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The Yogibo Lounger strikes the ideal balance between soft and supportive, and its versatility and comfort make it a hit for both kids and adults.
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Pros
Its ergonomic shape offers excellent support
Stays upright
Great for gaming, reading, or when working on a laptop
For the ultimate “if money (and space) is no object” bean bag, The BigOne truly delivers on indulgent comfort and can easily fit a family of four.
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Written byLeigh Harrington, executive editor, home and garden expert, enthusiastic smart home skeptic.
Updated July 30, 2025
Frozen’s Olaf famously says he likes warm hugs, and isn’t that what we are all striving for—wrapped up in a cozy embrace, feeling supported? While we can’t really deliver hugs across the internet, we’ve done the next best thing with this list of the best bean bag chairs on the market right now. Sink in, lie back, or curl up with a book, or snuggle with your pup. Our recommendations highlight bean bag standouts from Yogibo, Lovesac, Big Joe, and more, guaranteed to bring you straight into a state of comfort and relaxation.
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Reviewed / Yogibo
Best Bean Bag Chair Overall
Yogibo Lounger
Fill type: Polystyrene beads (EPS)
Dimensions: 32″ L x 33″ W x 38″ H
Cover material: 89% cotton, 13% spandex
Weight: 10.5 pounds
When it comes to the best bean bag chairs, the Yogibo Lounger hits different. We chose it as our top choice for most people because of its ideal balance between soft and supportive. Its unique ergonomic teardrop shape supports your back and neck in upright or reclined positions. Our tester noted it “stays upright” and doesn’t turn into a shapeless puddle, making it great for gaming, reading, or working on a laptop.
The Yogibo Lounger is approximately 3 feet tall and weighs only 10 pounds, so it’s easy to move from room to room. It also sits higher off the ground than many bean bags, so it’s easy to get in and out of. Unfortunately, due to its compact size, this bean bag chair is not a suitable fit for individuals over 6 feet tall (Instead, try Yogibo’s larger model, the Max, for full-body support).
Its cotton-spandex cover can be tossed in the wash for stress-free cleaning. Spills and dirt are no big deal, and you can even buy over two dozen interchangeable covers (including outdoor-safe fabrics) to change up the look. Note: Refitting the cover onto the Yogibo can be a challenge, and getting it back on snugly after washing takes some patience due to the chair’s shape. It’s a minor gripe, but worth noting to avoid frustration on laundry day.
Owners report that Yogibo chairs hold their shape and support for years. Greenberg has used their Yogibo for 2-plus years (with frequent cover washes) and says it still looks and feels like new. The foam bead filling can be topped up via refill packs if needed.
Yogibo chairs are slightly more expensive than generic bean bag chairs of the same size. You’re paying for quality materials and design; as one Reviewed editor put it, “they are worth the money,” but still cost more than a basic bean bag.
On a final note, expect the Lounger to take 5-10 days to ship from Yogibo directly, with delivery even later. You can order faster from Amazon, but returns may be more difficult.
Pros
Its ergonomic shape offers excellent support
Stays upright
Great for gaming, reading, or when working on a laptop
This oversized chair is filled with recycled flexible polyurethane foam instead of beans, allowing it to hold its shape and support your body better, like a sling cradling a baby. Imagine sinking into that for a Saturday afternoon nap.
However, with its less structured shape than the Yogibo, it offers less in the way of head, neck, and back support.
It comes in multiple sizes (L, XL, XXL) and fabrics (corduroy, plush), all with removable, machine-washable covers in various colors. The large size is good for a single person, whereas the XL and XXL are loungers that can seat two or more people.
It arrives vacuum-compressed, so you’ll want to toss it around to fluff it up, which, frankly, sounds pretty satisfying. Once fluffed, you get a giant, plush bean bag that’s perfect for movie nights, gaming, or dorm lounging.
Recruit a family member with muscles if you want to move the Fuf. At 30 to 50 pounds, it takes up a lot of real estate and can be tough to move for the weaklings among us.
While inexpensive foam sacks from random brands can be hit or miss, Big Joe is a well-known company, and many reviewers praise the Fuf’s comfort and size for the price.
Feels like this bean bag could have been the inspiration of the B-52’s 1989 hit of a similar name, and if you’re seeking the pinnacle of bean bag comfort for your, ahem, love, shack—and don’t mind an extravagant price tag—the Lovesac is legendary.
