The 9 Best Padded Benches
Special Honors
Patio Lane Nothing is worse than finding a bench you like only to discover there isn't a padded version available. However, if you've got a creative streak and are patient enough to wait 7 to 8 weeks, this website can help you make a custom cushion following extremely exact specifications. Their step-by-step system includes obvious considerations like dimensions and fill, as well as more out-of-the-way details such as welting and corner style. patiolane.com
Ballard Designs This online retailer carries a varied selection of benches, settees, ottomans, and other padded items, all of which are as stylish as they are expensive. The real draw, other than their exquisite craftsmanship, is the vast selection of over 300 fabrics their upholstered items can be covered with. Of course, it also won't hurt you to stop by their sale section, where you can find significantly marked down items, padded benches very much included. ballarddesigns.com
Editor's Notes
July 28, 2020:
Unlike regular benches, padded benches have cushioned tops that make sitting on them more comfortable. Some of the most common places you’ll find them are along dining room tables, inside entryways, and at the foot of beds, but don’t let that stop you from placing them wherever you prefer, as long as it’s somewhere safe.
Since there’s a decent amount of good options out there, we favored straightforward designs over storage versions and models dedicated to shoes as we already have excellent lists that focus on those.
For what it’s worth, the average height of dining seats is between 17” and 19”, so if you’re looking for something that will suit diners, you might want to stick with models like the Signature Design by Ashley Tyler Creek or the 18 1/2” version of the Kmax Rustic.
Finally, we urge you to follow both sellers’ and manufacturers’ guidelines when it comes to your bench’s weight limits, as overburdening any model can result in it breaking and possibly injuring those seated on it.