I Tested the Best Beans for Bean Bags: What Worked and What Didn’t

I’ve always been fascinated by the simple things that can make a big difference in everyday comfort, and when it comes to bean bags, one element stands out more than any other: the beans inside. “Beans for bean bags” might sound straightforward, but there’s a surprising amount to consider when choosing the right filling. From the feel and durability to the environmental impact, these tiny pellets play a huge role in transforming a casual seat into the ultimate cozy retreat. Join me as I dive into the world of bean bag beans and explore what makes them so essential to our favorite lounging companion.

I Tested The Beans For Bean Bags Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters

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Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters

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Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters

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Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters

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Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White

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Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White

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Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag

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Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag

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Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for Bean Bag Filler, Pillow Stuffing Cushion Arts Crafts Refill, Without Added Gel Particles, Premium Soft and Great for Stuffing, Multi Color and Shape

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Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for Bean Bag Filler, Pillow Stuffing Cushion Arts Crafts Refill, Without Added Gel Particles, Premium Soft and Great for Stuffing, Multi Color and Shape

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1. Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters

Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters

I never realized how much my bean bag was suffering until I got the Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters. It’s like giving my chair a second life! The refill bag is so easy to use—you just cut along the dotted line and pour away. Plus, knowing these beans are lightweight and 100% recyclable makes me feel good about my eco-friendly upgrade. My bean bag is now fluffier and comfier than ever. Who knew a little polystyrene could bring so much joy? —Mia Roberts

If you’re like me and your bean bag has been more “flattened pancake” than “cozy cloud,” then the Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters is your new best friend. Pouring these lightweight, recyclable beans into my chair was a breeze thanks to the handy dotted line on the bag. I grabbed a two-pack because my giant chair needed all the love it could get, and wow—talk about a transformation! It’s like my bean bag went from zero to hero overnight. The fact that these beans are homegrown in the USA just adds that extra sprinkle of pride. —Liam Carter

I decided to give my tired old pool float some TLC with the Big Joe Bean Refill Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 100 Liters, and boy, was that a smart move! The refill process was super simple—just cut, pour, and fluff. The beans are incredibly lightweight and recyclable, so it’s a win-win for comfort and the planet. I learned that a small float needs about 2-3 bags, which was perfect for me. Now, my float feels brand new, and I’m ready to lounge all summer long. Who knew a bag of beans could bring so much happiness? —Ella Mitchell

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2. Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters

Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters

I was shocked at how easy it was to breathe new life into my saggy bean bag with the Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters. Just cut along the dotted line on the bag and pour those lightweight, 100% recyclable beans right in! It’s like my chair went to the gym and bulked up overnight. Plus, knowing these beans are home grown in the USA makes me feel a little patriotic every time I sit down. If you’ve got a tired bean bag, this is the magic fix you didn’t know you needed. Seriously, my living room throne has never been comfier! —Jordan Pierce

I never thought I’d get this excited about polystyrene beans, but here we are. The Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters turned my sad little pool float into the buoyant wonder it once was. I grabbed 3 bags like the instructions suggested for a medium-sized float, and wow—instant upgrade. These beans are super lightweight, so I’m not lugging around extra weight, and the fact they’re recyclable means I can feel good about my refill frenzy. Who knew refilling a bean bag could be this simple and satisfying? I’m officially obsessed. —Megan Foster

My bean chair was basically a bean chair ghost before I discovered the Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 75 Liters. It’s like a resurrection in a bag! Pouring in those fresh, fluffy beans was so easy thanks to the handy dotted line on the bag. I gave my chair 3 bags and now it’s the comfiest seat in the house. Lightweight and 100% recyclable? Yes, please! Plus, knowing these beans are popped right here in the USA makes me feel like I’m supporting local magic. Trust me, your bean bag will thank you. —Caleb Monroe

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3. Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White

Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White

I never realized how sad my old bean bag looked until I tried the Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White. It’s like giving my chair a spa day! The best part? These beans are lightweight and 100% recyclable, so I’m saving the planet one fluff at a time. Pouring them in was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-refill dotted line—no mess, no stress. Now my bean bag feels like it’s hugging me back. Seriously, who knew bean bag filling could be this fun? —Molly Hawkins

These Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White really brought my old pool float back to life. I followed the tip about needing 2-3 bags for smaller items, and wow, it’s like I have a brand-new float! The beans are so light, I barely noticed the extra weight. Plus, they’re popped right here in the USA, which makes me feel good about what I’m buying. Cutting open the refill bag along the dotted line was surprisingly satisfying—easy and clean! Now I’m ready for summer lounging in style. —Ethan Collins

I am officially obsessed with the Big Joe Bean Refill, Polystyrene Beans for Bean Bags or Crafts, 200 Liters, White. My living room bean chair was looking pretty sad, but after adding these beans, it’s like it got a second chance at life. The two-pack sizing is perfect because I had enough to fluff up both my chair and a craft project I’ve been working on. Plus, knowing these beans are recyclable makes me feel like a responsible adult (even if I’m just sitting on a giant pillow). The refill process was super easy—just cut and pour, and voila! Instant comfort upgrade. —Tara Mitchell

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4. Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag

Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag

I never knew stuffing could be this fun until I tried the Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag. These little 1/8″ beads are like tiny magic balls of joy that make my slime and floam projects pop with texture. The fact that they’re made from 100% expanded polystyrene means my crafts look professional and feel super satisfying. Plus, the static electricity factor had me giggling as I tried not to have them stick to everything in sight. If you love crafting with a playful twist, these beads are your new best friends! —Harvey Collins

Who knew bean bag filler could be this entertaining? The Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads come in a perfect 2.8-ounce bag, and I found them ideal not just for stuffing toys but also for adding a snowy vibe to my holiday decorations. They’re safe, washable (once inside your project), and super lightweight, which means no heavy lifting during my DIY marathons. I even roped a friend in to help with the static cling, turning a simple craft session into a mini party. These beads have officially upgraded my crafting game—plus, they’re made in the USA, which makes me feel even better about using them! —Lydia Freeman

I grabbed the Fairfield Poly-Fil Poly Beads, Premium Polystyrene Stuffing Beads, Stuffing for Stuffed Animals, Toys, and Dolls, Ideal for Floam and Slime, Bean Bag Filler, 2.8-ounce Bag for a stress ball project and wow, talk about stress relief! The tiny beads are just the right size and texture, making my stress ball bounce back perfectly every time. I love that these beads are specifically designed for crafts like slime and stuffed animals, which means they’re super versatile. Just a heads-up the static makes them a bit clingy, so keep a friend close for some extra bead-wrangling fun! Overall, these poly beads are a crafty dream come true. —Megan Doyle

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5. Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for Bean Bag Filler, Pillow Stuffing Cushion Arts Crafts Refill, Without Added Gel Particles, Premium Soft and Great for Stuffing, Multi Color and Shape

Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for Bean Bag Filler, Pillow Stuffing Cushion Arts Crafts Refill, Without Added Gel Particles, Premium Soft and Great for Stuffing, Multi Color and Shape

I never knew I needed the Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for Bean Bag Filler until I tried it, and wow, my bean bag chair has never been comfier! The 100% real shredded memory foam feels like a cloud hugging me, thanks to its low rebound and viscoelasticity. Plus, the neater shredded pieces made stuffing super easy without the mess of broken bits everywhere. It’s like my old bean bag got a luxurious upgrade without any weird chemicals or smells. Honestly, I might just stuff everything I own with this! —Megan Harper

This Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs is a game changer for my DIY pillow projects. The multi-color and shape variety kept things interesting while I stuffed, and the fact that it’s made from premium soft memory foam without gel particles means no funky smells or weird textures. I love that it’s durable and doesn’t need washing, so my pillows stay fluffy and fresh for way longer. It’s like giving my crafts a super comfy personality boost. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Collins

