Replace Sofa Cushions

Replace Sofa Cushions

Couch Cushion Replacement Can Make Your Sofa Look and Feel New Again
By Greg Moore

If your favorite old sofa has lost that new look and feel, then consider replacing the cushion foam. This simple project can be completed in less than an hour and will have your couch looking and feeling like new again.

Sofa cushions contain a foam rubber insert that is typically manufactured from a polyurethane foam. Over time, the foam in your couch cushions starts to break down and lose that firm feeling. This breakdown is accelerated with frequent use. Your guests may appear to sit 'in' your couch, as opposed to 'on' your couch as the cushions sag under their weight.

There is a simple four step process that can be completed by almost anyone and will breathe new life back into your sofa.

Step 1 - Get accurate measurements of your existing cushions. You should obtain the length, width, and thickness of the cushions. If your cushions are not an exact square or rectangle, the longest edges should be measured. It is advisable to remove your foam from one of your cushions when obtaining these measurements to ensure accuracy.

Step 2 - Order the new foam. With your existing measurements in hand, you should have everything you need to determine what size cushion replacement foam you need to order. Be aware that you have the option of selecting different degrees of firmness for your new foam. Select a block of replacement foam that meets or exceeds the size of your existing cushions. Realize that one large six foot block of foam can be cut to size to accommodate multiple cushions.

Step 3 - Cut your replacement foam to size. Remove your old cushions from their covers. Lay these on top of the new replacement foam, and trace an outline around the edges with a marker. You now have a template that will allow you to cut your foam to the exact size and shape required. An electric carving knife is perfect for cutting ths foam and it can be done with ease. A standard sharp knife with a long blade can be used as well. Caution should always be used when handling sharp instruments. Make sure that your knife is perpendicular to the foam when cutting to ensure that your replacement cushions are square.

Step 4 - Stuffing the replacement foam into the cushion covers. If you are using a dacron fiber wrap, you will want to wrap the replacement foam now. Make sure that the ends of the dacron meet on the outside edges of the replacement foam to keep the fiber wrap seam from showing. Insert your cushion foam into the cushion cover. It may be necessary to compress the foam to get it back in. Once inserted, make sure that all the edges are square within the cushion cover.

Replace Sofa Cushions