The Differences and Relationship Between Foam’s Density, Weight, and Firmness
If you were to tell a stranger that foam has density, weight, and firmness characteristics, he or she would likely understand, given how common the terms are. However, one of the most confusing things about foam is the relationship between these characteristics. On the surface, it would seem the density or weight of a material would allow you to draw a correlation about its firmness, and vice versa. In general, this is often true, but when applied to foam products, density and firmness are independent values for determining a foam’s qualities.
2.8LB Density HD36 Foam
It would be accurate to say density is a foam characteristic that is “over-applied,” rather than one that is misunderstood. The density of foam means the same thing as any other application of the term; the quantity or mass of a material per a measurable size or volume. This pertains to all varieties of foam, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), polyethylene, polyurethane foam, and others. How density is measured varies across materials though, and in the case of foam, density is found by weighing a 12″ x 12″ x 12″ block of the material. If a product has a 3LB density, that means its 12″ x 12″ x 12″ block weighed 3LB. And while it’s vital to understand that density does not pertain to the firmness of a foam product, it does correlate to the quality and longevity of a product.
Many conventional foams have a density between 1LB and 3LB. However, the densest materials can be as much as 10 or 15LB. High-density foam, Like The Foam Factory’s 2.8LB density HD36-HQ foam, is optimal for uses that receive heavy or daily use like couch cushions, bedding, or automobile seating. Lower density foam is excellent for occasional-use products like shipping foam, crafts, or guest room mattress toppers.
Density is also sometimes referred to as weight, which is a more literal translation of the characteristic given the testing process. But because of this, it’s always important to specify whether you want to know a product’s overall weight, or its density weight. Consider a 6-inch thick, conventional foam queen mattress with a 2.8LB density. The material weight is correctly stated as 2.8LB, since that’s its density. However, the overall weight of the mattress would be about 46LB. That’s about 43LB worth of reasons to make sure you clarify which value you need to know, since both can be technically correct.
1.4LB Density Filter Foam
Firmness meanwhile, interprets the feel of foam and how it yields to weight and pressure. Its measurement is called Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) (also known as Indentation Force Deflection/IFD), found by mechanical performance testing. A foam sample measuring 15″ by 15″ by 4″ is used and the force in pounds that it takes a 50 square inch circular indenter to compress the material 1″ (25 percent of its thickness) is recorded. If the sample requires 36LB of pressure to indent it 1″, its ILD is 36. It is also important that the test material meets the standardized dimensions, as different thicknesses of the same material can support weight differently. A hard foam material will require greater force to reach 25 percent compression, and a softer material will require less. Most common materials have ILD values from 8 to 70, with some materials as high as 120 to 150. A low ILD example would be The Foam Factory’s 12ILD Super Soft Foam, while their Rebond Foam is very firm at 70ILD.
Firmness testing is done to help illustrate how a material will bear weight in end-use applications. It is important to interpret firmness values as an explanation of a material’s physical feel rather than its quality, which is reflected by its density. Because of the numerous structural and chemical makeups of foam, some foam sheets with higher densities can even have a lower ILD than foams with lower densities. For this reason, the two values should be looked at independently and used to help find a product that matches your preferences.
Understanding what these characteristics do and do not tell you about a foam material is very important for selecting the perfect product for an application. By understanding the values of these measurements, you can have a better idea of what to expect from a product and make a more educated purchase.
For questions or more information about foam density, weight, and firmness, contact The Foam Factory here.
Tags: Density, Firmness, Foam, Foam Hardness, Foam Testing
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Is a 12-13 I.L.D. paired with a 5.34 lb. density foam good for a memory foam topper dssigned to “soften up” a mattress that is too firm? Thanks, Peter
Peter,
The simple answer to your question is yes. A 12-13 ILD foam is on the softer side of the firmness spectrum, so it will soften a firm mattress.
Now, the actual firmness of the mattress it will be going on does play a role in the feel of the topper. If you have a foam mattress with a hypothetical ILD of 50, you can go directly by the numbers and know a 12-13 ILD topper will be softer. Lower ILD is softer feel, higher ILD is firmer. With conventional innerspring mattresses, feel is a bit more subjective, but if you have a mattress that is genuinely too firm, a 12-13 ILD topper should soften it. Also, the density of foam reflects the quality and durability of the material more than the feel. In your case, with a 5.34 pound density, you’re looking at a very high-quality topper.
Lastly, the great thing about visco-elastic memory foam for people who want a softer sleeping surface is that it is activated by the user’s body heat. This means the most cushion is offered in the places you need it most: high-pressure areas.
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask, whether it’s here or through phone or e-mail via our Contact Us page!
Hi, we need to firm up out IKEA mattress, manufactured at 70 kg/cubic meter, or 4.4 #/cu ft. I do not know the ILD maybe 11 – 12. This seems to be a very soft mattress at 7″ deep, single layer foam. We are considering adding 2″ – 4″ of more dense foam in the range of 5.2# to 5.7#. Should this be installed on top of, or below the mattress?
Thank you for your help, we are not in the trade, but have been attempting to educate ourselves in the world of ILD, IFD manufacture.
Thanks,
Evelyn Hill & James Tuthill
Evelyn and James,
This is an excellent question, and it’s quite apparent you’ve done research to try and get some insight on your situation which should be applauded.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple fix for the situation you’re in. It’s easy to soften a firm mattress, but you can’t really make a soft mattress firmer, at least to the degree most people would want. A 4.4LB density mattress is a good quality material, but you are spot-on that an 11 to 12ILD is a very soft foam, especially for a mattress. At 7”, this softness becomes even more pronounced, as you can sink too deeply into the bed. Adding a firmer layer over a softer layer will be unsupportive, as the softer base will cause the firmer top layer to bow, with the soft foam yielding to the weight. You are correct that a higher ILD foam (35-50ILD) would be firmer in terms of feel, but the performance would be greatly diminished by the soft base foam if you were to place it on top. Placing firmer foam beneath soft foam won’t have an effect on the feel unless you’re bottoming out though all 7” of the soft foam – and if this is the case, the mattress needs to be replaced anyway, as a foam that thick should not be that soft for supportive, comfortable sleep.
If it’s your intention to turn a very soft mattress into a firmer one, we’re sorry to say that our best suggestion is to replace your mattress with something that fits your needs better. If the mattress was layered and built from multiple sheets adding up to 7” you would have some maneuverability, but in a single slab, there aren’t many options.
If you have any more questions about ILD, softness, support, and mattresses, we would be more than happy to help you get the comfort you’re looking for! Feel free to follow-up with additional questions or comments here, or you can contact us directly through one of the channels on our Contact Us page.
-Foam Factory
We have a sleeper sofa with inferior cushions and they are slipping and sagging after only 18 months. I’m looking for replacements, and I need to know what density and ILD I need to support two weighty people over the long haul (200 & 250 lbs.) Can you explain the relationship between density, ILD and support for higher weights?
Thanks,
Kate
Hi Kate,
Sorry to hear those cushions are already giving out on you, but the good news is, we can definitely help! Thank you for commenting as well; this is a great question and one we get asked pretty frequently, so hopefully this gives you, as well as others who have the same problem, some insight.
The biggest thing to understand about density and ILD, and something you’re probably already aware of, is that they’re independent of each other. But in concert, they form the overall experience you get out of a cushion. In a situation where you want a longer life out of a foam insert, with adequate support for the requirements you’ve specified, your number one priority should be high-density foam.
Since foam density is calculated uniformly – the weight of a cubic block of the material – a high-density foam contains more performance product (physical foam material vs. air pockets) than lower density foam. This is indicative of greater overall quality, and makes for a more resilient product that is stronger, can handle greater levels of use, and will retain its comfort qualities longer. Even with hours and hours of heavy use every day (constant getting up and getting down, falling into seats, kneeling on cushions, etc.) 18 months is a very short timeframe for cushions to wear out, which tells me your current foam is lower density, even if they started out comfortable. For the long-term durability you’re after, a couch cushion should be between 2LB and 3LB density, for the best blend of benefits and value.
ILD, on the other hand, measures firmness. The lower the ILD, the softer the foam, and the higher the ILD, the firmer the foam – no tricks there! But the thing that sometimes confuses people is that feel (soft or firm) has no bearing on the quality or durability (density) of the material. You can have a high-density cushion with a very low ILD, which means it will be a very soft cushion but will maintain that same degree of softness for years. For some people, that’s exactly what they want. In your situation, where you’re looking for support, higher ILD is desirable, because firmer foam doesn’t create that softer “sinking” feeling. Higher ILD foam is still soft and comfortable, but you will feel more stable and rest higher in the cushion, which also makes it easier to get in and out of. It is also possible to have a high ILD foam with a low density, which will start off firm, but quickly lose its supportiveness, causing it to become soft, spongy, and saggy, which sounds like what happened to your current cushions.
