The comfort and longevity of your sofa depends largely on its filling. While style and upholstery play an important role, the material inside your cushions determines the overall feel, support, and durability of your sofa. At Boura & White, we understand that choosing the right sofa filling can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve created this journal to help you compare the two main types: feather and foam. Each filling offers a unique experience, and selecting the best one depends on your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and maintenance expectations.

Feather Fillings: The Luxury of Softness

Feather-filled sofas are synonymous with luxury and indulgence, offering unparalleled softness and a relaxed aesthetic.

• Unmatched Comfort – Feather cushions provide a plush, sink-in feeling that conforms to the body.
  
• Timeless Elegance – These fillings give sofas a sumptuous, lived-in look that enhances with age.
  
• Adjustable Support – Feather cushions can be fluffed and reshaped to maintain their form.

However, feather fillings do require regular maintenance to prevent flattening. They also tend to be heavier than other options, which can make repositioning them more difficult. While incredibly comfortable, they may not provide the same level of structure and firmness as foam.

Foam Fillings: Structure and Support

Foam-filled sofas are popular for their durability and consistent support, making them a great option for those who prefer a more structured seating experience.

Foam cushions:

• Retain Shape Longer – Unlike feather cushions, foam maintains its form with minimal maintenance.
  
• Offer Firm Support – Ideal for those who require good back support and prefer an upright seating position.
  
• Are Available in Different Densities – High-density foam provides firm support, while low-density foam offers a softer feel.
  

Foam fillings are great for those looking for low-maintenance comfort, but they can sometimes lack the plush feel of feathers. Over time, lower-quality foam may lose resilience, leading to sagging.

Choosing the Right Sofa Filling for Your Lifestyle

When selecting a sofa filling, consider your personal comfort preferences, maintenance expectations, and how the sofa will be used in your home.

• For ultimate luxury and softness, choose feather-filled cushions.
  
• For firm support and durability, opt for foam-filled cushions.

If you entertain often or require a low-maintenance option, foam may be ideal. For those who prioritise indulgence and don’t mind regular upkeep, feather-filled sofas offer an unparalleled experience.

Understanding Upholstery Fabric Durability

Fabric durability is measured in rub counts, which determine resistance to wear and tear:

• Under 10,000 Rubs – Suitable for decorative or occasional-use furniture.
  
• 10,000 - 25,000 Rubs – Ideal for moderate household use.
  
• 25,000 - 50,000 Rubs – Durable for everyday seating.
  
• 50,000+ Rubs – Heavy-duty, commercial-grade durability, great for high-traffic areas
  

The right sofa filling enhances both comfort and longevity, making your seating experience as enjoyable as possible. Whether you prefer the plush elegance of feathers or the structured support of foam, each option has its own benefits. Understanding these differences allows you to make an informed choice that best suits your home and lifestyle.

Ready to find your perfect sofa? Explore our collection of bespoke sofas with a range of filling options to suit your comfort needs.

Visit our Hampshire showroom to experience the difference in person.

For bespoke enquiries, contact us at info@bouraandwhite.co.uk.