Why Are Bean Bags So Expensive?

Posted by Matthew Ressler on October 07, 2024

If you’ve ever shopped for a bean bag chair, you might be surprised by how pricey they can be. So, why are bean bags expensive?

Bean bags may look simple, but their price reflects more than just filling and fabric. Behind that cozy appearance are carefully chosen materials, expert craftsmanship, and design features that turn a basic seat into a comfortable investment.

Keep reading as we take a closer look at what drives the cost of bean bags and why investing in a quality one is worth it.

A Common Misconception About Bean Bags

Many people assume that bean bags should be inexpensive simply because they look more casual than traditional furniture like sofas or armchairs. It’s easy to think, “How expensive could something filled with foam really be?” But the truth is, bean bags have come a long way since their humble beginnings and involve much more than meets the eye.

Just like a high-quality sofa, a well-made bean bag chair is often made with premium materials. From soft, cozy fabrics to long-lasting filling that keeps its shape, these details add to the cost. So, when shoppers see a higher price tag, it can cause a bit of “sticker shock.”

What Makes a Good Bean Bag?

If you've ever considered buying a bean bag, you may have found yourself wondering what all the fuss is about. Bean bags are frequently praised as being comfortable, versatile, and durable, but what exactly makes a good bean bag? In general, you'll get what you pay for when it comes to bean bags. Let’s take a look at what goes into making a quality bean bag chair.

REWORK Quality Fabrics

The outer cover is really what makes or breaks a bean bag. Not only does it bring a splash of color or texture to your space, but it also needs to be durable enough for everyday life. That means finding a bean bag cover that’s long-lasting and easy to clean. At CordaRoy’s, we make it simple by offering removable, machine-washable covers, so keeping your bean bag looking fresh is a breeze.

For your convenience, we offer a variety of outer covers available in different colors and styles. A few of our popular fabrics include:

Faux Fur
Chenille
Corduroy
Faux Leather
Terry Corduroy
Plush Fur
Faux Chinchilla
Faux “Bunny” Fur
And more!

Whether you want something soft and cozy like faux fur or a more classic look like corduroy, there’s a fabric for every taste and style. And you don’t have to worry about them wearing out – our covers are made to stand up to whatever life throws at them, from spills to pets.

Filling Type: Memory Foam vs Polystyrene Beads

If you're shopping for a new bean bag chair or need to refill an old one, you've probably come across two main types of bean bag filling: polyfoam and polystyrene beads. So, what's the difference, and which one is right for you?

Polyfoam filling is made from high-quality, shredded, furniture-grade, polyurethane foam. It’s known for providing great full-body support and is even used to make orthotics and spinal body supports. This foam conforms to your body, giving you that extra comfort you want when sinking into a bean bag. At CordaRoy's, we use 100% polyfoam in our bean bags, so they keep their shape and support over time without flattening out.

On the other hand, polystyrene beads are lighter and make bean bags easier to move around. If you like to switch up your decor often or need something lightweight for a flexible space, bead-filled bean bag chairs might work for you. They are also more budget-friendly, which can be a plus if you’re keeping an eye on costs.

That being said, polystyrene beads can sometimes shift around inside the bean bag, making them a bit less comfortable for some people. They are also a potential choking hazard for small children, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’ve got little ones around.

High End Zippers

One often overlooked feature that can affect the cost of a bean bag is the zipper. While it may seem like a small detail, the quality of the zipper plays a big role in how long your bean bag lasts and how well it functions. Cheaper zippers can break, jam, or even tear away from the fabric.

Here at CordaRoy’s, we use top-of-the-line YKK zippers because we know how important durability is. These high-quality zippers come with locking sliders for an extra layer of security. This safety feature is great for preventing curious little hands from getting inside.

Here is what makes CordaRoy’s zippers stand out:

Durable YKK zippers that are built to last.
Locking sliders for added safety.
Easy for adults to use – While we remove the pull on the liners for child safety, adults can easily unlock the zipper using a paperclip. This allows for quick access when you need to remove the cover for cleaning or adjust the filling.