In your situation where you want something durable that will comfortably hold up for years while being very supportive, we would suggest our Lux-HQ foam. It features a density of 2.8LB and an ILD of 50LB, which is very firm in the world of comfort and support products. This is our most durable cushioning foam, as well as the firmest, and typically lasts a minimum of a decade, and up to 18 years in some cases. Our HD36-HQ is also a 2.8LB density material with the same lifespan, but has a softer blend of comfort and support, with a 35ILD.
Hopefully you found this information useful and feel a little better equipped making your cushion replacement decision. If you have any other questions or comments, don’t hesitate to ask, whether it’s in another blog comment, through our Contact Page, where you can find our phone number and e-mail address, or even tweeting at us on Twitter (@FoamFactoryInc)! Thanks again for the great question, Kate!
– Foam Factory
Your site is very helpful. Looking for a very firm foam mattress. Saw your hd36hq vs. LHQ 2. Are they latex or some other foam? Open or cloed cell or what do I want? We sleep on one that is so firm it almost does not compress at all and we love it but don’t know it’s numbers or how to duplicate it. What ILD d I want? TNX.
Hi Gene,
Those are some great questions. First off, both our HD36-HQ and Lux-HQ are polyurethane foams. We do carry all-natural Talalay latex products, but each is marked as such. Polyurethane foam is the squishy, soft foam you’re likely used to in couch cushions, though there are many different varieties.
For mattresses, you always want to select open-cell foam, whether you want the softest or firmest surface. Closed-cell foam is simply too firm for a comfortable, pressure-free mattress.
In regard to our HD36-HQ and Lux-HQ foams, one is definitely firmer than the other. The HD36 carries an ILD value of 35, which is neither too-firm or too-soft; it is a middle-ground blend of comfort and support. Lux-HQ meanwhile has an ILD of 50, which is very firm, and what you’ll want for the mattress you’ve described.
Lux-HQ’s 50ILD is a very firm material in the big-picture, and the firmest mattress material we sell. The higher the ILD number, the firmer the material, so 50 is the range you want to shoot for. For perspective, rebonded carpet padding, an ultra-firm product not generally suited for bedding, has an ILD in the 70s. To compare the firmness values of our other foam products, you can find their ILDs on their individual Data Sheets.
I’ve passed your message on to our Sales Team who should be getting back to you soon with more information. In the meanwhile, feel free to Contact Us with any other questions you may have!
-Foam Factory
What does it mean when you state: “My comment is awaiting moderation?”
Thank you
Hi Susan,
Glad you asked! We moderate all comments on our blog due to the large amounts of spam posts we get. When an actual person such as yourself (as opposed to an automated program) makes a genuine comment, one of two things happen. If it’s a general question or something building off the post, we post and answer it in the comments section. If it’s a specific request or a quote such as yours was, we forward it to our Sales and Customer Service department who will get ahold of you through the e-mail address you provided in the post, to more directly work with you on your needs and help you get the foam that’s right for you. I forwarded it yesterday morning, so if you haven’t heard back from our team yet, you should be the end of the day today!
-Foam Factory
How much does your 2 inch 4 lbs. King sized memory foam topper weigh? Just the topper and not the box or wrapping. I notice that some sites will advertise a 4 lbs. topper in King size, but the total weight is 22 lbs. That would be the weight for a 3 lbs. I already have that and would like to try a 4 lbs..
Also, what will the 2 inch 4 lbs. topper feel like vs a 3 lbs? Will it be firmer or a little more like cookie dough? How supportive is it compared to a 3 lbs? Will it hold on longer (not flatten out?)
Thank you!
Hello,
Thanks for commenting!
To answer your first question, our King-Size, 2″ thick 4LB ViscoPLUSH memory foam topper will weigh around 28LB total – foam only. You are also correct that a 2″ thick, King-size 3LB density memory foam topper should weigh around 21/22LB.
As far as firmness and support, all three of our memory foam densities (3LB, 4LB, 5LB) have similar firmness values, around 14ILD per our data sheets. This test is usually applied to conventional foam however, and the temperature sensitivity of memory foam is a bit of an extenuating circumstance. That said, they are all about the same feel, which is based off the softening around your body’s contours.
The biggest difference between densities in memory foam is the durability factor. As density increases, so does the amount of foam performance material vs air in a product, meaning there is more material that takes longer to break down. 4LB is longer-lasting than 3LB and 5LB is longer lasting than 4LB.
Hopefully this helps, and if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask!
-Foam Factory
This webpage is amazing and very helpful. Very much appreciate. I do have one question, if it makes sense. How does firmness and weight correlate (if there is a correlation)?
Hi Adan,
Since weight is how you deduce foam’s density, you can use weight and density interchangeably here. As density and firmness do not have any consistent correlation, neither will weight and firmness. You can have very firm, low-density foam (light), very soft, high-density foam (heavier), or anything in between. I’ve passed your message on to our Customer Service Team who will follow-up with you in case you have any other questions. Have a great day!
-Foam Factory
Which one would you recommend for maximun durability as well as soft confort for a very heavy 412 lbs guy? I once bought a foam mattress that was supposedly among the firmest, and during a long long time I wished I had bought a much softer one…
My bed size is 54″ x 75″.
My choice would be between the HD36 Foam HQ and Lux Foam HQ.
Hello Frank,
My suggestion would be our Lux-High Quality foam in at least a 6″ thickness. It is our firm foam (50 ILD), and if you wanted to soften it up, that could be done with a couple inches of our super soft foam or our memory foams.
Link to sizes and pricing is here: Conventional Mattresses
Link to covers and pricing is here: Mattress Covers and Accessories
Your website is outstanding and the Q&A informative; I hope you are rewarded with high volume sales! My questions have been answered except for one:
Over a few years will the foam dimensions shrink, expand, or remain stable? I am considering two 34 x 74″ slabs about 6″ thick of either HQ HD36 or HQ Lux. The dimension leaves about 1″ around all perimeters of the steel bed frame and allows for thick bedding. This is the maximum space I desire so if the foam shrinks the 1″ space will increase beyond what I desire.
The frame includes no-sag springs (contract style dormitory bed), upon where the mattress will sit directly (no box foundation)
Hello,
Foam pretty much remains the same size throughout its life. You shouldn’t have to accommodate for shrinkage or expansion with our bedding foams.
I’m looking for 1.5″ closed cell polythene foam to serve as mats for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – what would be the best density to use – we have a lot of 300lb guys. We will be covering the foam with 18oz vinyl.
Hello,
What is commonly used is either rebond foam or gym rubber.
Our touring caravan seats lose their support after sitting or sleeping on the after a short while. If we were to refill them we wouldn’t know which foam filling to ask for.
The caravan is a Lunar Lexon 575 EB made in 2008. The seat cushions in question are approx. 60″ long x 24″ x 6″
We live in East Cheshire and the van is on site in N. Wales
Automotive foam typically uses a 3.0 LB density foam and a firm ILD of 50lbs or more. The closest we carry is our Lux-HQ foam.
I purchased sofa where the back flips down into a sofa bed. The entire sofa is made of a built in inner springs mattress. There are no removable cushions. However it is just too firm, even to sit on as a sofa. As a bed I could put on a memory foam topper, but how do I soften the sofa seat when used as a sofa? I decided to create a two inch topper pad, (more than 2″ would make the sofa seat too tall) but what is the best foam to add softness for sitting pressure: high density 4 pound memory foam or regular foam or polyester filler or ?????
I found a slip cover website that could custom make the pad cover, but now I need to find the foam
Sincerely
Robyn Matlock
We would suggest our 4LB memory foam or our HD36 (medium) foam for your application. Links are below,
Memory Foam Topper
Custom Cut Foam Cushion
Hello,
I am 1.65 cm and weigh 135 Lb. I have fibromayalgia and currently sleep on a Cotton foam mattresses which is too firm for me. I have used a 2LB density Memory foam 4″ topper on my futon mattress, that was too soft and uncomfortable, and hot, I was sinking into the mattress. So I am planning to get an Air bed and use a Latex topper on that. However I am not able to decide on the firmness. If to get a 3″ Soft or Medium. will soft be too soft that I will sink into that?
We would suggest the soft latex foam for your application.
I am a female 5’4″ and weigh 200 lbs. My arthritis has continued to worsen over my 76 years and now even my Tempupedic mattress is a little too hard for me to sleep on my side because of the pressure on my shoulder and hip. I hope you can suggest a soft but supportive topper for my twin sized bed.
Thanks for the information on this site and your attention to my question.
We would suggest about 3″ of our Super Soft Foam. Super Soft Foam would provide a nice comfort layer to your existing setup. Link to that is here: (scroll to the bottom of the page) Super Soft Foam.
