Bean bags were originally filled with dried beans. Nowadays it can be challenging to find organic bean bag filler for your favourite chair. In Australia, finding organic bean bag filling is gaining popularity as people seek eco-friendly materials.
Beanbags were originally filled with, you guessed it, actual dried beans. Today, there are many types of beans suitable for organic bean bag filling, and experimenting with a combination or mix of bean types can help create an exceptional bean bag. The most commonly used bean bag filler is probably expanded polystyrene beans or styrofoam beads, but these are less eco-friendly compared to organic alternatives. Fortunately, many brands have begun producing beanbags with organic fillers, as well as recycled and biodegradable fillers. You can even DIY your organic bean bag filling, or use recycled materials you can find at home. If not, you can buy these alternative bean bag fillers online. Choosing the right organic filler can result in a great bean bag and great bean bag filling. The best organic bean bag filler also depends on the type of bean bag you have.
Introduction to Bean Bag Chairs
Bean bag chairs have become a beloved addition to many Australian homes, offering a relaxed and versatile seating option for all ages. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, a fun spot for the kids, or a laid-back lounge area, bean bag chairs fit seamlessly into any space. The secret to their comfort lies in the filling, and today, there are more choices than ever before. Natural bean bag fillers, such as dried beans, cedar shavings, and leftover sawdust, are gaining popularity for their eco-friendly and non-toxic qualities. These natural materials not only provide excellent support and comfort but also help reduce your environmental footprint. For those who want to get creative, bean bags can be filled with a mix of organic beans, coffee beans, or even recycled materials such as old clothes and fabric scraps. By choosing biodegradable and recycled materials over traditional polystyrene beads or foam, you can create a unique, sustainable, and inviting bean bag chair that’s as good for the planet as it is for your home.
Types of organic bean bag filler
There are several types of organic bean bag filler. You can find most of these online. There are also plenty of eco-friendly materials available, including various bean types and seeds, which are suitable for filling bean bags. Mixing bean types or using a combination of different natural fillers, such as rice, buckwheat hulls, or other seeds, can help you achieve the desired comfort and sustainability. Using materials found around the house can help save money and reduce waste. If you opt for these as well, it’s better for the environment. Natural bean bag fillers are also an economical choice, and many of them are just as durable and comfortable as polystyrene beads and their other synthetic counterparts.
Biofoam organic bean bag filler
Biofoam bean bag beads are entirely organic. The process of making these is by deriving a natural biopolymer from plants. This natural material is completely compostable and resembles styrofoam beads, but is much better for the environment. Unlike expanded polystyrene beans, which are commonly used as bean bag filling but are not biodegradable and less eco-friendly, biofoam offers a more sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative. Biofoam beads also retain their shape and are very lightweight and durable. This makes them an ideal organic filler for bean bags. Biofoam is also perfectly safe for children and pets, as it’s non-toxic, CO2-neutral, and very hygienic. The main seller of biofoam bean bag filler is the brand The Big Beanbag Company, and you can buy their products from their website. The great thing is you can choose between a range of sustainable bean bags or simply buy the filler. You can purchase a bag of refillable biofoam organic beans and use them to fill your DIY bean bag or an old one that’s a little deflated. The bean bags for sale are also made from nearly all recycled materials, including plastic bottles and repurposed stools and cushions. Biofoam organic bean bag filler is also vegan, and it is available in a large, recycled bag of 60 litres, for example. It’s completely plastic-free, with no unnecessary packaging. If you’re looking for an affordable organic bean bag refill, it’s available. Their bean bag chair selection might not be the cheapest, but this is because the company always strives to use recycled, sustainable materials. They are durable, high-quality bean bags; however, if you want to invest in something better for the environment, opt for biofoam.