Filled with 100% molded Durafoam and covered in premium fabrics, the BigOne is an enormous 95-pound bean bag that can cosset multiple people at once in cloud-like softness. The shredded Durafoam fill molds to your body, giving a weightless, cocooning sensation. Our reviewer and furniture tester, Samantha Mangino was “pleasantly surprised” that it provided firm enough support to keep her spine aligned while lounging. It’s big enough for two adults (or a parent plus a couple of kids) to cuddle up together.
She also noted that users should be prepared for a wrestling match when they first get it. The foam arrives compressed; as it expands, you have to herd it into the cover—quite a challenge. Indeed, this is a one-time hassle, but it is worth noting.
As one former Lovesac employee noted, the foam fill can “hold you like a chair without being up against a wall.” Whether lying down or sitting upright, Mangino found the BigOne kept her comfortable and ache-free even after a few hours of use—impressive for a non-traditional seat.
The Lovesac will engulf you, which is the point. But, it means standing up is never graceful. Shorter people may find that their feet don’t touch the ground when sitting, making it even more challenging to exit. And anyone with knee or mobility issues will struggle. It’s not the best choice for those who need firm seating or easy egress.
Unlike old-school bean bags, all Lovesac “Sac” chairs have zip-off covers that are machine washable. To boot, the inserts are wrapped in a protective liner, which means spills or pet accidents aren’t a disaster. You can choose from dozens of fabrics in luxe options like plush faux fur called Phur (the one we tested), as well as chenille, bouclé, velvet, and more on Lovesac’s site. The faux fur cover stayed plush and didn’t overheat.
Given its girth, this statement piece can replace a couch. Once you set this behemoth in place, it’s staying there. It has no handles, making it a workout to move. If you entertain often and need flexible seating, this isn’t practical. Consider Lovesac’s smaller models (like the Citysac) if you want something easier to lug.
Most people would call its $1,500-plus price tag for the BigOne a splurge, and it is far more expensive than any other product on our list. One alternative, Moon Pod’s largest size is less than half the price at $600 for a similar concept. If you’re on a budget, skip the brand name and look at the Big Joe or Ultimate Sack (though they won’t match Lovesac’s exact feel).
Many owners report their Lovesacs have held up for 5 to 10-plus years. It’s an investment, but one you won’t have to replace anytime soon.
The Moon Pod isn’t your traditional bean bag. This sleek, oblong chair was engineered to mimic the feel of flotation therapy, and it shows. Filled with high-density micro-beads, the Moon Pod supports you in a variety of postures while making you feel almost weightless. Many reviewers mention the Moon Pod’s unique zero-gravity feel. The evenly distributed support means no specific pressure points; one reviewer said it “molds to your body with just enough give to be comfortable as well as solid.” It’s very calming, too, and some people use it as an anxiety or sensory aid, similar to how weighted blankets or hammocks provide soothing pressure.
Reviewed’s executive editor and home expert, Leigh Harrington (me), tested the Moon Pod. I can’t say enough about its super comfortable seating, and, as proof, it’s the most sought-after seat in my house come movie night.
You can sit on the Moon Pod like a chair, lean back into it as if in a recliner, or place it down like a floor lounger. In the upright position, users found it “solidly supported my back…prevented me from slouching,” making it better for working or gaming. When you recline, it fully contours to your body—in my original review, I said “reclining in a Moon Pod can’t be beat” for relaxation.
However, do not be tempted to use the Moon Pod as a bed replacement. Despite marketing photos of people sleeping on it, our testing found the Moon Pod isn’t very comfortable to sleep in overnight. It’s best for short-term lounging. If you want a bean bag that doubles as a bed, a convertible option like the CordaRoys is better.
One of the lightest bean bags on this list, the Moon Pod’s EPS bead filling and relatively small volume mean one person can carry or reposition it without struggle. This portability makes it great for multi-use spaces or for bringing out only when needed. Since the Moon Pod stands vertically when not in use, you can easily tuck it in a corner or a closet to save space. Despite its size, it holds up to 300 pounds and can accommodate most adults (one at a time). You could snuggle with Kitty, but Fido is likely a no-go.