Hi, I’m making an upholstered headboard and am thinking about using a 1″ mattress topper instead of high density foam, which is much more expensive. Is there any reason this would not work as well as high density foam?
Thank you!
When you are dealing with a headboard, all you need is a medium conventional foam. A high density is not really needed, only a medium to medium-firm foam is needed. When we do headboards in-house, we actually use our economical Poly Foam. Anything more in terms of density or firmness is unnecessary.
Can you explain how the “egg crate” LUX foam would different from the solid LUX foam feel as a matress topper?
When a foam is eggcrated, it makes the foam have a softer feel when compared to a solid piece of the same foam.
Great web site. My question is regarding cushions in living room chairs we are going to be re-upholstering.
The chairs are 25 years old and the foam needs to be replaced. I am wanting a firm foam that, maybe not lasting another 25 years, but won’t sink when sitting in the chair making it harder to get up and out of, bad knees and all.
With those requirements in mind, I think it would be difficult to find the right foam at the local fabric store.
Thanks Again, Amelia
Thanks. Again, site so very helpful.
If you want a firm foam, we would suggest our Lux foam. If you wanted a medium foam, I would suggest our HD36 foam. The regular grade has a life of about 7 years, HQ grade foam lasts about 15 years.
What density would you recommend to reupholter dining room chairs that currently have 2 inch foam seats that are “tired”
Typically we suggest either our Lux-Regular or Lux-Hiqh Quality foam for that application.
Hi, I’m reupholstering my computer-office chair. I decided that overall thickness is going to be 2 inch, which will consist of hard bottom layer end soft top. I already bought hard layer. It is has 25% ILD of 33. What is your recommendation for a soft layer hardness (memory foam is out of the question) and in what proportion their thickness should be for a comfortable 8h of siting? Thanks
You could use either our super soft foam, or a double wrap of our fiberfill batting. Link to both is below,
Super Soft Foam
Fiber Fill Batting / Dacron
What would you generally recommend for rebuilding a Harley Davidson touring model motorcycle seat. I would likely be cutting out approx 2″ deep section of the seat area and then blending the suggested foam.
We would suggest a firm foam, good for heavy duty use, such as our super lux foam, rebond foam, or neoprene foam.
I have a new innerspring (low quality) queen mattress that is already showing a tendency to sag in the middle and is not comfortable. I use a 2″ natural latex topper. I am looking for a layer between the mattress and latex topper that will provide overall stability with a comfortable feel for a 5’8″ 145lb. side sleeper. I am looking at a 3″ Lux HQ or HD36 HQ. What do you recommend?
Unfortunately when the base layer or foundation starts to show wear, the only solution we suggest is a replacement. There isn’t much that will prop up a sagging mattresses. Sorry about that.
We are looking to replace our sofa cushions but are unsure to go with the 2.8 lb denisty,35 ILD or the 2.8 lb, 50 ILD. We like the cushions firm but are not sure if the 50 ILD will be too firm. I weigh about 175 lbs and my wife is about 120 lbs. Can you you advise?
If you are looking for firm, then we would suggest our Lux foam for your application.
I love your site and what you have to offer. We purchased a 38-ft sailboat a couple of years ago. This year I decided to a heavy detail cleaning bow to stern, inside and out. Treating for mildew and mold. The boat is spotless now. But the cushion for the cabin and berthing had a smell. We had them professionally cleaned, but that did little. So I pulled the covers and discovered mold. I cleaned (large tub of water) and treated. I am having a terrible time getting them to dry. After a couple of 80 degree weather they are almost dry.
The almost is a major concern. I wondering will they ever dry completely or should I just order new foam. If so should it be the HD36 or Lux for the cabin seating cushions.
Plus: what am I looking at for delivery time (Freeland, Wa), days, weeks or months. The reason I ask is we are on a schedule to head out on a long trip.
Foam that has mildew should be definitely be replaced. Normally if the foam is wet, but has no mildew, placing a fan in front of the foam would help it dry faster. Both HD36 foam or Lux foam would work well. The foam should be covered in plastic to help make it water resistant. We also have dryfast foam available that can be used for boat applications. In either case, the foam should be dried seasonally or every 3 months to prevent mildew.
I am looking for a foam that will support up to 300lbs when stacked in 3 or 4 thick layers. Such as the product from Fatboy Baboesjka stackable pillows. I would like to do my own DIY version. What would work best for this project?
We would suggest our Lux Regular Foam OR Lux High Quality Foam for your application. Links are here,
Custom Cut Foam
Lux Regular Foam Sheets
Lux High Quality Foam Sheets
I have a reclining sectional that is showing deep body impressions after 10 months of use.The the seat cushions and back cushions are different thickness. The current foam is a Diminished Density foam( for enhanced customized comfort.The retailer claimed diminished density meant the foam gets softer the closer to the top and it is still very durable. What foam would you recommend that I use when I replace the foam?
Thanking you in advance for your consideration.
Jan Levy
Typically seat foam is our medium foams (such as HD36-Regular or HD36-HQ) and the seat back is typically super soft foam. You can price out and custom order that on our custom cut cushions page.
Hi,im looking for a mattress topper for a full bed. I am a female 5’2″ and weigh 200 lbs. and I have arthritis in my neck and in the last vertebras which cause me pain in my low back. I hope you can suggest me the best option. I am not asking for a full mattress because my husband is a truck driver and I travel with him, so the truck already has a mattress. I was thinking about a memory foam 3-inch 5-pound,but I’m not sure. I would like to know your opinion.
Thank you for your advice 🙂
Roxana.
If the mattress is soft or worn out, then you may need to replace the mattress and place a layer of memory foam on top. If the mattress is medium to firm, then yes we would suggest our memory foam for your application. In your case, we would suggest 4″ of our 5lb density memory foam topper.
WE have a 2010 Prius with the most uncomfortable seats ever. I have just gone and to an auto Upholster and had the seats redone and yet it is still too firm. What can you suggest to make the foam less firm or stiff. It hurts to sit on it. I have put some weights on the top of the seats but all I have is about 40 lbs and we weight more then that. But I’m leaving them all whenever I’m not in the car.
Hi Denise,
We would suggest our Lux-HQ 2-1/2″ eggcrate chair pad to help soften up your car seat.
Hi, we have a sailboat and need to replace the mattress sleep on. It must be a 3 inch thick mattress and will be inserted into the mattress vinyl cover the current mattress is in. It will be used on a solid fiberglass base with no give. I have lower back stiffness and need support. The problem with the current mattress is due to age, I sink to the base through the mattress while sleeping. We are planning to add a memory foam mattress pad for comfort over the vinyl surface. We are thinking of getting the most firm mattress available in 3 inches, or should we go with the next level down? We are both side sleepers. Which would you recommend?
Hi Lisa,
I would suggest our firm Lux-HQ or Lux-R foam for inside the vinyl. You can custom order the foam mattress here. Then you could cover the mattress with a topper, such as our memory foam topper or an eggcrate foam topper to soften up the firm lux foam.
What foam do you recommend for a side sleeper that has chronic hip pain. I have been told 33 HD, but I am only seeing 36 HD. I do not like memory foam. My boy friend likes a firm mattress but I need softness for my hips. I would like the mattress to be the same width and length as my queen bed I have now so I gather I will need to have 2 pieces glued together?
You help is appreciated. Thanks.
Yes, we would suggest our HD36 foams for your bedding needs. Our HD36 is very close to a 33, even if you had a 36 ILD foam next to a 33ILD foam you would not be able to tell the difference. Yes, we can glue different types of foams together so you could have medium on one side and firm on the other side of your mattress. Please contact us for further suggestions and pricing.
We have a pop up camper that we are planning to take on a long trip. The foam mattress it came with is not firm enough to provide a comfortable night sleep for any length of time. We weigh 165 and 116 lbs each. What type of foam should I look for to replace the standard foam we have?
Most commonly used foam for mattresses is our HD36 foam, in either the regular or high quality version. Use at least 4″ thick. Link to conventional mattress foam. Link to covers.
Hi! We are trying to make a bunch of leather backpacks more comfortable. On back of each backpack is a pocket that reaches all the way down to the bottom seam. We would like to purchase some foam to put in said pocket to make it act as a barrier to the lower back. We have looked through your site but have no idea what to get.
What would you recommend for us? Please share in laymens terms and a link to your product so we can order ASAP thank you !! Your site is awesome!
To act as a padding, we would suggest our polyethylene roll, cut into the shape and size that you need. Use at least 1/4″ or thicker.
Need to redo window seat cushions. Which of the following is the best foam 1) high density 2) extra high density 3) air lite high density and what is the difference
Typically for window seat cushions a firm foam like our Lux High Quality foam is used. You can custom order this through our seats and cushions page.
