You can fix a sagging sofa by adding high-density foam, inserting a support board under the cushions, reinforcing springs, stuffing fiberfill, or flipping cushions regularly—all without replacing the couch. These easy, budget-friendly DIY hacks can restore comfort and support in under an hour.
There’s nothing worse than sinking into your sofa and feeling like you’re falling into a pit. Whether it’s the seat that sags or the back that slouches, a droopy couch can ruin the vibe of your entire living room—not to mention your comfort.
The good news? You don’t need to shell out hundreds (or thousands) for a brand-new sofa. After seven years of testing, rescuing thrifted finds, and experimenting with budget-friendly upgrades, I’ve discovered a handful of genius fixes that actually work.
These hacks are perfect for renters, homeowners, and small-space dwellers who want real solutions without the hassle. Whether your couch has foam that’s gone flat or springs that have given up, I’ll walk you through five proven tricks to bring your sagging sofa back to life—fast.
Let’s dive into each method step-by-step, with real-life examples and easy materials you can grab online or from your local hardware store.
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Contents
- 1 Why Do Sofas Sag in the First Place?
- 2 5 Genius Hacks to Fix a Sagging Sofa
- 3 4. Add Extra Fiberfill or Batting for a Plush Boost
- 4 5. Flip and Rotate the Cushions Regularly
- 5 Quick Comparison Table: Sofa Fix Hacks at a Glance
- 6 Bonus Tips to Prevent Future Sagging
- 7 When It’s Time to Replace Instead of Repair
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 9 Conclusion: Bring Your Sofa Back to Life—The Smart Way
Why Do Sofas Sag in the First Place?
If your couch feels soft and droopy, you’re not alone. Sofas can start sagging for many reasons—some you can see, others you can’t.
Over time, the foam inside the cushions breaks down. It flattens with use and loses its bounce. If your sofa has coil or sinuous springs, they can weaken or shift. This makes the seat feel uneven or unsupported.
Frames and support slats can also loosen up, especially in older or budget sofas. Add pets, kids, or long Netflix sessions, and it all adds up.
Knowing the cause is the first step to fixing it. Once you know what’s wrong—whether it’s the cushions, springs, or structure—you can choose the right hack.
5 Genius Hacks to Fix a Sagging Sofa
1. Re-Stuff the Cushions with High-Density Foam Inserts
This is one of the fastest ways to bring a sagging sofa back to life. If your seat cushions feel flat or lumpy, chances are the foam inside is worn out.
You can replace it with high-density upholstery foam. Look for foam with a 2.5+ lb density rating—this means it holds its shape longer and gives firm support.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- High-density foam (cut to size)
- Sharp scissors or an electric knife
- Measuring tape
- Upholstery batting (optional, for softness)
- A zipper seam ripper (if covers don’t open easily)
Measure your cushions before buying foam. Many stores like Joann or The Foam Factory let you order custom sizes.
Pro tip: Wrap the foam in batting before inserting it. This gives a softer feel and helps the cushion keep its shape.
2. Add a Plywood Support Board Under the Cushions
This hack is cheap, easy, and seriously effective. If your sofa sags even with decent cushions, the problem may be underneath.
Cut a sheet of plywood to fit the seating area under the cushions. Slide it between the cushion and the frame. The wood helps distribute weight and keeps the cushions from sinking.
Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the width and depth of your seating area
- Buy a ½-inch thick sheet of sanded plywood
- Sand the edges smooth to prevent snags
- Place it directly under the cushions
You can get a pre-cut couch support board online or at stores like Home Depot or Amazon.
This trick is renter-friendly, cheap, and takes just minutes to try.
3. Replace or Reinforce the Sofa Springs
If your sofa has lost its bounce or creaks when you sit down, the springs may be to blame. Over time, they lose tension or pop out of place.
Inspect the bottom of your sofa. You might need to remove the fabric underneath. Look for sinuous springs (zigzag-shaped) or coil springs. If they’re loose, broken, or bent, you can either:
- Re-attach them with spring clips
- Tighten them using spring repair kits
- Replace them if they’re broken
Working with springs can be tricky. Use gloves and be careful. If you’re unsure, ask a local upholsterer or check tutorials on The Spruce’s upholstery repair guide.
If the springs are okay, but still sag, you can also add extra webbing or tension bands underneath for more support.
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4. Add Extra Fiberfill or Batting for a Plush Boost
If your cushions feel tired but don’t need a full foam replacement, try stuffing them with extra fiberfill or batting. It’s a soft, fluffy material that helps plump things up and smooth out wrinkles.
You can find polyester fiberfill at craft stores like Michael’s or Joann. It’s affordable and easy to work with.
