Cushions: What Are They Really Called?

Ever found yourself stuck in a store, staring at a soft square thing, wondering whether it's a pillow, a cushion, a pad, or some fancy name nobody uses? You're not alone. The world of cushions is way more confusing than it needs to be. What people call a "cushion" can change depending on where you are, who you're talking to, and even what room you're in.

In the U.K., a small, decorative pillow for your sofa is just a cushion. Walk into a living room in the U.S., and someone might call the same thing a "throw pillow." Pop into a fancy furniture store, and suddenly they're saying "bolsters," "scatter cushions," or even "lumbar supports"—hearing all those names makes a regular person dizzy. It gets even trickier if you’re shopping online, especially with so many international sellers. Understanding the different names helps you actually get what you want, instead of ending up with the wrong shape or size.

• What's in a Name?
• Types of Cushions and Their Uses
• Cushions Around the World
• How to Choose the Right Cushion
• Fun Facts and Cushion Hacks

What's in a Name?

When it comes to soft things you sit on, lean against, or toss around the living room, names matter. Different names mean different shapes, sizes, and uses and keeping them straight helps you avoid mix-ups. Let’s break down the most common terms you’ll hear and what they usually mean.

• Cushion: In most places outside the U.S., this is the main word for a padded piece you stick on chairs, sofas, or benches for extra comfort. Think of both the square pad on your dining chair and the fluffy thing on your sofa.
• Pillow: In North America, these usually mean the things you sleep on. But "throw pillow" or "decorative pillow" ends up being what Brits call a cushion. It's mostly about location and use.
• Bolster: This is a long, cylindrical cushion. Sometimes people use them for neck support or as a body pillow, and they're common in yoga, too.
• Pad: If it’s thin and more about adding a layer on a hard seat or bench, it’s often called a seat pad or chair pad.
• Lumbar Support: This is more of a specialty item, designed to help your lower back, especially for office or car seats. Less for show, more for pain relief.

Here’s a quick view of how names change by English-speaking region:

So, if you’re shopping online, double check the description and measurements. A "cushion" in London might not be what you want for your sofa in New York. Mixing up names isn’t just embarrassing in conversation—it can lead to getting something that doesn’t fit or look right in your space. Remember: knowing what things are called helps you get exactly what you need, whether you’re redecorating or just hunting for a little more comfort.

Types of Cushions and Their Uses

When it comes to cushions, there’s way more variety out there than just the basic couch pillow. Each type has its own purpose, shape, and even special name. Knowing the difference can help you pick the right one, save cash, and avoid awkward mismatches at home.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types:

• Cushions: This is the catch-all word. Most people use it for soft pads made to sit or lie on, like those on chairs, sofas, and benches. They come in all shapes and sizes, usually square or rectangular.
• Throw Pillows: These are the decorative pillows you toss on your sofa or bed. They aren’t really for support—they just look good. Round, square, or even funky novelty shapes—anything goes.
• Bolsters: Long, tube-shaped pillows. You’ll see them for neck or back support, or just to break up the look on beds and couches. Helpful for people who want a little extra back support without bulky pillows.
• Lumbar Cushions: Specifically shaped for your lower back, usually rectangular and a bit firmer. Great for office chairs or long drives. Lots of people ignore these, but good lumbar support actually helps with posture and reduces back pain.
• Seat Pads: These are thin cushions you’ll spot on dining chairs, patio furniture, and benches. Most have ties so they don’t slip off, which is handy if you move around a lot.
• Floor Cushions: Oversized and meant for the floor, these are awesome for extra seating when the couch is full. Perfect for movie nights or if you just like hanging out low to the ground.

Different types of cushions often have different fillings and features. Some are stuffed with polyester, others with memory foam, feathers, or even recycled materials. This isn’t just about how soft they feel, but also the price and how long they hold up. For example, memory foam stays supportive longer than regular polyester. If you deal with allergies, there are hypoallergenic fillings too.

If you’re picking cushions for everyday use, think about stuff like easy-to-wash covers and durability. For outdoor cushions, go for water-resistant fabric and UV protection—otherwise, they’ll fade and get gross fast. These little details make a big difference when your furniture actually gets used every day.

