Why Accurate Cushion Measurements Matter.
How to Measure Furniture for Replacement Cushions matters to ensure a perfect fit. Need new cushions for your favorite furniture? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to measure furniture frames and existing cushions so you can order custom replacement cushions that fit perfectly. Whether you’re updating deep seating furniture like sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, chaise lounges, or ottomans—or replacing tufted and foam seat cushions for your patio, porch, or indoor wicker furniture—you’ll find clear instructions and diagrams to help you measure the first time correctly. We also cover how to measure throw pillows for the right size and shape to match your décor. Instead of searching multiple pages for each furniture style, this all-in-one resource makes it easy to get accurate measurements for any piece. Follow our step-by-step guide and reference the visual diagrams below to ensure a precise, custom fit for every cushion you order from WickerLiving.com.
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How to Measure Deep Seating Furniture For Replacement Cushions
Deep-seating furniture requires precise measurements to ensure replacement cushions sit correctly and look tailored. This section explains how to measure sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, and deep-seating frames by capturing seat width, depth, thickness, and back-cushion dimensions. Whether measuring the furniture frame or existing cushions, following these steps helps achieve a comfortable, well-fitted replacement cushion with proper support.
Measuring a Lounge Chair for Replacement Cushions
Deep-seating lounge chairs vary widely in shape and depth, making accurate measurements essential. This section covers how to measure chair seat cushions, back cushions, and arm clearances so your replacement cushions sit flush within the frame without shifting or overhang.
Measure the Seat Area of a lounge chair (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating lounge chair diagram accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The thickness of foam seat cushions typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches, with 5 inches being the most common.
Measure Back Area (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating lounge chair diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- For lounge chairs with seats that have rounded back corners, the back cushion width “E” measurements typically equal the width “A” of the seat cushion. In certain specialized designs, this may differ. A deep-seating lounge chair back cushion is generally filled with fiber, not foam. Fiber-filled back cushions typically have a 3- to 4-inch gusset at the bottom, allowing the cushion to expand to about 6-8 inches when filled without tufts. Adding tufts will decrease the thickness. But they remain comfortably soft. Cushion designers know how to size the back cushion thickness when provided the seat depth. Providing the back cushion thickness is generally unnecessary unless you want boxed cushions.
- For chairs with seats that have back corners at about 90° angles, the width measurement “B” should equal the back cushion measurement “E”.
- Measure the back width along the bottom of the back rest or the bottom of the back cushion. Measure the back height along the midsection of the back rest in one of two ways:
- Measure the height “F” of the old cushion in the midsection (the tallest point) from the bottom to the top. This accounts for differently shaped cushions.
- Measure the height “G” from the bottom of the backrest frame to the top of where you want the top of the back cushion to be. Then subtract the seat cushion thickness “D” from “G” to obtain the final back cushion height “F”.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C in. Deep D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Measuring a Loveseat for Replacement Cushions
Loveseats typically share many measurement principles with chairs and sofas, but require special attention to spacing and symmetry. This guide walks you through measuring loveseat seat and back cushions to ensure a balanced fit, whether your loveseat uses two separate seat cushions or a single bench-style cushion.
Measure the Seat Area of a loveseat (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating loveseat diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The thickness of foam seat cushions typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches, with 5 inches being the most common.
Measure Back Area (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating loveseat diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- For loveseats with seats that have rounded back corners, the back cushion width “E” measurements typically equal the width “A” of the seat cushion. In certain specialized designs, this may differ. A deep-seating loveseat back cushion is generally filled with fiber, not foam. Fiber-filled back cushions typically have a 3- to 4-inch gusset at the bottom, allowing the cushion to expand to about 6-8 inches when filled without tufts. Adding tufts will decrease the thickness. But they remain comfortably soft. Cushion designers know how to size the back cushion thickness when provided the seat depth. Providing the back cushion thickness is generally unnecessary unless you want boxed cushions.
- For a loveseat with seats that have back corners at about 90° angles, the width measurement “B” should equal the back cushion measurement “E”.
- Measure the back width along the bottom of the back rest or the bottom of the back cushion. Measure the back height along the midsection of the back rest in one of two ways:
- Measure the height “F” from the bottom to the top of the old cushion at the tallest point. This is usually along the edge between the two back cushions, from bottom to top. This accounts for differently shaped cushions.
- Measure the height “G” from the bottom of the backrest frame to the top of where you want the top of the back cushion to be. Then subtract the seat cushion thickness “D” from “G” to obtain the final back cushion height “F”.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Divide the frame widths by 2 to obtain the dimensions for each of the two individual cushion sets.
