The Simplest Way to Extend Your Sofa’s Life—And We’re Not Talking Slipcovers

We all know buying a sofa isn’t a cheap endeavor. Reupholster instead! But wait, that’s also shockingly expensive: The average cost, according to Home Advisor, ranges from $600 to $4,000. At that point, you might as well give in and head to your local big-box retailer. One major caveat: if it’s just the seat cushions that are looking tired and worn. In that case, there’s an easy way to extend the life of your couch (and save it from the landfill) for as little as $60. The secret is a sofa topper. 

Unlike a slipcover, these long, lightweight cushions can be tossed directly on your couch with no fussy fasteners or corners. While we’re big fans of using blankets to revive a piece of furniture, a sofa topper achieves that same layered look but will actually change the way you feel when you sit down. Paris-based brand Tensira led the way with the launch of its overlay mattress in 2009. They’re now sold through a whole host of U.S. retailers (Nickey Kehoe and Zara Home among them), and the company produces washable, microfiber-filled options as well as toppers with removable covers. There are even pouches to store them in, should you want a few to swap in and out (plus extra-small options for pet beds!).

So we aren’t surprised other companies are hopping on the trend. These six newish sofa toppers will save any seating style and spare your wallet while they’re at it.  

For the Boring Starter Apartment Sofa

The ultrathin lines on this 100% cotton topper will instantly pep up that blah-gray sofa you bought with your roommates. Stripes are a classic for a reason—they work with every aesthetic: preppy or industrial, minimalist or maximalist.

For the Indoor-Outdoor Wicker Bench

This wider multi-striped pattern is giving subtle nautical vibes, no? It would look right at home on a wicker or natural wood bench on a screened-in porch or covered patio. 

For the Velvet Sofa That’s Fading Away

Having loads of natural light does great things for your well-being, but we can’t say the same for your furniture. If the gorgeous jewel-toned couch you bought five years ago is now skewing pastel, hide the damage with a floral topper (available in small, medium, and large) that can serve as the foundation for an eclectic pillow pile. 

For the Scratched-Up Leather Sofa

GreenRow’s cotton-linen-blend toppers ship next month and are available for preorder now. There’s something very retro (in a good way!) about both the plaid pattern and ribbon ties, a perfect match for a mid-century–style sofa. 

For the Linen Sectional Your Pet Can’t Resist

These stain-resistant linen couch covers start at $120, making it pretty reasonable to snag two and cover up the chaise as well. Although they’re made in Turkey, they ship fast, according to reviewers. But it’s the dog and cat owners in the comments section who really love them: “Keeps my sofa clean from the pup, yet looks nice enough to keep out when company comes over,” one customer raved.

For the Too-Slouchy Cloud Sofa 

Meet our budget-friendly pick. The cream shade that will blend right in with RH’s cult-favorite Cloud sofa or its endless dupes, and if the tassels feel too boho for you, cut them right off. You’re reclaiming your living room, after all.