HI,
Are you guys familier with Fastcap, or Kaizen brands of foam tool organizing systems? They are a pretty stiff, easy to cut foam. I have seen packing foams that are similar. I am trying to find a place to get foam similar to this without having to pay Kaizen’s prices.
That foam looks similar to our 1.7lb density polyethylene foam.
Hi, you have a great, informational website.
I’m wondering what type and firmness of foam you would recommend for a weightlifting bench. I’m looking for something about 3-4″ thick and would deflect comfortably but minimally between the shoulders when one is bench pressing a large amount of weight, between 300-500 lbs.
Typically what is used for weightlifting benches is our rebond foam. the foam can be layered together and glued.
Hi there,
I am gluing 6 inches of foam onto a board for a mattress. The problem is i only have 6 inches. I had some foam on there before but it wore out quicly and now i feel the board underneath. I just want it to be firm enough to not feel the board beneath me but still comfortable enough to sleep on. I was thinking a 4″ base layer of your HD36 HQ foam and a 2″ layer of softer memory foam on top. Do yu think the 4″ of HD36 is supportive enough? Or should i go with the Lux HQ? I’m 150 lbs.
Thanks for the advice on this!
Yes, we believe what you have presented is a good setup to not feel the board.
I spent $5,200 for a sectional and within the first 6 weeks the corner peice has a section that is 4 inches lower that the rest of the couch. My 200 pound son sits there. There warranty excludes “normal shrinkage of foam” yet I have to think that this is not normal.
Do you have any advice on what type of foam density I should insist on when/if replacement is made? I plan on having this sectional for a good 10 years.
For a good quality foam, we suggest either our HD36-HQ foam for a medium foam or our Lux-HQ foam for a firm foam. You can custom order cushions here.
Wow, what a fantastic Q&A.
FIRST QUESTION I am a large man, 390lbs. Every mattress I sleep on my hips feel like they sink through to the base (platform bed) and it hurts! What can you do for me? Another issue I have is that most of my weight is carried right on my stomach and when I sleep my stomach sinks in twisting my back. Can you guys help out at all?
SECOND QUESTION I want to order 30×70 HD36R Foam, but the cost is significantly higher that ordering a standard twin. How does one go about cutting a slab of foam?
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you, and Happy New Year
I would lean more towards our firm foam, such as our Lux-R foam for your application. To keep costs down, you may request the standard size, and for a fee have us cut the foam down to size. This should result in a lower overall cost. Please contact us for additional info.
I have a sleeper sofa and need to use the sleeper part of the sofa every night for at least the next year. I weigh about 200 pounds and would like a supportive, yet not too firm, 4 inch foam mattress. Suggestions?
We would suggest either our HD36-Regular medium or Lux-Regular foam for your application.
Hi,
We would like to replace the foam in the seats of our RV dinette. The cushions we have currently develop a dent when we are traveling for extended periods and we end up sitting at an angle or in ahloe as a result. We would like to replace the foam with something that will be long lasting and will be comfortable for extended periods of sitting. The existing cushions are about 5″ thick. What would you suggest?
Thanks,
We would suggest our HD36 or our Lux foam for your application. You can price out and order the foam on our seat and cushion webpage.
I love your site. It’s always so helpful. I’m starting on a new project. I need to provide some soundproofing foam in-between some open rafters to deaden some of the creaking and noise travel between levels.
I was looking at the Polyethylene Foam Roll, but I don’t know if the density (2 lbs vs. 4 lbs) would affect the amount of noise that can go through.
I was also thinking about using it in conjunction with a layer of the 2-1/2″ Acoustic Eggcrate Foam on top.
What’s my best plan of attack?
We would suggest the 4lb density polyethylene or the neoprene high quality to help in reducing the sound from going in between levels. The acoustic eggcrate, wedge and pyramid is primarily meant for improving the acoustics within a room, so we do not suggest it in your application.
I need an 18×20 inch foam piece for my wheelchair, and it needs a cutout to reduce stress on a pressure sore. I weigh 250lbs so what thickness and type foam would be needed to still allow some comfort? What is the best method to cut that type of foam for the pressure sore? Thank you
We would suggest our 5lb density 3″ memory foam pad for your application.
We are building booth seating in our movie room and want would like to know which foam, HD36 Foam – High Quality or Lux Foam – Regular, would be more comfortable for someone 250 lbs with occasion to moderate use. Also, what thickness is recommended for booth seating, 3″, 4″?
We would suggest 4″ of lux regular foam for your application.
We are two adults on the heavy side. currently, we have a 3″ memory foam gel topper we got at Costco on top of an RV thin mattress that is short in length, along with a thin mattress topper. We want to get rid of the RV mattress and it’s topper and keep just the 3″ memory foam. We have a platform bed with drawers underneath…the wood platform is 19″ off the floor, so we don’t want the conventional mattress/box spring. Based on the info we’ve seen on your website, we are thinking your 6″ LuxFoam High Quality under our 3″ memory foam, with your 3 or 4lb memory foam topper (3″?) on top would be the best for us. ?? Also, we live in Washington State…you do send product there, right?
That sounds like a firm setup, which is OK if you wanted to go that route. Yes we can ship to you in Washington.
I have a sectional sofa 8 years old that had tons of use and cushions now need replaced. It’s foam wrapped in feathers. I would like to use foam wrapped in dacron but unsure if I should go with Luz regular 50 lb ICD or HD36 regular 35 lb ICD. What is your recommendation?
If you want medium, go with HD36, if you want firm, go with Lux. Most common is HD36.
What type of foam would you use for a motorcycle seat?
We would suggest our neoprene high quality foam for your application.
I am trying to order replacement foam for our couch cushions and I am having a hard time deciding between the hd36 or lux. I just want something that will keep the cushions looking full and last longer. I am 135 pounds and my partner is 240 pounds. If I did get the lux should I still increase my measurements by 1 inch for it to fit properly in the cushion cover? My cushion covers measure 25×29×6 which if increased would make the foam I need to order 26x30x7 according to the measurement instructions on this site. Thank you for any help
For the information you have provided, if you wanted medium, go with the HD36. For firm, go with the Lux foam. In either case, regardless if you go with the medium or firm, please following the measuring instructions.
Hello,
I’m looking for something that has a 2-3lb density partnered with a lower IDR than can be rolledup without any issues. I’m going to be using this as an indoor/outdoor mat to lay down on so needs to be able to travel in a car without taking up too much room. Was thinking about 1-2″ thickness? Do you have anything that would fit this need? My goal is also something to put in a tent on the flooring to soften the ground when sleeping for the family.
We would suggest neoprene regular foam for your application.
hi experts,,,need your help i am 72 with multiple sclerosis movement is difficult on a soft mattress (GETTING ON AND OFF) i SLEEP ONLY ON MY BACK DUE TO SCIATICA (LEGS ELEVATED) i FEEL A VERY FIRM MATTRESS IS NEEDED AS I AM 300LBS MOST IN MY MIDDLE AND YEARS AGO IN NYC I WENT TO A FOAM STORE AND GOT THE PERFECT ONE AND NOT HEAVY. I THINK AN ILD OF 70 0R SO WOULD DUE IT
The firmest foam we carry for your application is our Lux-HQ foam, which has an ILD of 50 pounds. Link that is here: mattresses in Lux-HQ foam.
Hi,
I am looking for a good support matters, I prefer it med-frim, and am wondering if I order on HD36, do I really need a softer top, or metterss only (no top) would be ok? Is there diference in firmness from the 2 HD36 options you sell. I am 5 6, 130lb, would h36 regular or HQ be too firm?
For your application, I would suggest the HD36-R or HD36-HQ.
Hi we are looking to replace foam on golf cart seats. What type of foam is needed for a project like that?
The foam we suggest is our Lux-HQ foam, covered in a durable fabric such as vinyl. If the cushion is going to get wet, we suggest covering the foam in plastic to make it water resistant.
I own this futon:
X
It has spring mattresses and the bottom mattress has worn out. I’m looking to replace it with a foam mattress that will last longer and be more comfortable. I both sit and sleep on this futon (in chair position). I’ve done a little research and believe the best option is the HD36-HQ, but I’d like to make sure before making my purchase. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, HD36-HQ foam is what we suggest for futon applications. We do have pre-made futons that may fit your application. Link to that is below,
https://www.thefoamfactory.com/mattress/foamfutonmattress.html
Hi, Some memory foam mattress manufacturers drill many vertical holes in the memory foam layers. Does-it affect durability ?
Also my weight is around 300 pounds and i would like to know if 7 inches of support foam at 1.8 pounds/ft3 is ok for me?
The impact is minimal for mattresses with small vertical holes across the surface of the sleep surface. For your application I would suggest our 2.8LB density foam base in either HD36-HQ (medium) or Lux-HQ (Firm) foam. Our 5LB memory foam mattress has these higher quality bases.