- Seat Dimensions: A/2 in. Wide x B in. Wide x C in. Deep D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E/2 in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Individual Cushion Set Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Measuring a Sofa Couch for Replacement Cushions
Sofas often use multiple seat and back cushions, making accuracy especially important. Learn how to measure individual sofa seat cushions, back cushions, and attached or loose cushion styles. We’ll show you how to measure width, depth, and thickness so your replacement sofa cushions align evenly across the frame and maintain the intended seating comfort.
- Measure the Seat Area of a sofa (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating sofa diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The thickness of foam seat cushions typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches, with 5 inches being the most common.
Measure Back Area (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating sofa diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- For a sofa with seats that have rounded back corners, the back cushion width “E” measurements typically equal the width “A” of the seat cushion. In certain specialized designs, this may differ. A deep-seating sofa back cushion is generally filled with fiber, not foam. Fiber-filled back cushions typically have a 3- to 4-inch gusset at the bottom, allowing the cushion to expand to about 6-8 inches when filled without tufts. Adding tufts will decrease the thickness. But they remain comfortably soft. Cushion designers know how to size the back cushion thickness when provided the seat depth. Providing the back cushion thickness is generally unnecessary unless you want boxed cushions.
- For a sofa with seats that have back corners at about 90° angles, the width measurement “B” should equal the back cushion measurement “E”.
- Measure the back width along the bottom of the back rest or the bottom of the back cushion. Measure the back height along the midsection of the back rest in one of two ways:
- Measure the height “F” from the bottom to the top of the old cushion at the tallest point. This is usually along the edge between the two back cushions, from bottom to top. This accounts for differently shaped cushions.
- Measure the height “G” from the bottom of the backrest frame to the top of where you want the top of the back cushion to be. Then subtract the seat cushion thickness “D” from “G” to obtain the final back cushion height “F”.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Divide the frame widths by 2 to obtain the dimensions for each of the two individual cushion sets.
- Seat Dimensions: A/3 in. Wide x B in. Wide x C in. Deep D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E/3 in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Individual Cushion Set Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Measuring a Chaise Lounge for Replacement Cushions
Chaise lounges require unique measurements due to their extended length and angled backs. Here you’ll find instructions for measuring both single-piece and two-piece chaise lounge cushions, including seat length, back height, break points, and cushion thickness for a comfortable, properly aligned fit.
Deep-seating chaise lounges vary widely in shape and depth, making accurate measurements essential. This section covers how to measure chair seat cushions, back cushions, and arm clearances so your replacement cushions sit flush within the frame without shifting or overhang.
Measure the Seat Area of a chaise lounge (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating chaise lounge diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The thickness of foam seat cushions typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches, with 5 inches being the most common.
- Thickness measurement for fiber-filled cushions is not required.
Measure Back Area (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating chaise lounge diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- For a chaise lounge with seats that have rounded back corners, the back cushion width “E” measurements typically equal the width “A” of the seat cushion. In certain specialized designs, this may differ. A deep-seating chaise lounge back cushion is generally filled with fiber, not foam. Fiber-filled back cushions typically have a 3- to 4-inch gusset at the bottom, allowing the cushion to expand to about 6-8 inches when filled without tufts. Adding tufts will decrease the thickness. But they remain comfortably soft. Cushion designers know how to size the back cushion thickness when provided the seat depth. Providing the back cushion thickness is generally unnecessary unless you want boxed cushions.
- For chaises with seats that have back corners at about 90° angles, the width measurement “B” should equal the back cushion measurement “E”.
- Measure the back width along the bottom of the back rest or the bottom of the back cushion.
- Measure the back height along the midsection of the back rest in one of two ways:
- Measure the height “F” of the old cushion in the midsection (the tallest point) from the bottom to the top. This accounts for differently shaped cushions.
- Measure the height “G” from the bottom of the backrest frame to the top of where you want the top of the back cushion to be. Then subtract the seat cushion thickness “D” from “G” to obtain the final back cushion height “F”.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
- Back Dimensions: E in. Wide x F in. High x H in. Thick
Measuring an Adjustable Chaise Lounge for Replacement Cushions
Outdoor chaise lounges may look simple, but precise measurements ensure a proper fit and a polished appearance. Learn how to measure chaise lounge frames or existing cushions, including thickness and corner style considerations, whether you’re replacing foam or tufted designs.
Measure the seat area of an adjustable chaise (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Measure seat width “A” along the midsection of the seat frame or cushion
- Measure seat depth “B” from the front center front edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “C” seam-to-seam for foam or the desired thickness for tufted cushions. Fiber-filled tufted cushions on an adjustable chaise lounge typically have a net thickness of 3 inches. The thickness of foam cushions typically varies from 2 to 6 inches, with 2 inches being the most popular.
