Can I Refill Worn out Sofa Cushions?

Can I Refill Worn out Sofa Cushions?

Customer Question

We purchased our family room furniture a few years ago. The sofa is wearing well, but one cushion needs more filling.

The sales woman said that when the cushions flatten out I just need to add more fiber. I don't know how or where to add the fiber. Is there one type of fiber that is best for cushions?

You cannot just "add more filling" to a cushion. 
 
Theoretically, you could stuff loose fiber into the cushion cover, but the cushion will look lumpy and uneven and could easily be even less comfortable than it is currently.
 
  • Your current cushions are not made using loose fiber. That construction is used only for pillows or the very cheapest cushions.
Take the cushion to any custom upholsterer or reupholsterer. They will probably recommend replacing the complete foam core and fiber wrap.
 
  • Replacing only the fiber wrap will result in the same problem you have now after only a few months.
The 1.8 density foam used in most sofas generally has a lifespan of 3 - 5 years before losing resiliency and comfort.
  • If you have owned your sofa for at least three years, you may want to consider replacing all three cushion cores.
Replacing cushion cores with 1.8 density foam will give you another 3 - 5 years of life for the sofa. Higher density foams will last longer. For example:
 
  • 2.0 density foam will last 1 - 2 years longer than 1.8 density.
  • 2.5 density foam cores should last 10 - 15 years.
 Photo shown above is courtesy of LivingSpaces.com.
 
 

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