Organic parents, sustainability advocates and hands-on DIYers are increasingly experimenting with alternative bean bag fillers. Whether you're repairing an older chair, reducing environmental impact, or simply curious about non-traditional options, there are more choices available today than ever before.
Modern bean bags are typically filled with expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads because they’re lightweight, supportive and long-lasting. But growing interest in eco-conscious living has led many Australians to explore natural, recycled and plant-based alternatives.
If you’re wondering why fillings compress over time, it helps to first understand why bean bags go flat. From there, you can decide whether to top up your existing fill or experiment with something different.
Why consider alternative bean bag fillers?
There are usually three reasons people look beyond standard polystyrene beans:
- Environmental concerns about non-biodegradable plastics
- Desire to reuse or recycle household materials
- Seeking a heavier or firmer seating feel
Before switching, it’s important to weigh comfort, durability, hygiene and practicality. Not all DIY fillers perform equally — and some are better suited to occasional lounge chairs than everyday seating.
1. Shredded foam and pillow stuffing
One of the most popular alternatives is shredded foam or polyester fibre stuffing (the type used in cushions and soft toys). This option delivers a plush, sofa-like feel and creates a more structured seat.
Pros
- Soft and supportive
- Readily available from craft and foam suppliers
- Can be fluffed to restore volume
Cons
- Heavier than EPS beads
- May clump over time
- Requires more volume to achieve full shape
Foam works particularly well in larger loungers and structured bean bag chairs where shape retention is important. Some people blend shredded foam with polystyrene beads to create a hybrid fill that balances softness and rebound.
2. Old clothes and textiles
Repurposing worn-out clothing, towels or fabric scraps is an environmentally friendly option. Simply cut garments into smaller pieces and distribute evenly.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Keeps textiles out of landfill
- Heavier and more stable base
Cons
- Can feel lumpy
- Less mouldable than bead fill
- Heavier to move
This approach works best in casual settings or children’s floor cushions where precision support isn’t critical. If using this method, ensure fabrics are clean and completely dry to prevent odour or mildew.
3. Plastic shopping bags
Scrunched-up plastic grocery bags are another common DIY option. They’re lightweight and compressible, though not as supportive as bead fill.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Repurposes household waste
- Readily available
Cons
- Noisy when compressed
- Break down over time
- Less comfortable for extended seating
In Australia, single-use plastic bag bans have reduced availability, making this option less practical than it once was.
4. Natural materials (leaves, hay, pine needles)
Historically, early mattresses and cushions were filled with organic materials. Some DIY enthusiasts still experiment with dried leaves, hay or pine needles.
Pros
- Biodegradable
- Low cost if locally sourced
- Completely natural
Cons
- Break down quickly
- Can attract pests
- May trigger allergies
- Can develop mould if exposed to moisture
While appealing in theory, natural loose-fill materials generally lack longevity and consistent comfort. In humid Australian climates, moisture retention can become a real issue.
5. Dried beans
The original bean bags were literally filled with dried beans. It’s still possible today — though it requires significant volume.
Pros
- Natural and biodegradable
- Provides firm, weighted seating
- Easy to source
Cons
- Very heavy
- Expensive in large quantities
- Can attract insects if not sealed properly
Because beans are dense, they tend to sink and create a firm base rather than a soft, moulding seat. Some DIYers mix beans with lighter fillers to reduce weight.
6. Rice
Rice produces a similar effect to beans but with a finer texture.
Pros
- Smooth feel
- Readily available
- Natural material
Cons
- Heavy
- Can spoil if exposed to moisture
- Cost adds up for full-size chairs
Rice is more suited to small cushions or heat packs than full-scale seating.
7. Packing peanuts
Packaging peanuts mimic the lightweight feel of traditional bead fill, though consistency varies.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Often free from deliveries
- Similar compression to beads
Cons
- Messy if ruptured
- Inconsistent shapes
- May degrade faster
They can work in a pinch but typically lack the uniform resilience of high-quality EPS beads.
8. Plant-based eco beads (EPLA)
For those wanting a sustainable alternative without sacrificing performance, plant-based expanded polylactic acid (EPLA) beads — often marketed as eco-beans — are emerging as a solution.
Made from renewable plant materials, these beads are compostable under industrial conditions and offer a similar feel to polystyrene.
Pros
- Plant-derived
- Lower environmental footprint
- Comparable comfort to EPS
Cons
- More expensive
- Limited suppliers
- May degrade faster in high humidity
For environmentally conscious households, this option strikes a balance between comfort and sustainability.
How alternative fillers compare to polystyrene beans
Expanded polystyrene beads remain the industry standard for good reason. They are:
- Extremely lightweight
- Supportive and mouldable
- Moisture resistant
- Long-lasting when properly sealed
High-quality, virgin EPS beads also resist flattening longer than recycled or crushed variants. If your current chair needs refreshing rather than replacing, understanding how to fill a bean bag properly can extend its lifespan significantly.
Choosing the right filling for your space
Your ideal filler depends on where and how the bean bag will be used.
Indoor living areas
Lightweight EPS or foam blends offer the best balance of comfort and flexibility.
Outdoor settings
Moisture resistance matters. Purpose-built outdoor bean bags use fabrics and fillings designed to handle Australian conditions.
Poolside use
For wet environments, specialist pool bean bags are engineered to drain and dry properly — something natural fillers cannot safely manage.
Children’s spaces
Lighter fills are generally safer and easier to reposition, especially in kids bean bags.
Safety and practical considerations
- Always use a child-safe inner liner with a locking zipper.
- Keep natural fillers completely dry to avoid mould growth.
- Be mindful of allergens when using organic materials.
- Consider weight — heavier fillings can cause injury if thrown.
- Ensure seams are reinforced to prevent leaks.
If you’ve ever dealt with loose beads across the floor, you’ll understand the importance of quality construction.
Frequently asked questions
Are natural bean bag fillers better for the environment?
They can be biodegradable, but durability matters. A filler that needs replacing frequently may create more waste over time than a long-lasting synthetic option.
What is the most comfortable alternative to polystyrene beads?
Shredded foam or a foam-bead blend generally provides the closest comfort match.
Do organic fillers attract pests?
Yes, dried beans, rice and plant matter can attract insects or rodents if not sealed properly.
Can I mix different fillers?
Yes. Many DIYers combine foam, beads and heavier materials to achieve a customised feel.
Are DIY fillers worth it?
Alternative bean bag fillers can work for repairs, experimentation or sustainability goals. However, comfort, longevity and hygiene should guide your decision.
For everyday use — especially in high-traffic family homes — professionally manufactured bean bags filled with quality materials remain the most reliable option. If your current chair simply needs topping up, it may be more practical to refresh it rather than reinvent it.
Whether you're repairing an old favourite or investing in a new design, choosing the right filling makes all the difference to comfort, durability and overall experience.
