Decorative Bedroom and Accent Pillows

A throw pillow is a small decorative pillow that adds color, texture, and comfort to a bed, sofa, or chair. Also called an accent pillow, it pairs a decorative cover with an inner pillow insert. Bassett's accent pillow covers have a zippered opening for easy access to the insert, so you can restyle a room by changing covers rather than whole pillows.

To measure throw pillows, lay the pillow flat and measure straight across from seam to seam for width and height, not around the puffy edges. Choose an insert about two inches larger than the cover so the pillow looks full instead of saggy. Bassett sizes its inserts this way, for example, a 20 by 20 insert for an 18 by 18 cover.

Decorating a bed with pillows works best in layers from back to front: start with your sleeping pillows, add shams for structure, then finish with accent pillows in varied sizes up front. An odd number usually looks most natural, and a folded throw at the foot adds a final layer of color. Mixing a solid with a pattern keeps the arrangement from looking flat.

Cleaning throw pillows starts with the cover. Bassett's accent pillow covers unzip and come off, so you can clean them without the insert, following the care instructions for that fabric. Many woven fabrics can be gently laundered or spot-cleaned, while leather and delicate designer fabrics are better spot-cleaned or professionally cleaned. Always check the fabric's care label first.

To clean decorative pillows, unzip and remove the cover when you can, then treat it according to its fabric, blotting stains with mild detergent rather than rubbing. For covers that cannot be washed, spot clean and let them air dry, and vacuum with an upholstery attachment to lift dust between cleanings. Fluffing the insert afterward helps it hold its shape.