How To Add A Cushion To A Wooden Chair? Step-By-Step Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
18 min read

It’s likely that you’ve come across at least a handful of “how to add a cushion to a wooden chair” lessons recently, given the surge in DIY videos. Just a few minutes spent online can yield a wealth of information. It is wonderful to be able to find information on such a wide range of things as carpentry, gardening, and even upholstery that may be done in one’s own house.

Once upon a time, only fully-equipped machine shops would dare to tackle upholstery. After all, they are in the furniture and auto business. However, getting started with them is simple due to the widespread development of little instruments and the relatively increased number of persons selling them.

Benefits of Seat Cushions

Posture

Ergonomic seat cushions make it easier to sit with good posture, which in turn helps your body develop a better natural posture (the kind you don’t have to think about). Natural good posture reduces the risk of developing chronic pain and boosts your stamina and mental clarity. Happier and more assured in yourself, with a more confident and appealing demeanor to boot, is the result. Even as your peers start to use canes and walkers, you’ll be able to mature with elegance and confidence.

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Less compression on your hips, spine, and tailbone

Too much stress on the hips and coccyx (tailbone) from sitting in an uncomfortable chair can lead to soreness and exhaustion. If left untreated, this can progress to the point where it causes spine and joint problems that lower overall quality of life. A high-quality cushion can help spread out the damaging effects of sitting by absorbing some of the compression.

Circulation

When you sit in a regular chair, your hips, legs, and lower back all experience decreased blood flow due to the compression. Insufficient oxygen is delivered to your muscles and tissues, and metabolic wastes build up. In addition to making you sleepy, this also hurts. It also worsens cardiovascular health by increasing the workload placed on the heart to circulate blood throughout the body.

Digestion

Your pelvis and abdomen need to move more than just blood. Poor digestion, including symptoms like constipation, heartburn, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), is another drawback to living in such close quarters (irritable bowel syndrome). Since you already ate that last piece of pizza, the least you can do is give your stomach some room to do its thing, even though you probably shouldn’t have.

Comfort

If you’re going to sit for any significant amount of time, you might as well be comfy. Everyone knows that quality memory foam feels great, as it conforms to your exact body shape while giving you proper support. And when you combine that luxurious squishy-but-firm quality with an ergonomic seat cushion design, you get pure delight for your heinie. (But you should still get up sometimes.)

Steps In Adding Cushion To Wooden Chair

Sitting for long periods of time requires careful consideration of comfort. Quality memory foam is universally praised for its soothing comfort and beneficial support. Comfort for your behind is maximized when ergonomic design meets the plush, yet firm, quality of the seat cushion. Still, it’s important to get up and move around every once in a while.

Repurposing boring or useless household items is another trendy concept right now. We achieve this by reworking existing components and incorporating new ones. In order to revitalize an old wooden chair in your home, you can follow these instructions for inserting cushions.

Step #1. Pick up enough cushioning and other necessary materials

You’ll need to have some dimensions and measurements on hand before beginning the project. We suggest that you start with only one chair and build from there. This, of course, only works with a chair that is part of a larger set, such as a dining set.

Check the dimensions of your chair’s seat using a measurement tool (a ruler or tape measure, for example). When we talk about “size,” we’re referring to things like the overall dimensions of the seat, the width of the seat’s sides (the apron), and the height you’d like the cushion to be. The seat is the area where you really sit, so it’s important to remember that the amount of foam you add should precisely correspond to the height of the finished cushion.

A cushion for the chair’s back is an option as well, but we’ll get to that later. Take measurements and purchase some padding.

You need to buy plenty and then some in case you make a mistake. Fabric, buttons, tucker, and fabric adhesive are other necessities.

Step #2. Measure up the cushion material and cut

You can get started on the project once you have all of the necessary supplies. First, when cutting the foam, be sure to use a pair of large, sharp scissors. Don’t stress if it isn’t perfectly straight, but you also don’t want the foam to get shorter than the seat from your cutting.

It’s also important to take the chair’s apron measurements and cut the necessary foam. Just use the original measurements you took, but this time add in the chair legs. Use the lines on the foam as guides to ensure a clean cut and a perfectly formed cushion.

Step #3. Glue the foam cushion into the chair surfaces

Place some fabric adhesive on all the surfaces that you’re planning to put foam on. We recommend using a minimal amount of adhesive since it will only make sure that the foam doesn’t move around when you cover it later. Make sure there are no clumps of adhesive when you spread it.

