Sofa Cushion Repair: Simple DIY Fixes for a Fresh Look

Got a sofa that looks tired because the cushions are flat, lumpy, or ripped? You don’t need to toss the whole thing or call a pricey upholsterer. With a few household tools and some common sense, you can bring those cushions back to life and make your sofa comfy again.

Common Cushion Problems

Most sofas suffer from three main cushion issues: sagging, lumps, and surface tears. Sagging happens when the foam loses its bounce after years of weight. Lumps appear when the stuffing shifts or the inner batting clumps together. Tears are usually the result of pets, kids, or just plain wear and tear. Identifying which problem you have is the first step to fixing it.

Step‑by‑Step Repair Guide

1. Gather your tools. You’ll need a clean pair of scissors, a staple gun (or heavy‑duty fabric glue), new foam or batting, a fabric repair patch, and a needle with strong thread. If the cushion cover is removable, take it off – it makes the job a lot easier.

2. Check the cushion core. Feel the foam. If it’s soft in the middle and firm on the edges, you probably have a sagging core. Cut a piece of new foam that matches the original thickness and shape, then sandwich it between the old foam layers. Use a firm hand to press everything together so there are no gaps.

3. Fix lumps. Open the cushion seam (if possible) and gently pull the stuffing apart. Spread it evenly with your hands. If the lump is caused by clumped batting, replace that section with fresh batting. A flat, even layer ensures the cushion stays level.

4. Repair tears. For small cuts, a fabric patch works well. Cut a patch a little larger than the tear, place it on the inside of the cover, and secure it with a staple gun or fabric glue. For bigger holes, you might need to sew a patch in place using a tight stitch. Make sure the patch matches the fabric as closely as you can for a seamless look.

5. Re‑upholster the cover. If the cover is removable, slide it back over the repaired cushion. If you had to open the seam, sew it back together with a strong thread. Double‑check that the cover fits snugly – a loose cover can cause the cushion to shift again.

6. Test the cushion. Sit on the sofa and bounce a little. Feel for any soft spots or unevenness. If you notice any, repeat the steps where needed. A little extra padding now saves you from another repair later.

Heads up: If your sofa is an older piece with delicate fabric, consider taking a photo of the original seam before you start. It helps you line everything up correctly when you re‑assemble.

Once you’re done, you’ll notice the sofa looks fuller and feels more supportive. The best part? You’ve saved money and kept a piece of furniture that you already love.

Need more ideas? Check out our other home‑improvement guides, like quick lighting upgrades or smart storage hacks. A refreshed sofa pairs perfectly with a well‑styled room, and you’ll feel proud knowing you fixed it yourself.

So, next time your sofa looks like it’s seen better days, grab that staple gun and give those cushions a makeover. Your back (and your wallet) will thank you.