Measure Back Rest Area (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Measure the back width along the midsection of the back rest or back cushion
- Measure the back height along the midsection of the back rest in one of a few ways:
- Measure the height “E” of the old cushion in the midsection from the bottom to the top
- Measure the height “G” of the backrest from the top of the backrest frame to the bottom where it intersects the seat frame. Then subtract the seat cushion thickness “C” to obtain the final back cushion height “E”.
- Measure the backrest frame from the seat frame to the top of the of the back rest and subtract the thickness of the seat cushion
For this chaise lounge style, either solid-foam cushions or fiber-filled, tufted cushions can be used. Measure or determine the desired seam-to-seam thickness of the foam cushions. Typical thicknesses for foam cushions run from 2 to 6 in. The most common being 2 inches thick. For fiber-filled tufted cushions, the typical thickness is 3 inches.
Record Your Frame Measurements
Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Deep x C in. Thick
Back Dimensions: D in. Wide x E in. High x F in. Thick
Or,
Record Your Cushion Measurements
Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Deep x C in. Thick
Back Dimensions: D in. Wide x E in. High x F in. Thick
How to Measure Chairs, Loveseats, Sofas, and Ottomans For Seat Cushions
Solid Foam & Tufted seat cushions require careful measuring to maintain proper cushion proportions. This section explains how to measure seat and ottoman frames or cushions, accounting for thickness, compression, and overall shape, so the finished cushion retains its tailored look.
Measuring for Seat Cushions
Foam cushions rely heavily on accurate thickness and depth measurements for comfort and support. Tufted cushions have a more forgiving fit because their width and depth are flexible, unlike solid-foam cushions, which require exact measurements to look good and function well. This guide shows how to measure seat frames or existing cushions correctly and explains how to replace worn cushions or upgrade firmness while maintaining the same exterior dimensions. Use this method for chairs, loveseats, or sofas that require only seat cushions.
Measure the Seat Area of a U-shaped or rectangular chair (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the chair diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The width and depth measurements are the same for foam or fiber-filled cushions. Thickness measurements are only necessary for foam cushions.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C in. Deep D in. Thick
- Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
Measure the Seat Area of a round chair (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the chair diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat diameter “A” in the center at the widest point.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “B” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The width and depth measurements are the same for foam or fiber-filled cushions. Thickness measurements are only necessary for foam cushions.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Thick
Measuring an Ottoman for Replacement Cushions
Ottoman cushions may look simple, but precise measurements ensure clean edges and a polished appearance. Learn how to measure rectangular, round, and custom-shaped ottoman cushions, including thickness and corner style considerations, whether you’re replacing foam or tufted designs.
Measure the Seat Area of a rectangular-shaped ottoman (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating ottoman diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat width “A” along the front edge of the seat frame or cushion.
- Measure seat depth “C” from the front center edge of the seat frame or cushion to the back rest frame or back edge of the cushion.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The width and depth measurements are the same for foam or fiber-filled cushions. Thickness measurements are only necessary for foam cushions.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Deep D in. Thick
- Or,
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Wide x B in. Wide x C Deep x D in. Thick
Measure the Seat Area of a round ottoman (Seat Frame or Cushion)
- Reference the deep-seating chair diagrams accompanying this dialog.
- Measure seat diameter “A” along the center of the frame or cushion at its widest point.
- Measure or determine the desired thickness “D” seam-to-seam for foam seat cushions. The diameter measurements are the same for foam or fiber-filled cushions. Thickness measurements are only necessary for foam cushions.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Frame or Cushion Measurements
- Seat Dimensions: A in. Diameter x B in. Thick
How to Measure Throw Pillows
Throw pillows add comfort, style, and color, and they accent visual interest, but proper sizing is key to achieving the right visual balance. This section explains how to measure square, rectangular, and lumbar throw pillows so replacements maintain fullness and complement your furniture and décor. Fiber-filled throw pillows bulge when filled, reducing the overall size relative to the seam-to-seam measurements. Pillows are defined by their seam-to-seam fabric measurements. So, when you want a certain size pillow, you have to add a little bit to the measured seam-to-seam size to get the finished size you want
Measuring a Square Throw Pillows for Replacements
Measuring Throw pillows is relatively simple, but specific steps must be taken to ensure you end up with the right overall size. Cushions are typically ordered by seam-to-seam measurement size. Therefore, you need to add about 2 inches to each dimension to account for length loss and bulging. For example, if you want a finished 16 in. x 16 in. throw pillow, you need to order roughly an 18 in. x 18 in. seam-to-seam-measured pillow.
