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What Is Upholstery Foam?
Upholstery foam is the name for a type of foam used in soft furnishing applications, such as in sofas, arm chairs, dining chairs, ottomans, and more. High density upholstery foam is typically used in these items as it is firm and resilient enough for repeated use. Upholstery foam is available in different grades, representing different densities and thicknesses, and is strongly resistant to general wear and tear.
Different Types Of Upholstery Foam
The main difference between different upholstery foams usually lies in thickness and density. Higher density foams are a popular choice in applications where foam padding needs to be thin yet comfortable, such as in dining chairs. Given that denser foams contain more material to achieve that firmness, they are often more expensive than lower density foams.
The differences in upholstery foams can also be determined by their density rating. Most upholstery foams are sold with this rating, or are instead described as low, medium or high density. There are other combinations too, such as medium-high density. For sofas and armchairs, medium-high density upholstery foam is usually a great option as it gives the required support but maintains excellent comfort for the user. What’s more is that the majority of upholstery foams come with an ILD rating – a measurement known as Indentation Load Reflection.
Two Ways To Use Upholstery Foam
Given its range of thickness, density and comfort levels, upholstery foam can have many applications. Naturally, the most popular use is for revamping old and sunken sofa cushions. Replacing the upholstery foam used in a sofa is a very cost-effective way to make your sofa feel like new, without forking out on the expense of a new sofa!
Upholstery foam can also be used outside the home in various pieces of garden furniture and seats. For example, it can be used in custom made scatter cushions which help to make even the hardest and most awkward seats far more comfortable. However, upholstery foam should not be left outside exposed to the elements – be sure to cover it up or move your cushions inside.
Is Upholstery Foam Washable And Breathable?
It is highly recommended that upholstery foams are spot cleaned with water and a cloth. Furthermore, upholstery foams, including more luxurious foams like memory foam, should never be submerged in water. This is because it is very difficult to quickly dry dense foams, which then runs the risk of mould, mildew and bacteria gathering inside.
On the flip side, upholstery foam has a high breathability, alongside high flexibility and a resistance to stretching.
Is Upholstery Foam Toxic And Flammable?
Upholstery foam is made from polyurethane foam which, if brought from an environmentally-conscious UK supplier, should be made without the use of harmful and toxic chemicals.
All UK upholstery foam must comply with The Fire and Furnishings Regulations 1988 and be cigarette and match resistant. However, upholstery foam is not entirely fire proof.
Where To Buy Upholstery Foam Online?
Upholstery foam cut to size is available from several manufacturers directly via their websites. Many have online cut to size tools, making it easy to enter your dimensions and requirements. Simply search for ‘upholstery foam to buy online’!