How to Fix a Sagging Sofa: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

To fix a sagging sofa, add new foam to the cushions, reinforce the frame with plywood or support slats, and check or replace worn-out springs. These easy, budget-friendly fixes can restore your couch’s comfort without replacing it.

If your favorite couch feels like a hammock these days—don’t worry, you’re not alone. A sagging sofa is one of the most common furniture issues I’ve seen over the years. Whether it’s the cushions going flat, the frame weakening, or mystery springs doing less and less, it’s a real comfort-killer.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need a brand-new couch to get that fresh, supportive feel back. After seven years of reviving everything from hand-me-down sectionals to thrifted finds, I’ve learned how to spot exactly what’s wrong—and how to fix it fast, even on a tight budget.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step fixes for sagging cushions, droopy springs, and tired frames—plus some smart tips to prevent it from happening again. Whether you live in a cozy studio or a busy family home, let’s turn that sofa slump into a success story.

Let’s dive in!

Why Do Sofas Sag?

Sofas sag over time. It’s completely normal, especially if you’ve had your couch for a few years. But knowing why it happens can help you fix it faster—and maybe even prevent it next time.

Common Causes

• Worn-out foam: The cushion foam can flatten with daily use. This is often the first sign of sagging.
  
• Weak springs: Inside most sofas are coil or sinuous springs. Over time, these can stretch or snap.
  
• Broken frame: If the wood inside the sofa cracks or loosens, it won’t hold the cushions up like it should.
  
• Old webbing: Some couches use fabric or elastic webbing instead of springs. These can droop as they age.
  
• Heavy use: Lounging, jumping, or sleeping on your sofa puts extra strain on its parts.
  

Signs Your Sofa Is Sagging

• You sink in more than you used to.
  
• It’s harder to get up from the couch.
  
• One side feels lower than the other.
  
• Cushions look flat, even after fluffing.
  

If you’re unsure whether it’s the cushion or the frame, don’t worry—we’ll go over that next.

How Long Sofas Typically Last

Most sofas last 7 to 15 years, depending on how they’re made and how much they’re used. Cheap foam and particleboard frames wear out faster. Solid hardwood frames and high-density foam can last much longer. According to Better Homes & Gardens, your sofa’s lifespan depends heavily on materials and care.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your tools. You don’t need fancy gear—just a few basics can go a long way.

Basic Tools

• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
  
• Tape measure
  
• Scissors
  
• Staple gun and staples
  
• Safety gloves
  

Optional Tools

• Power drill (for tightening or replacing screws)
  
• Upholstery needle and thread
  
• Hot glue gun (for fabric fixes)
  
• Pliers (for pulling out old staples or nails)
  

Materials for Fixes

Problem Area	Material Needed	Notes
Flat cushions	High-density foam inserts	Look for 1.8+ density for firmness
Droopy support	Plywood board or furniture support	¼” to ½” thick; cut to sofa size
Broken springs	Replacement sinuous springs or clips	Match the spring type in your sofa
Loose frame	Wood glue, screws, or metal brackets	Only if frame is still in fair shape
Surface sagging	Couch support underlay (like this support board)	Easy, non-permanent option

Pick materials based on what’s broken. We’ll help you figure that out next.

How to Diagnose the Problem

Before fixing anything, you need to find the real cause. Is it the cushions? The frame? Maybe both? Let’s break it down.

Check the Cushions

Take off the cushions and press them with your hands. Do they feel flat or lumpy? That’s a sign the foam is worn out. If they fold in half easily or don’t spring back, they likely need new filling.

Open a zipper, if there is one. Many sofas let you replace the foam without much trouble. If the foam looks yellowed or cracked, it’s time for a swap.

Inspect the Frame and Support

With the cushions off, check what’s underneath. Some couches have webbing. Others have wooden slats or metal springs.

• Press down on the base. If it sinks, something’s wrong below.
  
• Look for broken or bent springs. These are usually shaped like S-curves.
  
• Wiggle the frame. If it creaks or shifts, a wooden joint might be loose or split.
  

Need help spotting spring problems? This quick guide by HGTV shows common signs of spring damage and how to fix them.

How to Tell If It’s the Frame

If the cushions and springs look fine, the frame might be the issue.

• Remove the dust cover under the sofa if needed.
  
• Use a flashlight to check for cracks or gaps in the wood.
  
• Gently tap joints to see if they move or separate.
  

A broken frame doesn’t always mean the end. If it’s minor, a few brackets or screws might save it.

Fixing Sagging Sofa Cushions

Flat cushions are the most common reason your sofa feels off. Luckily, they’re the easiest to fix too.