Using a flexible tape measure, measure A & B seam-to-seam to obtain an accurate replacement size. Or, measure c&D, then add approximately 2 in. to each length to arrive at A & B overall lengths.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements or Your Own Design
- Pillows Dimensions: A in. Diameter x B in. Thick
Measuring Lumbar Throw Pillows for Replacements
Measuring Throw pillows is relatively simple, but specific steps must be taken to ensure you end up with the right overall size. Cushions are typically ordered by seam-to-seam measurement size. Therefore, you need to add about 2 inches to each dimension to account for length loss and bulging. For example, if you want a finished 9 in. x 18 in. lumbar pillow, you need to order roughly an 11 in. x 20 in. seam-to-seam-measured pillow.
Record Dimensions Obtained From Cushion Measurements or Your Own Design
- Pillows Dimensions: A in. Diameter x B in. Thick
Measuring Round Throw Pillows for Replacements
Measuring Throw pillows is relatively simple, but specific steps must be taken to ensure you end up with the right overall size. Cushions are typically ordered by seam-to-seam measurement size. Therefore, you need to add about 2 inches to each dimension to account for length loss and bulging. For example, if you want a finished 16 in. diameter throw pillow, you need to order roughly an 18 in. diameter seam-to-seam-measured pillow.
Record Dimensions Obtained Cushion Measurements or Your Own Design
- Pillows Dimensions: A in. Diameter x B in. Thick
Helpful Measuring Tips for Best Results
For the most accurate measurements, always use a flexible tape measure, measure to the nearest quarter inch, and avoid pulling the tape too tightly. When measuring furniture frames, account for cushion compression to ensure a proper fit within the frame. Reviewing the diagrams in each section will help you avoid common measuring mistakes.
- Deep-seating furniture generally requires foam seat cushions four to six inches thick. Five inches is recommended for superior comfort.
- Foam or fiber-filled tufted cushions can be used as seat cushions on chairs, loveseats, sofas, and standard and adjustable chaise lounges where only seat cushions are required.
- To experience satisfying comfort, fiber-filled tufted style cushions are generally used for back cushions, whether they are tufted or simply filled with fiber.
- Careful measurement will ensure the perfect fit. But don’t worry if you are off by up to a half inch. Chances are, you won’t know the difference after you install and use the cushions. This is especially true for two and three-piece loveseats and sofas.
- Measure to the nearest quarter inch for best results.
- It’s always best to measure the frames when possible to avoid issues that may arise with old, worn, and misshapen cushions. When the old cushions are in good condition, measuring the cushions is an acceptable alternative.
- When measuring boxed cushions, measure from seam to seam.
- When measuring foam cushions (not the frame) that are not fully boxed or fiber-filled, tufted style cushions, measure seam-to-seam for boxed portions, and measure and estimate the overall length for fiber-filled tufted cushions. Measure the seam-to-seam lengths of foam cushions by following the contour of the cushion. Measure fiber-filled cushions by holding the ruler over the top of the cushion and looking down on it; record the lengths. This works well if the existing cushions fit your furniture as intended. Otherwise, measure the frames to get a better fit.
- When measuring cushions, ensure the fabric cover is flat and free of wrinkles. For foam cushions, run the tape measure along the cushion’s contour to measure the fabric size seam-to-seam. For fiber-filled cushions, measure the overall length by holding the tape measure in a fixed position over the cushions and reading the length.
- Fiber-filled tufted back cushions on deep-seating furniture typically have a 3-inch gusset. This allows the back cushion to be filled to a thickness of about 7 inches with no tufts, or to a net 3 inches with multiple tufts or buttons. Fiber-filled cushions are most desirable for back cushion comfort.
- Ties or Velcro straps may be required to hold the cushion in place. For seat and back cushions with a hinge, place ties at the hinge fold between the seat and back cushion and at or near the top corners of the back cushion. The more tufts you add, the thinner the cushion becomes until it reaches the thickness of the gusset.
- Compare your frame measurements and cushion measurements to ensure you have measured accurately.
- When deriving the height of a back cushion, remember that back cushions sit on top of seat cushions. So, you must account for the seat cushion thickness when measuring the backrest frames.
- There is no hard and fast rule for determining where the top of the back cushion will be. If you have a decorative frame on the top of your backrest, you may want it to show, so shorten the height of your back cushion. You may like a higher back cushion to rest your head. So, use a higher cushion. Ultimately, the height of your back cushion is your choice.
