Couch Cushion Foam Replacement Made Simple
If your sofa feels saggy or the cushions bounce back too fast, it’s probably the foam that’s worn out. Swapping the foam is cheaper than buying a new couch and gives your living room a quick refresh. You don’t need a professional – just a few tools and the right foam, and you’ll have a plush seat again in under an hour.
What Foam to Choose
First, decide on the foam type. High‑resilience (HR) foam is the most common for everyday use. It bounces back quickly and holds its shape for years. If you want a softer feel, go for memory foam – it molds to your body but can feel a bit warm. For a firmer seat, polyurethane (PU) foam with a higher density works well.
Density matters: a 2‑inch cushion of 30 lb/ft³ foam feels supportive, while 20 lb/ft³ feels softer. Most sofas use a combination – a firm core for support and a softer layer on top for comfort. You can buy pre‑cut cushion inserts at hardware stores or order custom foam online using the exact dimensions of your cushion.
Tip: bring an old cushion to the store. Measure its length, width, and thickness, and ask for a cut that matches. Most shop staff will cut it for free or a small fee.
Step‑by‑Step Replacement
1. Gather your tools. You’ll need a utility knife or electric fabric cutter, a marker, a ruler or tape measure, and a screwdriver if your cushions have removable covers.
2. Remove the cushion cover. If the cover zips off, unzip it. For glued or sewn covers, carefully cut the seam along one edge. Keep the fabric pieces for later if you plan to re‑sew.
3. Take out the old foam. Pull the foam out of the cushion shell. If it’s stuck, a gentle push with a flat tool helps. Save the old foam for recycling if possible.
4. Measure and cut new foam. Lay the old foam on the new piece and trace its outline with a marker. Cut the new foam to match, trimming a little at a time for a perfect fit.
5. Insert the foam. Slide the fresh foam into the cushion shell. If you used a layered approach, place the firm core first, then add the softer top layer. Press down to eliminate any gaps.
6. Close the cover. Zip it back up or sew the seam shut. If you had to cut the fabric, use a simple straight stitch – the seam should be tight but not too tight; you want the cushion to breathe.
7. Test it out. Sit, bounce, and feel the difference. If the cushion feels too soft or firm, you can add a thin layer of foam or trim a little more.
That’s it! Replacing couch cushion foam is a quick weekend project that restores comfort and gives your sofa a fresh look. Keep a spare piece of foam on hand for future touch‑ups, and you’ll never sit on a saggy couch again.