Cushions Around the World

Here's where things get interesting. What you call a cushion can say a lot about where you're from. For example, Brits usually talk about "cushions" for anything that goes on a sofa or armchair, while Americans mostly say "throw pillows" or just "pillows." In Australia, their word is cushion too, but ask for a pillow and they’ll send you to the bedroom section. The keyword here is cushions, and it’s the safest term if you’re talking to someone overseas.

Other places mix it up even more. In India, you’ll hear people say "bolster" a lot, because long tube-shaped cushions are super popular for lounging and back support. Throw pillows are a big part of home decor in Japan, where instead of couches, you’ll spot floor cushions called "zabuton" used for sitting during meals or tea. In Mexico, folks might use "cojín," which just means cushion or pad, whether it’s for a chair or for hugging.

Check out how several countries and languages label the most common types of cushions:

Knowing these names comes in handy when you’re traveling or moving and want the right thing for your spot. If you’re shopping online, double check the size and shape—that “gaddi” listing from India isn’t the same as a standard pillow in the US. So before you click buy, make sure you’re not getting a floor mat when all you wanted was something for your couch.

How to Choose the Right Cushion

If you think picking a cushion is just about grabbing whatever looks good, think again. There’s actually a smart way to get it right, so you don’t end up with a lumpy mess or something that just doesn’t fit your space. The most important thing: know what you need it for. Are you after comfort, extra support, or just want something to jazz up your place?

Let’s keep it simple and stick to three things you should look out for:

• Cushions for sitting on a hard chair should be firm and thick enough to not flatten in a week.
• Decorative cushions or "throw pillows" are usually softer and smaller. They’re meant to add color and style, not be your main support.
• Bolster cushions or lumbar supports are longer and sometimes round. These are champs for back support, especially if you’re stuck at a desk all day.

Size also matters. Most standard couch cushions fall between 16 and 24 inches across. If you’re getting a cushion for a window seat or bench, measure the space so you don’t end up filling the gap with extra sweaters. For patio furniture, check the exact size—there’s no such thing as “one size fits all” here.

Material is next on the list. Here’s a quick breakdown of common cushion fillings and their pros and cons:

If you’ve got allergies, skip the feather and down. Go for hypoallergenic polyester. For outdoor spaces, get covers that say “UV” or “water-resistant”—otherwise, you’re just inviting mold and faded colors.

Last tip: When in doubt, check if the cover comes off. Washable covers are a lifesaver, especially if you have pets or kids running around. That way, your new cushion doesn’t look grubby two weeks in.

Fun Facts and Cushion Hacks

Ready for some cool stuff you probably didn’t know about cushions? Here’s a section packed with trivia and tips that might just make you the go-to person at your next furniture shopping trip—or at least help you win a bet.

First, did you know that the world’s oldest known cushion dates back over 3,500 years? Ancient Egyptians used cushions stuffed with reeds, mostly for the luxury of the rich. Fast forward to now, and cushions can be stuffed with anything from memory foam to recycled plastic bottles. About 70% of people in the U.K. own at least four cushions for their living room alone, while in Japan, traditional "zabuton" cushions are still a part of daily life, especially during tea ceremonies.

Here are some quick hacks to make your life easier:

• If your cushion looks flat, throw it in the dryer with two tennis balls for 10 minutes. It’ll puff up nicely again.
• Spot a stubborn stain? Mix equal parts baking soda and water, dab it on, wait a bit, then wipe it off. Way cheaper than those spray cleaners.
• To keep your cushions in shape, flip and rotate them every week. You’ll avoid those weird body dents that form when you always sit in the same spot.
• Cushions aren’t just for comfort. Stick one under your knees at night if you have back pain—it’ll help ease the pressure on your lower back.
• If you need extra seating during parties, stack a few cushions on the floor for some instant, boho-style chairs.

People get really creative too—some smart folks make their own cushion covers out of old t-shirts or tablecloths. A bit of sewing, and boom: custom look, almost free. Getting picky about the material can help with allergies or overheating. For example, cotton and linen stay cool, while velvet looks plush but can trap heat. If you’re someone who sneezes every spring, look for covers you can toss in the washing machine (most allergens won’t stand a chance).

And one last thing—the biggest cushion in the world measures a whopping 57 feet long, built for a festival in Norway. So yeah, there’s a cushion for every style, purpose, and even sense of humor.