Bean bag chairs are a beloved and versatile addition to any living space. They provide a comfortable spot to relax, read a book, watch TV, or even take a nap. However, over time, the filling in your bean bag chair may compress and lose its plushness, leaving you with a saggy and uncomfortable seat.

The good news is that you don’t need to replace the entire bean bag chair. Instead, you can refill it with fresh filling to restore its comfort and support. But with so many filler options available, how do you choose the cheapest and most suitable one for your needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 cheapest ways to fill your bean bag chair.

Some Cheapest Ways to Fill Bean Bag Chair

1. Polystyrene Beads

Polystyrene beads, often referred to as “beans,” are the classic filler for bean bag chairs. They are lightweight, durable, and readily available at most home goods stores. These beads conform to your body, providing a comfortable and supportive seating experience.

Advantages:

• Lightweight and easy to handle.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Conform to your body’s shape for comfort.

Disadvantages:

• Over time, polystyrene beads may compress, causing your bean bag chair to lose its shape.
• Some people find the rustling sound of the beads to be annoying.

2. Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) Beads

EPP beads are a more environmentally friendly alternative to polystyrene beads. They are known for their ability to maintain their shape, offering consistent support over time. EPP beads are made from recyclable materials, making them a sustainable choice.

Advantages:

• Maintain their shape well, providing consistent support.
• Environmentally friendly and recyclable.

Disadvantages:

• Slightly more expensive than polystyrene beads.

3. Shredded Memory Foam

If you’re looking for a luxurious and comfortable filling option, shredded memory foam is an excellent choice. It offers superior support and conforms to your body’s contours. This type of filler is often used in high-end bean bags and provides a cloud-like seating experience.

Advantages:

• Exceptional comfort and support.
• Long-lasting and durable.

Disadvantages:

• Shredded memory foam can be pricier than other filling options.
• May require periodic fluffing to maintain its loft.
  

Read More: Are Bean Bags Comfortable? [Top 10 Reasons to Choose]

4. Microfiber Fill

Microfiber fill is another premium filler option that provides plush and comfortable seating. Bean bags filled with microfiber are often considered luxurious and are favored for their softness and coziness.

Advantages:

• Soft and luxurious feel.
• Retains its loft for extended periods.

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive compared to other fillers.
• Over time, microfiber fill may compress, affecting support.

Alternative Bean Bag Fillers

5. Recycled Materials

a. Old Fabrics and Clothes

Repurposing old fabrics and clothes is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to fill your bean bag chair. Not only does this option save you money, but it also reduces textile waste and benefits the environment.

Advantages:

• Environmentally friendly.
• Budget-friendly and repurposes old materials.

Disadvantages:

• May not provide as much support as traditional fillers.
• Requires a significant amount of old fabrics to fill a large bean bag.

Worth Reading: Are Baby Bean Bags Safe for Infants? – A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

b. Plastic Bags

Using plastic bags as filler is a wallet-friendly option, but it’s less eco-friendly. This method is ideal for those looking for a quick and low-cost solution.

Advantages:

• Very budget-friendly.
• Easily accessible – you likely have plastic bags at home.

Disadvantages:

• Not environmentally friendly.
• May create a crinkling sound when you sit on the bean bag.

6. Natural Fillers

a. Buckwheat Hulls

Buckwheat hulls are an eco-friendly and natural filler option. They are known for their ability to conform to your body’s shape, providing customized comfort. Buckwheat hulls are also breathable, making them suitable for extended sitting.

Advantages:

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Moldable to your body’s contours.

Disadvantages:

• May have a slight natural odor.
• Over time, the hulls can break down and require replacement.

b. Rice

Rice is an affordable and readily available filler option. It’s a common choice for DIY enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly solution. However, it’s essential to note that rice is less supportive than some other fillers.

Advantages:

• Economical and easy to find.
• Suitable for small bean bags or occasional use.

Disadvantages:

• Less supportive than traditional fillers.
• Rice can attract pests if not properly sealed.

c. Beans

Beans, such as lentils or dried kidney beans, are another budget-friendly and natural filling option. They are readily available and can provide a reasonable level of comfort.

Advantages:

• Economical choice.
• Easily accessible.

Disadvantages:

• Not as durable as other fillers.
• Can become lumpy over time.

7. Unique Fillers

a. Water

Water-filled bean bags offer a unique and fluid-like comfort experience. While unconventional, they provide a sensation similar to floating on water. These bean bags typically have a waterproof lining to prevent leakage.