Here’s how to do it:
- Open the cushion cover (use a seam ripper if there’s no zipper)
- Pull the old stuffing to one side
- Add handfuls of fiberfill until you reach the desired fluff
- Smooth it out and close the cover
This trick works great for back cushions and throw pillows too. If your back support feels too firm, fiberfill gives it a cozy, cloud-like feel.
For a cleaner, more tailored look, you can also use upholstery batting. This wraps around foam or fiberfill and helps everything hold its shape longer.
5. Flip and Rotate the Cushions Regularly
Sometimes, a simple habit makes a huge difference. Rotating and flipping your cushions helps spread out the wear—and keeps one spot from getting crushed.
Most cushions can be flipped, but even if yours can’t, turning them from left to right or swapping spots helps.
Do this every 2–4 weeks:
- Flip the seat cushions over (if reversible)
- Rotate them to even out use
- Fluff the back cushions by hand or using a cushion beater
This hack won’t fully fix sagging—but it slows it down. It’s a great add-on to the other fixes above.
Want more cushion care tips? Check out HGTV’s guide to keeping your sofa fresh.
Quick Comparison Table: Sofa Fix Hacks at a Glance
| Hack | Best For | Time Needed | Tools/Materials | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Density Foam Inserts | Flat or saggy seat cushions | 1–2 hours | Foam, scissors, measuring tape | $40–$80 |
| Plywood Support Board | Weak or sinking seat base | 15–30 mins | Plywood, sander | $10–$25 |
| Reinforcing or Replacing Springs | Sofas with broken spring support | 1–3 hours | Spring kit, pliers, gloves | $20–$50 |
| Fiberfill or Batting Stuffing | Back cushions, minor sag | 30–60 mins | Fiberfill, batting, seam ripper | $10–$30 |
| Flipping and Rotating Cushions | General wear prevention | 5 mins | None | Free |
These methods are all renter-friendly and budget-approved. You can mix and match them based on your sofa’s problem areas.
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Bonus Tips to Prevent Future Sagging
Keeping your sofa from sagging again doesn’t take much. A few smart habits go a long way.
- Rotate your cushions often. Swap spots and flip them to spread the wear evenly.
- Use a couch support board early. Don’t wait until it starts sinking. Add one as soon as the base feels soft.
- Avoid sitting in the same spot. We all have a “favorite” seat. But changing it up helps balance the pressure.
- Keep your sofa clean and dry. Moisture and dirt break down cushion materials. Use a vacuum weekly and clean stains right away.
- Limit weight overload. Don’t let kids jump on it or pile too many people in one spot.
For more simple home habits that protect your furniture, check The Spruce’s sofa maintenance guide.
When It’s Time to Replace Instead of Repair
Not all sofas are worth saving. If your couch is old, broken, or no longer comfortable—even after a few fixes—it might be time for a new one.
Here’s how to know:
| Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Frame creaks or feels loose | Internal wood or joints are likely damaged |
| Springs keep popping out | The support system is too far gone |
| Foam doesn’t bounce back | Cushions are too worn to hold shape |
| Fabric is torn or stained | Cosmetic issues may outweigh repair costs |
| Overall comfort is still low | Time to invest in something better |
Look for quality signs in your next sofa:
- Kiln-dried hardwood frames
- Sinuous or eight-way hand-tied springs
- High-resilience foam cushions
- Removable cushion covers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I fix a sagging couch without removing the fabric?
Use a plywood board or couch support insert under the cushions. No cutting or sewing needed.
What kind of foam is best for replacing seat cushions?
High-density polyurethane foam with a 2.5 to 3.0 lb density is ideal. It holds shape and lasts longer.
Can you fix a couch spring yourself?
Yes, if you’re handy. Use spring repair kits or clamps. Be careful—springs can snap. If in doubt, call a local upholstery shop.
Does adding more stuffing really work?
It helps with minor sagging or limp back cushions. Use polyester fiberfill for a soft boost or batting for a firmer look.
Is it worth fixing a cheap sofa?
Sometimes. If the frame is strong and the fix is cheap, go for it. But if it’s sagging everywhere, consider replacing it.
Conclusion: Bring Your Sofa Back to Life—The Smart Way
A sagging sofa doesn’t mean you need a new one. With the right hacks—like adding foam, using plywood, or stuffing the cushions—you can make your couch feel brand new for a fraction of the cost. These DIY tricks are renter-friendly, budget-safe, and easy enough for anyone to try.
The key is knowing what’s causing the sag and matching it with the right fix. Whether it’s worn-out foam or tired springs, you’ve got plenty of ways to bring comfort (and style) back into your living room.