How to Fill a Bean Bag | Bean Bag Filling Guide - GreatBeanBags™ (2024)

This guide provides a quick and easy explanation of how to fill a bean bag. Along the way, we’ll also answer some other common questions our customers ask us, including ‘how much bean bag filling do I need?’ and ‘what is bean bag filling made of?’

Use the links below to jump to the section you’re most interested in:

  • How to refill a bean bag or bean bag chair
  • How much bean bag filling do I need?
  • What is our bean bag filling made from?
  • How do bean bag fillings work?
  • Can you use other materials to fill a bean bag?
  • Are bean bag fillings environmentally friendly?

Take a look at our bean bag refills if you’re looking to buy some filling.

How to refill a bean bag or bean bag chair

Refilling your bean bag is an incredibly quick and straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure no beans are left spilling all over your floor:

  1. Pull the zipper mechanism on the outside of the bean bag to unzip it;
  2. Place the new refills inside your existing or new bean bag cover and zip it back up again.

And that's it; you're good to go. We've designed this process for the everyday user who doesn’t have time to hoover up beans that have spilt everywhere.

If you're wondering how to refill a bean bag chair, just follow the same simple two-step process. In this case, position your bean bag refills so that the shape of the chair stays the same.

How much bean bag filling do I need?

Before you can refill your bean bag, you’ll need to decide how much bean bag filling to buy.

If you’re refilling a bean bag because it’s started to lose its shape, we recommend adding around 15-20% of the original amount of filling. We sell bean bag refills in two cubic feet top-up sacks. Our large bean bag chairs come with 10 cubic feet of filling, so you’d only need one of our refill sacks for these. To top up a giant bean bag, you’d need two or more refills depending on the size.

Alternatively, you might be looking to replace all of the filling in your bean bag. In this case, find out how much filling the bean bag had in the first place and then buy enough refill sacks to replace the full amount. Below, we’ve outlined how many of our two cubic feet bean bag refills you’d need for different filling requirements:

Product Sizing
2 Cubic Feet1 x 2 Cubic Feet Sack
4 Cubic Feet2 x 2 Cubic Feet Sacks
6 Cubic Feet3 x 2 Cubic Feet Sacks
8 Cubic Feet4 x 2 Cubic Feet Sacks
10 Cubic Feet5 x 2 Cubic Feet Sacks
12 Cubic Feet6 x 2 Cubic Feet Sacks

Don’t worry if you’re struggling to work out how much bean bag filling you need – get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

What is our bean bag filling made from?

Customers often ask us what bean bag filling is made from. Our bean bag filling consists of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) beads. They're not the styrofoam that you might see in standard delivery packaging.

The beads are created with a small amount of gas which then enables them to establish elasticity and flexibility (more on this below). It's a lot of smart science and manufacturing that goes on behind the scenes to ensure your bean bag filling remains comfortable and, most importantly, safe.

How do bean bag fillings work?

Many people wonder how a bean bag’s moulding and expansive properties actually work.

The gas mentioned above is heated, causing the beads to expand up to 35x their original shape and size. Computers do all the clever maths and calculate the correct amount of beads required for cooking and how much to heat them (overcooked beans become hard and useless). The whole process takes just a few minutes, and the transformation of the beads from small to large leaves them with a lovely air cushion, making them comfy for us to sprawl out on.

Can you use other materials to fill a bean bag?

If you wanted to, you could put a lot of other things inside your bean bag to fill it. However, it wouldn’t be any way near as comfortable, and it may end up puncturing your bean bag from the inside out.

We therefore don’t recommend you put anything other than virgin EPS bean bag filling inside your bag.

Are bean bag fillings environmentally friendly?

Some EPS fillings can be made from recycled plastics like used water bottles and cups, meaning they’re doing their bit for the environment.

Some beads are also manufactured using newly created EPS, so it's likely your bean bag filling uses a combination of the two.

Due to their compactible properties, transport considerations are relatively low as deliveries can fit a lot of product into a small space with little weight.

