Symptoms
- One cushion sits noticeably lower than the others
- Gaps appear between cushions
- Cushions don't stay aligned after sitting
Likely causes
- CommonUneven wear from sitting in the same spot repeatedlyThe most-used cushion compresses faster than others.
- CommonCushions not rotated or flipped regularlyReversible cushions need occasional flipping to wear evenly.
- PossibleSagging support webbing under one sectionIf webbing has stretched more in one area, that cushion will sit lower.
What to do
- Remove all seat cushions and check if they're reversible; if so, flip and rotate them into different positions.
- Fluff cushions by hand or add extra fiberfill to the flatter ones to even out height.
- Check the webbing or springs underneath each cushion for differences in firmness or sag.
- If one section's webbing is looser, reinforce or replace it to match the others.
- Rearrange cushions so identical, most-worn sides face down consistently going forward.
- Establish a habit of rotating cushions every few weeks to keep wear even across all seats.
Tools and parts
- Polyester fiberfill (optional)
- Staple gun (if replacing webbing)
Polyester fiberfillSearch: “polyester fiberfill cushion stuffing”
Elastic webbing for furnitureSearch: “sofa support webbing”
When to call a pro
An upholsterer can rebuild sagging webbing sections evenly if simple rotation and fluffing don't resolve the height difference.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.