Buying pillow inserts seems straightforward until you're standing in front of several size options wondering which one actually fits your pillow cover. The truth is, most people get the sizing wrong, which results in pillows that look either too flat or awkwardly overstuffed. Understanding how pillow inserts work and what size you need takes just a few minutes, and it makes a real difference in how your finished pillows look and feel.

Understanding Pillow Insert Sizing

The most common mistake people make is assuming a pillow insert should be the exact same size as the cover. In reality, inserts are intentionally made larger than their corresponding covers. This extra fullness is what gives your pillow that professionally plump appearance, rather than a sad, deflated look.

The Hometex Throw Pillow Insert in the 20" x 36" size works within a specific sizing formula that Hometex Canada recommends. For covers that measure 17 inches or smaller, you want an insert that is 1 inch larger in each dimension than your cover. For covers measuring 18 inches and larger, the ideal insert should be 1 to 2 inches larger than the cover dimensions.

This means your 20" x 36" Hometex Canada insert is designed to work best with covers somewhere in the range of 18" x 34" to 20" x 36". If you're unsure whether this size matches your specific pillow cover, measuring your cover is simple. Lay the cover flat and measure from edge to edge in both directions.

How to Measure Your Pillow Cover

Before you order any pillow insert, take two minutes to measure your existing cover or the one you're planning to use. Grab a soft measuring tape or a ruler, lay the cover completely flat on a table, and measure the width and height. Write these numbers down. This single step prevents the frustration of receiving an insert that doesn't fit properly.

Remember that covers vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and style. A cover labeled as 20" x 36" might measure slightly differently than another brand's 20" x 36" cover, so actual measurement beats relying on labels alone.

What Makes the Hometex Throw Pillow Insert Stand Out

The Hometex Throw Pillow Insert comes as a 2 pack, so you're getting two inserts at once. They're manufactured at a facility in Toronto, Canada, where the production staff inspects and weighs each insert to ensure consistency. The inserts are filled with 100 percent brand new hypoallergenic high loft polyester fibers that have been processed to maximize fluffiness.

The outer covering uses durable non-woven polypropylene, which is designed to keep the filling intact through years of use. All materials are synthetic polyester, which means the entire insert is machine washable and dryer safe. This matters more than you might think when it comes to keeping your pillows fresh over time.

Caring for Your Polyester Pillow Inserts

One advantage of polyester filled inserts is how easy they are to maintain. When your insert needs cleaning, use lukewarm water on the gentlest washing machine cycle. After washing, the insert can go in the dryer on the lowest heat setting. To help maintain the loft and fluffiness, place a few tennis balls in the dryer alongside your pillows. If you want to reduce impact on the inserts, put the tennis balls inside a dryer bag or individual socks first.

This low-maintenance care routine keeps your Hometex inserts looking fresh and feeling full without requiring special handling. Most people find they can go months between washes if they use decorative pillow covers that protect the insert itself.

Getting the Right Fit Matters

Choosing the Hometex Throw Pillow Insert 20" x 36" size comes down to your existing cover measurements. If your cover is between 18" x 34" and 20" x 36", this insert size should work well for you. The 2 pack means you can create a matching pair of throw pillows for a sofa or bed, with consistent fill and appearance between both inserts.

If you're uncertain about sizing after measuring, Hometex Canada's customer service can provide guidance based on your specific cover dimensions, ensuring you get pillows that look and feel exactly how you want them to.

The product in this guide: Hometex Throw Pillow Insert (Not Made in China) 20" x 36" Polyester Filled Standard Cover (2 Pack)