Orthopedic cushions for sitting on a chair: types and selection rules

The housing looks austere and uncomfortable, the interior of which is devoid of charming little details lovingly made by the owners. To a greater extent, this applies to textile products that can instantly transform a room, bring beauty, originality, and comfort. The most striking accessories are often the numerous DIY sofa cushions and chair seats. These are items necessary in every home: both for convenience and to protect furniture from dirt. You can buy them in a store, but you cannot buy products that exist in one copy. Uniqueness is one of the reasons for the popularity of handmade items.

Requirements for chair cushions

Despite its simplicity, a chair cushion is an indispensable attribute both at home and at work. The car is no exception.

The main requirements include:

use of high quality materials;
providing a reliable surface, preventing slipping;
no sweating effect; for this, the structure must provide a high degree of air circulation;
ensuring the possibility of constant cleaning;
presence of orthopedic properties.

Who needs a seat cushion?

Orthopedic pillows may be required by a wide range of consumers. Before purchasing, it is recommended to consult with your doctor. It will help you choose the best option for individual use.

A pillow with an orthopedic effect will make any office chair more comfortable

Additional Information. The products are most in demand among students, schoolchildren, secretaries, office workers, and programmers. If the use of a device is prohibited at work, you should ensure comfortable conditions at home.

What is the advantage

The use of chair cushions has several benefits that have a beneficial effect on comfortable work and health.

The main purpose of chair pads is to minimize stress on the spine and ensure blood flow to the pelvic area. Correction of posture and normalization of blood circulation are also included in the functionality of the products. Recommended for consumers who have hemorrhoids, they can relieve pain in the pelvic area. Such pillows are usually produced in the form of a ring.
To reduce the load on the spine and back muscles, another type of pillow is used, which is attached to the back of a chair.
Chair cushions are a good option for pregnant women. The products help the expectant mother to sit comfortably anywhere: on an armchair, chair, sofa, etc. Reduce the load on the spine and eliminate discomfort in the tailbone area.
The peculiarities of the physiology of adolescents have also been thought out. Children sitting for long periods of time at school and at home in front of homework or on the computer are increasingly resulting in scoliosis. Therefore, on the recommendation of orthopedists, it is necessary to use “seats” while children work at a desk.

Pattern

Making a pattern for a chair seat is not difficult. To do this, determine the dimensions of the seat for which the accessory will be made. It is worth considering that after stuffing with filler, the dimensions of the product decrease, so the fabric must be prepared with a margin of a couple of centimeters on each side. You also need to decide what shape the finished item will be. A round pillow is more versatile - it will fit almost any stool or chair.

Round pillow

After calculations and measurements, a figure of the chosen shape is drawn on a sheet of paper and cut out using scissors.

Additional Information. To ensure that the pattern exactly matches the dimensions of the seat, you need to use tracing paper. It is applied to the surface and outlined with a marker.

Types of chair cushions

Products to ensure comfort while sitting will be distributed according to their functional purpose.

Decorative direction

Since ancient times, housewives have ensured the appearance of rooms through various pillows. They could be seen on beds, piled up beautifully like a mountain. On benches, stools, etc. At the present time, this tradition has been preserved, if only it has become more modernized.

You can improve the design of a room using textiles in different ways:

successfully disguise chairs whose surface has deteriorated over time;
protect the upholstery of any furniture from dirt, especially if there are small children in the house;
creating comfort in the gazebo, where wicker chairs or benches are decorated with high decorative pillows;
when relaxing on balconies or loggias, pillows perform not only a decorative, but also a warming function.

Many manufacturers have developed entire ensembles for decorative purposes. That is, curtains, bedspreads, pillow covers, chair covers are produced in the same style.

Orthopedic functions

Constant work at a desk in a sitting position provokes back and neck pain. This leads to fatigue setting in very quickly and performance decreasing.

To solve the problem, experts recommend purchasing orthopedic products:

Models of sensorimotor action – provide support for the spine in a comfortable working position. During use, such products act as a massager.
Wedge-shaped products encourage the consumer to always take the correct form of posture. This eliminates curvature of the spine, and therefore reduces the degree of fatigue. Reduce the likelihood of diseases that are usually accompanied by sedentary work.
Pillows with a supportive effect are representatives of one of the most popular trends. The main functional focus is correction of the lumbar region. Available in a wide range: seat only, back only and combined models.

