UK Pillow Sizes Explained: Standard, Superking, Emperor and Square
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Buying the wrong pillow size is an easy mistake, because UK pillow sizes vary slightly between brands and a pillow that looks standard may not fit your pillowcase. This guide explains the common UK pillow sizes so you can choose with confidence.
Not sure which size you need? Use our pillow size matcher to check your pillowcase size or measure a pillow you already have.
UK pillow sizes: the common options
- Standard: around 48 x 74cm, often sold as 50 x 75cm. This is the most common size and fits most UK beds.
- Superking: around 50 x 90cm. Longer than standard, it suits larger beds and people who like extra width.
- Emperor: around 50 x 100cm. A very long pillow, often used on big beds or as body support.
- Square (continental): around 65 x 65cm. Often used as a second, decorative or support pillow, and common in European-style bedding.
Exact measurements differ between manufacturers, so always check the product details. Measuring your existing pillowcase is the safest check.
Does pillow size match bed size?
Not exactly. Standard pillows work on single, double and king beds, while superking and emperor pillows are a style choice for wider beds. When you compare UK pillow sizes against your bed, think about how many pillows you use and how much room you want to move.
Does size affect comfort?
Size is about width and length, while comfort depends mostly on height and firmness. For help matching support to your sleeping position, see our guides to side sleeping and back sleeping pillows.
Buying pairs and multipacks
Pillows are often sold in packs of two or more, which suits a double bed or a guest room. See our guide to pillows for a guest bedroom and multipacks.
How to Measure a Pillow
- Lay the pillow on a flat surface.
- Measure its length and width without stretching the fabric.
- Check the product listing for the same measurements.
- Compare the pillow with your existing pillowcase.
- Check any special shape or contour measurements.
Foam and filled pillows may compress, so measurements can differ slightly depending on how they are taken.
How Pillow Height Differs from Pillow Size
Pillow dimensions usually describe length and width, while loft refers to the height or thickness of the pillow. Two pillows with the same length and width may feel different because their fillings, shapes and heights differ. If you are selecting a pillow for a particular sleeping position, review the height and firmness as well as the overall dimensions.
Top tips for choosing UK pillow sizes
- Measure your pillowcase. Lay it flat and measure width and depth; the pillow should fill it without straining the seams.
- Check the stated dimensions. Some pillows are measured before filling, so allow a little tolerance.
- Match the case to the pillow. Square pillows need continental or square cases, not standard ones.
- Think about bed width. Two standard pillows suit most doubles, while superking or emperor work best on wider beds.
- Compare durability ratings. Read independent expert pillow reviews to see which pillows keep their shape best.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming one size fits all. Always check the centimetres, not just the name on the packet.
- Forgetting the protector. Measure it too, so the whole set fits together.
- Buying emperor for a single bed. An oversized pillow can dominate a small bed and push you off centre.
- Ignoring the stated dimensions. “Standard” varies between brands, so read the label.
UK pillow sizes: FAQs
What is the standard UK pillow size?
The standard UK pillow is around 48 x 74cm, often sold as 50 x 75cm. It is the most common size and fits most UK pillowcases and beds.
Will a superking pillow fit a standard pillowcase?
No. A superking pillow is longer than standard, so it needs a superking pillowcase. Always match the case to the pillow’s stated dimensions.
Do square pillows need special pillowcases?
Yes. Square or continental pillows need square cases, which are sold separately from standard pairs. Check the dimensions before you buy.
Check before you buy
- Measure your pillowcase and protector.
- Check the stated dimensions, since some are measured before filling.
- Choose the support level for your sleeping position.
Not sure where to start? Our pillow buying guide covers the basics, and our duck feather pillow guide explains natural filling in detail.
The bottom line
Getting UK pillow sizes right is mostly about measuring: check your pillowcase, read the stated dimensions and match the pillow to your bed and sleeping position. Do that, and you will never wrestle a superking into a standard case again.