How to Measure Outdoor Ottoman Cushions

Outdoor ottomans may look simple, but getting the measurements right makes the difference between a cushion that fits beautifully and one that shifts, gaps, or feels oversized. Whether you’re replacing a worn cushion or upgrading to custom, this guide will walk you through exactly what to measure and what details matter most.

Unlike deep seating or dining chairs, ottomans don’t have a back to “anchor” the cushion. That means precision in width, depth, thickness, and tie placement becomes even more important.

Step 1: Measure the Ottoman Frame (Not Just the Old Cushion)

Always start with the frame, even if you still have the original cushion.

Measure:

• Width (side to side) from outer edge to outer edge of the usable seating area
• Depth (front to back) measure the flat top surface
• Corner shape square, rounded, or slightly curved
• Any lip or inset does the cushion sit inside a frame recess?

Write everything down to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Important:

Old cushions often:

• Compress over time
• Lose shape
• Shrink slightly after years outdoors

Your frame is the truth. The old cushion is just a reference.

Step 2: Measure Thickness

Standard ottoman cushion thickness ranges from 3" to 6", depending on style and intended use.

Ask yourself:

• Is this just a footrest?
• Or does it double as extra seating?
• Does the height need to align with a chair seat?

Measure the space visually:

• If replacing an existing cushion, measure its thickness while it is not compressed.
• If designing new, consider surrounding seating height so everything aligns comfortably.

Step 3: Check Corner Style

Ottomans are commonly:

• Square corners
• Rounded front corners
• Fully rounded corners
• Slight trapezoids

If corners are rounded, measure:

• The straight section length
• The radius of the curve (if visible)

If unsure, a paper template works beautifully for custom shapes.

Step 4: Tie Location (Very Important for Ottomans)

Many ottoman cushions do not have visible ties but some do.

Common tie placements include:

• On the back edge (if pushed against a chair)
• On side edges
• On the underside of the ottoman (very common for metal frame styles)

Because ottomans don’t have backs, ties are often placed on the bottom frame rails to prevent sliding.

Important Note for Cascadia Customers:

While the Cascadia website ordering system does not allow you to custom-select ottoman tie placement during checkout, that does not mean ties cannot be added.

If your ottoman requires:

• Specific tie placement
• Ties on the underside
• Additional ties for windy areas

We can absolutely special order your ottoman cushion with custom tie placement. We simply need:

• A clear photo of the ottoman frame
• Your exact measurements
• A description (or marked-up photo) showing where ties are needed

Send that information before ordering, and we’ll guide you through the process.

Step 5: Special Situations

Recessed or Drop-In Ottomans

If the cushion sits inside a frame opening, measure the inside opening dimensions, not the outside frame.

Slatted or Open Frame Ottomans

If the top has slats or gaps:

• Measure the full usable top surface.
• Ties may be recommended for stability.

Storage Ottomans

If the top lifts:

• Ensure thickness does not interfere with hinges.
• Consider weight of foam and ease of lifting.

Common Ottoman Measuring Mistakes

• Measuring the old cushion only
• Forgetting to account for rounded corners
• Not checking whether ties are needed
• Ordering too thick and disrupting seat alignment
• Ignoring recessed frame dimensions

Quick Ottoman Measuring Checklist

✔ Width (frame surface)
✔ Depth (frame surface)
✔ Thickness desired
✔ Corner style
✔ Tie placement needed
✔ Photos of frame

If you’re unsure about any detail, send us a few photos and measurements. A properly fitted ottoman cushion should feel stable, proportional, and intentional not like an afterthought.