• "flikr2439" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: flikr (Kelbv) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  

Uses

• A simple cushion for a dining room chair."delorean:complexity reducer" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: visualpanic (Lali Masriera) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  The use of cushions determines how they are designed, not only for support but for maintenance. Cushions designed for child friendly environments will be different from those with more formal settings in mind. Seat cushion designs range from a simple dining chair pad to ergonomic car seat cushions for long periods at the wheel.
  
  

Shape

• The more traditional cushion shapes are the bolster, round, square, crescent and rectangular form. When considering support, shape takes the form which gives the most comfort to the bones and allows for the natural curvature of the spine. Kneeling cushions in church pews come in square or rectangular forms of even thickness for balance. Others, like the zafu, come in the crescent shape and the round form. These cushions are used during meditation and are designed for keeping still for long periods in different poses.
  
  Cushions are sometimes contoured for comfort; for example, designs for custom wheelchair cushions have additional contoured padding to relieve pressure and poor circulation.
  
  

Fill

• The choice of fill is also determined during the design process. Foam is the most common choice, but other fills such as cotton, horsehair, memory foam, latex, air, gel, grain and wool can be used separately or in combination for their particular properties. Memory foam, known for its use in the mattress industry, is malleable enough to form support around a body, whereas horsehair is resistant to mites, mold and mildew.
  
  

Fabric

• Choosing the right fabric is important for comfort and durability."Birthday Loot" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: *Vintage Fairytale* (Staci F) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  Thicker fabrics can withstand wear and tear. For example, couch cushions can be used often for several hours a day. Some cushion fillings, like buckwheat, need thick covers so the hulls don't damage the fabric. Texture is also important. Soft breathable fabrics are preferred for comfort, but durable waterproof fabrics are more suited for outdoor use.
  
  

Maintenance

• The type of fabric is not the only item considered for cushion maintenance. Fillings such as latex or buckwheat are selected because they don't need to be cleaned frequently. Extra casings, buttons or zippers also make the cushion last longer.