How to Add Air to a Foam Couch Cushion

A sagging cushion can cause a cover to rip.

Old foam cushions don't stand as tall as they once did. They flatten even more when someone sits down, providing less support and cushioning. As foam rubber ages, the cell walls in the foam break down so the cells no longer hold air. After the air is replaced it must be held in the cushion. A layer of plastic between the foam and the cover will keep the air inside. The cushion will be plump and firm again.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic garbage bag
• Vacuum cleaner with hose and air-blowing capability
• Twist tie or rubber band

Instructions

1. Unzip the cover and remove the foam cushion.

2. Place the cushion in a plastic garbage bag. The side of the cushion that was closest to the zipper should be closest to the open end of the bag. Center the cushion in the bag. Smooth the plastic over the cushion.

3. Place the nozzle of the vacuum against the side of the cushion that is closest to the opening. Wrap the edges of the bag around the nozzle, and hold them tightly against the nozzle to create an airtight seal.

4. Suck the air from the bag with the vacuum. This makes the cushion smaller so it is easier to place the cushion back into the cover. Replace the cushion in the cover while it is still compressed in the bag. You may keep the nozzle in place and the vacuum running or remove the nozzle and hold the bag closed while you place the cover over the bag. It helps to have a helper to hold the cover.

5. Set the vacuum to blow air, and fill the cushion with air. Make it slightly plumper and firmer than you want the cushion to be. Some air will escape when you remove the nozzle. Hold the bag tightly closed around the nozzle as you blow the air in.

6. Remove the nozzle, and quickly close the bag and twist the opening closed. Position this twist near the bottom of the cushion.

7. Seal the bag with a twist tie or rubber band. Zip up the cover and place the cushion back on the couch.

Tips & Warnings

• While the cushion is in the bag, vacuum out the air and put it back a few times to freshen the cushion.