Choosing The Perfect Bean Bag: A Buyer’s Guide

Remember the plush childhood haven of bean bags? Well, they’re all grown up now, offering comfy relaxation for adults too.

Navigating the world of bean bags can be tricky. From size and shape to filling and fabric, the choices seem endless. Worry not, comfort-seeker! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to pick the perfect bean bag for your needs and style.

First, consider how you’ll use your bean bag. Is it for lounging in the living room, watching movies in the den, or adding a pop of color to the kids’ playroom? Each scenario calls for a different shape and size. Think about lounging and reading. An armchair-style bean bag might be just right. Are you craving movie-night marathons? A sprawling sac bag could be your new best friend.

Let this article guide you in shopping for the perfect bean bag and get the best lounging experience! Read on!

1. Pick The Right Bean Bag Size

Measure your space and the intended users. A five-foot bean bag might swallow a small apartment, while a miniature one could leave a lanky adult feeling cramped.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to bean bags, as their sizes vary greatly depending on their intended use and design. However, here’s a general guideline to help you navigate the bean bag world:

Small Bean Bags

• Diameter: 36 cm to 60 cm (14.2 in to 23.6 in)
• Ideal users: Toddlers, pets, or decorative throws

Medium Bean Bags

• Diameter: 70 cm to 80 cm (27.5 in to 31.5 in)
• Ideal users: Children, teenagers, or adults looking for a compact sitting option

Large Bean Bags

• Diameter: 90 cm to 120 cm (35.4 in to 47.2 in)
• Ideal users: Adults wanting a comfortable lounging space

Extra-large Bean Bags

• Dimensions: Can vary greatly, often exceeding 120 cm in diameter or length
• Ideal users: Multiple people to lounge together, movie nights, or create a cozy reading nook

Always check the specific dimensions of the bean bag you’re interested in before buying it to ensure it’s the right size for your needs and space. Additionally, consider trying out different sizes in person to find the one that feels most comfortable.

2. Set A Reasonable Budget

As you browse various virtual shops, you might wonder, ‘Why are bean bags so expensive now?’ To answer this question, quality materials, innovative designs, and eco-conscious fillings contribute to the price tag. But remember, a good bean bag is an investment in comfort and style that will last for years to come.

3. Feel It To Believe It

Buying online may have its perks, but in some cases, such as buying a bean bag, seeing is believing! To be fully sure that you’re getting what you want out of your beloved seat, you must sit on, sink into, and adjust the bean bag in person to ensure it molds to your body like a comfy memory.

Truth be told, no amount of product description can match actual testing. So, if possible, go shop in a brick-and-mortar, and see the bean bags for yourself!

4. Shape Up

The perfect bean bag shape depends on how you plan to use it! Here are some suggestions:

• Lounging and reading: Pick an armchair-style bean bag with back support and armrests for the ultimate comfort.
• Movie marathons: A large sac bean bag provides plenty of space for you to sprawl out and get cozy.
• Relaxing outdoors: Choose a durable, weather-resistant bean bag, like a tube or lounger shape, for comfortable sunbathing.
• Kids’ playroom: A round or teardrop bean bag is versatile and fun for tumbling and rolling around.
• Working from home: Consider a bean bag with a backrest and leg support for added posture and comfort.
• Sharing with friends: Double-seater bean bags or L-shaped designs offer plenty of space for two people to chill together.

Remember, the best way to find the perfect shape is to try out different options in person. Sink into each one and see which feels most comfortable and supportive for your needs!

5. Choose Your Filler

You have various bean bag filler options offering different comfort levels and support. Here are some popular choices:

Classic Choices

• Expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads: These lightweight, fluffy beads are the most common filler, offering good adjustability and affordability. However, they can rustle and lose shape over time.
• Shredded foam: Provides a softer, more conforming feel than EPS beads, which is good for pressure relief. Look for memory foam for extra luxuriousness.

Special Features

• Microbeads: These tiny beads provide a smooth, almost sand-like feel and excellent conformity. However, they can be noisy and pose potential environmental risks.
• Water beads: For a unique sensory experience, these water-filled beads offer adjustable density and can even be heated or cooled for added comfort.

Eco-Conscious Options

• Buckwheat hulls: These small, hard shells offer excellent support and adjustability, ideal for those seeking a firmer bean bag experience. They’re also naturally cool and hypoallergenic.
• Corn kernels: Like buckwheat hulls in support and breathability, corn kernels are another renewable and natural option.
• Recycled plastic beads: A sustainable alternative to virgin EPS beads, they offer lightweight comfort with a smaller environmental footprint.

Considerations

• Noise: EPS beads and microbeads can be noisy when shifting, while natural materials like buckwheat hulls are quieter.
• Allergies: Choose hypoallergenic options, like polyester or corn kernels, if you have sensitivities.
• Durability: Shredded foam and EPS beads may need topping up over time, while sturdier options, like buckwheat hulls, will last longer.

Ultimately, the best bean bag filler depends on your preferences and priorities.

6. Fabric Fantasies

Leather screams luxury, micro-fiber shouts practicality, and faux fur whispers cozy nights. Pick a material that suits your lifestyle and cleaning needs.

7. Double-Duty Diva

Many bean bags have removable and washable covers. Choose a neutral base and swap out seasonal covers for endless style transformations!

8. Safety First, Fun Always

Check for child-proof zippers and flame-retardant materials, especially if you want your little ones to experience the bean bag bliss.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect bean bag is an adventure in comfort and self-discovery. Follow these tips, trust your gut feelings, and get ready to sink into ultimate relaxation. Your perfect bean bag awaits!