The bean bag chair has been a staple in our homes for as long as we can remember because it’s inexpensive, comfortable, and easy to move around if the extra seating is needed elsewhere in the house or if you just fancy lounging outside on a warm summer day. There are a few different options when it comes to choosing a bean bag chair, so let’s have a look at the three most important ones.
The Filling
There are a few options when it comes to bean bag filler and each offer different things. The two main fill types generally are either polystyrene bead fill or polyurethane foam fill.
The most commonly used filler is the polystyrene bead because it’s lightweight, cheap, and very comfortable. Because it is over 90% air by volume, it’s very light and can be moved around easily. It’s also strong enough to last a good few years before it needs to be replaced, and when it does need to be replaced, it’s relatively inexpensive. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, will generally last much longer but is much heavier and some people think not nearly as comfortable.
The Fabric
The fabric is one of the most important things to consider when it comes to buying a bean bag chair. This is because the type of fabric is going to dictate how comfortable it is, how durable it is, and even how well it will work in your area’s climate.
Traditionally, vinyl was the go-to for fabric choice, but over time it’s fallen out of favor because in the hot weather, it can get hot and even sticky, making it unpleasant to sit on. These days, bean bags are increasingly being made of cotton, polyester, and nylon. Think carefully about each of these options though, because they all have pros and cons. Cotton, for example, might be light and breathable but it’s not very stain resistant, so if kids are going to be using the bean bag you might find it full of stains in no time. If you’re looking for a good combination of both style and comfort, then you might even consider a leather bean bag.
The Shape
Bean bags are not all produced in one single shape. These days, you can get them in any number of sizes, styles, or shapes for the space they’re going to be used in.
Some are designed to be as adaptable as possible and mold to your body shape when you sit on them, while others are designed more to hold their shape a bit more. You can also get them in a great many different sizes, from reasonable rectangular options that will fit well in a living room with limited space to giant round bean bags capable of holding more than one person. Choose your bean bag shape based on where it’s going to go and what space is available.
Selecting a bean bag with the correct combination of these three considerations will mean your bean bag chair will be a part of your home and provide comfortable seating for many years to come.
