What Is the Best Fabric for a Bean Bag Chair? The Complete Comfort Guide
Choosing the best fabric for a bean bag chair is just as important as selecting the right size or filling. Fabric determines how your chair feels against the skin, how it performs over time, how easy it is to clean and whether it suits your space.
From breathable cotton to durable outdoor materials and luxurious faux fur, each fabric creates a different experience. This guide breaks down the most popular options so you can choose the right bean bag cover for your home, office or outdoor area.
What Makes a Bean Bag Fabric “The Best”?
The best fabric for a bean bag chair depends on where and how you plan to use it. When comparing materials, consider:
- Comfort: Softness and breathability against skin
- Durability: Resistance to wear, stretching and tearing
- Maintenance: Ease of cleaning and stain resistance
- Environment: Indoor vs outdoor use
- Style: How it complements your décor
Let’s explore the most popular bean bag fabrics and where each performs best.
1. Cotton: Soft, Breathable and Family-Friendly
Cotton remains one of the most popular choices for indoor bean bag chairs — and for good reason. It’s breathable, comfortable and gentle against the skin.
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, reading nooks and kids’ spaces.
Cotton bean bags are ideal if you want something relaxed and casual. They don’t trap heat like synthetic materials and feel natural year-round.
Explore our indoor bean bag chairs in soft cotton fabrics for everyday comfort.
Pros
- Breathable and cool
- Soft texture
- Great for children and teens
Considerations
- Less stain-resistant than synthetic fabrics
- Best suited to indoor environments
2. Linen: Modern, Textured and Lightweight
If you’re after a clean, contemporary aesthetic, linen is a strong contender for the best bean bag fabric. It offers subtle texture and a refined look without feeling formal.
Best for: Minimalist interiors, apartments and modern homes.
Linen blends beautifully with neutral palettes and layered textures, making it popular for design-conscious spaces.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Stylish and versatile
- Works well in warm climates
Considerations
- Can wrinkle more easily than other fabrics
- Not ideal for heavy outdoor exposure
3. Suede and Microsuede: Soft with Structure
Suede and microsuede offer a slightly more structured feel while remaining soft to the touch. They’re a popular middle ground between casual cotton and premium fabrics.
Best for: Lounges, media rooms and teen bedrooms.
Microsuede in particular provides a velvety texture without the maintenance demands of genuine suede.
If you’re comparing finishes, you may also find our guide on microsuede vs microfiber helpful.
Pros
- Soft but supportive
- More resistant to wear than pure cotton
- Elevated appearance
Considerations
- May retain heat more than breathable fabrics
4. Twill: Durable and Practical
Twill is known for its diagonal weave pattern, which gives it strength and structure. It’s a practical option if durability is your top priority.
Best for: High-traffic family areas and kids’ rooms.
Pros
- Resistant to stains
- Easy to clean
- Long-lasting
Considerations
- Less plush than suede or faux fur
5. Faux Fur and Lambswool: Maximum Luxury
If comfort is your top priority, faux fur or lambswool-style bean bag covers offer the most indulgent experience.
Best for: Bedrooms, chill-out spaces and cosy corners.
These fabrics create warmth and softness, perfect for cooler months or relaxed environments.
Pros
- Extremely soft and inviting
- Visually striking
- High comfort factor
Considerations
- Typically higher price point
- Better suited to indoor use
6. Outdoor Fabric: Weather-Resistant and Easy to Clean
If you're looking for the best fabric for an outdoor bean bag chair, specialised performance fabrics are essential.
Outdoor bean bag fabrics are engineered to resist:
- UV fading
- Moisture and mould
- Chlorine and salt exposure
These materials are typically solution-dyed and designed to withstand Australian weather conditions.
Browse our outdoor bean bags for durable, weather-resistant options suitable for poolsides, patios and alfresco spaces.
Pros
- Fade-resistant
- Wipe-clean surfaces
- Built for high exposure environments
Considerations
- Less plush than indoor fabrics
Does Fabric Affect Comfort?
Absolutely. While filling provides structure and support, fabric affects temperature, texture and overall feel.
Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen stay cooler in summer. Plush materials like faux fur feel warmer and softer. Performance fabrics prioritise durability over softness.
For optimal comfort, match your fabric to how you use the chair. A reading nook may benefit from softness. A poolside lounger needs durability.
Indoor vs Outdoor: Choosing the Right Fabric
If your bean bag will stay inside, comfort and aesthetic can guide your decision. For indoor use, explore our full range of fabric bean bag chairs in cotton, linen, suede and more.
If it will be exposed to sun, moisture or heavy wear, invest in outdoor-specific fabric. Standard indoor cotton or linen will not perform well in external conditions.
Final Verdict: What Is the Best Fabric for a Bean Bag Chair?
The best fabric depends on your needs:
- Best overall indoor comfort: Cotton or microsuede
- Best modern aesthetic: Linen
- Best durability for families: Twill
- Best luxury feel: Faux fur or lambswool
- Best for outdoor use: Performance outdoor fabric
There isn’t one universal “best” fabric — only the best option for your space, climate and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to upgrade your seating, explore our complete collection of indoor bean bag chairs and outdoor bean bags to find the perfect fabric for your home.
