If you want to kick back and relax, stretch out or curl up, there’s nothing quite like a bean bag chair for elevated comfort with a chill-out vibe. Embracing and enveloping, it’s no surprise that it’s become the go-to seat that every kid, teen and adult (secretly) loves.
If you’re wondering why it’s called a bean bag, the first one appeared in the 1960s when Italian designers filled a large fabric bag with polystyrene beans to offer an unconventional seating option that was both comfortable and versatile.
More popular than ever and with myriad stylish choices on offer, let’s find out more about this fun, flexible and fashionable friend that’s always ready to give a hug.
Types of Bean Bags
Bean bag chairs come in all shapes, sizes and materials. From small simple designs that stay true to the original concept to large bed-like loungers and doubly big bean bag sofas.
Round, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, octagonal, L-shaped… there’s a type of bean bag chair for every home. Simple cotton, chunky knits, chic corduroy, sumptuous velvets, hard-wearing leathers – and every fabric in between – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Today’s designs are structured to offer superior levels of support, made with bespoke flexible fabrics, panels and fillings.
Take our Ramona Bean Chair which harnesses clever internal channels and stitching to offer an armchair style seat that you just sink into. Plus, it comes with a handy handle so you can move it around easily.
The Use of Bean Bags in Living Rooms
You might ask, what’s the real purpose of a bean bag chair?
Well, if you’re looking for a seating option that’s super-comfy, easy to clean, durable, stylish, versatile and flexible, a bean bag ticks every box.
In the living room, this chair comes into its own – this is where it’s likely to get used most by every member of the family and guests seeking the perfect place to perch and chillax.
The first thing to consider is your living room décor, style and colour scheme. You can either choose one that blends seamlessly into the surroundings, or you can make a contrasting statement that becomes a focal point.
For those who love broken plan living, where an open space is divided into distinctive functional pockets, a bean bag chair or combo can create a relaxation zone in an instant.
Place around a coffee table, for instance, and you create a swish café vibe. If you enjoy unwinding with a good book, a bean bag next to a bookcase is an obvious choice.
For family movie nights, a bean bag chair by the TV will provide hours of comfort. Drape a throw over one and you have everything you need if you fancy a nap after popcorn overload.
And for those working from home, a bean bag chair offers a break from stiff office chairs to recharge and reset.
Are Bean Bags Good for Your Back?
If you have a back problem and are wondering if a bean bag chair is good for you to sit on, the answer is a resounding yes!
We can’t think of any disadvantages – apart from being accused of being lazy or selfish if you refuse to give it up.
Ergonomically designed to mould to the shape of the person using it, it will adapt to body posture, encourage proper alignment, and can alleviate back pain.
Here at sofa.com our experts work very hard to create chairs, sofas and beds that offer superior levels of back support and comfort, as well as exceptional style.
What Are Bean Bags Filled With?
From the bean bag’s earliest days, polystyrene beads are still commonly used but there are a range of other fillings too.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS), the little white balls used in packaging to protect items from damage, are mostly used as they’re light-weight, cost-effective and can withstand both heat and moist conditions.
Other materials include expanded polypropylene (EPP) beads, along with microbeads and memory or shredded foam.
There are various natural, organic and sustainable ways of filling bean bag chairs, too. Rice and corn kernels have become popular among those who want their bean bag to be good for the planet as well as their back.
Packing peanuts, also known as foam popcorn, are biodegradable and designed to absorb pressure, making them an environmentally friendly choice as well as high performing.
In a nutshell, there’s a filling for every budget and preference.
How to Break in a Bean Bag Chair
So, now you know what goes in them, how do you turn your brand-new bean bag chair into a comfy, trusty old companion that acts like it’s known you from year dot?
Here are 5 simple steps:
1. Hit the right spot – choose where you are going to place your bean bag chair
2. Remove or unzip the cover – this allows air to reach the filling so that it expands to its optimum size, but ensure the liner remains closed
3. Massage and spread the filling – this will ensure even distribution
4. Replace or zip up the cover on your bean bag chair – you’re nearly there
5. Sit, lie, toss and turn until you get your perfect position!
Ps. Throw in pillows, cushions and a blanket for extra softness and support.
Where to Buy the Perfect Bean Bag Chair
There’s a bean bag chair for every style, taste and budget, but choosing the one that’s just right for you is important. So, where’s the best place to buy one?
At sofa.com, we have been handcrafting beautiful furniture and accessories for the home for over a decade.
People are at the core of everything we do; from our expert craftsmanship and personalised service to you – the very reason we exist. Each chair, each sofa, each bed is created with you in mind.
Our website has been designed to make it easy for you to choose the perfect piece of furniture and accessories for your home and lifestyle, with products galore, buying guides, free samples and interior design inspiration at your fingertips. So, are you sitting comfortably? Imagine yourself floating on a cloud, with life’s stresses and aches a distant memory, as you allow yourself to be swathed in sumptuousness. Start your journey to comfort heaven and visit our bespoke collections today.