I like to know what kind of foam do I need for outdoor cushions. I like it durable and able to keep its shape.
We suggest our dryfast foam for your application. Check out these links for more information and pricing. Sheets of dryfast foam. Custom cut dryfast foam cushions.
I have 4 dining room chairs with 24x 24 seats that are sunk flat in the center from sitting. If I replace the foam, will the centers sink out again?
The higher the quality of foam, the longer the foam will last. Hence, it will take longer for the centers to sink. If you want long lasting foam, go with either our HD36-HQ or our Lux-HQ foam. For long lasting dining room seats, Lux-HQ is suggested.
What type of foam should be used for a bench truck seat?
We would suggest either our Lux-HQ foam or our rebond foam for your application.
I am building a window seat with a plywood base for my 100 lbs daughter. I have enough room for 3″ of foam. She likes a very soft, “pillow-top” feel. What is the best way to get enough support so that you don’t bottom out to the wood, but still get a soft, pillow-top feel (all in 3″)? Would you recommend a 2″ Lux base with 1″ of supersoft on top? How would that compare to 3″ HD36? Would I be better to use Dacron vs supersoft foam for the pillow-top feel?
We would suggest 1″ of HD36 foam on top of 2″ of Lux foam for your application.
Your website is a great resource! Thank you. We have a conversion van in which the 7 rear couch cushions are pulled into position to make a bed. They are hard as rocks. We have tried using memory foam and also Thermarest (camping) air mattresses on top and neither has worked to make the bed comfortable enough for us. We end up with achy hips and lower backs-we sleep on our backs and sides and need something comfortable for both. Adding extra material on top also takes up valuable space in a 20 foot camper. We finally came to the conclusion that what we should do is to just replace the foam in the cushions themselves, rather than dragging something else along. We are primarily concerned with cushions that are comfortable for sleeping as we don’t sit on them much-preferring to be outside. The upholstery itself is in great shape, so we would like to reuse. The upholstery could accommodate a total depth of foam of 5 inches high. I look forward to hearing your recommendations for a durable but pretty “squishy” foam. Many thanks!
I would suggest our HD36-Regular or HD36-High Quality foam for your application. This foam type suggested should be good for both seating and sleeping applications.
Hi I am looking for a firm mattress and have been recommended HR 50. I have tested it and am researching. I see you mentioning HR 36. What is the difference between the 2? Also I would like to order a 4inch mattress. What is the difference if the material is this thickness vs. 6 inches
That seems like the ILD number, HR 50 seems like it has an ILD of 50. Our HD foams have an ILD rating of 35. Our Lux foams have an ILD of 50. I would suggest our Lux foams (it can be Lux-Regular or Lux-HQ) for your application. Thickness does not impact the ILD number. Minimum suggested for a mattress is 4″, but ideal is 5″.
Hi,
Love all the info. About five years ago had accident and tore right shoulder, fractured pelvis, fractured right leg and ankle, tore ligaments in right knee and foot. Also tore up and small fractures left ankle and foot. So have had a hard time finding any bed comfortable. I normally am a side sleeper mostly and some back. Recently changed from super soft bed to 5 inch RE-28 HR foam, 3 inch latex ILD 18-20 and 2 inch Memory Foam 3.0 density. Is comfortable on side but not enough back support, back very achy in AM. Took off latex and just sleeping on the 5″ foam and 2″ Memory Foam. Great for back but miserable on side-hits too many of the pressure points. So wondering if I added a more dense Memory Foam like 3 inch 5.0 or 6.0 if I could get that perfect combination of soft enough with enough support. What do you think and what would you suggest ? I am 5’6 inches and 190 lbs, 63 years old, female. Thanks
My suggestion would be 2″ of super soft foam on top of your current setup.
Can you explain why you chose this ? Why this and not a second memory foam ?. How does this compare to the density of the memory foam that is 3lbs ? The soft part of this seems apparent in the name “super soft” but what about the support factor ? Are you stating the support of the 5 inch RE-28HR is enough support so it is just a matter of more soft ? And do you mean this goes over the 2 inch memory foam and not between the the RE-28HR and the memory foam ? Thanks, Cathy. PS. Having bought at least a dozen pieces of various types of foam, latex, poly and memory, over the past 5 years, trying to understand the process of how these foams work best.
I have a rooftop tent that mounts on my vehicle. It folds in half and has foam a mattress inside that folds with the tent. The current mattress is approximately 92″x55″x 2.25″ thick and supposed to be HD foam, however, after weighing it, it certainly doesn’t seem to be very dense. I weigh 185 lbs., sleep on my side, and blow right this mattress onto the hard floor of the tent base – very uncomfortable, indeed. I want to replace this foam mattress with something more supportive. I only have 3″ max to work with. Would Lux-HQ or HD36-HQ or some combination be my best option? If I could get away with 2″ thick, that would be even better, but I suspect that is not realistic. Would the 3″ Lux-HQ be enough to keep me from bottoming out and still be cushy enough to be comfortable?
I’m very anxious to resolve this issue ASAP. Thanks for your help.
We would suggest the 3″ Lux-HQ foam for your application.
I ordered my new cushion a few weeks ago and have been using it for about a week and I couldn’t be happier with it. Since I didn’t see a way to post a review I wanted to come back here and let you know how pleased I am. Thank you!
Can high density foam to be used for a seat cushion insert, be vacuum compressed like seen on videos using vacuum and plastic. I’m concerned that if I order a high density foam insert replacement for my seat cushion that I might have a hard time placing into case. I’m considering ordering 20″x23″x5″ lux foam High Quality.
Thanks.
Yes, you may use that method to get the cushion into the cover.
I want to re-line my rifle case with a more dense and firm foam to keep the 10 lb. rifle from floating around as the present material is too soft and doesn’t do the job and provide the protection.
It looks like the 1″ laminated polyethylene sheet is the material of choice and the center sheet will be cut out to the configuration of the rifle.
The density of the charcoal pipe insulation found in the local home centers exhibits the preferred firmness but not sure whether it’s 1.7 or the 2.2lb. density that I need
Would you please advise before I order?
Thanking you in advance.
1.7lb is sufficient, but if you would like a good quality material then go with the 2.2lb density PE.
Thank you very much for your help & direction in this matter.
Greatly appreciated.
DM
My wife and I are replacing the foam in the cushions of the Vee-Berth on our sailboat. The current slip covers are 4″ thick so we would like to keep with that thickness, if possible. Do you think a 2″ thick Lux-HQ glued to a 2″ thick 4lb ViscoPLUSH Memory foam topper would be enough thickness to make a decent mattress for us? Or would we sink to the bottom? We are both side sleepers and weigh about 175lbs and 115lbs, respectively.
4″ of a conventional foam such as our firm Lux or our Medium HD36 is needed for a mattress application. Anything thinner will not be sufficient as a mattress without bottoming out.
I really need help choosing the right memory foam mattress topper. I’m 5 ft talll and weigh 93 lbs. my mattress is less than 4 years old and still has decent comfort in the pillow top. I want to add a topper that will conform to my body so that my shoulders don’t hurt and that will also support my lower back when I sleep on my back. I somehow chose a topper that has 4 lb density (ILD unknown), and I make no impression in it at all when I lie down on it. I didn’t know about ILD/IFD when I ordered it. Can you suggest something that would be supportive but also be compressed enough by my light weight to conform enough to ease the pressure on my hips and shoulders side-sleeping, and on my lower back when back-sleeping? What thickness, density and ILD can you suggest? Also, for the sake of clarity is a lower ILD a harder one and the higher numbers progressively softer? I really hope you can help me. All of my hours of research have left me with no idea what to buy. Thank you!
All of our memory foam toppers have the same ILD. So we cannot suggest a different memory foam topper for your application that we carry. Yes, the lower the ILD the softer the foam. The higher the ILD the firmer the foam. What I can suggest is our super soft foam which is softer than the memory foams that we carry. It seems like you need more of a comfort layer to suit your needs. Link to our super soft foam is here. We would suggest a 2″ or 3″ thickness of super soft foam for your application.
I don’t know if you can help me with this, but I’m trying to do an unusual RC Aircraft project, and so far the ‘most suitable’ foam I’m finding is known for its fragility.
I need a very light-weight, hard, rigid foam (on the order of Expanded Polystyrene) that can take a little bit of abuse (impacts with the floor from a few feet up) without cracking, deforming, or snapping.
I’ve seen suggestions from various forums about types of foam, but nothing that actually seems to be *available* anywhere anymore.
I’m looking for it in fairly thick blocks, as the full project will be roughly spherical about 13” in diameter.
Can you make any suggestions as to a suitable type of foam and/or where such foam can be found for purchase at reasonable prices in small quantities?
