A bean bag, by definition, is thought to be a bag filled with dried beans.  However, despite its straight-forward name, a bean bag chair does not have to be filled with beans.  There are, in fact, several fillings available for your bean bag chair.  Each one is unique and has its own sets of advantages and disadvantages.

Polystyrene Beads

For several years, one of the most common bean bag fillers has been polystyrene beads.  These beads provide a unique comfort.  They compress and shift around to form to your body as you sink into the comfort of your chair.

Styrofoam Peanuts

Another form of filler is Styrofoam peanuts.  The advantage to using Styrofoam peanuts is that whenever you receive packages in the mail, chances are you get a whole new supply of peanuts as well.  Those can be tossed into your bean bag chair to help re-fill it as the contents inevitably begin to break down.  A few packing peanuts here and there will keep your chair in its ideal shape.

Rice & Beans

Dried beans and/or rice can also be used to fill your bean bag.  These items are both relatively inexpensive and are available at your every-day supermarket.  However, if you live in a moist/humid environment, this may not be the best solution for you.  Using rice and/or beans as a filling may also attract moths, insects or even rodents.

Wood Shavings

Perhaps not quite so commonly known are wood shavings.  Wood shavings of all types can be used to fill up your bag.  Cedar chips in particularly are very appealing to many people because not only do they smell wonderful, they also repel fleas.  If you have pets in your house, cedar wood chips might be just the right filler for you.

Polyester Stuffing

Pillow stuffing is also sometimes used to stuff your bean bag.  Although it is a somewhat inexpensive solution, it in essence makes a giant pillow and lacks the buoyancy that beads provide.  After a few sittings, the stuffing will be packed down and will need re-fluffing.

Feathers

Assuming you aren’t allergic to them, feathers and down make a great stuffing.  However, before you can fill your bean bag with feathers, you must have a second casing in which to put the feathers.  Otherwise, they will work their way through the fabric of your chair.

Polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam is the latest type of professional bean bag stuffing.  This filler is made of small chunks of high density foam.  It provides much needed support, is extremely comfortable and can be shaken up for re-shaping over and over again.

Find the filler that is right for you.  No matter what you decide to use, you’re sure to sit back and relax in the comfort of your bean bag chair!