Probably the most common of all types of pillow cases, a standard pillow case is one that fits a standard pillow. In the United States, the standard pillow case size has a height of 20 inches and a width of 30 inches (about 50.8 centimeters by 76.2 centimeters). This makes them ideal for use with the kind of standard pillows most commonly used with twin-sized beds or as spare pillows, though many people prefer standard pillows and cases for use with larger beds. Standard pillow cases are available as part of a complete bed sheet set, a two-part pillow case set, or separately. Similar to complete bed sheet sets, standard pillow cases are available in an assortment of colors and thread counts.
Generally, a standard pillow case works best with the kinds of pillows made for use with twin-sized beds. Since queen- and king-sized beds usually require larger pillows, manufacturers make pillow cases larger than the standard size for use with them. Yet, some people use standard-sized pillows with queen- and king-sized beds. These people must purchase standard pillow cases to avoid having cases much larger than the pillows they use. Since people often purchase sheet sets with pillow cases included, those who have queen- and king-sized beds who want to use standard pillows usually have to purchase separate standard pillow cases.
Usually, a standard pillow case is designed so the pillow can easily slide into the case. Some standard pillow cases have zippers, but this isn’t the norm. Similar to other types of pillow cases, standard pillow cases are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles, and manufacturers make standard pillow cases in varying thread counts. Typically, standard cases included in sheet sets match the sheets in the set. Yet, people who use standard pillows with queen- or king-sized beds, or use more than one or two pillows on their beds, must find separate cases to match their sheets.
On that note, a person can purchase a standard pillow case separately or as part of a sheet set or pillow case set. Typically, sets include one or two pillow cases, a fitted sheet for the mattress, and a flat sheet for cover. Sets for twin-sized beds usually include only one standard pillow case. Although some sets for queen-sized beds include cases larger than the standard size, it’s not uncommon to find standard pillow cases with queen-sized sheet sets. Sets for king-sized beds nearly always include two king-sized pillow cases.