It has a washable outer cover and comes in five neutral shades that blend into modern décor. We’ve noted some pilling on the cover, even after just a couple of washes. The material is smooth and cool, but you’ll want to wash it gently (and avoid abrasive surfaces) to keep it looking nice. Replacement covers are available, but at extra cost.
Why buy just a bean bag chair when you can get a bean bag and an extra bed in one? CordaRoys convertible bean bags have a clever design: inside the plush cover is a foldable foam mattress. Unzip the cover, and the foam expands into a full-size bed (e.g., the Queen model turns into a queen-size mattress), no tools needed. This expansion makes it a fantastic option for guest rooms, kids’ sleepovers, or anyone who wants multifunctional furniture.
We love the queen-size chenille model for its soft, cozy cover and manageable size—as a chair, it’s about 3.5 feet wide (big enough to curl up in), and as a bed, it’s a standard queen (60″ x 80″). According to The Spruce’s testing, the CordaRoys chair is “roomy enough for one and a furry friend” when used as a seat, and noted that while it sank low to the ground at first, once the foam fully expanded, it became easier to get in and out of.
The conversion process is simple (though the insert is a bit heavy): remove the cover and flip out the mattress. Folding the mattress back up and stuffing it into the cover can be a workout, especially in larger sizes. It’s foam, so it fights back a bit—some users recommend folding it like a taco and sitting on it to squeeze air out. It’s doable with one person, but easier with two.
The soft chenille cover zips off for machine washing (it also comes in corduroy and chinchilla), which is a must for something that might see double duty as a bed. The insert is essentially a foam bed, so it’s more supportive and thicker than a typical bean bag filling, albeit bulky. When in chair form, that means it’s hefty and substantial—you won’t feel lumps or the floor underneath. As a mattress, it’s like a medium-firm foam bed—not just a flimsy pad—about 4 inches to 8 inches thick. Many owners find it comfortable for a night’s sleep in a pinch, but it’s not going to rival a real, supportive mattress for nightly sleep.
Double-duty furniture like this is ideal for rec rooms or small apartments, and CordaRoys is the best-known brand in this niche (you might recall it from Shark Tank). It comes in other sizes too (King, Full, Youth), but the queen hits a sweet spot for versatility.
Cover material: Stain-resistant SmartMax fabric or vegan leather
Weight: 5.1 pounds
For kids, teens, or anyone seeking a cheap bean bag, the Big Joe Dorm Chair is a standout. This classic bean bag is filled with polystyrene beans and features a smart, chair-like shape about 3 feet wide—it actually has a built-in backrest and armrests. That means the Dorm gives you a defined seat, which is especially helpful for gaming, doing homework, or just pretending you have a cute armchair in your independence space. Anyone who has ever lived in a dorm (hence its name)—or an NYC studio, for that matter—can appreciate the grown-up vibe without the cost or the footprint.
The Dorm offers a decent upright seating position for console gaming or watching TV, featuring a drink holder and a small side pocket for remote controllers or snacks—a thoughtful touch for the intended audience.
Often priced around $70 to $90, it’s one of the cheapest “good” bean bag chairs from a known brand. You can outfit a playroom or gaming den with a couple of these without spending much more than a single larger bean bag.
When the included bean fill eventually compresses (all EPS beads do over time), you can unzip the safety lock and pour in new beads. Big Joe sells refill packs and incorporates recycled materials into their beans. Adding beads extends the life of the chair, so you don’t have to toss it when it goes flat. Just know that these chairs aren’t heirloom pieces. Expect 2-3 years of good use from it (which is fair at this price). After that, the seams, zipper, or fabric might start to give out.
Here’s this bag’s biggest downfall: You can’t take the cover off, so you’re limited to spot-cleaning. The fabric is stain-resistant, and that’s fine, but when it comes to urine or vomit soaking in (these are college students … after all), cleaning thoroughly is tough. Also, you can’t swap out the cover for a new look; what you buy is what you get.
Pros
Super affordable
Structured shape
Lightweight and portable
Stain-resistant, water-resistant fabric cover that wipes clean easily
Refillable
Cons
Not for larger adults
Less durable filling
Can’t remove the cover
Limited lifespan
Less enveloping comfort compared to other bean bags
Reviewed has extensive experience testing home and furniture products. For this article, we leaned on actual hands-on reviews and expert roundups. We examined results from The Spruce’s lab tests (they spent three years testing bean bags for comfort, support, and durability). We incorporated insights from NY Mag’s Strategist, which interviewed designers and enthusiasts to find what bean bags people truly love in different scenarios.
