How to Replace Foam Rubber in Couch Cushions

If your couch feels worn out and saggy, you may not need to buy new furniture--simply replacing the foam rubber in the couch cushions may do the trick. Replacing the cushion foam is an economical way to extend the life of your favorite couch while improving your comfort at the same time.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Foam
• Electric carving knife

Instructions

1. Remove the old foam from your cushions. That's easy--if you look on the back side of your cushions, you'll see a zipper. Undo the zipper and pull out the old foam.

2. 

   Measure the foam cushion. Couch cushions come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common are: Cushion, T-cushion, and L-cushion shapes. Measure and record the dimensions. Rather than simply write them down, you may want to sketch out the cushion and mark the dimensions. You're less likely to make a mistake that way when you cut the foam rubber.

3. Buy foam rubber for cushions. You actually have two choices here--you can buy bulk foam rubber and cut it yourself, or you can buy the foam cut into the proper shape for you. If the former, your best source will be a local fabric shop. Be certain that you buy a good grade of foam rubber--ask for XL-38 or better grade foam. As the number goes down, the quality goes up, so XL-28 (a common grade) is better than XL-38. If you prefer shopping online, try Adams Foam Rubber (adamsfoam.com). Buying the foam precut will save having to do Step 4, though it will cost more. An excellent online source that will cut the foam to your specs is buyfoam.com.

4. Cut the foam to size. Mark the foam blocks according to your measurements, and cut using an electric carving knife--just like the one you use to carve the Thanksgiving turkey.

5. Insert your new cushions into the covers, replace on your couch, and grab the remote--you've got a (almost) new couch. At least, it'll feel that way.

Resources

• buyfoam.com--online store for cut-to-size foam cushions
• Adams Foam Company