For use in cars

The functional purpose of car seats is similar:

Creating comfort and relieving fatigue during long periods of driving.
They are provided with reliable fastening so that when the car is moving, the products do not move and do not interfere with the driver.
Equipped with the ability to regulate thickness, which allows you to adapt to the physiological characteristics of the driver.

Types and varieties

If we do not consider pillows intended exclusively for sleeping or relaxing, the remaining accessories are divided by type of design and nature of use. These can be either purely functional products, in which the main advantage is practicality and durability, or decorative ones. In the latter case, the need for such interior elements is determined by such categories as style and design.

Pillows vary in style and degree of comfort.

In terms of execution, pillows can differ in shape (round or square), in the method of fastening (free placement, on elastic bands or loops), as well as in style:

Sewn from a single piece of fabric.
Knitted.
Made using the “Biscuit” technique.
Quilted or shaped pillowcases.
Two-color: the bottom is one color, and the top is another.
Dense flat or soft voluminous.

Types of materials

In their structure and use of materials, the seats differ from each other depending on the functional direction. For example, there are much fewer requirements for decorative products than for orthopedic ones.

Read about: Covers for upholstered furniture are beautiful, convenient and practical

Foam rubber is used as a filler, but it is not durable. Therefore, to extend the service life, synthetics, latex or natural fillers are used for decorative pillows. For example, such as buckwheat husks or coconut flakes.

The types of fabrics for chair cushions are also varied, but basic conditions must be met:

must have a high degree of air ventilation;
ease of care;
ability to withstand washing and resistance to chemicals.

To decorate products, you can use any type of material.

Increased requirements for materials used for the manufacture of orthopedic options. Additionally, textiles must have good elasticity, the ability to maintain the required shape, and a long service life.

Polyurethane models have an excellent memory effect and provide varying degrees of rigidity. Their service life reaches 7 years. The main focus is relaxation of the neck muscles.
Latex options have good elasticity and can provide decent comfort. They are able to serve their owners for up to 10 years.
Polyester pillows are light, soft and have a low price. Short-lived, will last a maximum of 3 years.
The latest technological product is gel-filled pillows. Such options are capable of performing hydromassage. But not all consumers can get used to this effect and often refuse them.
Products filled with air are the best option in terms of cost. They can be adjusted by decreasing or adding the amount of air through a pump. Their service life depends only on the shell material.

We recommend

To extend the service life of products and simplify their care, be sure to use covers.

Criterias of choice

The basis for purchasing a certain product should be a doctor’s prescription, and not the recommendations of a seller in a shopping center. When choosing an orthopedic pillow for the lower back or spine, you need to follow several rules:

The product must include a quality certificate, as well as a removable cover that protects against mechanical damage.
The pillow is selected taking into account the total weight of the person - failure to comply with this rule will reduce its service life. The required size and level of rigidity are determined depending on the parameters of the chair.
Before purchasing, you need to test the product; it should not cause discomfort during use. Otherwise, we can talk about an incorrect fit; accordingly, this model is not suitable.
The size of the pillow should not be larger than the dimensions of the chair surface. But a very small product will not create the required effect, but will only increase the load, which can negatively affect the condition of the lower back or spine.
When choosing a back pillow with bolsters, the body position should be clearly in the center, without displacement.

It is advisable to purchase a chair pad from a reputable place or directly from the manufacturer. This will protect against counterfeiting.

The product must include a quality certificate and a removable case.

When choosing, consider your total body weight

Test the product before purchasing

The size of the pillow should not be larger than the dimensions of the chair surface

Classification by shape

The shape of the pillow also plays a huge role. It should be chosen in accordance with the expected effect.

Round

One of the most popular options for chair cushions is round, with a hole in the center. It is these models that allow you to create a curve in the lumbar region, which is most comfortable to work with. Additional properties include:

versatility of use;
ability to relieve tension in the hip region;
excellent resistance to heavy weight.

Rectangular

Rectangular-shaped pillows are great for consumers who spend long periods of time sitting.

The advantages include:

large assortment in terms of sizes;
ability to reduce fatigue;
good fixation on the surface of the chair;
reducing the load on the spine.

