The right wheelchair cushion depends on three things: the size of the wheelchair seat, the material you prefer and how long the cushion will be used each day. Measure the seat width and depth first, then choose between foam, gel, memory foam and air cushions. You can compare the options in our wheelchair cushions collection.
Step 1: Measure the wheelchair seat
- Seat width. Measure across the seat from the inside of one armrest or side panel to the other.
- Seat depth. Measure from the front edge of the seat to the backrest.
- Height you can spare. A thicker cushion raises the person sitting. Check that their feet still reach the footrests and that they can still sit under a table.
Cushions are usually listed as width x depth x height, for example 18 x 16 x 3 inches. Match the first two numbers to the seat. If you are not sure what size the wheelchair is, our guide What Size Wheelchair Do I Need? walks through the measurements.
Step 2: Compare cushion materials
| Type | What it is | Things to check |
|---|---|---|
| Foam | A solid foam block, often with a fabric cover. Light and simple. | Foam density and thickness, and whether the cover is removable. |
| Memory foam | Foam that slowly shapes to the person sitting on it. | Firmness, and how it feels in a warm or cold room. |
| Gel | A gel pad, usually combined with a foam base. | Weight (gel cushions are heavier) and the cover material. |
| Air | Air cells or chambers you can inflate to adjust the feel, such as Roho and Balanced Aire. | How to check and adjust the air level, and whether a pump is included. |
| Coccyx and ring cushions | Cushions with a cutout at the back or a ring shape, such as Alex Orthopedic donut cushions. | Outer diameter or width, and whether it fits the chair you will use it on. |
Step 3: Look at the cover and the base
Many cushions come with a removable cover that can be washed. Some covers are water-resistant or vinyl so they can be wiped clean, which helps if continence is a concern. A non-slip bottom helps keep the cushion from sliding on a sling seat. If the wheelchair has a sling seat that sags, a cushion with a firm base or a separate solid seat insert can give a flatter surface.
Wheelchair cushion checklist
- Width and depth match the wheelchair seat.
- Feet still reach the footrests after adding the cushion height.
- The cover is removable or wipeable, depending on your needs.
- The bottom has a non-slip surface or straps.
- The cushion's weight capacity covers the user, especially for bariatric chairs.
- Air cushions: you know how to check the inflation before each use.
When to talk to a professional
If the person using the wheelchair sits for most of the day, has had skin problems, or uses a specialty seating system, ask their physical or occupational therapist which cushion type and size they recommend before you order.