Importantly, several of these top picks have been tested by our own Reviewed editors: We had a writer evaluate the Moon Pod over weeks of use, another lived with Yogibo bags for years with her family, and we officially reviewed the Lovesac BigOne in our labs. When testing, we consider factors like ease of setup, quality of materials (we’ve unzipped covers to inspect seams), comfort in various positions, ease of cleaning, and how the bag holds up over time (does it go flat? does the foam off-gas?).
We aggregated owner feedback from retail sites and Reddit forums—for example, noting common praises (like the Big Joe Fuf being “supremely comfortable” for whole families) and complaints (such as the need to refill cheap bean bags frequently).
Our recommendations cater to a wide range of needs and budgets, and every product is one we’d personally feel confident bringing into our own homes. We update our guides regularly, and this 2025 list reflects the latest models and feedback as of the time of writing (July 2025). You can trust that we’ve done the homework to help you find a bean bag chair that you’ll truly love—and if we wouldn’t sit in it, it’s not on this list!
What To Consider When Buying a Bean Bag Chair
Filling Type (Foam vs. Beads vs. Other)
The interior filling is the heart of a bean bag, and it affects comfort, longevity, and price. The two most common fillings are EPS polystyrene beads (lightweight “beans”) and shredded foam (memory foam or furniture foam pieces).
EPS polystyrene beads: Bead-filled chairs tend to be lighter and cheaper, but the beads compress over time, and eventually the chair will go flat or need refills. They also have a squishier, shifting feel that some love and others find unsupportive (imagine sitting on a bag of packing peanuts).
Shredded foam: Foam-filled chairs, on the other hand, are heavier and usually more expensive, but offer more body-conforming support and retain their shape longer. Shredded foam cradles you and does not rustle, whereas beads make a gentle crunching sound when you move. Foam bags provide a luxurious, couch-like experience, while beads are suitable for lighter use or when you want something easy to move around.
Hybrid/eco-friendly: There are also eco-friendly fills emerging, e.g., recycled polyester beads, natural latex foam, or even compostable plant-based beads. These tend to be niche and more expensive.
For most, we recommend foam fill for superior comfort, except if weight or cost is a big concern. (Do note that foam and bead fills feel different—if possible, try sitting on each type in a store to see which one you prefer.)
Size and shape
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Reviewed
Bean bag chairs come in a vast range of sizes—from tiny toddler poufs to giant 8-foot sacks. Consider who will use it and the space available.
An oversized bean bag can sometimes take up the footprint of a couch or queen bed when fully spread out, and others come vacuum-compressed and expand after you get them in. You’ll always want to measure the floor area of your space before purchasing. If you’re looking for a bean bag chair that is fit for single adults or multiple people at once, look at bags described as 5-foot (or larger) in diameter, or labeled as extra-large or king-sized. These can almost substitute for a loveseat and allow for comfortable sprawling.
Classic round (sack style): With its round or oval shape, this style of bean bag is the most common and looks like a soft sphere or blob. They are easy to sprawl or sink into and are meant for general lounging and casual seating. However, they are low to the ground and offer limited back support. A good example is the Big Joe Fuf or Lovesac’s BigOne.
Teardrop / pear-shaped: Narrower at the top and wider at the bottom, the visual of this style fits its name. This shaped bean bag chair offers a more upright seating option with some back and neck support. On one hand, it keeps you more elevated and supported than classic sacks; on the other, it offers no space to lie flat. A good example is the Yogibo Lounger or the Big Joe Milano.
Chair-style: This shape bean bag chair is actually a chair, usually with a built-in backrest and sometimes armrests. It’s also often on the smaller side, and a heck of a lot easier to get in and out of. Gaming, reading, or working on a laptop are its best use cases. A good example is the Big Joe Dorm Chair or the Jaxx Pivot Lounger.
Lounger / chaise: One of the more versatile styles of bean bag chair, the lounger is typically long and offers a body-length design for reclining, lounging, napping, or reading. It is also more supportive of your legs and your back, but consequently, it can take up more floor space. Examples include the Yogibo Max, Moon Pod, and Jaxx Saxx Lounger.