Pillow care

To make your product last longer, listen to these tips:

clean the surface using dry cleaning;
wash the cover regularly;
make sure that the surface of the chair is smooth;
Do not use aggressive detergents for cleaning.

Orthopedic pillows have a special cover that is easy to remove and wash if necessary.

Color solution

There are no problems with choosing a color. Each manufacturer has a huge selection.

If the pillow performs a decorative function, then the choice of color is based on the overall style of the interior.
If the goal is to make the product invisible, then the color should be chosen inconspicuously. Ideally, a complete match with the furniture upholstery.
For offices and cars, a model of dark shades is selected. For example, dark blue. Brown or grey.

This is interesting

Today, the most fashionable and stylish options are decorative chair cushions in white and black.

Inflatable chair cushion

This is an interesting and practical option. You can deflate it and put it in your purse. Universal to use (at home, in the car seat, in the office).

Product advantages

Variety of shapes. It is used as a cushion for sitting on a chair (armchair) and for the backrest. There are also options for the neck and back of the head.
Able to transform and take on different appearances.
Take her on a trip or trip. There are models for sleeping.

Top brand manufacturers

Many manufacturers are trying to expand their range and are working on the quality of their products. Let's present the top most popular companies that specialize in producing chair cushions.

KauffOrt

KauffOrt pillows are an excellent option for providing comfort in the kitchen space. Used to cover kitchen stools and chairs. The material from which the cushion cover for the stool is made is lonet, and the filler is holofiber. The model attaches perfectly to the chair due to special ties. The dimensions of the pillows are mainly 40x40 cm and the thickness is 10 cm.

The price varies from 240 to 500 rubles.

The “Palm” model, which is designed for a chair with a backrest, deserves attention. The dimensions of this product are 50×100, the cost is 1599 rubles.

Altali

The product is made of natural cotton. The design of the Altali chair cushion allows it to be used to decorate the space not only of the kitchen, but also of the dining room, veranda, and gazebo. The model is filled with soft, crush-proof crushed polyurethane foam. It is thanks to the filler for chair seats that comfort and long-term use are achieved. The product can be washed, but the water temperature should not exceed 300C. Ironing possible. For reliable fixation, special ties are provided. The dimensions of the models are 41x41x7 cm. The cost is on average 480 - 500 rubles.

Gift'n'Home

A company that specializes in decorative cushions for chairs and has a large thematic range of models. Their list includes the directions “Parisian Cafe”, “Vintage Paris”, “Flamingo”, “Lavender”, “Lemon”, “Orange” and many others. Materials used for production:

for covers - satin, which is decorated with photo printing;
the inner part is filled with soft foam;
There are ties for attaching them to furniture.

A distinctive feature is the use of a room to create a specific thematic interior.

The dimensions of the product are 40x40x2 cm, and the cost is 474 rubles.

Smart Textile

The Smart Textile “Comfort” pillow is made of cotton with the addition of polyester. The internal filler is buckwheat husk. The entire area of the product is divided into squares by making quilted seams. This allows you to create increased density and a massage effect. Increases service life. It is provided with a zipper, which in turn provides additional regulation of the tightness of the product. Suitable for all types of furniture. Equipped with a carry bag for easy transportation.

To extend its service life, it requires proper care, which consists of the following rules:

the product cannot be washed;
The use of bleaches is not recommended;
do not iron;
use only professional dry cleaning;
drying is ensured in a horizontal position.

Product dimensions 40x40x5 cm. Cost - from 400 to 800 rubles.

Apolena

Apolena products look perfect in the design of the kitchen space. Additionally, they can add comfort to a children's play room. They are used to decorate sofas and even for resting pets. Made from polycotton, a mixture of polyester and cotton. The filler is springy polyurethane foam. Has standard sizes. Secure with ties. In appearance they are tall, but shrink over time. Washable.

Their cost ranges from 320 to 450 rubles.

Proper and comfortable sitting will ensure health for many years. It is chair cushions with high-quality filling that will help save consumers from unwanted results.

