Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below is a list of answers to frequently asked questions. If you do not find the answer you are looking for,
please contact us.

How do VARILITE cushions work?
How is the cushion adjusted properly?
Why do some seat cushions have an indentation?
Will a 16” x 18” cushion fit in a 17” x 18” chair?
Are VARILITE cushions available in custom sizes?
Is there any latex in VARILITE cushions or covers?
Is the cushion and cover fabric waterproof?
What is the difference between Mesh and Incontinence covers?
Is there an up-charge for Incontinence covers or Mesh covers?
Are the cushion covers washable?
What do I do if I get a hole in my cushion?
Is my VARILITE cushion under warranty?
Are the secondary supports washable?
What’s the purpose of the elastic in the harnesses and Band-its™?
How do I maintain my VARILITE seating system and back support?
What is the weight capacity for VARILITE seat cushions?

Q: How do VARILITE cushions work?
A: Air in a VARILITE cushion supports the load, while foam keeps the air where it’s needed and preserves the cushion shape. See Air-Foam Floatation.

Q: How is the cushion adjusted properly?
A: For both Pressure Setting Valve (PSV) and standard valves, begin with the cushion fully inflated and valve closed. Transfer onto the cushion.

For a PSV, turn the valve clockwise until the pre-determined number appears in the indicator window. Air will escape until the valve automatically shuts off (approximately 10-15 seconds). Once the valve has shut off the release of air, close the valve by turning it clockwise. See PSV Operating Instructions for more information.

For a standard valve, slowly turn the valve counterclockwise to release the air. Listen for a change in pitch and close the valve by turning clockwise. Air level is determined by the amount of support or stability needed by the user, comfort, and activity level. See Seating Systems instructions for more information.

Q: Why do some cushions have an indentation?
A: The cushion is designed to indent in the sacral-ischial area. The soft, less firm foam of the sacral-ischial area, by design, exerts less “push back” on the cushion fabric than the surrounding firmer foam. See Sacral-Ischial Foam Indentation Explanation for more information.

Q: Will a 16” x 18” cushion fit in a 17” x 18” chair?
A: No. Select the cushion that is 1” larger. For example if you wheelchair seat size is 17” x 18”, select an 18 x 18 cushion. The cushion will accommodate the 1” size difference without affecting its performance.

Q: Are VARILITE cushions available in custom sizes?
A: VARILITE cushions are available in a wide range of widths and depths. We frequently update our size selection to meet the needs of our customers. We welcome your size suggestions for planning future product sizes. Customers tell us that our standard sizes often accommodate customer wheelchairs well. If you need a size that is not currently available, select the cushion that is 1” larger. For example if you wheelchair seat size is 17” x 18”, select an 18 x 18 cushion. The cushion will accommodate the 1” size difference without affecting its performance.

Q: Is there any latex in VARILITE cushions or covers?
A: No

Q: Is the cushion and cover fabric waterproof?
A: Incontinence covers are available for all VARILITE seat cushions, meaning fluid will not penetrate the cushion cover and will wick away from the user. In addition, the cushion itself is waterproof.

Q: What is the difference between Mesh and Incontinence covers?
A: Mesh covers are made of an open weave material designed to allow for best available air flow through the material. Incontinence covers are made of a waterproof material which will not allow fluid to penetrate the cover.

Q: Is there an up-charge for Incontinence covers or Mesh covers?
A: No. With every cushion purchase, the buyer is entitled to their choice of an Incontinence cover or Mesh cover.

Q: Are the cushion covers washable?
A: Absolutely. All covers may be machine-washed and air-dried. We suggest zipping the cover closed and using the gentle cycle setting when machine-washing our covers.

Q: What do I do if I get a hole in my cushion?
A: Although the bladder of the cushion is puncture resistant, it is not puncture proof. If you do get a hole in your cushion, there are two options; we can send you a repair kit or you may send it to us for repair. See VARILITE Warranty for more information.

Q: Is my VARILITE cushion under warranty?
A: All VARILITE products, excluding cushion covers, are protected by our warranty. See VARILITE Warranty for more information.

Q: Are the secondary supports washable?
A: Yes. The best way to wash the belts, harnesses and Band-Its™ is to remove the hardware (consider marking the webbing so you know where to reattach it) and place the product in a large sock or pillowcase. Once wash cycle is completed, air dry. For hand washing, consider using a mild detergent.

Q: What’s the purpose of the elastic in the harnesses and Band-its™?
A: The elastic is designed to allow the body some freedom of movement while still offering the positioning support needed. Movement is necessary for functional tasks such as reaching, propulsion and weight shifting or during a spasm.

Q: How do I maintain my VARILITE seating system and back support?
A: We recommend that you leave the valve open and allow your VARILITE cushion to fully inflate overnight at least once a week to maintain optimal cushion performance and foam integrity. Check your cushion’s inflation level daily to ensure optimal seating and positioning.

Q: What is the weight capacity for VARILITE seat cushions?