Step #4. Measure some fabric for the covering

You should apply fabric glue to any and all surfaces that will be receiving foam. Since the adhesive’s only function will be to keep the foam in place once it’s covered, we suggest going easy on it. Be sure there are no clumps in the glue and spread it out evenly.

Step #5. Cover the cushions and tuck them

Apply fabric adhesive to any and all surfaces that will be receiving foam. Since the adhesive’s only function will be to keep the foam in place once it’s been covered, we suggest using as little as possible. Don’t let any adhesive lumps form as you spread it.

Types of Seat Cushions

Support:

Support for the tailbone and pelvis is provided by the most popular type of seat cushion, which is placed under the buttocks. Low back pain sufferers may also benefit from lumbar support, which aids in preserving the natural curves of the spine and the rotation of the hips to prevent slouching.

Materials:

The ordinary foam used to make inexpensive seat cushions is an improvement over having nothing at all, but it is still not the best option for prolonged sitting. Memory foam, gel, or a combination of the two is what you want to seek for if you want something that will support you and keep you comfortable. Although both are composed of viscoelastic materials, gel is superior in its ability to dissipate heat; nonetheless, it is typically more expensive and more prone to breakdown.

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What to Look for in a Seat Cushion

Type

The most common types of seat cushions are memory foam, heated, and gel. Memory foam pillows are great at providing comfort and support since they can mold perfectly to your body. However, they can trap heat, making them warmer in the hotter seasons. Heated options are great if you find yourself getting chilly throughout the day or you need to soothe any sore muscles and pain. A gel cushion is a great cooling option and tends to be a bit firmer than memory foam.

Material

Seat cushions are typically made of memory foam, electric heating elements, or gel. Because of their ability to contour to the shape of the user’s head and neck, memory foam pillows are highly effective in meeting those needs. However, they have the ability to retain heat, which makes them more comfortable to use during the colder months. In the event that you are cold during the day or if you have aching muscles, heated choices can be a great help. A gel cushion provides excellent cooling, and it is typically firmer than memory foam.

Purpose

Aside from sitting, there are a number of other uses for a cushioned seat. In addition to helping with hip and back pain, they can also improve posture and tailbone pain. U-shaped pillows are a popular option because of their versatility. Donut-shaped seat cushions are equivalent in that respect, as they similarly facilitate weight redistribution. Check to see if your seat cushion has a convenient carrying handle if you plan to transport it.

The 11 Best Seat Cushions of 2022

Best Overall: Everlasting Comfort Seat Cushion

The U-shaped, ergonomic design of the Everlasting Comfort Seat Cushion eases pressure on the lower back and tailbone. It is crafted from 100 percent pure memory foam (with no additives). The 17 x 14 x 2-inch seat cushion adjusts to your body’s heat, conforming to your seat like a custom-made mold. Its cutting-edge memory foam design has earned the approval of orthopedic surgeons and medical professionals, and it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee to boot. The cushion’s cover can be removed for washing in a machine, and the cushion’s nonslip rubber base can be used in multiple settings.

Runner-Up, Best Overall: LoveHome Memory Foam Lumbar Support

The seat cushion of the LoveHome is around 4 inches thick, making it nearly twice as thick as comparable models thanks to the addition of memory foam. With its ergonomically streamlined design, it is perfect for those who spend lengthy periods of time sitting at work. The cushion has a strap that may be tightened to keep it in place.

The seat cushion is 13 inches x 13 inches and has a removable cover so it can be washed if it becomes dirty. There are somewhat larger versions of this cushion made by LoveHome, but if you try this one out for 60 days and decide you don’t like it, the firm will refund your purchase price.

Best Seat and Back Support: SOFTaCARE Seat Cushion

When sitting for extended durations, good posture is essential, and a cushion and back support combo can help. The SOFTaCARE Seat Cushion, measuring 16 by 13 by 3 inches, is part of a set that also includes a lumbar support pillow designed to alleviate pain in the lower back and relieve pressure on the coccyx, which can be a symptom of sciatica or a herniated disc.

Both cushions are made of 100% memory foam, and the seat cushion has a non-slip rubber bottom, a built-in handle, and a removable, washable cover for convenience. The lumbar support pillow has a phone pocket, adjustable straps, and a mesh back so your seat won’t overheat in warmer climates.

