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Bean bag chairs are becoming increasingly popular. Bean bag furniture is a common part of room accessories in today’s modern world, and they’re easy to find.
A bean bag is a sealed bag containing dried beans, PVC pellets, expanded polypropylene or expanded polystyrene, with various applications. A giant bean bag can also be used as a cheap alternative to buying a sofa or couch! With this piece of funky furniture being such a rage, it is available in various shapes, sizes, colours and manages to lure people from all age groups. Let’s have a look at the different types of bean bag chairs.
Different Types of Bean Bag Chairs for All Ages
Bean bag furniture is available in various shapes, sizes, and fillings. Here are different types according to their usage:
1. Kids Bean Bag Chairs
Soft, comfortable and often colourful, these types of bean bags are small to medium in size. The circumference of kids’ bean bag chairs vary from 110 to 120 inches approximately.
2. Large or Teen Bean Bag Chairs
These types of bean bags are for young adults who are up to 5 feet tall. The circumference of these bean bag furniture is around 130 to 140 inches approximately.
3. Extra Large Bean Bag Chairs
These types of bean bags are for adults who are up to 6 feet tall. Their circumference is approximately 140 to 150 inches, and they are mostly preferred by adults.
4. Double Extra Large Bean Bag Chairs
These types of bean bags are huge and are typically for adults who are up to 6 feet tall. Their circumference is approximately 170 to 180 inches.
Must Read: 8 Different Bean Bag Uses & its Benefits!
Best Fabrics for Bean Bag Chairs: A Complete Guide
Different fabrics used to make bean bag chairs are as follows:
1. Cotton
Cotton is a breathable and comfortable fabric, offering a natural, breezy feel for bean bag chairs. Its affordability and soft texture make it appealing for indoor use in low-traffic areas. However, cotton lacks stain resistance, absorbs liquids quickly, and takes longer to dry, making it less ideal for homes with kids or pets. For added practicality, look for cotton bean bags with a protective, machine-washable cover.
Pros: Soft, breathable, durable,
Cons: No stain-resistance, prone to fading and shrinkage, attracts pet hair, requires regular cleaning.
2. Leather
Leather bean bag chairs exude sophistication and luxury, making them a premium choice for indoor spaces. They offer unmatched durability, a sleek appearance, and a soft texture that improves with age. While leather adds a touch of elegance to any room, it is expensive and requires regular care to maintain its charm. Leather bean bags are best suited for formal living areas or upscale interiors where they can make a statement.
Pros: Stylish, easy to clean, water-resistant, pet-friendly
Cons: Feels sticky in hot weather, prone to moulds and cracking over time, not suitable for all climates, and difficult to clean.
3. Silk
Silk bean bag chairs provide an unmatched level of elegance and comfort, making them ideal for occasional use in luxurious settings. Known for its soft texture and shiny finish, silk adds a refined touch to spaces like dressing rooms or lounges. However, it is delicate, expensive, and not practical for everyday use. Due to its high maintenance requirements, silk is better suited for decorative purposes or limited seating.
Pros: Rich, luxurious look, breathable, hypoallergic and adjusts to all weather
Cons: Delicate and fragile, expensive, and difficult to maintain.
4. Faux leather
Faux leather bean bag chairs are an affordable alternative to real leather, crafted from PVC or polyurethane. They are waterproof, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Faux leather provides a sleek and modern look but is less breathable and comfortable compared to natural leather. These bean bags are ideal for families, offices, or any space requiring low-maintenance furniture.
Pros: Stylish, durable, water-resistant, easy to clean
Cons: Less breathable, not as soft as fabric, prone to cracking and peeling, not environment-friendly.
5. Microsuede
Microsuede bean bag chairs are prized for their soft, velvety finish that adds a luxurious feel to interiors. Available in various colours and styles, microsuede is perfect for creating a cosy ambiance in living rooms or bedrooms. While this fabric is stylish and comfortable, it is prone to stains and requires careful cleaning. Microsuede bean bags are best suited for indoor use, away from spills and heavy wear.
Pros: Soft and breathable, durable, stain resistant, easy to maintain
Cons: Attracts dust and pet hair, not ideal for outdoor use, generates static electricity
Also Read: Decorate your Home with Best & Trendy Furniture Materials!
