Yes, pillow shams can indeed be used as pillowcases under specific circumstances, particularly if they are made from high-quality, soft materials. Additionally, they serve a valuable function as supportive elements for your primary sleep pillows.
Understanding Pillow Shams and Pillowcases
While both are coverings for pillows, pillow shams and pillowcases traditionally serve different purposes:
- Pillowcases: Designed primarily for sleeping, offering comfort, hygiene, and protection for your pillows. They typically have an open end or a simple envelope closure.
- Pillow Shams: Primarily decorative, intended to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bed ensemble during the day. They often feature flanges, embroidery, or other embellishments and usually have an envelope or slit closure on the back.
When Pillow Shams Can Double as Pillowcases
According to information from October 2022, the line between decorative and functional can blur, especially with high-end bedding:
Luxury Shams: Softness for Sleep
Though typically considered "decorative," many luxury pillow shams from brands such as Matouk, Sferra, and Yves Delorme are crafted from exceptionally soft fabrics. Their construction makes them comfortable enough to sleep on directly. If a pillow sham's material is gentle and smooth against the skin, it can certainly serve as a primary pillowcase, providing both comfort and a decorative touch.
Pillow Shams for Support
Beyond their potential for direct use, pillow shams excel in a supportive role. As noted, if you prefer to sleep on traditional pillowcases, pillow shams can be effectively used as support behind your sleep pillows at night. This practice adds a layered, luxurious look to your bed while providing extra cushioning or elevation for reading, watching TV, or simply propping up in bed.
Key Differences: Shams vs. Cases
Understanding the primary distinctions can help you decide how to best utilize each:
| Feature | Pillow Shams | Pillowcases |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Decorative (for display) | Functional (for sleeping comfort & hygiene) |
| Design | Often feature flanges, embroidery, embellishments | Simple, clean lines, designed for comfort |
| Closure | Typically an envelope flap or slit at the back | Open end or simple envelope/zipper closure |
| Material | Can be decorative (e.g., silk, linen, cotton sateen); luxury ones are soft enough to sleep on | Usually soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, silk, flannel |
| Sleeping On | Some luxury versions are comfortable enough | Designed for direct contact while sleeping |
| Support Role | Excellent for layering and back support | Not typically used for decorative layering |
Practical Considerations
When deciding whether to use shams as pillowcases or how to incorporate them into your bedding:
- Comfort First: Always prioritize comfort. If a sham feels rough or has uncomfortable embellishments, it's best reserved for decorative purposes.
- Material Quality: Higher thread counts and premium materials (like Egyptian cotton, silk, or high-quality linen) in shams are more likely to be suitable for sleeping.
- Layering: For a hotel-inspired look, use your sleep pillows with their cases, and then place shams on pillows behind them for decorative depth.
- Cleaning: Consider the care instructions for your shams. Some decorative shams may require more delicate washing than everyday pillowcases.
Ultimately, while pillowcases are specifically designed for sleeping comfort and hygiene, many modern, high-quality pillow shams offer the versatility to be slept on directly or to provide valuable structural support behind your sleeping pillows, enhancing both the comfort and aesthetics of your bed.