Best Design: Aylio Coccyx Orthopedic Comfort Foam

Aylio’s seat cushion has a special, ergonomic, cut-out design that makes it ideal for larger bodies, but it works well for smaller people, too. Thanks to the cut-out and the cushion’s firmness, your tailbone won’t take the brunt of your weight, and it’s designed to ease pressure on your hip bones as well. The cut-out area also distributes your weight more uniformly, making it easier to sit properly, so you can give your spine a break.

Because of its ergonomic cutouts, Aylio’s seat cushion is most suited for those with a larger frame, although it is comfortable for those of average size as well. The cut-out and the cushion’s firmness mean that your hip bones and not your tailbone will bear the weight of your body. You can rest easy knowing that your weight is being distributed more evenly because of the cutout area.

Best Memory Foam: Kieba Coccyx Seat Cushion

Kieba’s seat cushion features memory foam and gel layers for maximum comfort. The U-shaped form is intended to relieve pressure on the lower back and encourage better spinal alignment. Even with perfect posture, prolonged sitting might be uncomfortable; however, the memory foam alleviates this problem. Moreover, the indentations you make on the seat cushion will remain even after you’ve vacated your desk.

The cushion may be used for any form of seating, including a stool, and the cover can be removed for simple washing. The dimensions of the seat pad are 14 by 18 by 3 inches.

Best Large: Xtreme Comforts Large Seat Cushion

This Xtreme Comforts Seat Cushion measures 19 inches wide by 17.5 inches deep by 3.5 inches high, making it ideal for individuals who have larger office chairs. As a result, it can accommodate a wide variety of seats and spread the load out more safely. The huge seat cushion features a two-layer foam system for maximum comfort and conformity, meaning it will never go flat and will aid in relieving pressure on your tailbone, numbness in your buttocks, and soreness in your lower back.

In addition to providing breathability while sitting, its removable mesh cover is machine washable. With an attached carry handle, the cushion is also easy to travel with, so you can use it for your flight or train ride after work. Plus, the non-skid bottom means you can comfortably use the seat cushion on any surface.

Best Splurge: Purple Double Seat Cushion

Its mesh cover allows for air circulation while you sit, and it’s also easily removable and washable. With the handy carry handle built right in, you can take the cushion with you on your evening commute by train or plane. The seat cushion’s non-skid bottom also allows for use on any floor type.

Best for Portability: TravelMate Gel-Enhanced Memory Foam

The Gel-Enhanced Cushion from TravelMate was made with multiple settings in mind. It’s convenient that there’s a handle built right in so you can grab it and go.

The gel seat cushion provides ample support and comfort if you must sit for long periods. It has a layer of memory foam on top of furniture-grade foam, like what you’d find in couch cushions. The cover is non-slip, so it won’t move if you set it down and start fidgeting. It is one of the cheapest pillows available and measures 18 by 14 by 3 inches.

Best Heated: Snailax Vibration Massage Seat Cushion

This cushion from Snailax is great if you have trouble keeping warm or if you suffer from aches and pains, as it combines the benefits of a massage chair and a seat warmer. You may adjust the vibration level and select a massage mode from five available on the accompanying remote control. Overheating is avoided thanks to a timer that can be set for 15, 30, or 60 minutes.

Made from soft polyester, the seat cushion offers modest support at 5 inches thick, but it has a non-slip bottom and an adjustable strap so you can secure it to any chair. More so, you can return the cushion within 30 days and get your money back. It’s 16 inches wide and 15 inches tall.

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Best Gel: Modvel Gel Seat Cushion

The seat cushion is 5 inches thick and made of a soft polyester material; it provides minimal support but can be secured to any chair thanks to its non-slip bottom and adjustable strap. And if you don’t like the cushion for any reason inside the first 30 days, you may return it for a full refund. It’s 16 inches by 15 inches in size.

The gel seat cushion is lightweight and comes with a carrying handle, ideal for those who don’t stay at one desk or location all day. It can move around with you, and you can even use it in your car for long commutes. This seat cushion is 15 by 9 by 6 inches and is guaranteed to be replaced for the rest of your life.

Conclusion

The gel seat cushion is portable and lightweight, making it convenient for workers who move about throughout the day. It is portable and can accompany you wherever, including on long vehicle trips. This seat cushion is 15 inches by 9 inches by 6 inches and is backed by a lifetime exchange policy.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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