Stages of work

When working, you must follow a strict sequence of actions. If the stool is square, measure the length and width of the seat; if it is round, measure the diameter. The pattern should take into account the necessary seam allowances - up to 2 centimeters on all sides, at least 1.5 cm. The height reserve and reserve for sewing in the filler are approximately the same. The step-by-step instructions are as follows:

Creating a pattern (you can use a ready-made one, adapting it to specific seat sizes).
Cutting a circle or square from the filler to the required length and width.
Sewing elements and finishing edges.
Sewing in elastic.
Attaching the filler to the seat on the chair.

How to properly sew covers of different models for chairs, tips for housewives

The nuances of tailoring depend on the type of fastening. If the cover for a stool made by yourself has the shape of a square, ties are sewn in at the end, gathers are formed at the bottom of the circle and an elastic band is inserted there. Step-by-step instructions for the first option:

Place the lining face to face with the main fabric.
Insert the laces and hand sew them onto the seat.
Machine stitch, leaving the bottom part untouched.
Turn the finished product inside out.

If the seat is round, the sequence of actions will be slightly different. The elastic band is attached to the fabric from the inside. While sewing, it is gently held, and the product itself is slowly rotated in a circle. The cover is stuffed with foam rubber (sintepon), placed on the stool and straightened out so that there are no wrinkles or distortions anywhere.

The final stage of sewing chair cushions is decorating the product. The most common option is finishing along the edge using decorative tape. Small tassels or fringe made of thick woolen threads will also look original. You can use an applique made from any patches of matching color for decoration.

Create a pattern based on measurements of the chair seat

Cut a template from cardboard

Prepared Items

Place the filler between two textile blanks

Apply the markings with a ruler and pencil, it will be easier to stitch along it

Secure with clamps

Quilt the workpiece according to the markings

Trim protruding edges according to template

Mark the locations of the ties

Stitch around the perimeter for easy basting

Baste the binding, leaving ties on both sides

Secure corners

Ready seat

Secure the product to the chair

Step-by-step sewing instructions

You can sew pillows with your own hands according to these step-by-step instructions:

The pattern is marked and cut along the contour.
The filler material is applied to the pattern and the element of the required size is cut out. After that, fabric is applied to the resulting part, and two identical parts are cut out of it with an allowance of 1.5 cm for the dimensions of the filler.
The edging is stitched and attached to the top piece of fabric. The two pieces of the pillow are then folded together, pinned, and stitched together. There is only a small pocket left to insert the filler. All allowances, undercuts and corners are turned inside.

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Stitching a pillow

Mark the required number of places where the ties will be attached. The material from which they will be made is selected and cut to the required length. Each piece is then folded in half to form a ring and sewn onto the underside of the pillow.

Ties

The resulting cover is carefully ironed and filler is stuffed into it. After which the hole is removed. To do this, the edge is leveled, the allowances are folded inward and sewn with a hidden seam.
If the option of making a quilted pillow is chosen, then at this stage all other seams are sewn.
If necessary, the pillow can be decorated with additional elements.

Benefits of Using Gel Seat Cushions

It often happens that people need seat cushions because they are in pain. Many times, orthopedic pillows are purchased without a second thought, simply to tolerably improve the comfort of a dining chair or a slightly uncomfortable office chair. In other cases, gel pads are used because people are experiencing chronic pain. Whether the pain is chronic, from a slipped disc, degenerative disc disorder, failed back surgery, fibromyalgia, or a number of other conditions and illnesses, purchasing a gel pad that can help relieve pain is an important decision. A more typical reason to buy seat cushions is to improve the overall comfort of an everyday chair. Perhaps a seat cushion that has been in use for over a decade is worn out and simply too thin to provide comfort for people still using the chair. In this case, buying a new one is a good idea. This will keep your favorite chair in use for longer. And since modern seat cushions are now much stronger than they've ever been, it's unlikely that you'll need to purchase another option in the near future. Seat cushions are also useful for people with disabilities in wheelchairs. In this case, wheelchair users tend to sit for long periods of time, much longer than the average user who may simply be using an airbag in the office or at the dinner table or if they are a truck driver for their long hauls across the country. In this case, the wheelchair pillow is often made from air bags, but gel pillows are also often used. Find out which lumbar cushion is best to buy. Air cushions come with pumps so that the cushion's hardness can be adjusted to the user's comfort.