Advantages:

• Unique and fluid-like comfort.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

Disadvantages:

• Requires a waterproof lining to prevent leaks.
• Not suitable for all environments, as water-filled bean bags can be heavy and challenging to move.

b. Pool Noodles

Pool noodles may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about bean bag fillers, but they can be surprisingly effective. They are lightweight, inexpensive, and readily available during the summer months.

Advantages:

• Lightweight and affordable.
• Easily accessible during the summer season.

Disadvantages:

• Limited to use in smaller bean bags.
• May not provide the same level of support as traditional fillers.

Read More: Why are Lovesac So Expensive – [Revealing Truth]

c. Foam Mattress Topper Scraps

If you have an old foam mattress topper lying around, consider repurposing it as bean bag filler. Cut the topper into small scraps and use them to refill your bean bag.

Advantages:

• Recycles old mattress toppers.
• Budget-friendly and eco-conscious.

Disadvantages:

• Requires an old foam mattress topper.
• May not be as readily available as other fillers.

DIY Bean Bag Filling Options

8. How to Fill a Bean Bag Chair Yourself

Filling a bean bag chair yourself can save you money and give you greater control over the fill level. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Bean bag chair cover with an opening or zipper.
• Filling material of your choice (e.g., polystyrene beads, shredded foam, recycled fabrics).

Step 2: Prepare the Space

• Lay the bean bag chair cover on a clean, flat surface, ensuring it’s free from sharp objects that could puncture the cover.

Step 3: Open the Bean Bag Chair

• If your bean bag chair has a zipper, unzip it. If not, carefully cut a small opening in the seam. Be cautious not to cut too much; you can always make the hole larger if needed.

Step 4: Add the Filling

• Slowly pour the filling material into the bean bag chair cover. Use a funnel or a piece of paper to help direct the filler into the hole.

Step 5: Test for Comfort

• Periodically sit on the bean bag chair to gauge its comfort level. Add more filling as needed until you achieve your desired level of comfort and support.

Step 6: Seal the Opening

• Once you’re satisfied with the fill level, zip up the bean bag chair cover if it has a zipper. If not, carefully sew up the opening, ensuring it’s secure.

9. Cost-Effective DIY Filler Ideas

If you’re looking for budget-friendly DIY filler options, consider the following:

a. Pillow Stuffing

Pillow stuffing, often made of polyester fiberfill, is an affordable and easily accessible option. You can purchase bags of pillow stuffing at craft stores or online retailers.

Advantages:

• Affordable and readily available.
• Lightweight and easy to work with.

Disadvantages:

• May compress over time, requiring periodic refilling.
• May not provide the same level of support as other fillers.

b. Newspaper

Newspaper can be a quick and cost-effective filler for small bean bags or temporary use. Simply crumple sheets of newspaper and stuff them into your bean bag cover.

Advantages:

• Very budget-friendly.
• Easily accessible, especially if you have old newspapers lying around.

Disadvantages:

• Not a long-term solution, as newspaper can compress quickly.
• Can be noisy and create a rustling sound when you sit on the bean bag.

c. Packing Peanuts

Packing peanuts are lightweight and inexpensive, making them an option for DIY bean bag filling. However, they are best suited for smaller bean bags or as supplementary filling.

Advantages:

• Low cost and readily available.
• Lightweight and easy to work with.

Disadvantages:

• May compress over time, requiring regular top-ups.
• Not as comfortable or supportive as traditional bean bag fillers.

Environmental Considerations

As sustainability becomes a growing concern, many people are seeking eco-friendly filling options for their bean bag chairs. Here are some environmentally conscious choices:

10. Eco-Friendly Filling Options

a. Biodegradable Fillers

Opting for biodegradable fillers is an environmentally responsible choice. These fillers break down naturally over time, reducing their impact on landfills.

Examples:

• Buckwheat hulls
• Natural kapok fiber

b. Recycled Fillers

Choosing fillers made from recycled materials helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability. Many bean bag fillers now incorporate recycled content.

Examples:

• Recycled foam
• Recycled fabric scraps

Interesting Read: Are Baby Bean Bags Safe for Infants? – A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

11. Reducing Waste and Promoting Sustainability

To further reduce waste and promote sustainability in your bean bag chair use, consider the following tips:

• Recycle Old Fillers: If your old bean bag filler is still in good condition but you’re looking for a change, consider recycling it into another project or donating it to someone in need.
• Choose Reusable Covers: Opt for bean bag chair covers that are durable and can be used for many years. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and minimizes waste.
• Support Brands with Sustainable Practices: When purchasing a new bean bag chair or filler, look for brands that prioritize sustainability and use eco-friendly materials.