Thanks!
I would suggest our polypropylene foam for your application. Since we are carrying this as a surplus material, the density will range from about 1.6LB to 4.3LB from block to block. The white polypropylene tends to be lighter. We suggest purchasing one block for testing purposes to see if it will fit your needs. Link to polypropylene foam. Link to our polystyrene foam.
I started trying to place an order, but ran into a hitch. How can I specify the density I want? There doesn’t seem to be any place to enter it, and the weight of the foam is a *very* important consideration for this project.
I have a queen matress very firm!! I’m a side sleeper – so I wake up every morning with pain in my shoulders and my hips,I also toss n turn all night and wake exhausted,what would you suggest them 5 to 163 pounds
I would suggest a memory foam topper for your application, at least 3″ thick. Link to our memory foam toppers is here: memory foam toppers.
Hi, I am redoing my popup camper. The cushions have a smell to them, and look old. It is 4 inches thick. What is the best foam for the cushions. Also can I order the 4 inch thickness and the biggest length and width to cut it to the size I need, or can you guys cut it. I have different sizes for bottom and back cushions. Oh, I will be needing the mattress foam also.. but want something comfy so I do not feel the board.. maybe 5 or 6 thick? Thanks.
You can price out and view the different types of foam at our seats and cushions section of our website. Once you enter in the sizes you will see prices and descriptions. You can also price out and view different mattresses in the mattress section of our website as well.
Hi there. Regarding Dryfast foam, if we went with a 3″ thick for an outdoor bench cushion application, how much does it compress down to? Ideally, we want to stay at 18″(compressed cushion seat height) as dining table is 30″. seat height is 16″ without cushion. Appreciate your kind response!
Typical compression is about 1-1/2 inches with an average adult.
Great informational site! Thank you!
I am almost 60 years old, 6′ 2″ and weigh 210 lbs. I have arthritis in one foot, one knee, hip, lower back and neck with some disk compression in my lower back and upper neck. My wife and I love to camp and I recently bought two comfortable cots (80″ x 30″) that have springs and trampoline type material for the bed foundation and a thin, removable foam mattress on top. While they are comfortable now, I expect the foam pad to crush over time. I want to add a topper that will support my body when sleeping on my back or side without letting me sink down to the foundation. I also want the topper to be somewhat light and not too bulky. What do you recommend?
Thanks in advance.
Jeff
I would suggest about 2″ to 3″ of our super soft foam for your application. It will be light weight yet offer a nice comfort layer.
Hello, I am currently looking into building layered foam archery targets. Would the 4lb density foam be plenty rigidity and durability to withstand the continual impact of arrows. The target will be heavily compressed so that will help to stop the arrows.
Thanks,
Jonathan
Yes, what is commonly used is the 6LB density polyethylene foam.
Hello,
I’m looking for a very dense foam to use as a pad when kneeling on concrete. I would like the pad to be 18 inches wide and 48 inches long, and 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
What do you suggest?
Regards
We would suggest our gym rubber for your application.
HI,
I understand the more dense the foam, the more support it provides (and the longer it will last). I’m debating between a 2″ 5 lb density topper vs a 3″ 4 lb topper. I need support for bad shoulders and hips and have a 7 yr old pillowtop mattress in decent condition. Which of the two would you recommend? Thanks!
We would suggest the 3″ of 4LB memory foam for your application.
I’m redoing a bench seat in a 1990’s pick up truck. New foam is required and the driver weighs in excess of 300 lbs. What would be your recommendation for foam?
I would suggest our super max foam for your application.
Good Morning! I have been reading your web site and it has some great info. I have a technical question if I take the size of an overall foam bun we will say 32″ x 32″ x 85″ 1.8 compression 24 density and would like the figure the “weight” of the bun is there a formula base for this? I am working on some yield/cost savings projects. I have also asked this to my supplier but didn’t know if anyone here would have the answer – Thanks
For the figures you have provided, the math would work out like this: 32x32x85 = 87,040 cubic inches. Your foam density is most likely 1.8 and your compression is most likely 24. So foam density reads 1.8 pounds per cubic foot. 1728 cubic inches in 1 cubic foot. Divide 87,040 by 1728 equals about 50.4 cubic feet for the block of foam you mentioned. Finally, 50.4 times 1.8 gives you a block weight of about 91 pounds.
So happy to find your website! I am having a traditional Japanese Shikibuton made as our new mattress. This needs a firm foam base to lay on top of. The foam will be on a platform bed. My husband has been sleeping on 1 1/2″ memory foam on the carpeted floor so firm is a good thing. Our western mattress was considered Firm and is less than a year old but is too soft. Would 3″ of the Lux HQ be thick enough since it’s going on top of a wooden platform? Or do I need 4″. And is the Lux HQ the best option? Thanks!
Yes, we would suggest 4″ of the Lux-HQ foam for your application. This foam is considered firm.
We have an RV with bunks. The foam on the bunks need to be replaced, but will be limited to the original dimensions. The thickness is 3 inches. I want to avoid bottoming out for 180 pound adults, but want 70 pound kids to be comfortable, too. What do you recommend?
Because the thickness is only 3″, we would suggest either our Lux-Regular or our Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can that at this link: custom cut mattress.
Good Day to you! I am looking for a foam mattress for my two children to use at our cabin a few weekends a year where they will be sleeping on the floor. They are quite thin teenagers.
Will these be comfortable when sleeping directly on the floor?
Thank you
Anything 3″ or less we would suggest our Lux-Regular or our Lux-HQ foams. Anything 4″ or thicker we would suggest our HD36-Regular or HD-HQ foams. Our conventional foam mattresses can be found here.
Hello! I need some advice please. I need to soften up the mattress layers I ordered from you. Here are the details, and I do appreciate any advice you may offer.
1. I am a heavy man.
2. I have bad lower back problems.
3. I definitely wanted a firm mattress, but I’m afraid it is just too hard, even after adding your 2 and 1/2″ HD-36HQ EGGCRATE layer.
4. My base foam is 6” Lux High Quality Foam, Density 2.8LB, Firmness 50LB (VERY Firm, just like I wanted)
5. My 2nd layer is 2” – 5 LB. MEMORY FOAM (PINK)
6. I added the 2 and 1/2″ HD-36HQ Eggcrate on top, and it’s still too firm.
My mattress is King Size on top of a solid wood frame, no springs.
What is your best idea for softening this mattress some more without making it “mushy” – I still need a somewhat firm mattress.
Love your company and Thank You!
Bill
We would suggest another 2″ of 5LB memory foam to add more to your comfort layer.
Hello!
Great article about foam density/weight/firmness! I’m still a bit unsure what level of IDL or material would fit best for the project I’m working on and am hoping you can give a bit of advice.
I’m trying to make mobile platform pieces that people can stand on (maybe coating the foam with plastic) without the foam breaking or deforming in shape. We will be linking these pieces together to form a putting green, so there would be a decent amount of weight and foot traffic. Do you have any suggestions for the type of foam that might work?
Thank you!!
Our cross linked polyethylene is commonly used as a shock absorber for dance floors. However in the dance floor application they are spread out with about 50% coverage. For your application, you could do 100% coverage this way you have minimal compression. I would suggest our 2LB density cross linked polyethylene foam for your application.
Fabric density refers to the number of yarns per unit area of the fabric. Fabric Density Meter used to test the number of yarn of all fabrics. For more information, please contact us by https://www.testextextile.com/product/fabric-density-glass-tf122/
I am making cushions that are to be used in a glider chair. I’ll be using this chair to nurse/rock my newborn baby, so I would like for the cushions to be firm enough to be supportive but also give way enough that sitting on and leaning back against them is comfortable for long periods of time. Ideally, I would like for the cushions to be three inches thick, but can increase or decrease in order to get the right feel. I am unsure of what to choose between the HD36-R vs HD36-HQ vs LUX-R vs LUX-HQ for this purpose. I am looking for something that offers a cozy, slightly enveloped feeling but without the discomfort of sinking all the way in and being able to feel the wood of the chair. Thank you in advance for any advice or suggestions that you can offer!
At 3″ thick, we would suggest our firm Lux-HQ or Lux-R foam. Ideally you would want 4″ or 5″ of a medium foam like the HD36-Regular or HD36-HQ foam.
I need to replace two 51/2” seat cushions in living room chairs. They are used daily male 210 lbs. and female 150 lbs. What foam would you recommend? We had this replaced 2 yrs. ago by local upholstery shop and it has already become compressed and uncomfortable.
The cushions have a slight trapezoidal shape. Can I order it cut to this shape?
You can price out and custom order that through our website. We have HD36-HQ (medium) and Lux-HQ (firm) foams available. Link to custom cut cushions in here.
What comfort layer best for papa’s cotton futon ? He is featherweight now with arthritis and hypermobile spine/shoulders etc. Is HDHQ 36 soft enough ? Thank you.