Modular / couch bean bags: Larger than most, these multi-piece or oversized sacks act like sofas, offering shared seating that’s great for media rooms or family lounging. Unfortunately, they are often heavy and space-consuming. Examples include Lovesac Sactionals (technically a modular couch) and Ultimate Sack 6000.
Convertible (Chair-to-Bed): These may surprise you: While a convertible bean bag may just appear to be a sack or chair, it actually contains a foldable mattress inside. It can double as a bed, accommodate guests, serve as a dorm room sleeper, or host several hot little bodies at a kids’ sleepover. Drawbacks include the effort required to switch between forms. Real-life examples include CordaRoys Convertible Bean Bags.
Match the bean bag’s shape to how you plan to use it, e.g., a gamer might want that bucket-chair style, whereas a family movie room might favor the giant round sack that everyone can pile onto.
Cover material and care
Across the market, bean bags are made from a variety of materials, from polyester to corduroy to vegan leather. Additionally, some bean bag covers can be removed, while others cannot. Both these factors influence how to clean and care for your bean bag.
Always check the material of the outer cover and how to clean it. Manufacturer sites often offer a wealth of information that’s specific to each model. Or you can always read the tag to see if it recommends spot-clean or dry-clean only.
But in general, if you have pets or kids, a durable, stain-resistant fabric like microsuede, polyester blends, or marine-grade vinyl for outdoors is smart. Some covers (like Lovesac’s and Yogibo’s) are removable and machine washable, which is the gold standard for easy care. Some inexpensive bean bags don’t have a removable cover at all; the whole bag is sewn shut, so you can only spot clean the surface.
We highly recommend bean bags with zippered, removable covers, especially for larger sizes. Being able to wash or replace the cover extends the life of your bean bag tremendously, especially if you have pets prone to puke, kids that like slime, or a partner that likes a martini when watching the latest episode of Love Island.
If you do opt for a non-removable style, select a fabric that can withstand scrubbing and some elbow grease. Otherwise, you’ll be disappointed.
When it comes to textures, think about feel and seasonality: a shaggy faux fur or plush velvet cover is super cozy for winter, but might feel too warm in a hot climate. Smooth cotton or poly weaves are more breathable. Some covers (like Yogibo’s cotton/spandex blend) have a stretchy, flexible feel that moves with you, whereas others are more static.
Also consider pet hair (faux fur can be a magnet for it) and aesthetics—there are now even chic options, such as leather-look bean bags or chunky knit covers, that serve as decorative statements.
Lastly, check if replacement covers are sold—a few brands sell covers separately, so you can change colors on a whim or replace a damaged cover without buying a whole new chair.
Support and ergonomics
Traditionally, bean bag chairs are about casual lounging rather than firm support. However, newer designs have improved on this. If back support is important to you, look for features like an upright backrest shape or a denser fill. For example, the Yogibo Lounger’s shape supports the neck and back more like a regular chair, and Moon Pod’s dense bead fill prevented slouching in our tests.
In general, foam-filled bags will hold you in position better, whereas bead-filled ones will flatten out under your bottom, possibly putting you in a more C-slump. Keep in mind that no bean bag will be as supportive as a structured chair, and if you sit for very long periods, you might experience some discomfort or need to shift positions frequently. (Our reviewer noted slight tailbone pressure after extended Moon Pod use.)
Some bean bags offer accessories like footstools or ergonomic back pillows (e.g., Yogibo sells a “Support” pillow you can use for lumbar support), for an added cost. These can enhance comfort during extended periods of sitting.
Getting up is another aspect: the lower and softer the bean bag, the more you engage your abs or roll out onto the floor to stand. Individuals with joint issues or those who prefer not to struggle may opt for smaller, firmer bean bags or models with handle straps. Generally speaking, the bigger the bean bag chair is, the more likely that you’ll sink into it, which is fun, but definitely not ergonomic. So it’s a trade-off: prioritize enveloping comfort or easier seating posture based on your needs.
Use-case
Think about where and how you’ll use the bean bag. Is it primarily for a kid’s playroom? If so, durability and stain resistance are key, and you might want to choose a unicorn print, sports team logo, or fun color. If it’s for a living room or adult space, you may lean toward a more neutral or stylish design that complements your furniture (some upscale bean bags in leather or high-end fabrics can look quite chic). For outdoor use, you must get a model made explicitly with waterproof, UV-resistant fabric—standard indoor bean bags will mildew or be damaged if used outside.