Natural latex
Natural latex is another popular organic bean bag filler, and it can also be found in mattresses and other furniture. It’s also biodegradable, so it’s a great choice. The material itself is derived from rubber tree sap or latex. It then undergoes a process involving whipping it into a foam and moulding it into shape. Natural latex can also be moulded into various shapes to suit different bean bag designs and preferences. They then bake it to produce natural latex. Many people don’t realise that latex is a natural material because it has so many applications and is incredibly durable and versatile. As an organic bean bag filler, natural latex is ideal because it’s lightweight and won’t lose its shape. Often, you can use recycled natural latex from a mattress to fill a bean bag. There are also online brands where you can purchase natural latex bean bag filler. These are often mattress companies that recycle leftover latex. Rather than wasting this natural latex from the manufacturing process and it ending up in a landfill, companies sell this material online. Natural latex bean bag filler is not only an organic and biodegradable option, but it also helps reduce overall waste. Check if the natural latex you’re buying is GOLS-certified organic, and you’ll be able to tell it’s of good quality and made from completely organic materials. Natural latex is also a non-toxic, hygienic option for bean bag filler, and it’s very comfortable. It’s from the inside of mattresses after all.
Beans and rice
There are many types of beans and seeds that can be used for organic bean bag filling. Options include beans, rice, buckwheat hulls, and other natural fillers. You can mix different types of beans or use a combination of beans and seeds to create a great bean bag filling that offers unique comfort and sustainability benefits. Experimenting with different combinations enables you to find the optimal texture and eco-friendly properties that best suit your needs.
If you want to fill your bean bag with these, it’s best to look for a store that sells them in bulk, as you will need quite a few. You can look for the cheapest option. Many types of beans can be used, including coffee beans. The most important thing is that they’re dry and clean. If you want to use this type of natural material to fill your bean bag, be careful, as it is untreated. You may need to refill your bean bag more often. They aren’t as lightweight as other organic bean bag filler options, but still have a similar feel to synthetic beans.
Cotton
Cotton is an organic and environmentally friendly option for bean bag chairs, especially when it’s recycled. Recycled blankets can also be used as an eco-friendly and comfortable filling for bean bags, making them a great choice for those seeking sustainable and eco-friendly materials. It’s soft, so will make a comfy bean bag, but the only problem is that it will eventually lose its shape over time.
Wool
Wool, similarly, is another option for a natural bean bag filler, although it may not be a permanent solution. Having said that, if you can get hold of old cotton or wool and recycle them to make a bean bag filler, they're both sustainable options.
Cedar shavings, Wood Chips or Sawdust
For something a little different, you could buy cedar shavings, sawdust, or other wood shavings as an organic bean bag filler. Cedar shavings are one of the better choices because they are decay-resistant, so your bean bag filling could last for decades. Additionally, cedar shavings retain their shape better than most other alternatives and are naturally water-repellent. They also have a natural scent that repels moths and other insects, making them suitable for bean bag filling. You can find leftover cedar shavings online from landscaping businesses that want to reduce waste. If you're trying to follow a zero-waste lifestyle, then this is a good option for you.
Buckwheat hulls
Buckwheat hulls are not only an organic bean bag filler option, but they are also used for pillows, meditation cushions, and in many other types of crafts and DIY projects. Many brands also offer buckwheat bean bags and you can find these easily online. Alternatively, you can buy your own buckwheat hull bean bag and pillow fillers on sites such as Amazon and fill your bean bag. They are not as lightweight as other options, such as biofoam or latex, but they are 100% organic and completely safe to use. Compared to certain other natural fillers such as beans and rice, they are lighter, however.
Eco-Friendly Options for Bean Bag Fillers
As more people seek ways to make their homes greener, eco-friendly options for bean bag fillers are gaining popularity. Natural materials like buckwheat hulls, rice, and wool are not only biodegradable but also provide a soft, supportive, and comfortable seating experience. These sustainable choices are ideal for anyone seeking to avoid synthetic fillers and minimise their environmental impact. Recycled materials, such as old clothes, pillow stuffing, or even the stuffing from stuffed animals, are also excellent options for filling bean bags. Repurposing these items helps minimise waste and gives new life to materials that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Cedar shavings are another standout choice, offering a beautiful fragrance and natural water-repellent properties, while hay is a readily available and affordable alternative. By choosing eco-friendly bean bag fillings, you can create a comfortable and stylish space that’s also kind to the planet, all while enjoying the unique benefits of natural and recycled materials.
