Cushions that look full and feel comfortable

Cushions add colour and comfort quicker than anything else in a room. The details that make them look generous are simple. Use an inner slightly larger than the cover, a mix of two sizes, and fabrics with different textures. Linen, velvet, wool and bouclé all work, as long as the palette stays short.

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Buying guide

How to choose cushions for a sofa or bed

Choosing cushions well is mostly about proportion. A few well filled cushions in the right size look better than a row of thin ones, and they are more comfortable to lean on.

Sizes that work together

Pair one large square with one smaller square or an oblong at each end of the sofa, rather than several of the same size.

Inners and fillings

Choose an inner about 5 cm larger than the cover, so a 45 cm cover takes a 50 cm pad. That gives the plump look and the classic karate chop dip. Feather inners hold their shape and mould comfortably; hollowfibre is lighter, cheaper and suits allergy sufferers but flattens sooner.

Fabrics

Linen and cotton are easy to wash and suit summer. Velvet and wool feel warm in winter and give depth to a plain sofa. Bouclé adds texture. Mix at least two textures, and choose removable covers so cushions can be washed or changed with the seasons.

Colour and pattern

Take one colour from the rug or the curtains and one from the sofa itself, then add a neutral. Keep patterned cushions to one scale per group, a large print with a small one or a stripe, so they do not compete. Plain cushions in rich textures balance a busy pattern.

How many cushions?

Two to four on a three seater sofa, five on a large corner sofa, two to four on a double bed. Odd numbers look relaxed, even numbers look more formal. Leave enough room to sit down.

Care

Plump cushions daily, turn them weekly and wash covers on a cool cycle. Air feather inners outdoors on a dry day to keep them fresh. Feather cushions recover best with a firm shake from the sides.

At a glance

Size	Best for
45 x 45 cm	Standard sofa and armchair cushions
50 x 50 or 60 x 60 cm	Deep sofas, corner sofas, the back row on a bed
30 x 50 cm	Lumbar support, the front row, dining chairs

Frequently asked questions

What should you look for when buying cushions?

A cover with a zip so it can be washed, an inner about 5 cm larger than the cover, and a fabric that suits how the sofa is used.

How many cushions should go on a sofa?

Two to four on a three seater, up to five on a corner sofa. Leave enough room to sit comfortably.

Feather or hollowfibre cushions?

Feather holds its shape and feels luxurious. Hollowfibre is lighter, cheaper and suits people with allergies, but flattens faster.