18 April 2018

How to Fill a Bean Bag | Bean Bag Filling Guide - GreatBeanBags™ (2024)

FAQs

How to Fill a Bean Bag | Bean Bag Filling Guide - GreatBeanBags™? ›

Firstly, there's no need to open up the bean bag refills from the netting that's provided; this is not how the product is intended to be used and will cause quite the mess in your home! Instead, simply remove the filling sack from the delivery packaging, unzip your bean bag and insert the product in its entirety.

How many bags of beans do I need to fill a bean bag? ›

Your bean bag is at its ideal comfort level when filled to 250-275 L or about 9 cu. ft. If you are using polystyrene beans, we recommend getting three (3) 100L bags.

How many cubic feet does it take to fill a giant bean bag? ›

We sell bean bag refills in two cubic feet top-up sacks. Our large bean bag chairs come with 10 cubic feet of filling, so you'd only need one of our refill sacks for these.

How much foam do I need to fill a bean bag? ›

Welcome to your new favourite seat.
BeansMixed
Regular300L100L Beans 200L Foam
Large450L200L Beans 320L Foam
X Large600L250L Beans 440L Foam
Regular Chair300L200L Beans 120L Foam
1 more row

How often do you change beans in a bean bag? ›

As a rule of thumb, you will need about 100 litres of beads refill per year of use. So if you've been using your bean bag for 2 years, you may need 200 litres refill.

Why is bean bag filler so expensive? ›

More expensive bean bags tend to have higher-quality covers and fillings, which means they'll last longer and be more comfortable. As for the type of filling, bean bags are typically made with polystyrene beads.

What is the cheapest way to fill a bean bag? ›

You can buy quilt and pillow stuffing at craft stores, on the cheap and in large amounts. This cottony, spongy fabric is what is in most stuffed animals and throw pillows. It makes a great bean bag seat filler, with a heavenly pillow-top feel. If it starts to get flat, you can fluff the bean bag like a big pillow.

What are most bean bags filled with? ›

Popular since the 1970's, bean bags have typically been filled with expanded polystyrene beans (EPS). These days there are a range of fillings on the market including micro beads, foam filling or memory foam. Most bean bags are filled with a virgin mid-sized bean made of expanded polystyrene.

Which size beans are good for bean bag? ›

- Premium 2KG Beans for Bean Bag Filling (2KG Beans - 1400 Grams net Weight as per Indian Standard)

How many pounds of shredded foam do I need for a bean bag? ›

Shredded Foam — Conventional Foam

It takes about 10 pounds to completely fill an average beanbag.

What is the spacing for bean bags? ›

Bean bag toss distance between boards:

Beanbag toss distance is 27 feet. Meaning, the Cornhole Boards or Bean Bag Toss Boards are placed 27 feet apart, meaning there will be 27 feet in between the two boards. Although you can really decide to play at any distance you want!

How many pounds is a 7ft bean bag? ›

The 7 foot Sack is the perfect product for two or three adults. Weighing in at almost 90 lbs it is definitely a product that you want to make sure you have enough room.

How many pounds of foam do I need to fill a 7ft bean bag? ›

You will need approximately 45 lbs of foam for one large bag.

How big is a 5 ft bean bag? ›

5 ft x 5 ft x 2.5 ft

How do you keep bean bags fluffy? ›

Fluff your bean bag – Once you have your bean bag open, hold it so the opening is facing upwards. If you have removed the filling and put it into a bin bag, place it back into the bean bag. Otherwise, simply shake the bean bag for 2 – 5 minutes.

Are beans or foam better for bean bags? ›

Foam bean bags are much quieter than a normal bean bag, without all the rustling of hard plastic beans. They will hold their shape better over time.

What is the best filling for toy bean bags? ›

Fabric scraps in assorted sizes (medium weight fabric is best) Filling (dried beans, popping corn, rice, small plastic or wooden beads, aquarium gravel or plastic pellets)

Is it cheaper to buy canned beans or bagged beans? ›

Cost: If you want to save money, cook with dry beans.

