What Is the Best Bean Bag Filler?
The best bean bag filler depends on how you use your bean bag, the level of comfort you prefer, and how long you want it to last. The three most common options are expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads, shredded memory foam, and polyester fibre fill. Each delivers a different balance of support, durability, cost, and environmental impact.
If your bean bag has started to feel flat or unsupportive, the issue is usually compression of the filling rather than the cover. Over time, all bean bags lose some volume. Choosing the right filler — and topping it up correctly — makes a significant difference to comfort and longevity.
If you need a practical guide to refilling, see how to fill a bean bag in less than five minutes.
Types of Bean Bag Filling Explained
1. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Beads
EPS beads are the most common bean bag filler. They are lightweight, affordable, and mould easily to the shape of your body. Because they trap air, they also provide insulation, making them comfortable in cooler conditions.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Affordable and widely available
- Moisture resistant
- Ideal for large bean bags
Cons:
- Gradually compress over time
- Require periodic topping up
- Not biodegradable
Higher-density EPS beads last longer and resist flattening better than lower-grade options. For most homes, EPS remains the most practical balance of cost and performance.
2. Shredded Memory Foam
Shredded memory foam offers a softer, more luxurious feel. It conforms to your body and provides stronger support than EPS beads, making it popular for adult-sized lounge bean bags and reading chairs.
Pros:
- Superior comfort and pressure relief
- Holds shape longer than standard EPS
- Less frequent refilling required
Cons:
- Heavier than EPS
- More expensive
- Not ideal for outdoor use unless protected
Some people mix shredded foam with EPS beads to create a hybrid feel — combining structure with bounce.
3. Polyester Fibre Fill
Polyester fibre (similar to pillow stuffing) is soft and lightweight. It is sometimes used in smaller cushions or hybrid bean bags.
Pros:
- Soft feel
- Hypoallergenic
- Often made from recycled fibres
Cons:
- Flattens faster than EPS or foam
- Less structural support
This option suits decorative or low-use seating rather than primary lounge seating.
Which Filling Lasts the Longest?
In terms of longevity:
- EPP (expanded polypropylene) – highest resilience, rarely compresses
- High-density EPS – strong everyday durability
- Shredded foam – durable but may compact unevenly over time
- Polyester fibre – shortest lifespan under regular use
If durability is your priority, high-density EPS or EPP are the most reliable options for everyday seating.
Best Filling for Different Uses
For Everyday Indoor Lounging
High-density EPS beads offer the best balance of comfort, weight and value.
For Luxury Comfort
Shredded memory foam provides deeper cushioning and pressure relief.
For Outdoor Bean Bags
EPS beads are ideal because they resist moisture and dry quickly. If you're using seating outside, explore our range of outdoor bean bags designed for Australian conditions.
For Kids’ Bean Bags
Lightweight EPS is safest and easiest to handle.
Environmental Considerations
EPS beads are recyclable in specialised facilities but are not biodegradable. Improper disposal can contribute to environmental pollution.
Shredded foam and polyester fibre may contain recycled materials, but availability of recycling options depends on your location.
If sustainability is important to you, look for recycled-content fillings or consider topping up existing filling rather than replacing the entire insert.
To understand disposal options, see are bean bag beans recyclable?
How Much Filling Do You Need?
The amount required depends on the size of your bean bag and your desired firmness. Underfilling leads to poor support. Overfilling reduces flexibility.
As a general guide:
- Small bean bags: 100–200 litres
- Medium bean bags: 200–300 litres
- Large lounge styles: 300–400+ litres
For a fast, mess-free method, follow our step-by-step guide on how to refill a bean bag quickly.
Final Verdict: What Is the Best Bean Bag Filler?
For most households, high-density EPS beads are the best all-round bean bag filler. They’re affordable, comfortable, lightweight, and practical for both indoor and outdoor use.
If maximum comfort is your priority, shredded memory foam provides a softer, more supportive feel — especially for adult-sized lounge seating.
The right choice ultimately depends on your usage, budget, and comfort preference. Whichever filling you choose, proper maintenance and occasional top-ups will keep your bean bag comfortable for years.