Cost Comparison

Understanding the cost of different fillers is crucial when budgeting for your bean bag chair refill. Below, we break down the price ranges for various filler options:

12. Price Ranges for Different Fillers

• Polystyrene Beads: $10 to $30 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) Beads: $15 to $40 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Shredded Memory Foam: $30 to $60 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Microfiber Fill: $50 to $100 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Old Fabrics and Clothes: Virtually free if repurposing old materials.
• Plastic Bags: Minimal cost for bags.
• Buckwheat Hulls: $20 to $40 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Rice: $10 to $20 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Beans: $10 to $20 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Water: Variable cost depending on the volume of water used.
• Pool Noodles: $5 to $10 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Foam Mattress Topper Scraps: Virtually free if repurposing an old mattress topper.
• Pillow Stuffing: $10 to $20 for a standard-sized bean bag.
• Newspaper: Virtually free if using old newspapers.
• Packing Peanuts: $5 to $15 for a standard-sized bean bag.

13. Calculating the Total Cost of Filling a Bean Bag Chair

Calculating the total cost of filling a bean bag chair goes beyond the initial cost of the filler. You should also consider the long-term expenses, including:

• Refilling Costs: Some fillers, such as polystyrene beads, may require more frequent refilling, adding to the long-term cost.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as fluffing or adjusting the fill, may be necessary for certain fillers.
• Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of your chosen filler. Sustainable options may have a higher upfront cost but contribute to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Tips for Choosing the Right Filler

Choosing the right filler for your bean bag chair involves considering several factors. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Matching Filler to Bean Bag Size

The size of your bean bag chair should dictate the amount and type of filler you need. Larger bean bags require more filling, and you’ll want a filler that can adequately support the chair’s size.

2. Consideration of Comfort and Support

Your comfort preferences play a significant role in choosing the right filler. If you prioritize comfort and plushness, memory foam or microfiber fill might be ideal. If you prefer firmer support, consider traditional fillers like polystyrene beads.

3. Allergies and Health Concerns

Take into account any allergies or health concerns when selecting a filler. Some people may be sensitive to certain materials, so opt for hypoallergenic or natural fillers if necessary.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainability Preferences

If you’re environmentally conscious, prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable filler options. Biodegradable and recycled fillers are excellent choices for those who want to minimize their environmental footprint.

Where to Purchase Bean Bag Fillers

Once you’ve decided on the type of filler you want for your bean bag chair, you’ll need to know where to find it. Here are some options for purchasing bean bag fillers:

1. Local Stores and Retailers

Many local home goods stores, department stores, and furniture shops carry bean bag fillers. Visit these stores to see the options available and choose the right filler for your needs.

2. Online Marketplaces

Online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and Walmart often offer a wide range of bean bag fillers. Shopping online provides convenience and allows you to compare prices and read customer reviews.

3. Specialty Bean Bag Filler Suppliers

Some specialty suppliers focus exclusively on bean bag fillers and related products. These suppliers may offer unique or high-quality fillers that you can’t find at traditional stores.

Maintenance and Refilling

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your bean bag chair comfortable and supportive over time. Here are some tips on how to maintain and refill your bean bag chair:

1. How Often to Refill a Bean Bag Chair

The frequency of refilling your bean bag chair depends on the type of filler and how often the chair is used. Generally, you may need to top up the filler every six months to a year for traditional fillers like polystyrene beads. Higher-quality fillers like shredded memory foam may require less frequent refilling.

2. Cleaning and Care Tips

To extend the lifespan of your bean bag chair and maintain its appearance and comfort, consider the following cleaning and care tips:

• Regular Fluffing: Periodically fluff the chair by kneading or massaging the filler to distribute it evenly.
• Spot Cleaning: Clean spills and stains promptly using a mild detergent and a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the fabric.
• Cover Maintenance: If your bean bag chair has a removable cover, follow the care instructions for cleaning and washing it. Regularly washing the cover helps keep the chair clean and fresh.
• Avoid Sharp Objects: Keep sharp objects away from your bean bag chair to prevent punctures or tears.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the cheapest way to fill your bean bag chair requires careful consideration of your preferences, budget, and environmental values. Whether you opt for traditional fillers, alternative options, or choose to go the DIY route, this guide has provided a comprehensive resource to help you make an informed decision.

When choosing a filler, think about the level of comfort and support you desire, any allergies or health concerns, and your commitment to sustainability. By doing so, you can enjoy the comfort and relaxation of your bean bag chair without breaking the bank or compromising on quality.

With the information provided in this guide, you can make a well-informed decision and enjoy the comfort of your bean bag chair for years to come.

Happy bean bag filling!