1. Plumping

If your sofa has removable seat and back cushions, you should remove each cushion to plump them in order to get the best results. 

If possible, unzip the cushion covers to let in the air. Holding the cushion in both hands, firmly pat the outside edges of the cushion to allow air to circulate back into the filling.

If needed, lightly flatten any overspill and carefully zip the cushion back up. 

For scatter cushions, take the cushion in both hands and rotate as you plump the sides to bring the filling back into the centre. Lightly pull at the corners to neaten and then arrange them as desired. 

Don’t forget to plump up your arm cushions if they are removable. 

Plumping your cushions at least once a week should keep your cushions looking their best.

2. Knead and chop

If your sofa doesn’t have removable seat or back cushions, firmly massage or chop your cushions to plump up the fibres. This will also help separate the filling and spread it out evenly.

Aim to do this at least once a week to prevent flat seat cushions.

3. Flip the cushions

If your sofa comes with reversible sofa cushions, regularly flipping them will help to preserve the life of your sofa as it will prevent the cushions from sagging, allowing them to keep their shape.

Sofa cushions should be turned every 1-2 weeks to help stop them sinking.

4. Swap cushions around

Everyone has their favourite spot on the sofa, but to ensure the same cushions aren’t getting used more than others, you should swap and change their positions (if you’re able to and the cushions aren’t fixed into place). 

Swapping your cushions will help the longevity of your cushions and prevent your place on the sofa becoming out of shape. 

Do this every 1-2 weeks to help your cushions keep their comfort factor.

5. Smooth or brush

To help distribute the filling evenly and return the cushion to its original structure, smooth the cushions with your hands. 

You can also use a vacuum with an appropriate brush attachment that’s gentle enough for the fabric or leather for a similar effect. 

If using your hands, use a ‘breaststroke’ method to smooth the cushions. Place your hands side by side in the middle of the cushion and move them outwards in opposite directions towards the edges of the cushion - almost as if you’re performing a breaststroke in a swimming pool. 

Do this to the left and right and then diagonally from top to bottom. 

To finish, smooth the seams or piping around the cushion cover to neaten.

You should practise this 1-2 times per week to help the cushions keep their shape.