Replace or Add Foam Inserts

Over time, foam inside your cushions gets soft and loses shape. Replacing the foam can make your sofa feel brand-new. Look for high-density foam, ideally 1.8 density or higher. You can buy pre-cut foam online or cut it yourself.

Stores like Joann Fabrics and The Foam Factory have many options. Choose firm foam if you want better support.

To upgrade without replacing, you can stack a thin layer of new foam on top of the old one inside the cover.

Use Polyester Fiberfill or Batting

If you want a softer feel, add polyester fiberfill around your foam. It adds loft and smooths out any lumps. Fiberfill is cheap and found at most craft stores.

Wrap it like a layer of gift wrap around your foam before stuffing it back inside the cushion cover.

Add a Support Board Underneath

Sometimes the cushion is fine, but it sinks because of weak support under it. That’s where a support board comes in. It’s a simple, flat panel you slide under the cushions to help them stay firm.

You can buy foldable couch support boards (like these ones on Amazon) or cut a piece of plywood to fit.

Quick-Fix Cushion Inserts

If you’re in a rush, you can also use pillow inserts, seat cushions, or even rolled-up blankets to fill the cushion cover. These are good short-term fixes, especially for guest areas.

Here’s a quick look at cushion fix options:

Solution	Cost	Difficulty	Best For
New foam inserts	$$	Moderate	Long-term firmness
Fiberfill or batting	$	Easy	Softness and shape
Support board	$	Easy	Weak support under the seat
DIY cushion fillers	$	Easy	Temporary or quick fixes

Reinforcing the Sofa Frame or Springs

If you’ve fixed the cushions but the sofa still sinks, it may be time to look underneath. Weak springs or a sagging frame can cause serious droop.

Tightening or Replacing Springs

Look under your sofa to see what kind of springs it has. Most sofas use sinuous springs—metal S-shaped coils. If they’re bent, broken, or loose, they need help.

You can tighten loose springs with pliers and spring clips. If one is broken, replace it with a matching type. Kits are available at hardware stores or online.

Not sure what you need? This guide from The Spruce breaks down basic spring repair kits.

Adding Plywood or Support Slats

One simple fix is to slide a sheet of plywood under the cushions. This reinforces the base and keeps things even. Choose ¼” to ½” thick plywood and cut it to fit.

You can also add wooden slats (like in a bed frame) if your sofa base is open. Screw them into the frame to help support weight more evenly.

Repairing or Reinforcing Broken Frame Sections

Check for cracks or loose joints in the wood frame. Use wood glue, screws, or metal brackets to stabilize wobbly parts. If a piece is broken beyond repair, you may need to replace that section.

If you’re unsure how to reinforce it, this DIY video from HGTV Handmade walks through basic sofa frame repairs.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your sofa is expensive or sentimental, and the damage is deep—call a pro. An upholsterer can replace springs, rebuild the frame, and rewrap fabric. Just know that professional repair costs can range from $150 to $500+.

Preventing Future Sagging

Once your sofa is fixed, a little care can help it stay that way. Here’s how to make your repairs last.

Regular Maintenance Tips

• Flip and rotate cushions every two weeks to spread out wear.
  
• Vacuum the cushions and frame weekly to reduce dust and debris.
  
• Check the support base every few months for signs of damage.
  

Rotating Cushions

If your sofa has multiple seat cushions, swap their positions often. This prevents one area from getting all the use. If you can, flip them upside down too.

Using a Sofa Support Board Long-Term

A sofa support board isn’t just a quick fix—it can be part of your long-term setup. Keep it in place under the cushions to maintain firmness. Many are foldable and easy to remove if needed.

You can also find stylish sofa-saving solutions from brands featured by Real Simple.

Choosing Durable Cushion Materials

Next time you buy a sofa—or new foam—look for:

• High-resilience (HR) foam
  
• Down-wrapped foam (for a mix of firm and soft)
  
• Performance fabric covers (resist sagging and stains)
  

Choosing better materials now means fewer repairs later.

When to Repair vs. Replace Your Sofa

Sometimes a fix makes sense. Other times, it’s time to let go. Here’s how to tell the difference.

Signs a Fix is Worth It

• The frame is sturdy and not cracked.
  
• The sag is mostly in the cushions.
  
• You still like the style and size.
  
• The fabric is in good shape or can be covered.
  

In many cases, you can make an old sofa feel like new with a few repairs. If you’ve got a sentimental piece or a solid hardwood frame, it’s often worth saving.

Plus, fixing it yourself is budget-friendly. Most DIY fixes cost under $100—way less than buying a new couch. According to Better Homes & Gardens, reupholstering or refreshing your furniture helps keep quality pieces out of landfills, too.

