creates a cohesive look throughout the living space.

6. Vases and plants

Incorporate vases and indoor plants that complement the colours and styles of your throw pillows. These natural elements can help soften the space and add a touch of life, enhancing the pillows' welcoming feel. 

Let’s get cushy

So, are you ready to dive into the delightful world of throw pillows? They’re the simplest way to make any space feel like home. Whether you’re revamping a room or just looking for extra comfort, throw pillows are a small change that can make a big impact. Let your imagination run wild, and start your throw pillow adventure today.

Shop throw pillows at vidaXL

At vidaXL, you'll find an extensive selection of throw pillows. We also specialise in curating stylish, affordable essentials like chairs, sofas, outdoor furniture, TV stands and more. Our passion lies in transforming homes into modern, chic spaces without straining your wallet.

Need a hand?

Within our extensive help centre, you'll discover a wealth of frequently asked questions regarding delivery, shipping, product information and more.

For more personalised assistance than the help centre, feel free to contact our customer service team. Our dedicated experts are ready to address any of your concerns, whether general inquiries or product-specific questions.