Consider the climate of the room, too: a bean bag full of foam can run warm since it insulates your body heat, whereas bead bags allow more airflow.
Cats and dogs often adore bean bags! But they might also scratch or puncture them. If you have claw-happy pets, consider a thicker, tougher cover (or keeping the bean bag off-limits) for added protection. It's also definitely worth opting for one with a washable cover.
For gaming or media rooms, some bean bags come with features like built-in pockets (for controllers/headphones) or even audio speakers (a few novelty models have this). These can be gimmicky, but the primary consideration is to get a size that positions you at a good angle to your screen.
Lastly, for sleeping purposes (naps or houseguests), consider convertible-style bean bags like CordaRoys or oversized foam loungers that can double as crash pads. A bean bag can be a spare bed in a pinch, but only if it's sufficiently large and padded for comfort.
Not for Everyone: When to Skip a Bean Bag Chair
No one is arguing that bean bag chairs aren’t whimsical and comfy. However, they’re not all the same animal. For example, if you require firm support or have limited mobility, a bean bag’s low, soft design may pose challenges. Some larger bags can be difficult to get out of without considerable core strength. We know this firsthand from having to roll out and onto all fours before being able to stand up. Who doesn’t love middle age?!
If space is at a premium in your home, note that many bean bags have a large footprint and aren’t easy to tuck away (though compact options like the Moon Pod can stand upright in a closet).
Lastly, a bean bag may not provide sufficient back support if you require structured, ergonomic seating for extended periods, and can lead to aches.
In short, bean bag chairs prioritize casual comfort over posture and portability, so consider your needs carefully before making a purchase.
FAQ: Bean Bag Chairs
What are bean bag chairs filled with, and which filling is best?
Most bean bag chairs are filled with either EPS beads (small styrofoam-like pellets) or shredded foam. EPS beads are lightweight and provide the classic bean bag “flow,” but they compress over time and aren’t very eco-friendly (although some brands use partially recycled beads). Shredded memory foam (or furniture foam) is heavier but offers more cushioning and tends to last longer without going flat.
There’s no single “best” filling—it depends on your priorities. Foam is often preferred for pure comfort and longevity, whereas for portability and lower cost, bead fill is the winner.
Some modern bean bags use hybrid or natural fills like sustainable buckwheat hulls or latex foam, but they're currently less common.
Hot tip: If you opt for a bean bag filled with beads, ensure the chair has a refill zipper, as you’ll likely want to top it up in the future. If you want a bean bag that stays plush for years with minimal maintenance, a foam-filled model is worth the extra initial expense.
How do I clean a bean bag chair?
Cleaning depends on the cover type. If your bean bag has a removable cover, unzip it and launder according to the instructions (most fabric covers can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried).
That is the easiest scenario—for example, Lovesac and Yogibo covers come off and are machine-washable, so you can keep them fresh.
If the cover is non-removable, you’ll need to spot clean. Use a mild detergent or upholstery cleaner on a damp cloth and gently scrub any stains, but avoid soaking through. Some polyester or vinyl bean bags can be wiped down with a cloth (and even disinfectant wipes for vinyl).
Pet hair: Use a vacuum or lint roller on the cover regularly.
Odors: Sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for a few minutes, then vacuum.
Spills: If something spills internally (say a leaky bag or accident), you may have to open a seam or zipper and replace or dry out the fill, which can be messy. This scenario is why we strongly prefer chairs with inner liners and removable outer covers.
Textured fabrics: Faux fur and other textures might require air drying or specific care to stay fluffy (read the label).
In summary: Check if it’s machine-washable first; if not, treat it like upholstered furniture with spot treatments.
Do bean bag chairs go flat? How can I make mine last longer?
Over time, yes, most bean bags will compress or “go flat” to some degree, particularly those filled with EPS beads. The beads lose air and get squished with use, so a once-plump chair can start feeling deflated. To extend its life, you can “re-fluff” or refill the bean bag.
For foam bags, this may involve breaking up clumped foam and rotating the bag regularly to ensure even expansion. Many foam bags recover their volume if you toss them around a bit (the Lovesac, for instance, can be flipped and will puff back up like new).