Dry beans cost less per serving than canned beans. For example, a one pound bag of dry pinto beans costs, on average, $1.79 and will make 12-½ cup servings of cooked beans whereas a 15 oz.

How do you keep bean bags from going flat? ›

One person will hold the bean bag open while the other inserts the top of the unopened bag of EPS beads. Open the bag of beads while it is inside the bean bag, and slowly pour them inside. Add just enough so that the bean bag is firm yet still provides a small amount of resistance.

Do you have to let beans sit overnight? ›

You don't have to soak your dried beans overnight.

And the texture of the beans will also be it their best, with fewer split-open and burst ones. But like we said, you don't have to commit this hard. If you're the impatient, bean-hungry type, you can cook your beans from dry without any soaking at all.

How do you transfer beans from one bean bag to another? ›

Insert the funnel into the chute and tighten the zipper around the funnel, this will minimising the loss of beans from the beanbag you are attempting to fill. Whilst one person is holding the funnel, the other person can hold the bag of beans. Now, gradually pour the beans into the funnel.

What are professional bean bags filled with? ›

Most competitive bags are filled with resin. In non-competitive or casual play, bags commonly consist of two duck cloth sides filled with whole kernel corn. Duck cloth offers a strong, durable material that withstands all types of weather.

Which brand beans is best for bean bag? ›

Best Bean Bag Filling
  • Posh Beanbags Bean Bag Refill, 100 L, Virgin New White.
  • Big Joe Comfort Research Megahh (UltimaX) Bean Bags Refill, 100 L, White.
  • Chill Sack Bean Bag Chair.
  • CordaRoy's Chenille Bean Bag Chair.
  • Big Joe Lenox Fuf Foam Filled Bean Bag.
May 18, 2023

What is the most comfortable bean bag material? ›

The best fabric for indoor bean bags is a linen or natural fibre, it feels the nicest against your skin and if you don't need to worry about stains, it will work well. For outdoor use or when you need fabric to be a little more durable than marine grade vinyl works best.

Are canned or bagged beans better? ›

Using dried beans lets you control the sodium.

Beans are super healthy, full of vitamins and minerals, protein-packed, and fiber-rich. But canned beans can be high in sodium, which is a problem for those with high blood pressure and those who want to avoid it.

How much filler for a 5FT bean bag? ›

How much filler do you need to buy ? -- 5FT=60in*28in number of fillers: 1.2 cubic ,Recommended Filling Amount (For Reference Only)60lb-70lb. The amount of bean bag lid filling depends on the density of the filling.,it is recommended to fill 80%-90%.

Which bean bag size is best for adults? ›

Both XXXL and XXL size are adult sizes and needs 2.5 Kg and 1.75 kg beans respectively. XL bean bags are recommended for kids and usually needs 1 kg beans.

Can I fill a bean bag with memory foam instead? ›

Foam / Memory Foam

Shredded foam is another popular option for bean bags. As long as the foam is shredded, it can provide a comfortable filling for your bean bag. And you can find environmentally friendly foam if you are concerned about the environment.

How much does it cost to fill a large bean bag? ›

Beanbag chairs come in all shapes and sizes. However, a standard chair shape like our Merlin or Big Boppa usually requires 300 – 400 litres of filling, or four bags. Large chairs such as our Copacabana require 450-500 litres of beanbag refill.

How long do you have to wait between bean bag boards? ›

Place boards on a flat surface approximately 24 feet apart for casual play. Tournament or league play is set at 27 feet apart from the front ends of the boards. Divide players into two teams of one to two people. When teams are made up of one person, each team will play the game from the same board.

What is the best spacing for beans? ›

How to Sow Beans. Sow beans where they are to grow, against their supports or, for bush types, four to six inches (10-15cm) apart with 18 inches (45cm) left between each row. Use a hoe to scratch out rows or dig individual planting holes with a trowel.

What is the best shape for a bean bag? ›

Size and Shape

“Traditionally, a round bean bag is best for one person, while square bean bags are a good alternative to a standard chair or sofa, providing the best arm support, and can be many different sizes to accommodate multiple people.

