How Many Cushions Is Too Many? (Asking for a Sofa)

There comes a moment in every home when someone (usually a partner, guest, or passing relative) asks the question: “Do you really need this many cushions?”

Do you really need this many cushions?

And to that, I say – yes. Yes, I do.

Cushions are more than fluff. They’re comfort, character, and the quickest way to make a room feel lived-in and styled with intention. The trick isn’t owning fewer – it’s knowing how to use them.

So, how many is too many? Let’s dig into the cushion conundrum and settle this once and for all.

The Cushion Conundrum

Cushions are the unsung heroes of home styling. They add texture, colour, depth – and yes, a place to fall face-first after a long day. But they’re also where many people get stuck. Do you match them all? Should they be symmetrical? Can you mix velvet with linen? (Yes, you absolutely can.)

At the same time, too many cushions badly styled can veer into sofa avalanche territory. We’ve all seen it – the poor couch buried beneath a rainbow of over-fluffed chaos. So where’s the balance?

How Many Is “Too Many”?

Let’s be honest: what Instagram calls “too many” is usually just right in real life. Here’s a rough guide:

• Three: Clean, minimal, and safe. Great if you hate fluffing and have commitment issues.

• Five: The stylist’s sweet spot. Balanced, layered, and easy to work with.

• Seven (or more): Maximalist and unapologetic. You love comfort, you love drama, and you’re not here for empty corners.

The truth? The “right” number is whatever feels right to you. In my own home, I firmly believe you can never have too many cushions. You just rotate them seasonally – or moodily – and store the rest in the cupboard for later. It’s like shopping your own home, minus the guilt.

The Art of Cushion Rotation

Cushions, like outfits, don’t all need to be out at once. A little seasonal rotation keeps your space feeling fresh without constantly buying new things. In winter, bring in the cosy textures – velvets, boucle, deep colours. In summer, swap for linens, soft neutrals, maybe a cheeky pattern or two.

And yes, keep a cushion cupboard. It’s a perfectly legitimate storage space, thank you very much (and so I keep telling my husband).

Throw Blankets: The Cushion’s Wingman

No sofa styling is complete without a throw. They’re not just for warmth – they break up the sea of cushions and add another layer of texture. Drape one casually over the armrest if you want that “styled but I didn’t try” look. Or fold it neatly if you’re more Type A.

Either way, throws are like jewellery for your sofa. Not essential, but they make everything look finished.

Final Thoughts: Cushions Without Caution

If you’ve ever worried that your cushion collection is getting out of hand – don’t. A well-styled sofa with layers, texture and personality is far better than one that looks like a furniture showroom. Use what you love. Mix patterns. Fluff often. And above all, rotate with pride.

Your sofa isn’t asking for fewer cushions. It’s asking for better ones.

My own home

Want more irreverent takes on home styling? Browse my blog for design advice that cuts through the fluff (but keeps the cushions). Or sign up to my newsletter.