The HD36-HQ foam is a medium foam. 2″ of this foam should be OK. However, if this foam ends up being to firm then we can suggest 2 to 3 inches of our super soft foam. Link to the different foams and pricing can be found on our conventional mattresses page.
We have an old air mattress bed (like sleep number) that has become very uncomfortable no matter what we do. Over the many years I have replaced the memory foam several times within the mattress itself. My biggest issue with replacing the foam is that I am very sensitive to the outgassing of the memory foam. For me it takes many weeks of outgassing before I am able to sleep on the foam once I receive it. So, with that said, do you have a recommendation as to what I should try to buy to rebuild our airbed? My husband and I like completely different types of firmness in our mattresses….so I am not sure what to ask for exactly.
All foams will have a fresh foam smell that goes away after a few weeks. Most customers don’t have an issue with it, but some customers do. Have you considered replacing the air mattress with a foam mattress? Most popular is our memory foam mattresses with a medium base. Link to our memory foam mattresses is here.
We have a log futon with an innerspring mattress, which is compacted on the seat and very uncomfortable to sit on. Would it help to add maybe a 3″ foam to the seat? It is about 10 years old but in good shape otherwise. We tried to find an all foam replacement with no success. Thanks.
We could custom either make a futon to the dimension you require or custom make an all foam futon for you. Please contact us for details and pricing.
I am building a kit car and need foam for bucket seats what would you suggest I use
thank you for your help happy new year
We would suggest our firm, high quality super max foam for your application.
Our caravan has a sofa and ottomans that convert into a bed. It’s memory foam but too soft. It feels comfortable but doesn’t have enough support. I can’t replace it so my only hope is to get a topper. What type of topper should I get for it?
I would suggest a 3″ memory foam topper for your application.
Im reupholstering my seats in my 1970 Impala. Looking for a very comfortable durable foam. I have heard of guys using multiple densities of foam sandwiched together to get good comfort. Your thoughts and recommendations?
If you go with one foam type, I would suggest our firm Super Max foam. If you use 2 foams, then I would suggest 1″ to 2″ of our medium HD36-HQ foam over the Super Max foam.
I am a 6 ft 210 pound male. My girl friend is 140 pounds. We built a sleeping platform in our camper out of plywood. We now need a custom cut mattress to fill the space on the plywood. I like the sound of the HD36 in a 5″ thick configuration with a possible 2″ thick super soft topper on top to help with her hips. Does this sound like the setup you would reccomend for our weights? If not what would you recommend? Also, what to lie directly on the plywood before putting the mattress down? Thank you for all the help! Great site!
That sounds like a very good setup. However, if you could do 3″ instead of 2″ of super soft, I would suggest that instead. The mattress can lie directly on the plywood – that would be OK.
Hello,
I’m looking for a very firm foam mattress. We used to have one a few years back but we have no idea of any its measurements or information. I remember I would lay on it and I would sink very little, if at all. Fortunately we took some pictures of it:
https://imgur.com/a/WceO5B1
For reference:
-The dumbbell in the picture is 10 lbs
-The person standing on the foam is about ~180 pounds
-I’m 5’11, 190 lbs
Which foam would be the most similar to the one in the pictures? It looks like either Super Max or the Lux HQ, but I’m not really sure. Thank you!
I would suggest our Lux-HQ foam for your application.
My husband is doing long term physical therapy and his therapist suggested building a therapy table to use at home. Do you sell a high density foam that would be suitable for this project??
We would suggest our Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and custom order that on our seats and cushions page. You can enter in a size large enough to fit a therapy table.
I anticipate using foam for a somewhat unique application; to replace the two coil springs (too stiff) between my seat and the body of my riding mower.
I have some 2″ polyurethane foam that I thought might work but I’m not sure if it will be sufficient to support my 220# when encountering a hole/dip/bump.
The coil springs are 2 1/2″ non-compressed. My weight barely moves them unless the mower impacts said hole/dip/bump. I would remove the springs, leaving two flat surfaces (~12’x16″) between which the foam will be located. Configuration would allow layering multiple, thinner pads (allowing for adjustment).
Ideally, my sitting 220# would compress foam to about 2″. I’m presuming a proper compression selection would limit the travel (during a big bump) to a max of 75% of the non-compressed thickness (ex. 1-1/2″ of a 2″ pad).
Can you recommend a thickness & compression that would do this…and not bottom out?
I would suggest our Super Max foam for your application.
Appreciate your reply. I misstated the type of material I have. I believe it to be polyethylene. Is the Super Max you recommend polyethylene?
My partner and I currently sleep on a 2-3″ shikibuton on top of carpet that lacks rebond padding above the plywood. We prefer a firm sleeping arrangement, but this setup is too firm (recently moved).
We are considering the LUX-HQ. Can we sleep directly on it? If so, should we go with 4, 5, or 6 inches? I am 320lbs and she is 200lbs.
I would suggest at least 5″ of Lux-HQ foam for your application.
I’m confused by what this brand stated of the following specs.
The Densities of all our foams are 1.8. Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) for Soft is 22, Medium is 28, Firm is 35, and Base & Rails are 40. Proprietary FusionFlex and Graphite visco foams are 3 pounds psf and 9 ILD.
The density would seem to be indicative of lighter inferior quality more likely to wear out sooner than say density of 2.8 or 3.0??? Have bee looking hard for shoulder pain relief as my firmer pillowtop mattress I tend to bottom out to the harder layers/coils. I’m 5’9′ 212 lbs. and wife 180 lbs 5’2″
we are both side sleepers mostly. Her neck, shoulders, hip trouble her with this bed, very seldom any back issues and in dire need of relief. this will be our 3rd try. Prefer hybrid so to move around a little easier. Any ideas about the durability 1.8 density fears?
It seems like you need a comfort layer for your mattress. We suggest either 3″ of our super soft foam or 3″ of our memory foam for your application.
we have just bought 2 new sofas, and already there is slight indentations in the cushion we sit in, is there a foam that we could place under the cushions to elevate thts from getting any worse
Our suggestion would be new cushion inserts. You can price out and order online sofa cushion replacements on our website.
Do you have a small sample of the closed cell foam we can test,
in the 1/8th inch thick by say 12″x12″ piece?
Please contact us directly for product samples.
What is considered standard density and firmness used in manufacturing automobile seats?
I want to have a custom seat pad made for my seat, and I’d like to match the feel and durability of the seat itself as closely as possible. Thank you!
Cosest we have to automotive seats would be our Super Max foam. This is rated at a 2.8LB density and 70ILD.
I am upholstering homemade patient treatment tables for a physical therapy clinic. I remember using 2″ thickness in the past, but can’t recall the density. What ILD ranges are typical for this type of table? Which of your products would you recommend? Cover will be Vinyl/Naugahyde. Thank you!
We would suggest 2″ of our Lux-HQ foam for your application.
My parents recently gifted us a very old bed frame and spring. It is so old that mattresses are not made for it. It is called a “youth bed” and it is 36×62. My daughter is 3. She will likely sleep on this for 5-6 years. She is currently sleeping on a crib mattress, which is pretty firm. What should I get? I want it last and be comfortable.
We would suggest our HD36-HQ medium foam for your application. You can price out and custom order that foam on our website.
I’m replacing foam in the seats of some heavily used office/computer chairs. The existing foam ‘bottoms out’ when anyone uses it (users are 120 lbs – 160 lbs). The existing seat has a 1″ wornout grey foam layer on top of a reasonably intact 3″ yellow foam layer. I want to replace it with something firmer than the ‘standard’ foam used in most commercial seats which provides inadequate support. One ‘ergonomic’ chair I bought previously has the correct kind of foam but I can’t match it in fabric stores, which only have a green ‘high density foam’ that is not much firmer than the existing foam. What foam is right for this?
We would suggest 1″ of our HD-HQ foam on top of our 3″ Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and order custom cut cushions on our website.
What type of foam would be recommended for restaurant booth, vinyl wrapped, seat and back cushions 3″ thick? We need support so patrons don’t bottom out on the plywood seat, resilience so when they leave the vinyl doesn’t look all puckered, and longevity so we can get a decent ROI.
We would suggest either our Lux-HQ foam or our Super Max foam for your application.
We are comparing a latex mattress and a foam mattress. The latex has 3 layers: top 3″ 18 IFD 4.05 lbs density, middle 3″ 24 IFD 4.6 lbs, and bottom 3″ 32 IFD 5.3 lbs. The foam has 2 layers: 3″ 12 IFD 4 lbs and 7″ 35 IFD (density unsure).
We are used to the TempurPedic Cloud Lux mattress, and one of us has chronic lower back pain.
Any suggestion on the latex vs. foam listed above for us?
