Where to Shop for The Best Throw Pillows?

Throw Pillows are one of the easiest ways to refresh a room and add instant style, comfort, and personality to any space.

Over the years, I’ve searched high and low for the perfect throw pillows, from budget-friendly finds to luxe designer pieces, and I’ve discovered the best places to shop for them.

Whether you’re looking for trendy seasonal options, timeless classics, or something completely unique, this guide will point you in the right direction.

In this article, I’ll share my top recommendations for where to buy throw pillows, covering a variety of styles, budgets, and quality levels.

I explored online retailers, specialty stores, and even a few hidden gems you might not know about.

By the end, you’ll have plenty of inspiration and options to elevate your living room, bedroom, or patio with the perfect pillows.

Trust me, after years of shopping, these spots never fail to impress.

Top Places to Buy Throw Pillows

After hunting high and low for the perfect throw pillows (and maybe becoming a bit of a pillow enthusiast along the way), I’ve discovered the best places to shop.

Let me share my recommadtion to help you find exactly what you’re looking for!

Online Shopping Gems

1. Etsy

I absolutely love Etsy for throw pillows! You’ll find incredible artisans creating one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t see anywhere else. My favorite part? You can often customize colors and sizes.

Tip: look for shops with lots of positive reviews and detailed photos of their work. I’ve found some amazing mud cloth pillows here that always get compliments!

2. Amazon

Amazon is like a treasure hunt, and you just need to know how to search. I’ve found some fantastic deals here, especially on pillow inserts.

The reviews are super helpful, and with Prime shipping, you can quickly try different options.

My secret? Filter by average customer review and look for brands that consistently get good feedback.

3. Wayfair

This is my go-to when I want to browse tons of options at once. Their search filters are fantastic. You can narrow it down by size, color, material, and more.

I’ve scored some great deals during their frequent sales, especially on outdoor pillows.

4. West Elm

While pricier, West Elm’s quality is consistently impressive. Their organic cotton covers wash beautifully, and their designs feel current without being trendy.

Watch for their end-of-season sales, and that’s when I’ve found the best deals.

5. H&M Home

Don’t sleep on H&M Home! Their pillow covers are surprisingly well-made for the price, and they nail current trends. I love their linen options – they get softer with each wash.

Physical Stores

1. IKEA

IKEA is my secret weapon for pillow inserts – they’re fantastic quality for the price. Their covers are great basic options, too, and being able to feel the materials in person is a huge plus.

2. Target

Target’s Studio McGee and Threshold collections are incredible. The quality has improved so much over the years, and their seasonal collections are always on point. I’ve found some of my favorite neutral pillows here.

3. Pottery Barn

When I want a pillow that’ll last for years, I head to Pottery Barn. Their down-filled options are amazing, and the covers are built to last.

Yes, they’re pricier, but the quality justifies the cost.

Specialty and Boutique Shops

1. Chloe and Olive

When I want something truly special, I check out Chloe and Olive. Their designer fabrics are stunning, and while they’re definitely an investment, the quality is unmatched.

2. Local Boutiques

Don’t forget to check out your local home decor shops! I’ve found some amazing one-of-a-kind pillows this way, plus you get personalized service and support local businesses.

My favorite local shop owner always lets me know when new shipments arrive that match my style.

Factors to Consider When Buying Throw Pillows

After spending countless hours hunting for the perfect throw pillows (and maybe buying way too many), I’ve learned a thing or two about where to find the best ones.

1. Style and Design

Listen, the first thing you need to do is figure out your style vibe. Are you all about that clean, modern look? Or maybe you’re more of a boho soul with lots of textures and patterns?

I’ve found that stores like West Elm and CB2 are amazing for modern designs, while Anthropologie is my go-to for unique, boho-inspired pieces.

Right now, oversized pillows and mixed textures are having a moment, and honestly, they make any space look super inviting!

2. Material and Comfort

Let’s talk about comfort because what’s the point of throwing pillows if they’re not comfy?

Cotton is great for everyday use (and super easy to clean, trust me on this one).

Velvet adds this gorgeous luxury touch. I’ve found some amazing ones at Pottery Barn that feel like a dream.

If you’re going for that ultra-cozy vibe, Faux Fur pillows from Restoration Hardware are absolutely worth the splurge.

3. Size and Shape

For sofas, start with 20×20 inch squares as your base (they’re like the perfect size), then add some fun with different shapes.

I love using one or two lumbar pillows (those long rectangular ones). They look super stylish and actually support your back.

Target has a fantastic selection of different sizes, and their prices won’t break the bank.

4. Quality and Durability

Look, we’ve all been tempted by those super cheap pillows, but here’s the thing – good stitching makes all the difference.

