Cushions decide how a sofa feels on day one and how it looks after a few years. Here is how the common fills compare.
Common cushion fills
- Foam: supportive and keeps its shape. Firmness depends on the foam, not just its thickness.
- Foam wrapped in fibre or feather: a supportive core with a softer surface; the most popular all-round choice.
- Fibre-filled: soft and relaxed, but needs regular plumping and can flatten over time.
- Feather or down blend: the softest, sink-in feel; needs daily plumping.
- Memory foam or gel layers: contour to the body; slower to spring back.
Foam density
Density (pounds per cubic foot) is a better guide to lifespan than firmness. Seat foam of around 1.8 lb/ft³ or more is common in good sofas, and high-resilience (HR) foam of about 2.5 lb/ft³ or more tends to keep its shape longest. If a listing does not state density, ask.
Which firmness suits you?
- Firm to medium-firm: upright sitting, home working and anyone who finds low, soft seats hard to get out of.
- Medium: a balance of support and comfort for most families.
- Soft or deep “cloud” seats: lounging, napping and movie nights.
Seat depth matters as much as fill: see how to choose a sofa.