When To Replace Your Sofa Cushions

Does your sofa look tired? Thinking of buying a new one?

You may be able to save your pennies and replace your sofa cushions instead.
In this article, we look at the different types of sofa cushions, signs to look for when they may need to be replaced and how we, at We Cut Foam, can help with any replacements.

Common sofa cushion fillings

When you need to replace your sofa cushion often depends on the type of filling.
Common sofa fillings are:

1. Feather
2. Fibre
3. Foam
4. A combination of the above

When to replace feather sofa cushions

Feather sofa cushions are often the more expensive plush looking option, so you’d expect them to last longer, no? Like fibre sofa cushions, it’s the density of the fill that matters – the higher the density, the longer its likely to last. However, if you’re plumping regularly, and your cushions still look flattened/are lacking support, it may be time to replace them. Also, remember feather cushions aren’t waterproof so if you have pets/dogs, their shelf life may be a lot shorter than expected.

When to replace fibre sofa cushions

Fibre is often the most affordable option and is chosen (along with foam) for people suffering with feather allergies. However, like feather sofa cushions, fibre cushions require regular plumping (and also, regular cleaning/vacuuming) so if you’re not keen on high maintenance sofas, they often aren’t the best bet. Fibre sofa cushions also don’t last as long as their counterparts, and may look and feel saggier quicker, as they also don’t spring back into shape as quickly as, say, foam.

When to replace foam sofa cushions

Foam sofa cushions are the most popular choice – they provide support (so are great for anyone with limited mobility or back problems), keep their shape and are low maintenance. However, over time, foam can soften, in which case it may be time to replace. Foam is graded by two numbers – its density and its compression value. High density foam is associated with better quality and will retain its compression value (think support and shape) for longer, in comparison with lower density foam. When you think of high density, you probably think of tightly packed, hard uncomfortable foam; however, its possible to have high density foam that has a low compression value (think soft and comfortable) - in fact, it’s one of our specialities!

In conclusion, expect sofa cushions to last around 5 years, with feather cushions (with regular maintenance) and foam cushions sitting at the top end of that estimate, and fibre cushions at the lower end. Also remember that base cushions (due to taking on more weight/pressure) will often need replacing earlier than back cushions.

How can we help replace your sofa cushions

If you need to replace your foam sofa cushions, we offer an easy replacement service with two options:

1. If you’re confident in your measurements, simply order your replacement foam
online.
2. Alternatively, simply send your cushion covers to us and we will provide you with a no obligation estimate. Alternatively, we can pick up the cushion cover from
your home, via DPD, for £10. Please note that if you do not wish to go ahead with
the estimate, there may be a small charge for returning the cushion cover to you.

We understand that sofa cushions and if you’re choosing foam (what density/compression to go for) can be a minefield so if you’re local to us, please pop into our showroom where you can pick the brains of our experienced staff and demo our cushions! Or alternatively, please give us a call and we can chat through all the options with you by phone.