For bead bags, you’ll eventually want to add more beads. Most bean bag makers sell refill packs of beads. You carefully pour them in via the zipper opening (pro tip: use a funnel or have a second person help to avoid static-filled beads bouncing everywhere!). Doing this every year or two can keep a bead bag functional for a long time.
Limit direct jumping or heavy impacts on the bag. While fun, this accelerates compression and can even burst seams. If your bean bag has an inner liner, occasionally remove the cover and give the inner bag a good shake and roll; this redistributes any filling lumps.
Lastly, keep it clean—dirt or spills that aren’t addressed can break down the filling or fabric. By refilling when needed and handling it with a bit of care, you can relish a bean bag for many years. Some high-end options, like Lovesac, are known to last a decade or more with proper upkeep.
Are bean bag chairs bad for your back?
Traditional bean bags don’t provide structured lumbar support, so they’re not ideal for long-term ergonomic seating. You wouldn’t use one as your office chair, for example. Sitting in a very slouched position can put strain on your back. However, moderate use of a well-designed bean bag shouldn’t harm your back, and many people find them extremely comfortable for relaxing.
Some newer bean bags are designed with better support in mind: for instance, our tester noted that the Lovesac (foam-filled) kept her spine “somewhat aligned,” and she didn’t experience back pain even after a few hours of sitting. The key is that these bags were filled densely enough to prevent you from just collapsing into a U-shape on the floor.
Bean bags, such as the Yogibo, can also be paired with support pillows to prop you up. If you use it as a lounger for reading or gaming for an hour or two, most people will be fine—listen to your body. If you start feeling discomfort, change positions or take a stretch break.
For kids and teens, bean bags can encourage different seating postures that may be more comfortable for their flexible bodies (or even provide sensory comfort, as noted for some kids with autism/ADHD who enjoy bean bags’ enveloping feel).
Bean bag chairs are not inherently bad for your back, but they don’t have the orthopedic support of a structured chair. Use them for relaxation, not as a productivity chair. And if you have existing back issues, you might want to stick to models known for firmness or add a small pillow under your lower back when lounging.
What’s the difference between a $500 bean bag and a $100 one?
It often comes down to materials, size, and durability. High-end bean bags (like Lovesac, Moon Pod, Fatboy, etc.) use premium foam or custom fill, have designer-quality covers, and are usually much larger. They cost more due to the quality of foam, robust inner liners, branded fabrics, and sometimes a warranty.
Cheaper bean bags often use inexpensive EPS beads or lower-density foam that breaks down more quickly, and their covers may be thinner or non-removable.
The result: the pricey bag will generally be more comfortable (molds to you better, no “floor feel”), and it will maintain that comfort for years, whereas the budget bag might flatten or rip within a couple of years of heavy use. Expensive ones also tend to be much bigger—for example, a $500+ Lovesac can seat two adults, while a $100 bean bag usually is a one-person deal.
Another difference is style and brand reliability: luxury bean bags come in myriad stylish covers (leathers, designer fabrics), and you can often buy new covers to change the look. With a cheap bean bag, what you buy is what you get, and if the cover fails, you’re buying a whole new chair.
That said, there are mid-range options (around $150-$200) that hit a sweet spot—our Best Value Big Joe Fuf is a good example, using foam fill but keeping costs down with simpler packaging.
In short: You get what you pay for.
Read More About Bean Bag Chairs on Reviewed
Bean Bag Chairs Are Cool Again — But Should You Buy One?: Our deep dive into the resurgence of bean bags, covering their history and modern innovations. Great context if you’re on the fence about whether a bean bag fits your lifestyle.
Moon Pod: Is It the Best Bean Bag Chair Out There?: A detailed feature where our writer tested the Moon Pod in various positions (sitting, reclining, even attempting to sleep). It’s a fun read to see how the Moon Pod lives up to its claims.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
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Leigh Harrington has 25 years experience as a writer and editor for myriad print and digital publications.
At Reviewed, Harrington manages Reviewed's overall content, including areas of focus like home improvement, cleaning, gardening, cooking, smart home, organization, and parenting. She focuses on developing and editing consumer ed content, product reviews and buying guides, but she also writes, too.
Our team is here to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Our writers, editors, and experts obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? Email us and we'll compare notes.