DIY bean bag filler
Although not all of these options are organic, you can still find sustainable alternatives for bean bag fillers by recycling various materials. You could try using the stuffing from old furniture and toys, for example. This will be very soft and, depending on the amount you use, will retain its shape. After a while, it might get a little flat, however. You can also fill your bean bags with old clothes and fabrics, or even recycled blankets, which can help save money and reduce waste. If you want to get creative, a trick is to mix the filling and bulk it out with things like old shopping bags—grocery bags, packing peanuts, and even foam peanuts can also be reused as practical and eco-friendly bean bag fillers. Using different shapes and sizes of recycled foam or fabric can help create a comfortable and customizable bean bag. Eco-friendly bean bag fillings can include a variety of materials such as rice, beans, sawdust, hay, and buckwheat hulls. Instead of throwing away old textiles or packaging materials, consider repurposing them for your DIY filling.
Choosing the Right Filler for Your Bean Bag
Selecting the perfect filler for your bean bag is all about striking a balance between comfort, support, and sustainability. With numerous options available, it’s essential to consider what matters most to you. Natural materials, such as dried beans, cedar shavings, and sawdust, are biodegradable and non-toxic, making them a great alternative to traditional polystyrene beads or foam. If you’re looking to reduce waste, recycled materials such as old clothes, pillow stuffing, or even the filling from stuffed animals can provide a soft and supportive feel while helping the environment. For a truly unique bean bag, try mixing different fillers—combine coffee beans with organic beans, or blend natural materials with recycled fabrics to create a custom comfort level. Regardless of which option you choose, focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable materials ensures that your bean bag is both comfortable and environmentally responsible. With the right filler, you can create a beautiful, inviting space that reflects your values and supports a healthier planet.
Where to buy organic bean bag filler
Although putting together your own alternative bean bag filling might sound like a fun project, there are plenty of brands that have perfected this technique. You can choose to purchase your sustainable beanbags or specially made organic bean fillers from various stores and online retailers in Australia. The best places to look for organic bean bag fillers are mattress or cushion brands that have an eco-friendly or zero-waste focus. You can then purchase leftover and recycled materials that have already been prepared for this purpose. If you want to buy organic bean bag filler to refill a bean bag, Amazon offers a variety of options. You could also try stores in Australia that offer bulk purchases. Look for a location near you that offers discounts when you purchase materials in bulk. For the best zero-waste option, consider contacting local businesses in Australia that may have leftover sawdust, wood shavings, or other materials. Plastic shopping bags can be reused as bean bag filling, providing firm but flexible support. For the best organic bean bag filler, you should probably get it from a brand that specialises in sustainable products. Materials such as biofoam and natural latex are the ideal types of natural bean bag filler because they are comfortable, durable, and lightweight. Certain brands have designed these originally to fill pillows and mattresses, so they’re ideal. It’s up to you, however, which organic bean bag filler you opt for, depending on your unique style and budget.
At Bean Bags R Us, we offer a wide range of top-quality bean bag brands. We only sell high-quality bean bags that utilise the finest materials. You can find a range of types and sizes suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as well as for children and adults alike. If you would like more information about the best organic bean bag filler or other useful bean bag tips, check out our blog.
Conclusion on Alternative Bean Bag Options
Exploring alternative bean bag fillers opens up a world of possibilities for comfort, style, and sustainability. By choosing natural bean bag fillers or recycled materials, you’re not only creating a cozy and inviting space but also making a positive impact on the environment. Whether you opt for buckwheat hulls, cedar shavings, old clothes, or a creative mix of different materials, there’s a perfect eco-friendly option for every home and lifestyle. As more people embrace sustainable living, the demand for biodegradable and non-toxic bean bag fillings continues to grow, making it easier than ever to find or create the ideal bean bag for your needs. So, whether you’re updating an old favourite or starting from scratch, consider the many benefits of alternative bean bag fillings and enjoy a comfortable, stylish, and environmentally conscious addition to your home.