Check the seams and zippers before buying. Companies like Crate & Barrel make pillows that last forever because they nail these details.

Also, double-stitched edges are your best friend – they prevent those annoying splits that happen with cheaper options.

5. Price and Budget

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get great pillows. HomeGoods and TJ Maxx are treasure troves for designer pillows at amazing prices you just need to visit regularly to catch the good stuff.

I usually budget around $30-50 for smaller pillows and up to $100 for larger, high-quality ones. But honestly, some of my favorite pillows were steals from Target’s seasonal collections!

6. Inserts vs. Covers

Buy your inserts separately from your covers. I get my inserts from IKEA (seriously, they’re great quality for the price) and then mix and match covers from different places.

Down-alternative inserts are my favorite – they’re fluffy but don’t need constant fluffing like real down. For covers, Etsy has some amazing handmade options that you won’t find anywhere else.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Throw Pillow

1. Matching Your Decor Style

Think of your throw pillows as the jewelry of your room – they should enhance what’s already there.

If you’ve got a modern space with clean lines, go for pillows with geometric patterns or solid colors with interesting textures.

For traditional rooms, try classic patterns like damask or floral prints. I’ve found that taking a quick photo of your room helps you visualize how new pillows will fit in.

Remember, your pillows should feel like they belong, not like they crashed the party!

2. Mixing Patterns and Textures

Start with a large-scale pattern (like a bold floral), add a medium geometric print, and finish with a small-scale pattern or solid texture.

Think of it like putting together an outfit you wouldn’t wear all stripes, right? I love combining a chunky knit pillow with a smooth velvet one and then adding something with an interesting pattern.

The key is to keep at least one element (like color or scale) consistent throughout.

3. Color Coordination

The 60-30-10 rule is your best friend here! Use your room’s main color for 60% of your pillows, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for 10%.

Want to play it safe? Pick different shades of the same color. It always looks sophisticated.

I’ve found that pulling a minor color from your artwork or rug and making it a major player in your pillow scheme can tie everything together beautifully.

4. Determining the Right Quantity

Let’s break this down by Furniture piece, For a standard Sofa, 3-5 pillows feel just right – odd numbers are your friend.

Loveseat: 2-3 pillows keep things balanced.
Accent chair: 1-2 pillows max (you still want the room to sit!)
Bed: 2-3 decorative pillows for a twin/full, 3-6 for a queen/king

The secret is to have enough pillows to look inviting without turning your furniture into a pillow storage facility (we’ve all been there!).

5. Seasonal and Thematic Choices

This is where the fun really happens! I love switching out 2-3 pillows seasonally – it’s like giving your room a mini makeover.

Think cozy textures like velvet and faux fur for winter, light linens for spring, bright patterns for summer, and warm earthy tones for fall.

Tip: store your off-season pillows in vacuum bags to save space and keep them fresh.

Remember, these are guidelines, not rules set in stone. The best pillow combination is one that makes you happy every time you walk into the room. Sometimes, breaking the “rules” leads to the most interesting and personal spaces!

Keep those gorgeous throw pillows looking as amazing as the day you bought them. After years of trial and error (and, yes, a few cleaning mishaps), I’ve figured out the best ways to keep pillows looking fresh and lasting longer.

Caring for and Maintaining Throw Pillows

1. Cleaning and Washing

First things first, those care labels are your best friends. Don’t toss them away like I used to. But let me break down the basics of pillow care that I’ve learned along the way:

Removable Covers:

Most cotton and synthetic covers can go in the washing machine on cold, gentle cycle
Velvet and silk need special care – usually dry cleaning only
Turn covers inside out before washing to protect the design
Always air dry to prevent shrinkage (I learned this one the hard way!)

Spot Cleaning:

Act fast! The sooner you tackle a stain, the better
Use a clean white cloth and blot. Never rub
For water-safe fabrics, mix a tiny bit of gentle detergent with water
Always test cleaning solutions on a hidden spot first

2. Keeping That Perfect Fluffy

Looking for plump and perfect fluffy pillow, well I have some techniques for you that will ease your hard work.

Fluffing Techniques:

Karate chop in the middle (sounds weird, but it works great!)
Squeeze and release the sides like an accordion
For down-filled pillows, give them a good punch (they can take it!)

When to replace Inserts:

If they stay flat after fluffing
When they start looking lumpy
Usually every 1-2 years for regularly used pillows
Sooner for synthetic fills, longer for quality down

3. Smart Storage

Whether you’re switching out seasonal pillows or storing extras, proper storage is key to longevity:

Storage tips I swear by:

Clean pillows before storing (no one wants to find surprise stains later)
Use breathable storage bags – those vacuum ones are amazing for space-saving
Keep them in a cool, dry place (avoid basements or attics)
Add cedar blocks to prevent moths
Stack them flat or stand them upright – just don’t crush them

Pro Tips I’ve learned:

Rotate your pillows regularly to prevent uneven wear
Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading
Use pillow protectors under decorative covers for extra protection
Keep pets off fancy pillows (or accept that pet hair is now part of your decor!)

