Cushions were once considered a luxury item used only by the wealthiest families. Today, they are regular interior decorations in virtually all spaces. Cushions add colour and height and provide elevation for lying down. Due to their versatile use, they are available in different styles, designs, and functionality. If you’re shopping for one, check out this list of popular types of cushions and how to recognise them below.

Throw Cushions

The throw cushion is arguably the most common type of cushion. They are so-named because their typical use is to “throw” them on your sofa, bed, or armchair. Throw pillows primarily serve decorative purposes. They are also “scatter cushions” because you can simply arrange them randomly on your furniture to decorate your space.

Throw cushions are usually square or rectangular and measure about 45 to 60 cm wide on average. Round throw cushions are also quite common. They come in different colours and may have extra decorative details to further enhance their appearance.

Lumbar Cushions

Lumbar cushions are small rectangular cushions designed specifically to support your lower back (lumbar area). They’re about 40 to 50 cm wide and are often placed on reclining chairs or beds. They may also serve decorative purposes, which is why they come in a wide range of patterns and designs. You can choose one to match your bedding, quilt cover sets, or coverlets to suit your interior style.

Outdoor Cushions

As the name suggests, outdoor cushions are designed for outdoor use. Consequently, they’re designed to be held up in outdoor conditions without breaking down. Most outdoor cushions have water-repellent qualities, and they’re UV-resistant as well. They’re designed for use in outdoor spaces such as patios, gardens, and other outdoor areas. Outdoor cushions rarely have the type of ornamentation or level of delicate detailing seen in cushions designed for indoor use. They can still be stylish, but there’s a greater emphasis on simplicity and functionality than fancy designs.

photo: 1825 Interiors

Floor Cushions

Floor cushions are large cushions placed on the floor in casual sitting areas such as meditation rooms, kid play rooms, and indoor relaxation areas. This type of cushion is often paired with other low furniture like ottomans, beanbags, and low stools. Floor cushions can be up to 60cm wide or even bigger. They’re high quality and are often designed to withstand the wear and tear that comes with their use. The underside of the floor cushions is also non-slip to give it more grip and keep the cushion in place.

Chair Cushions

Chair cushions are also known as seat pads or chair pads. They’re unique cushions designed to add an extra layer of comfort to your seat. Since they’re designed to be sat on, chair cushions are typically firmer to ensure they retain their shape and remain as comfortable as possible. Most products are filled with regular foam, memory foam, or polyester fiberfill to make them firm and comfortable. A chair cushion can be simply placed on the chair or secured to the chair with handy ties.

Novelty Cushions

Novelty cushions are like throw pillows but with a twist. They come in a wide range of unusual shapes, prints, and fabrics, which makes them perfect for adding a bit of flair and quirkiness to your space. Novelty cushions may have abstract shapes or come in designs resembling different animals, flowers, etc. Novelty cushions can be used to decorate kid’s rooms or added to your living space to