The Complete Guide to Using Long Bolster Pillows on a King Bed

A king size bed offers an abundance of space to lounge and relax. But all that room can also feel empty without the right decorative accents and support pillows. This is where long bolster pillows can make all the difference, providing lumbar alignment while also adding visual interest. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about using these multifunctional pillows to elevate your king size bed.

What Are Long Bolster Pillows?

Long bolster pillows are cylindrical support cushions that are long and rounded on the sides. They are typically 36 inches in length or even longer to span the width of larger beds like kings.

These extra long pillows serve two main purposes - back support and decoration. The long narrow shape with raised edges is ideal for placing behind your lower back when you sleep to keep your spine aligned. Long bolsters can also complement standard bed pillows and shams as ornamental accents that add color, texture and shape variety.

Benefits of Using Long Bolster Pillows on King Beds

There are many advantages to incorporating long lumbar bolster pillows on a king size bed:

• Provide support for lower back and lumbar area
• Help maintain good posture and spinal alignment while sleeping
• Can be coordinated with other Euro shams and accent pillows as decorative accents
• Offer soft, cushioned area for sitting up comfortably in bed
• Anchor the overall look of king size sleep space

With their ample length and ability to seamlessly stretch across the bed, long bolster pillows are almost custom-made for filling large king sized mattresses with plush comfort and effortless style.

How to Arrange Long Bolsters on Your King Bed

Use as Lumbar Support

One of the main benefits of long bolster pillows is providing lower back support as you sleep. To best leverage their elongate shape, arrange them vertically in the center of your king mattress as follows:

Start by placing three standard sized back support pillows against the headboard for sleeping on. Then put two long bolster pillows on their sides down the middle of the bed in front of the sleeping pillows. This allows them to support your lower back fully while buffering you on both sides so the pillows stay in place.

Having the stabilized bolsters aligned with your lumbar spine ensures your back stays properly supported and minimized the chance of back or muscle pain from poor sleeping posture.

Use as Accent Decor

You can also use long bolsters across the top of your king bed as ornamental throw pillows to tie together other decorative shams and Euro pillows. Simply arrange them horizontally along the length of the headboard as lustrous finishing accents.

Try pairing white or gray colored shams with matching solid toned bolsters for a clean, sophisticated look. For bohemian flair, mix patterns and introduce long lumbar bolsters with complementing colored prints or globally inspired textiles.

However you choose to incorporate them, long cylindrical bolster pillows lend crisp definition and visual symmetry when decorating a king size bed.

Popular Styles and Materials

Materials

Long bolster pillows for large beds are filled with a variety of materials to provide either firm support or plush, sink-in softness:

• Polyester fiberfill offers structured support
• High density foam is quite firm for reinforcement
• Goose or duck feather down filling is sumptuously soft
• Down alternative fibers are hypoallergenic

Consider whether you want bolsters mostly for decoration or back support when choosing fill. Soft down and feathers feel wonderful, but can lose loft and structure over time.

Styles

These pillows come in a variety of colors and fabrics to work in many decor styles:

• Solid white or gray colors
• Elegant jacquard, dense woven textures
• Vintage-looking stripe patterns
• Farmhouse patchwork florals
• Sophisticated velvet material
• Bohemian globally-patterned prints

Look for long lumbar bolster pillow dimensions of approximately 13-14" diameter by 36" length for ideal king bed proportions.

Buying Guide for Long Bolster King Pillows

When shopping for long cylindrical bolsters, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Measure mattress width and length
• Assess current pillows and preferred decor theme
• Decide budget for higher end vs. bargain options
• Carefully review materials and maintenance
• Ensure a snug fit without awkward gaps

This will help select proper sized lumbar support and decorative bolsters tailored to your unique king bed.

Mixing and Matching Long Bolster Pillow Sets

One of the great aspects of long bolster lumbar pillows is their compatibility coordinating with standard and Euro sham pillow sizes. Here are some combinations worth considering:

• All solid white scheme - Classic clean style
• Tonal gray colors - Sophisticated monochromatic
• Floral & paisley patterns - Boho eclectic blend
• Plaids & stripes - Rustic homemade mixture
• Velvets & quilted - Glamour and texture

Don't be afraid to think outside the box when arranging and layering throw pillows on your king size bed. Long bolster lumbar cushions provide versatile opportunities for customized designer looks.

Long Bolster Alternatives and Variations

While long cylindrical bolsters are ideal for king size beds, other shapes and sizes can also be used decoratively or provide back support:

• Body pillows - Extra long for snuggling or sleeping
• Standard lumbar rolls - Target lower back discomfort
• Floor cushions - On daybed, chairs or in kids' room
• Outdoor bolster pillows - For patio furniture

Explore different dimensions and purposes to discover even more ways to enhance your bedroom.

Decorating Inspiration with Long Bolster King Pillows

These versatile cylindrical pillows beautifully blend with many style preferences. They effortlessly elevate basic bedding into an oasis of comfort and flair.

Modern Farmhouse

Crisp solid white bolsters mixed with natural linen brings breezy simplicity. Pale woods, rattan accents and greenery plants underscore refined relaxation.

Boho Chic

Vivid global patterns shimmer with intricate detail against cozy neutral blankets. Each pillow tells a cultural story for bohemian harmony.

Coastal Style

Soft sand colors and textured oatmeal linen soothe like the rhythm of waves. Accent with sea glass hues and driftwood frames for natural tranquility.

Glam

Luxurious velvet and faux fur fabrics envelop like a warm embrace. Metallic accents and mirrored details reflect princely extravagance.

Whether your look leans modern or traditional, a touch of comfort combined with long lumbar style takes your king bed to regal heights.

What size long bolster pillow is best for a king bed?

Look for 13-14 inch diameter extra long bolsters around 36 inches to properly fit and fill a king mattress without awkward gaps or sliding around.

How many long cylindrical bolsters work well for decoration?

We recommend 2-4 long accent pillows along the top edge of the bed for balanced visual symmetry and harmony layered in with other Euro shams.

Should you choose soft or firm long lumbar pillows?

Firm density foam and polyfill provides optimal back support while down, down alternative and feathers offer a softer, more plush feel if using mainly for decoration.

What colors and patterns complement king beds?

Depending on your style, solids like white, gray and beige pair seamlessly while colors borrowed from current decor motifs and patterns infuse personality.

How do you properly care for and maintain long bolster pillows?

Always check manufacturer instructions for washing guidelines. In general, spot clean only with light detergent and air dry to preserve shape. Proper storage helps bolsters maintain loft and structure when not in use.