The Best Wheelchair Cushions for Pressure Relief and Comfort

A wheelchair cushion gives wheelchair users a solid base that not only makes sitting in a wheelchair more comfortable but also prevents the development of pressure sores, promotes proper posture, and protects skin health. One cushion does not fit all, however, and choosing the right cushion for your needs makes all the difference in long-term skin health and comfort.

1. Cushion Material and Support Type

Gel

Gel cushions usually contain a gel pocket or bladder in a foam base. Some feature a contoured design for posture support and gel provides a cooling effect for all-day comfort¹. Gel adapts to the user's weight for pressure relief.

Foam

Foam cushions are low-maintenance and lightweight, with a firm base for stability. They are usually more affordable and available in various sizes, densities, and thicknesses.

Air

Air cushions consist of inflated cells or chambers that adapt to the body's movements for pressure redistribution.

Hybrid

Hybrid cushions use a combination of materials (gel, foam, and/or air) to meet all the user's needs (pressure redistribution, posture support, comfort, etc.).

2. Pressure Relief and Weight Distribution

Prolonged sitting can cause pressure sores, so pressure relief and redistribution are vital for many wheelchair users, especially for those with limited to no sensation², who have difficulty repositioning on their own, and/or experience circulation issues.

3. Cushion Shape and Contouring

There are two wheelchair cushion shapes - linear (flat) and contoured³.

Flat cushions - meaning they have no specific or specialized contours or molded design - are what most people picture when they think of a wheelchair cushion. These cushions typically support most body types and allow for freedom of movement.

Contoured cushions feature molded shapes, indents, and shapes intended for specific purposes. The most important reason a cushioned is contoured is to provide optimal pressure redistribution to prevent and soothe pressure sores. Contoured cushions may also provide extra stability, spinal alignment, and posture support.

4. Cover Material and Breathability

Choosing a cushion with the right cover is almost as important as choosing the cushion itself⁴. If you are sitting for long-term periods, a cover with moisture-wicking (also known as vapor-permeable) material is essential for comfort and temperature regulation. Many wheelchair covers are designed for easy cleaning and are typically machine washable or can be wiped down.

5. Cushion Size and Compatibility with Wheelchairs

The way the cushion fits your wheelchair makes all the difference in comfort and how effective that cushion is. Before buying a new cushion, it's essential to measure to ensure the correct size for your wheelchair.⁵

1. Measure the width. Sit in the wheelchair wearing the clothing you would normally wear while using your wheelchair. Using a tape measure, measure across the widest part of your hips or thighs. Add about an inch to the measurement for comfort.
2. Measure the depth. Measure the seat from the back to the front edge. To ensure the cushion supports the thighs without putting pressure on the backs of your knees, subtract about an inch from the measured depth for some space at the front.
3. Measure the height. Measure the seat from the bottom to the top. Consider how the cushion will impact your sitting height. Your feet should comfortably rest on the footrests even with the cushion.
4. Trial and error. If possible, test out the cushion for some time before fully committing to it, to see if any minor or major adjustments need to be made.

There are a huge variety of wheelchair cushions available today, and narrowing your choices down can be difficult. We've done our part to simplify that choice by picking out top-rated cushions and the purpose they serve.

Air Cushions

Air cell cushions usually have a removable, machine-washable cover. Follow manufacturer instructions, but many recommend washing covers in cold water on a gentle cycle⁶.

The cushion can be cleaned with a diluted, mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush in a bathtub or a large sink. Once clean, rinse with water and allow to air dry. Check manufacturer instructions for recommended soaps and cleaning solutions you can use.

Foam Cushions

Most foam cushions can be cleaned by wiping them down gently with a damp cloth (no soap or other cleaning products). Never submerge a foam cushion in water. Use a dry cloth to wipe away the excess moisture and allow it to fully air dry before using it again.

Gel Cushions

Like air cushions, most gel cushions come with a machine-washable cover. Wash the cover in cold water on a gentle cycle. Clean the cushion (avoid any foam segments) with mild soap and water. Dry excess moisture and allow to air dry.

Choosing the right wheelchair cushion is essential for long-term comfort and health. Vitality Medical has a variety of high-quality, top-rated wheelchair cushions for pressure relief, posture support, and more.

• ¹  "Uehara, E., & Larson, C. A. (2019)." Wheelchair cushion fact sheet. Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy.
• ²  "McBride, S. (2024, March 1)." How to choose the best wheelchair cushion for you. New Mobility.
• ³  "Mullis, S. (2021, February 16)." Cushion geometry: Linear and contoured. Permobil.
• ⁴  "Hamstra, C. (2023, July 13)." How to select the right cushion for your wheelchair – a clinician’s guide. Motion Composites.
• ⁵  "Cura360. (2024, May 27)." How to measure for wheelchair cushions. Cura360.
• ⁶  "(2015, December 22). " Cleaning your wheelchair cushion. National Seating & Mobility.