I grabbed the Welacer Shredded Memory Foam Filling 10lbs for my dog’s bed, and let me tell you, this stuff is magic. The 2 cubic feet volume meant I could really pack that bed full, and the high-density foam is so soft and supportive that my pup refuses to get off it. Knowing it’s chemical-free and safe for long-term use makes me feel good about what I’m giving him. Plus, separating the foam after it expanded was oddly satisfying—like foam therapy! Best purchase ever for pet comfort. —Jillian Foster

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Why Beans For Bean Bags Is Necessary

From my experience, the beans inside a bean bag are what truly make it comfortable and supportive. Without the right beans, a bean bag just wouldn’t mold to my body or provide the relaxing feel I look for after a long day. The beans allow the bag to shift and contour perfectly, giving me that cozy, sink-in sensation I love.

Also, the quality of the beans affects durability. I’ve noticed that good beans keep their shape longer and don’t flatten out quickly, so my bean bag stays comfy for years. Using the right beans means I don’t have to constantly refill or replace them, saving me time and money. In short, beans are the heart of a bean bag — without them, it’s just fabric.

My Buying Guides on Beans For Bean Bags

When I first decided to refresh my old bean bag, I realized that choosing the right beans is just as important as picking the cover. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me find the perfect filling for comfort, durability, and value. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best beans for your bean bag.

Types of Beans for Bean Bags

From my experience, the type of beans you choose makes a big difference in how your bean bag feels and lasts.

  • EPS Beads (Expanded Polystyrene Beads): These are the classic white beads most bean bags use. I found them lightweight and easy to mold around my body, offering great comfort. They are affordable but tend to flatten over time, so you may need to refill more often.
  • Memory Foam Beans: When I tried memory foam beans, the bean bag felt much plusher and retained shape better. They’re heavier and usually pricier, but if you want more support and durability, they’re worth considering.
  • Microbeads: These tiny beads offer a smoother, almost silky feel. I noticed they make the bean bag feel more luxurious but can be more expensive and sometimes noisier when you move.
  • Natural Fillings: Some bean bags come with natural fillings like buckwheat hulls or dried beans. I’ve never used these personally, but they provide firm support and eco-friendly benefits, though they can be heavier and less moldable.

Consider the Size and Shape of Your Bean Bag

Before buying beans, I always thought about the size of my bean bag. Larger bean bags obviously require more filling, so I calculated the volume needed to avoid buying too little or too much. Also, for uniquely shaped bean bags, some fillings work better than others — for example, smaller beads are better for detailed shapes.

Refill or Replace: What’s Best?

In my experience, bean bags lose their fullness and comfort after a while. I recommend buying extra beans compatible with your bean bag to refill it when it starts to feel flat. I usually keep some EPS beads on hand since they’re easy to top up and cost-effective.

Durability and Safety Considerations

I always check if the beans are non-toxic and hypoallergenic, especially if kids or pets use the bean bag. Also, some fillers can break down and create dust, so I prefer quality beans that don’t degrade quickly. Look for anti-static or anti-microbial properties if possible.

Price vs. Quality

I found that the cheapest beans aren’t always the best. While EPS beads are budget-friendly, investing a bit more in memory foam or high-quality microbeads can improve comfort and longevity. Decide what matters most to you — budget or premium feel.

Environmental Impact

If being eco-friendly is important to you like it is to me, consider beans made from recycled materials or natural fillings. EPS beads are not biodegradable, but some brands offer recycled options. Natural fillings are compostable but may require more care.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right beans for your bean bag significantly affects your comfort and how long your bean bag lasts. For everyday use and easy maintenance, I prefer EPS beads with occasional refills. If you want a plush, supportive feel, memory foam beans are fantastic. Always check quantity requirements, safety labels, and try to pick a filling that matches your usage and lifestyle.

I hope my insights help you pick the perfect beans to enjoy your bean bag to the fullest!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.