Remember, good pillow care means you won’t have to replace them as often, saving you money in the long run.

Plus, well-maintained pillows just make your space look so much more polished and put together.

Comparison of Top Retailers

Having shopped at all these stores (probably more than my wallet would like!), let me break down exactly what you can expect from each major retailer. Here’s my honest take on where to spend your money wisely!

1. Price Range Overview

Budget-Friendly Champions

Target: $15-35 per pillow, surprising quality for the price
IKEA: $5-25, best value for basic options
H&M : $10-40, trendy designs without breaking the bank

Mid-Range Favorites

West Elm: $35-80, higher quality materials
Pottery Barn: $45-100, classic designs
Wayfair: $20-150, huge range of options

Luxury Options

The Citizenry: $95-195, artisanal quality
Anthropologie: $70-200, unique designer pieces
Custom boutiques: $100-300+, premium materials

2. Quality & Materials Deep Dive

Target

Durability: Good for seasonal changes
Materials: Decent cotton blends, improving quality yearly
Construction: Machine washable, holds up well

West Elm

Durability: Excellent, especially their organic line
Materials: High-grade linens, velvets, and sustainable options
Construction: Superior stitching, quality zippers

Pottery Barn

Durability: Built to last years
Materials: Premium fabrics, excellent down fills
Construction: Reinforced seams, well-made covers

3. Style Selection

Most Diverse Options

Wayfair: Everything from traditional to ultra-modern
Etsy: Endless unique designs, custom options
Amazon: Vast selection, but quality varies widely

Style Specialists

West Elm: Modern, Contemporary
Anthropologie: Bohemian, artistic
The Citizenry: Global, artisanal designs

4. Shopping Experience Breakdown

Online Experience

Wayfair: Best search filters, detailed photos
West Elm: Clean interface, accurate color representation
Etsy: Great for custom requests, direct artist communication

In-Store Experience

Target: Well-organized, seasonal displays
Pottery Barn: Helpful staff, room inspiration setups
IKEA: Touch-and-feel options, room settings

5. Customer Service & Returns

Best Return Policies

Nordstrom: No questions asked, fantastic service
Target: 90-day return window
West Elm: Free returns within 30 days

Most Helpful Service

Pottery Barn: Knowledgeable staff, design assistance
The Citizenry: Responsive customer service
Etsy: Direct seller communication

6. Shipping Details

Free Shipping Champions

Target: Free with RedCard
West Elm: Regular free shipping promotions
Amazon: Free with Prime

Watch Out For

Wayfair: Can be expensive for heavy items
Etsy: Varies by seller
Boutiques: Often higher shipping costs

Pro Tip: Many stores offer free shipping to their physical locations, so check if there’s one near you to save on delivery costs.

Conclusion

I can confidently say there’s a perfect place to buy throw pillows for everyone. Whether you’re after affordable finds, unique handmade designs, or high-end luxury pieces.

From online giants like Amazon and Etsy to specialty stores like West Elm or your local boutique, the options are endless.

My advice? Choose what speaks to your style and fits your space. Whether you’re refreshing your living room or adding a cozy touch to your bedroom, throw pillows are a simple way to showcase your personality.

Take your time, explore the recommendations in this guide, and don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, textures, and sizes.

Remember, the right throw pillows can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary. Happy shopping, and enjoy creating a space that truly feels like home!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Size for Throw Pillows?

For sofas, 20×20 inches is the sweet spot. Mix in some 18×18 or 22×22 for variety. Lumbar pillows (around 12×20) make great accent pieces. For beds, you might want to go bigger with 24×24 or European shams (26×26).

Can I Wash the Pillows in The Washing Machine?

Check those care labels! Most removable covers are machine-washable on cold, gentle cycle. But some materials like velvet or silk need dry cleaning. When in doubt, spot clean or consult a professional.

How Do I Keep My Pillows Fluffy?

Regular fluffing (daily for heavily used pillows) helps maintain shape. Give them a good karate chop in the middle, then squeeze the sides. For down pillows, a few gentle punches work wonders!

What’s the Deal with Down vs. Synthetic Fills?

Down is luxuriously soft and long-lasting but pricier and needs more maintenance. Synthetic fills are more affordable, hypoallergenic, and easier to care for, but might not last as long.

Should I Buy the Insert and Cover Separately?

Often, yes! Separate inserts and covers usually offer better quality for the price. Plus, you can wash covers more easily and switch them out seasonally while keeping good quality inserts.