Cushions might seem like simple home accessories, but if you've ever found yourself wondering why they carry such a high price tag, you're not alone. Whether it’s a decorative piece for your living room or a weatherproof seat pad for your garden, the cost can catch people off guard. So why are cushions so expensive — especially outdoor cushions, donut cushions, and anything a bit more unique?
Why are cushions so expensive?
Let’s start with the basics. Cushions aren’t just scraps of fabric stuffed with padding. A well-made cushion involves high-quality materials, thoughtful construction, and design expertise:
- Fabrics: Good fabrics cost money. Upholstery fabrics are designed to be durable and fade-resistant. Add patterns, textures, and premium materials into the mix, and prices rise fast.
- Fillings: From feather and down to high-resilience foam, quality stuffing affects both comfort and price. Cheaper fillings go flat or lumpy quickly.
- Labour: Cushions made by small businesses, like Watership Down Crafts, are handcrafted with care — and that takes time.
- Design: Unique or limited-edition designs (especially handmade or artist-designed pieces) are more expensive because you’re paying for creativity, not just materials.
Why are outdoor cushions so expensive?
Outdoor cushions are a whole other beast. They need to endure sun, rain, mildew, and constant wear. Here’s why they’re pricey:
- Weather-resistant fabrics: Materials like solution-dyed acrylic or polyester blends cost significantly more than standard indoor fabrics. They’re made to resist fading, moisture, and mould.
- Specialist foams: Outdoor cushions often use quick-drying foam or water-repellent barriers inside. These high-performance materials keep them usable in all seasons.
- Construction: Seams may be reinforced, zips are often heavy-duty, and piping or trims need to withstand the elements. This level of build adds cost.
Even large retailers like B&Q or The Range charge more for outdoor cushions because of these material and durability demands.
Why are donut cushions so expensive?
Donut cushions (the round ones designed for sitting comfort) often come with an unexpected price tag too. That’s because:
- Ergonomics: These cushions are not just a soft ring; they’re designed to relieve pressure and aid recovery from injury or surgery. That design precision costs more.
- Materials: Memory foam, gel inserts, or medical-grade covers drive up prices.
- Medical product classification: Some donut cushions are marketed as health aids, which often comes with stricter quality standards (and a higher cost).
So... are they worth it?
If a cushion gives you comfort, support, or even just lifts your room, it might be worth every penny. But not all expensive cushions are created equal. Always check materials, construction, and the seller’s reputation. For handcrafted designs that stand out from the crowd, you can browse our collection of handmade cushion covers made from rescued, high-end fabrics.
Final Thoughts
Cushions aren’t just fluffy rectangles — they’re functional, decorative, and sometimes even medical. Price reflects quality, durability, and design. Understanding what goes into making one can help you decide when it’s worth paying a bit more.
Want to know what makes a cushion truly special? Follow along for more honest, jargon-free posts that cut through the fluff (pun intended) and help you choose wisely.