What is the maximum weight for bean bag? ›

- Max User Weight : 90 Kgs - Prefilled Bean Bags (Black Maroon)

How much weight can a XXL bean bag hold? ›

ComfyBean - XXL - Bean Bag with Beans Filled - for Teens - Max User Height : 4.5 Ft. - Max User Weight : 45 Kgs - Prefilled Bean Bags (Pea Green Tan)

How heavy should a bean bag be? ›

Bean bags typically weigh between 3 to 5 ounces, but some brands offer bags that weigh as little as 1 ounce or as much as 10 ounces. In addition, many companies sell half-size bags weighing around 2.5 ounces or as much as 5 ounces. I recommend the 2.5 ounces for kids.

How do I calculate how much foam I need? ›

Measure Length x Height of the wall to be filled. Subtract the square feet of doors and windows in that wall. Subtract 6% for the studs (which you won't be spraying) Take that total and multiply by 3.5″ for a 2″x 4″ wall, or 5.5″ if it is a 2″x 6″ wall.

How much memory foam do I need to fill a 6 foot bean bag? ›

And how much foam will it take to fill and how much comes with it? A: This bean bag comes with approximately 75lbs of shredded foam, which should be the perfect amount for the bean bag.

How much does it cost to make a bean bag? ›

The total project costs around $120 to $150, but depending on what materials you want to use, it can be significantly cheaper.

How much does a 6ft bean bag weigh? ›

Weight is what matters most! Most of the sacks and foam bags out there that are around the ' 6 foot size' will weigh around 40-60 lbs. The foam is what weighs the most in the bag.

How big is the biggest bean bag in the world? ›

The Largest Beanbag by Sumo Lounge
Height34"
Weight130 Pounds
CompositionsFilled with Superior Sumofoam
PropertiesSeats a full family!
Other Details
2 more rows

What is the official size and weight of bean bags? ›

Cornhole bags are square bags that measure 6"x6" (15.24 cm x 15.24 cm) with a thickness between 1.125"-1.5" (28.5-38.1 mm). The weight of cornhole bags is regulated at between 14-16.5 oz (440-470 g). Cornhole bags, or bean bags, are the objects thrown in the backyard game of cornhole.

How do you fluff out a bean bag? ›

Fluff your bean bag – Once you have your bean bag open, hold it so the opening is facing upwards. If you have removed the filling and put it into a bin bag, place it back into the bean bag. Otherwise, simply shake the bean bag for 2 – 5 minutes.

What can I use instead of polystyrene balls? ›

10 Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Styrofoam
  • Mushroom Material. Credit: Ecovative Design. ...
  • Plantable Packaging. Credit: UFP Technologies. ...
  • Edible Packing Peanuts. Credit: Alligator Sunglasses. ...
  • InCycle® Cups. ...
  • Bamboo Fiber Eco Bowl. ...
  • EarthAware™ Biodegradeable Packing Materials. ...
  • EarthShell “Paper” Plates. ...
  • Peat Plastic.
Jan 31, 2015

Why has my bean bag gone flat? ›

If your bean bag is losing shape and looking a little flat, it's probably time for a refill. Leave the existing beads or pellets in place and add new bean bag filling on top. The easiest way to do this is to open your bean bag (most will have a zipper) and create a funnel into which you pour the new beads or pellets.

What is a cheap alternative to styrofoam balls? ›

Alternative to styrofoam balls: take a sheet of newspaper, roll it into a tight ball and tape it with packaging tape & spray paint white. You can buy a roll of packaging tape for $3.50 at Dollar General and make all the balls you want!! Works great for making Pom Pom decorations and CHEAP!!

What is cheaper than foam board? ›

Mineral-filled polypropylene is one of the least expensive styrofoam alternative options. In fact, it is the least expensive sustainable alternative.

Is there a difference between polystyrene and styrofoam? ›

The foam that you formerly knew as styrofoam is actually expanded polystyrene foam or EPS. This material is made from polystyrene, a plastic that's often used to make clear products like food packaging or lab equipment.

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