Couch Foam Replacement: Fix Sagginess and Extend Your Sofa’s Life

When your sofa starts to feel like a hammock, it’s not just worn out—it’s missing its couch foam replacement, the process of swapping old, compressed foam in cushions with fresh, supportive material to restore shape and comfort. Also known as cushion refilling, it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to give your furniture a second life instead of buying new. Most people don’t realize that foam breaks down faster than fabric. Even if your couch looks fine on the outside, the foam inside can turn to mush in 5 to 7 years, especially with daily use.

The key to a good foam density, a measure of foam weight per cubic foot that determines firmness and durability is matching the original. Low-density foam (1.5 lb/ft³) feels soft at first but collapses fast. Medium-density (1.8–2.5 lb/ft³) is the sweet spot for most homes—firm enough to support weight, soft enough to be comfortable. High-density foam (2.8 lb/ft³ and up) is what you’ll find in high-end furniture and lasts 10+ years. If you’re replacing foam, go with at least 2.0 lb/ft³. Don’t just grab the cheapest option—you’ll be doing this again in two years.

It’s not just about the foam itself. The sofa repair, the broader process of restoring furniture by replacing foam, springs, fabric, or stitching often includes checking the internal springs and webbing. If those are broken, new foam won’t help. You might also need to re-stitch the cushion covers or add a layer of polyester fiber wrap around the foam for extra softness without losing support. Many DIYers skip this step and end up with lumpy cushions that feel unnatural.

You don’t need to be a pro to do this. With a screwdriver, measuring tape, and a little patience, you can take off the cushion covers, pull out the old foam, and slip in the new. Online stores sell pre-cut foam kits for common sofa models. Just measure your cushions—length, width, and thickness—and order the right size. Some companies even let you upload a photo and get custom-cut foam shipped to your door.

And don’t assume your couch is beyond saving just because it’s 10 years old. A full couch foam replacement usually costs under £100 for a three-seater, while a new sofa runs £800+. You’re not just saving money—you’re reducing waste. Every sofa you repair keeps another one out of a landfill.

What you’ll find below are real guides from people who’ve done this themselves—how to pick the right foam, how to avoid common mistakes, how to make your cushions look factory-new again, and even how to upgrade to memory foam if you want that cloud-like feel. These aren’t theory pieces. They’re step-by-step fixes from real UK homes with real saggy couches.