A beautiful cushion cover can look flat and sad with the wrong filler inside. The right cushion filler (also called a cushion insert) makes cushions look plump, full and inviting. Here's how to choose the right size and filling, and how to get that full, plump look.
The golden rule: size up
For a full, plump cushion, choose a filler that is the same size as your cushion cover, or 2 inches / 5 cm larger. A slightly bigger filler fills the corners and gives that full look. A filler smaller than the cover will look baggy.
Cushion filler sizes
| Cushion cover size | Filler to choose | Commonly used for |
|---|---|---|
| 16 x 16 inches / 40 x 40 cm | 16 x 16 or 18 x 18 inches / 45 x 45 cm | Small sofa and chair cushions |
| 18 x 18 inches / 45 x 45 cm | 18 x 18 or 20 x 20 inches / 50 x 50 cm | Standard sofa cushions |
| 20 x 20 inches / 50 x 50 cm | 20 x 20 inches / 50 x 50 cm | Larger sofa cushions |
| 24 x 24 inches / 60 x 60 cm | 24 x 24 inches / 60 x 60 cm | Large floor and bed cushions |
| 12 x 18 inches / 30 x 45 cm | 12 x 18 inches / 30 x 45 cm | Rectangular lumbar cushions |
| 12 x 24 inches / 30 x 60 cm | 12 x 24 inches / 30 x 60 cm | Long lumbar and bed cushions |
How to measure your cushion cover
- Lay the cover flat.
- Measure from seam to seam across the width and the length.
- Don't include piping or tassels in the measurement.
Which filling is best?
Microfiber is a popular choice for home cushions: it's soft, light and squishy, holds its shape, and resists lumps better than loose fibre fillings. It also bounces back after you sit or lean on it.
Signs it's time to replace your cushion fillers
- Cushions stay flat even after you fluff them.
- The filling has formed lumps or gathered in corners.
- The cushion no longer fills its cover.
Tips for perfect cushions
- Fluff regularly: squeeze and shake cushions to keep the filling evenly spread.
- Mix sizes: a large 20 or 24 inch / 60 cm cushion at the back with a smaller one in front looks relaxed and inviting.
- Add a lumbar cushion: a 12 x 18 or 12 x 24 inch / 30 x 60 cm cushion supports your lower back on a sofa or bed.
Our cushion fillers
Our super soft microfiber cushion inserts come in packs of 2, in 16 x 16, 18 x 18, 20 x 20 and 24 x 24 inch / 60 x 60 cm squares, and 12 x 18 and 12 x 24 inch / 30 x 60 cm rectangles. They're filled with 100% microfiber that resists lumps, with firm stitching and a breathable cotton-blend outer. Browse all cushion inserts and fillers.
Looking for something softer to hold? See our guide to hug, cuddle and body pillows.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cushion filler the same as a cushion insert?
Yes. Both names mean the soft inner pillow that goes inside a cushion cover.
Should a cushion insert be bigger than the cover?
For a plump look, yes: up to 2 inches / 5 cm larger. For a neat, tailored look, choose the same size.
Can I wash a cushion filler?
Yes. Our microfiber cushion inserts can be machine washed cold on a gentle cycle or hand washed. Air dry only, and do not bleach or tumble dry. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back in the covers.