What Foam is Right for Sofa Cushions?

A sofa can be an expensive investment, and given how much it’s used in the home, it needs to be durable and of high quality. That said, comfort is also key - an uncomfortable sofa isn’t much use to anyone, and won’t feel very relaxing.

There are many different types of sofas on the market to choose from, and it’s often difficult to know where to start. In addition to sofa shape - whether it be 2-seat, 3-seat, corner or other - you will also need to consider the materials your sofa is made from. This includes the outer cover material, which is usually leather, man-made PU leather or fabric, as well as the inner materials.

Popular inner filling materials you can choose from include feather and down, foam and horsehair. There are some sofa manufacturers that offer alternative materials, although they tend to be at a far higher price point and exclusively sold via luxury furniture retailers. However, when choosing a sofa with comfort and durability in mind, foam often comes out as the filling material of choice for many.

Why is foam best for sofa cushions?

On the whole, foam is firmer than other sofa fillings such as fibre and feather and can therefore offer greater support to the user. It also retains its shape far better than alternative materials, with firmer foams retaining their original shape for longer. Softer foams do also spring back into their original shape, but naturally, firmer foams are more durable. Overall, foam doesn’t lose its original shape once people have sat on it.

Foam is therefore best for sofa cushions as it is highly customisable. There are various grades and densities of foam available - all of which can be tailored to specific requirements.

Different types of foam used in sofa cushions

Polyurethane foam is the most popular choice for sofa cushions, and it is highly resilient. It is available in various thicknesses, densities, shapes, cut to size, and can also be topped with memory foam to achieve a more luxurious feel. Memory foam can be used on its own too, although it is slightly more expensive and some do not like its ‘sinking’ feel. Memory foam is polyurethane foam that is created when blending in additional compounds during the manufacturing process. Polyurethane foam is usually available in soft, medium, firm options when purchasing a sofa.

How to choose the right foam for your sofa cushions

Those wanting a softer sofa can opt for a lower density foam. Those wanting a sofa with more support, or who need a sofa that withstands high usage on a daily basis, can opt for firmer higher density foam. Choosing the right foam is all down to personal preference, and there isn’t necessarily a ‘best’ foam for sofa cushions, but in comparison to other cushion filling materials, the end feel can be better controlled with foam.

For sofa seats, you may opt for a firm foam that can endure repeated use on a long-term basis, and easily spring back into shape after being compressed under bodyweight. For your sofa back cushions a lower/medium density foam is better suited for more gentle support.