How Does Size Affect the Cost of Bean Bags?

When it comes to bean bag chairs, size matters – not just for comfort, but for the price, too. Larger bean bags naturally use more fabric and filling, which increases their cost. However, with that extra size comes added comfort.

At CordaRoy’s, we offer a range of sizes to fit any space or need, from our youth-size convertible bean bags to our giant bean bags. The bigger the bean bag, the more material and craftsmanship that goes into it, which is why you’ll notice a difference in price as you go up in size.

Here’s a quick look at the sizes we offer:

Youth: Sleeps 2 youths / Seats 1 youth
Full: Sleeps 1 adult / Seats 1 adult
Queen: Sleeps 2 adults / Seats 1 large adult
King: Sleeps 2 adults / Seats 2 adults
Giant: Seats 2 or more adults

NEW Designer Finishes and Protective Coatings

Another reason bean bags can be pricier than you’d expect is the extra attention to details, like designer finishes and protective coatings. It takes real skill to design bean bags with unique finishes that stand out, and that expertise is reflected in the price. While you can find basic, no-frills options at a lower cost, bean bag chairs with carefully crafted details and premium aesthetics naturally come at a higher price.

Then, there are the protective coatings. Many high-quality bean bags are treated to resist water, UV rays, and even mildew. For example, CordaRoy’s outdoor bean bags are designed with marine-grade materials that are made to last. They won’t fade, deflate, or get ruined by mildew, which is why they cost more.

At the end of the day, those designer finishes and extra protections are what make premium bean bags worth the investment. They might cost more upfront, but they’ll hold up much longer, whether you’re using them inside or outside.

Are Bean Bag Chairs Really That Comfortable and Durable?

When it comes to comfort, few things can beat a good bean bag. Whether you're taking a nap, watching TV, or just relaxing, a bean bag gives you that perfect spot to unwind. Unlike a traditional chair, a bean bag conforms to your body and provides support in all the right places.

In fact, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) states that approximately 31 million people in the U.S. experience back pain, making it more important than ever to invest in comfortable, supportive furniture. That’s where our eco-friendly, polyfoam-filled bean bags come in. They provide that extra bit of ergonomic support to help prevent or reduce comfort.

Plus, bean bags are incredibly versatile. You can use them as chairs, beds, or even couches. So if you're looking for a cozy spot to call your own, a bean bag might be just what you need.

Bean Bags That Last

When you invest in a bean bag, you want it to stick around for the long haul. While cheaper bean bags might lose their shape or show wear and tear after just a couple of years, high-quality ones are built to last much longer.

At CordaRoy’s, our bean bags are built to last an average of 15 years. Plus, we stand by our products with a lifetime guarantee that covers manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship.

Here are a few other features that make CordaRoy’s bean bags long-lasting:

Removable, machine-washable covers that make cleaning a breeze.
Eco-friendly polyfoam filling that maintains its shape and support over time.
Strong, reinforced seams to prevent wear and tear from everyday use.

Are Bean Bags Worth the Price?

So, are bean bags really worth the price? It’s normal to feel a bit shocked when you see the cost of a bean bag, but once you break down the benefits, it’s easy to see why they’re worth the investment.

Here’s why a bean bag is worth every penny:

Durability: High-quality bean bag chairs are made to last and can hold their shape and comfortability for years.
Comfort: Premium fillings like polyfoam mold to your body which gives you top-notch support.
Versatility: Use them as a chair, bed, or couch – they can fit any space and need.
Easy to clean: Removable, machine-washable covers make maintenance a breeze.
Trendy designs: With a range of designs and styles, you can find one that fits your home’s vibe.

At the end of the day, a well-made bean bag is a piece of furniture you’ll appreciate for years. While the price may feel like a bit of a splurge, the benefits speak for themselves.

Want to experience the benefits for yourself? Check out CordaRoy’s and find the perfect bean bag chair that will make you feel right at home.