6. Nylon
Nylon is one of the most versatile fabrics for bean bag chairs, offering strength, durability, and affordability. Its water-resistant and easy-to-clean properties make it ideal for outdoor use, such as on patios or poolside lounging. Nylon bean bags are lightweight, available in a variety of colours, and capable of withstanding heavy usage. Their resilience and low maintenance make them a practical choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros: Lightweight, easy to clean, affordable
Cons: Not breathable, static build up, less aesthetically appealing
7. Polyester
Polyester bean bag chairs are another durable and cost-effective option, known for their water-resistant and lightweight properties. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, polyester bean bags are available in a wide range of colours and patterns. They can resist fading and moisture, making them perfect for outdoor spaces or casual seating areas. Their affordability and practicality make polyester a popular choice for all age groups.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, fade-resistant, affordable
Cons: Not breathable, retains odour, less luxurious
8. Corduroy
This durable fabric is one of the best matches for your bean bag. Pull it in any direction, and the fabric remains intact. With extra fabric woven into the base material, corduroy does not need backing if used as a bean bag material. It is breathable, making it one of the most comfortable surfaces to sit on.
Pros: Soft, textured, durable and stylish
Cons: Attracts dust, wears out with heavy use and fades over time.
9. Faux Fur
Courtesy - Freepik - AI Generative
It is one of the most loved materials for bean bags. Made of cellulose and other synthetic materials, it resembles authentic fur. The technology around the production of faux fur has developed so much that these machine-made furs look as real as possible.
Pros: Comfortable and warm, vegan and cruelty-free, luxurious and stylish
Cons: Attracts dust, high maintenance, prone to shedding, flattens over time.
10. Velvet
Courtesy - Amazon
If sheen and elegance are what you are looking for, then clad your bean bags in velvet. Velvet feels good against skin, and it makes for a sturdy bean bag fabric. It has a backing built into the fabric, which enables it to withstand the extra pressure that bean bags demand. However, velvet requires extra care and maintenance to keep it looking great.
Pros: Soft, stylish and luxurious
Cons: High maintenance, difficult to clean, and develops lint
11. Chenille
Courtesy - cordaroys rightfutons
It is a gorgeous fabric, warm and durable, making it one of the best choices for your bean bag. It is soft to touch and has all the qualities you are looking for in your bean bag fabric, but there is a catch! It absorbs spills and stains easily, making it difficult to maintain.
Pros: Warm and inviting, durable, soft and comfortable
Cons: High maintenance, prone to staining, not for rough use, expensive
Best Choice Based on Use Case
- For Kids and Pets: Faux Leather, Polyester
- For Outdoor Use: Nylon, Polyester or Sunbrella fabric
- For a Luxurious Look: Velvet or microsuede
- For Maximum Comfort: Cotton and the likes or Microsuede.
Caring for Bean Bags
Your bean bags require care and attention so that they can last long, giving you comfort. Follow these tips to keep your bean bags in good shape.
- If you have used a washable fabric like cotton, silk, corduroy, only then remove the cover and give it a cold wash using a mild liquid soap. Avoid bleaching.
- Never attempt to wash leather, faux leather or microsuede material. Only wipe these surfaces using a damp sponge. These bags can occasionally be kept out in the sun and then dusted clean.
- Place the bean bags on a smooth surface. Avoid rough and uneven surfaces, which can tear or damage the bean bags.
- Expose them to the sun occasionally. Shake or knead the bags regularly to keep their shape and distribute filling evenly. Use a handheld vacuum or brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs and pet hair.
- Over time, bean bag fillings (EPS beads) compress. Refill as needed for firmness.
Unwind and Relax
Now that you have opted for a fabric that suits your taste and comfort level, clad your favourite bean bag sofa with it and enjoy your leisure time lazing in it!
FAQs on Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Bean Bag Chairs
1. What Is the Best Fabric for Outdoor Bean Bag Chairs?
For outdoor use, nylon and polyester are the best options. Both materials are durable, water-resistant, and capable of withstanding exposure to the elements. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and resistant to fading, making them ideal for patios, poolside areas, or gardens.
2. Which Fabric Is the Most Luxurious for Bean Bag Chairs?
Leather and silk are the most luxurious fabrics for bean bag chairs. Leather adds sophistication, durability, and a sleek look, while silk provides a soft, refined, and elegant finish. However, both options are expensive and better suited for indoor, low-traffic spaces.
3. What Size Bean Bag Chair Should I Choose for My Child?
For children, a kids or youth bean bag chair is the ideal size. With a circumference of 110 to 120 inches, these bean bags are small, lightweight, and safe for children up to 4’6” tall. Look for fun colours or patterns that appeal to kids and washable covers for easy cleaning.
4. How Do I Maintain and Clean a Microsuede Bean Bag Chair?
Microsuede bean bags require delicate care to maintain their velvety finish. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove dirt and dust. For stains, spot-clean gently with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive water, as they can damage the fabric.
5. Are Faux Leather Bean Bag Chairs a Good Alternative to Real Leather?
Yes, faux leather bean bag chairs are a cost-effective and practical alternative to real leather. They are waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean, making them suitable for homes with kids or pets. While they may not offer the same level of comfort as genuine leather, they provide a sleek and stylish look at a fraction of the cost.
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