When It’s Time to Let It Go

Some signs mean it’s smarter to shop for a new sofa:

• Deep cracks or breaks in the frame
  
• Mold, mildew, or bad odors that won’t go away
  
• Springs that keep breaking
  
• Fabric is torn, stained, or sagging beyond repair
  
• Repairs would cost more than a new sofa
  

If your sofa was cheaply made or already several years old, replacing it may be the best move. Most budget sofas last about 7–10 years, according to The Spruce.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Situation	Repair It	Replace It
Cushions are flat	✅ Easy DIY fix
Frame is broken in spots	✅ If repairable	❌ If beyond repair
Fabric is still clean	✅ Worth saving
Fabric is stained or ripped	❌ Not worth fixing	✅ Time to replace
You love the style/fit	✅ Fix it up
Sofa feels too small or large	❌ Doesn’t suit space	✅ Replace it
Repair costs over $300	❌ Consider replacing	✅ New sofa may cost less

Styling Tips to Make Your Sofa Look New Again

Once your sofa is firm again, a little styling can take it from “meh” to magazine-worthy.

Add Throw Pillows Strategically

Throw pillows hide wear, add comfort, and bring color. Use pillows of different shapes, sizes, and textures.

Stick to odd numbers—3 or 5 per sofa works great. Try pairing a large solid pillow with a smaller patterned one. HGTV suggests using colors from nearby décor like rugs or art to tie things together.

Mix textures like velvet, linen, or cotton for a cozy layered look.

Use a Throw Blanket to Hide Imperfections

A stylish throw blanket is your best friend. Drape it across the back, over one arm, or fold it neatly along the seat.

This not only adds warmth but also hides small tears or faded spots. Choose a blanket with texture, like chunky knit or faux fur, for added charm.

Look for machine-washable throws that are soft but durable.

Layer with a Rug or Side Table

The area around your sofa makes a big difference too. Add a small rug underneath the front legs of your couch to ground the space.

Pair it with a simple side table or ottoman. This draws attention away from any flaws and helps your sofa feel fresh and “finished.”

Choose pieces that fit your space. Small homes or apartments benefit from open-leg furniture and glass tables that keep things airy.

Budget-Friendly DIY Sofa Fixes

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry. You can still upgrade your sofa with these affordable tricks.

Using Foam Sheets or Batting from Craft Stores

Most craft stores like Michael’s or Joann sell foam sheets and polyester batting for cheap.

Cut them to fit your cushions. Use spray adhesive or just wrap them in layers for added loft.

Batting also helps cover uneven spots and softens sharp corners. It’s an easy way to plump things up without spending much.

Re-Stuffing Cushions with Old Pillows

Got old bed pillows lying around? Don’t toss them—use them to stuff sagging seat or back cushions.

Just open the zipper (if your cushion has one) and tuck pieces of the pillow inside. Mix firm and soft stuffing for better shape and comfort.

This is a great zero-cost fix for renters or anyone between moves.

Fabric Slipcovers and Cushion Covers

Slipcovers are a smart way to give your sofa a total makeover. You can find budget options for as low as $30 on sites like Wayfair or Target.

They hide stains, cover tears, and change the look of your room in minutes. Choose machine-washable covers for easy cleaning.

If you don’t want a full slipcover, just buy new cushion covers. You’ll still get a fresh look without the cost of new furniture.

Conclusion: Bring Your Sofa Back to Life—Without Breaking the Bank

Fixing a sagging sofa doesn’t have to be hard—or expensive.

With a few simple tools and budget-friendly tricks, you can make your couch feel comfy and look brand-new again. Whether you’re slipping in extra foam, re-stuffing old cushions, or just throwing on a cozy blanket, small steps can make a big impact.

Remember, the key is knowing when to fix and when to replace. If the frame is solid, save it! If the sag is just cushion-deep, fix it in an afternoon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the fastest way to fix a sagging couch?

The quickest fix is to add firm foam inserts inside or under the cushions. You can also use a plywood board under the seat for extra support.

How do I fix a sagging sofa without removing the fabric?

You can add cushion support pads or plywood under the seat. These go between the fabric and cushions, so no sewing or cutting is needed.

Can I fix a broken couch spring myself?

Yes, if it’s a minor issue. You’ll need pliers, replacement springs or clips, and possibly a staple gun. If multiple springs are broken or the frame is cracked, call a pro.

Will a couch topper help with sagging?

Yes, a cushion topper (like memory foam) adds comfort and lifts sagging spots. It’s a great short-term solution.

Where can I buy affordable cushion foam?

Check local craft stores like Joann or Michael’s. You can also find budget options on Amazon or Walmart, often with pre-cut sizing.

How long should a good sofa last?

A quality sofa can last 10–15 years. Budget models usually hold up for 7–10 years with regular use.