Cushion Size Guide
Cushions may appear to be simple accessories, yet they can transform the comfort and style of a home. The right cushion size balances a room, adds warmth, and gives a designer touch—while the wrong size can look awkward and out of place.
In the UK, cushion sizes are measured in centimetres (cm), whereas international retailers often use inches, which can confuse when shopping online. This guide will help you choose the perfect cushion size with ease. From sofa cushions to bed styling cushions, floor cushions, and even outdoor cushions, you’ll find all the information you need to shop confidently.
At Yorkshire Bedding, we understand how important these details are when creating a home that feels both stylish and inviting.
Standard Cushion Sizes in the UK
When people refer to “standard cushion sizes” in the UK, they usually mean the dimensions most commonly found on the high street and in online stores. These are the go-to sizes for sofas, beds, and armchairs.
UK Cushion Dimensions (cm & inches)
| Cushion Size (cm) | Cushion Size (inches) | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| 30 x 30 cm | 12 x 12 in | Small accent cushions, children’s rooms |
| 40 x 40 cm | 16 x 16 in | Compact sofas, layering |
| 45 x 45 cm | 18 x 18 in | Most popular UK sofa cushion size |
| 50 x 50 cm | 20 x 20 in | Standard sofa cushions |
| 55 x 55 cm | 22 x 22 in | Large sofas & beds |
| 60 x 60 cm | 24 x 24 in | Floor cushions, oversized décor |
👉 The 45 x 45 cm (18 x 18 in) and 50 x 50 cm (20 x 20 in) sizes are the most popular in the UK, offering a perfect balance between comfort and style.
Cushion Sizes for Sofas in the UK
Sofas are the most common place for cushions, and size matters for proportion and comfort.
| Sofa Type | Recommended Cushion Sizes | Number of Cushions | Styling Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Sofas & Loveseats | 40 x 40 cm or 45 x 45 cm | 2–3 cushions | Use smaller cushions to avoid overcrowding. |
| Large Sofas & Sectionals | 50 x 50 cm, 55 x 55 cm (base) + 40 x 40 cm (front layering) | 5–7 cushions | Place larger cushions at the ends and smaller ones in the middle. |
| Armchairs & Accent Chairs | 45 x 45 cm or 30 x 50 cm lumbar cushion | 1 cushion | A single cushion keeps the chair neat and comfortable. |
💡 Pro Tip: Most UK living rooms are smaller than American ones. Stick to a neat, layered look rather than oversized cushions to keep your space feeling balanced.
Cushion Sizes for Beds in the UK
Cushions add a luxury touch to beds, especially when styled in layers.
| Bed Type | Recommended Cushion Sizes | Number of Cushions | Styling Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Bed | 40 x 40 cm + 30 x 50 cm lumbar cushion | 1–2 + lumbar | Keep it minimal for a clean look. |
| Double Bed | 50 x 50 cm (back row) + 40 x 40 cm (front row) + 1 accent | 4–5 cushions | Layer large cushions at the back, smaller in front. |
| King & Super King | 55 x 55 cm or 60 x 60 cm (back row) + 45 x 45 cm (middle) + lumbar in front | 6–8 cushions | Creates a hotel-style layered effect. |
Cushion Sizes for Floors
Floor cushions are typically larger (60 x 60 cm or more) and can double as casual seating. Popular in bohemian interiors, playrooms, or garden rooms, they bring both comfort and functionality.
Cushion Shapes and Their Uses
Not all cushions are square. Mixing shapes adds depth and personality to your styling.
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Square Cushions – The classic UK choice, ranging 40–60 cm. Versatile and foundational.
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Rectangular Cushions (Lumbar) – Around 30 x 50 cm or 40 x 60 cm, perfect for back support.
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Round Cushions – Usually 35–45 cm in diameter. Great for softening sharp furniture lines.
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Bolster Cushions – Cylindrical, around 20 x 50 cm. Ideal for beds or armrest support, adding a touch of luxury.
👉 Combining shapes—for example, two squares with one lumbar—creates a more dynamic and designer-led arrangement.
How to Style Cushions Like a Designer
- Mix sizes: Combine 50 x 50 cm with smaller 40 x 40 cm and a lumbar cushion for dimension.
- Play with textures: Velvet with linen, or chunky knit with cotton, creates visual depth.
- Use odd numbers: Three cushions on a sofa often look more stylish than two.
- Colour contrasts: Pair a grey sofa with mustard or navy, or a beige sofa with emerald green.
- Keep it cohesive: Cushions don’t need to match curtains exactly—just stay within the same colour palette.
Filled Cushions with Covers
Shop NowCushion Inserts – Getting the Size Right
A common mistake is buying a 45 x 45 cm insert for a 45 x 45 cm cover. This results in a flat cushion. Instead:
👉 Always choose an insert 5 cm larger than the cover.
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45 x 45 cm cover → 50 x 50 cm insert.
Types of cushion fillings in the UK:
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Feather: Soft, luxurious, ideal for the “designer chop.”
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Polyester fibre: Affordable, hypoallergenic, everyday use.
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Memory foam: Supportive, long-lasting, used in the lumbar.
Cushion Size Conversion Chart (cm to inches)
| UK Size (cm) | UK Size (inches) |
|---|---|
| 30 x 30 cm | 12 x 12 in |
| 40 x 40 cm | 16 x 16 in |
| 45 x 45 cm | 18 x 18 in |
| 50 x 50 cm | 20 x 20 in |
| 55 x 55 cm | 22 x 22 in |
| 60 x 60 cm | 24 x 24 in |
Outdoor Cushion Sizes in the UK
Outdoor living spaces also benefit from cushions, but durability is key.
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Garden Sofas: 50 x 50 cm works well, with lumbar cushions for added support.
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Outdoor Floor Cushions & Pouffes: 60–80 cm, often chunkier and foam-filled.
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Waterproof covers: Essential for unpredictable UK weather—opt for darker colours like navy, charcoal, or forest green to reduce visible fading and stains.
Conclusion – Finding Your Perfect UK Cushion Size
Cushions are more than decorative accents; they’re essential for comfort and style. In the UK, the most popular choices remain 45 x 45 cm and 50 x 50 cm sofa cushions, with larger 55–60 cm cushions reserved for beds and floors.
By selecting the right size, insert, and styling combination, you’ll achieve a professional, layered look that elevates your home instantly.
Ready to style your home with perfectly fitted cushions? Explore our Yorkshire Bedding Cushion Covers in a variety of sizes and designs to complement this guide.
