Plump Your Cushions to Perfection

1. Start with the Vacuum

Good sofa care starts with a thorough clean. Use your vacuum cleaner to remove dust, crumbs and other small particles from your sofa, whether it’s upholstered in fabric or leather.

If your cushions are removable, take them off the sofa so you can reach the edges and clean any debris that has collected in the gaps. Vacuuming your sofa at least once a week can help prevent dirt and particles from contributing to premature wear.

Vacuuming can also help your cushions regain some of their shape. Gently run the vacuum head over the cushions to loosen the fibres and prepare the filling for plumping. Always use a suitable attachment, such as a soft brush, to avoid damaging the upholstery.

2. Get Plumping

Regular plumping helps bring air back into your cushions and keeps your sofa feeling comfortable and supportive. It’s particularly important for sofas with fibre-filled cushions, but all types of seat fillings—including foam, fibre toppers and sprung cores—benefit from regular attention.

Start by removing any throws and scatter cushions. If your sofa has removable seat or back cushions, take each one off individually and plump it separately.

Hold the cushion firmly with both hands and gently turn, rotate and squeeze it to redistribute the filling towards the centre. Repeat this process for both seat and removable back cushions before returning them to the sofa.

Finally, plump your scatter cushions to complete the look.

3. Plump Fixed Seats and Backs

Sofas with fixed seats and backs are ideal if you prefer a lower-maintenance option. Their fillings are often firmer and more supportive, meaning they generally require less regular plumping to stay looking their best.

For fixed cushions, try the “Union Jack” method. This simple technique helps redistribute the filling and return the cushion to its natural shape.

Place your hands in the centre of the cushion and smooth the filling outwards in opposite directions:

• First, smooth from the centre to the left and right.
• Then smooth upwards and downwards.
• Finally, smooth diagonally in both directions.

This helps separate the filling and restore its shape after everyday use. Finish by giving the sides of each cushion a firm pat to encourage air back into the filling.

The result? A sofa that looks fuller, fresher and ready for you to sink into.

Love Your Sofa for Years to Come

A little regular care can go a long way when it comes to keeping your sofa looking and feeling great. Alongside weekly vacuuming and plumping, simple maintenance can help you get more enjoyment from your sofa year after year.

For more advice, explore our care and maintenance guides, including tips on caring for leather sofas, tackling stains and keeping your living room looking its best.

Ready to find a sofa you’ll love?

Find a sofa you love