Both products should work well for your application.
Looking to replace cushions on my leather couch. It is still in excellent shape but the cushions are too saggy. Size of cushions are 12cm thick, 55cm wide, 66cm long. There is also a bat padding which sits in a separate pocket on top of the foam cushion. The couch has heavy use. What would you suggest for foam cushions and does this batting need to be replaced also.
Please see the link to the foam types we have available. You can price out and order custom cut foam here. Yes, using the fiberfill batting is suggested to add a rounded look to your cushions. This option is available when you price out the foam online. However, shipping is extra to locations outside the contiguous USA.
We are two adults totaling 300#s sleeping on 3″ of HD36 to which we have added 1″ super soft comfort foam, 2 1-1/2 “big box” convoluted foam toppers, a high-quality down alternative mattress pad and a comforter to get the feel we want. After a fairly short amount of time, the center has become compressed and we roll toward the center.
If we replace the foam with a thicker layer of higher density material (say 4 or 5″ of HQ), would that feel too firm? Can you recommend a good combination of layers that does not include memory foam?
Thank you!
We would suggest going with just 3″ of super soft foam on top of 5″ of our medium HD36-HQ foam for your application.
Hi there,
I am making a modular sectional sofa and I require 30kg/m and 40kg/m foam to make the cushions – I am unsure what type of foam this is on the american “scale” or classification system. What type of foam would you suggest I should use?
Easiest way to translate is to divide your number by 16. So 30kg/m divided by 16 is 1.8lb density in US measurements. 40kg/m would become 2.5lb density.
I have a Harry Potter closet under the stairs that my grandsons love. They are 3 and 5. The closet is 3′ x 5′ attached to my bedroom. The boys love to throw their sleeping bags in there to sleep. I would like to put down some foam to make their ” bed” comfortable as they grow. What do you suggest?
Using 2″ of our Lux-HQ foam or our Super Max foam would be suggested.
I want to make a couple of boat bunks. They are 39x78x22. I was thinking 5-6″, but comfy enough for 250# person. I am 220# and have some sore spots and run a really soft sleep number of 25-35. Can you recommend a stack?
Also, I want to build a convertible settee. The settee would be 4″ cushions to both sit and sleep. I could probably add a 1″ super soft pad. Can you recommend a stack?
I would suggest 5″ of our HD36-HQ foam. If you still get sore spots, then I would suggest 2″ of super soft foam or 2″ of memory foam for the top. For the cushions, I would suggest the same HD36-HQ foam.
Is 1.7 lb polyethelyne foam the same as 2 lb foam?
Different densities tend to give each foam a different feel. Even if the foams are made out of the same material, a different density may cause a foam to act differently in certain situations. With that being said, a 1.7lb Polyethylene and a 2lb Polyethylene are close enough to work the same in most situations.
looking for a firm mattress for my 40 year old boat.
It is a V berth and i already ahve covers. so I would need a queen mattress- foam
firm and high density ? 6 inches.
can you ship to vancouver?
We do ship to Vancouver through our Canada website. To get pricing and see the different foam types we offer for V-Berth Mattresses, you can use our page for custom mattress cutting or contact us directly for more information.
WHat does it mean when it says 4″ foam has a 36# compression? What’s the compression all about? I’d like foam to set my 74# fiberglass canoe on while on it’s side and need to be sure it won’t compress too much.
The article does talk about what ’36’ technically means. Look for the paragraph that starts ‘Firmness meanwhile’ for more information.
I need two cushions for an L shaped kitchen banquette. They will be sat upon multiple times a day. I want the final height of the cushions to be 3 inches. I want them firm to hold adults but still be comfortable. I am planning to glue the cushion to a piece of wood. Then to wrap it with a product (muslin?) that you recommend. I would like to order them from you. One size is 61” L x 20”W and the other size is 26”L by 20”W.
Lastly, and I apologize for so many questions I will be making a back to this banquette. I am planning to have it hung on the wall. What type and thickness padding do you recommend? I am going to tuff them with buttons so I can’t have it too thick.
Thanks for your help and patience!
For a 3″ thickness, I would suggest our firm Lux-Regular or Lux-HQ foam. You can order custom cut foam cushions here. Fabric choice is your preference. Cushion back is usually super soft foam or poly foam.
Hello,
What is the best foam to use for outdoor seating. We are building a large corner sofa with our decking and would like to order the seat.
Would the foam need to be treated or wrapped? We will be get custom made waterproof fabric Cushion covers.
Seat size is 100cm x 200 cm along one side.
As long as the foam is protected from water with plastic or waterproof covers, conventional polyurethane foam can be used for your application. However, if the foam is going to get wet, then we do have dryfast foam available.
Greetings!
I want to reupholster my piano bench to increase the height by about 2.5 inches. Two questions: am I better to build up the height with wood, say by an inch or two, and then add foam, or could/should it all be done in foam (maybe a denser layer on the bottom and a less dense layer on top)? And what foam would you recommend for either situation?
Many thanks, Jack
This could be done with just foam. If you are using 2″ or 3″ of foam, we would suggest our firm Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and order custom cut foam cushions here.
Hi,
I really hope you can help me! I’m looking for a high density 3″ foam block (approx 24″ x 24″) that can withstand a weight capacity of 400lbs. I need something light weight that has no give. Can you tell me what kind of foam you recommend.
Thanks so much
I would suggest our 6lb density cross linked polyethylene foam for your application.
I need a foam to support a portable light handle which is about about 1/4 lb. The telescoping rod will be suspended in the foam (I’ll be drilling a half inch hole through the foam for the telescoping rod). The foam pad will be about 4x5x2. The foam pad must be firm enough to support the rod but soft enough as the pad will rest on the body (not just in the hand) during certain applications.
What is the best best ILD to support the inserted rod plus soft enough to, say, lay on the body comfortably?
Because you will be drilling a hole, I would suggest a closed cell foam for your application. I would suggest Neoprene-HQfoam for your application. If you still want an open cell foam, then I would suggest our Lux-Regular foamfor your application.
I am creating foam mattress for my sailboat that will be also for seating. I purchased 3″ HD36 foam from you but need something firmer to go under the 3″ foam to prevent bottoming out. 4-5″ total is my limit because of height limits.
What do you suggest? I am in my late 70’s so need a somewhat softer mattress. Thank you.
I would suggest 2″ of our firm Lux-HQ foam to go underneath the 3″ HD36 foam.
What is the best adhesive to attach these layers before cutting to size: 3″ HD36 and 2″ Lux-HQ?
Thank you for your excellent information.
Richey.
Greetings, we have a pull out bed sofa with 3 cushions to sit on that are spring-loaded. We use the sofa for an extra bed for sleepovers. The springs have sprung not comfortable seating. Planning to replace them with foam only. Looking at Density: 1.79, 44lb compression.
Questions: is the compression the same as the ILD and what does the 1.76 number represent? Lastly, are the given foam values suitable for my project to support 220 Lbs per cushion?
Yes, compression is the same as ILD. The 1.76 number most likely represents the density quality of the foam. The 1.76 would be considered mid-grade foam. Yes, those values should be OK for your application.
Hello, I have a still nice looking vintage Craftmaster traditional sofa with twin “L” shape seat cushions that wrap around in front of the thick panel style arms.
The problem is, the 9″ thick “L” shape foam cushions are now too soft for 150-200 lb. people and local uphostery shops only seem to have up to 6″ foam.
Do you carry 9″ very firm foam, at approximately 100 ILD for two seat cushions measuring 41.5″(front) x 7″ x 7″(“L”) x 24″(outside) x 34″(back) x 31″(inside) which creates the “L” shape. Please advise. If so, please email estimated cost, including shipping to 77027.
Sounds like we can custom make this for you. Please contact us directly for information and pricing.
Hi, need help with ILD rating for Dense Rebond Foam, 36”x24”x6” thick pads. Will be used to dampen the weight of a 300lb weights/barbell.
Any help is appreciated!Ken
100LB ILD is suggested if you are to use rebond foam.
Hi, have sectional sofa. Since Covid I’ve sat in one spot and I find myself sinking. Sofa purchased late 2019 and wasn’t used til this virus. Trying to find the most dense foam. I’m pushing 300, so I need the best. Store said they will replace with same cushion that manufacturer has, but that just solves the problem for four months.
Thanks
We would suggest our Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and order that through our website under seat and cushion foam seat and cushion foamseat and cushion foam.
I have a 13″ foot stool which is an heirloom piece from my Wife’s late Grandmother. I said I would refurbish it some years ago. It’s been dismantled, in a heap since because all the so-called high density foam I can find will collapse to boards when you sit on it. I’m looking for high density foam that only collapses 50% or less under my 200lbs so as to insure a comfortable seat. I lived in Grand Rapids, Mich. in the 70s and purchased such foam for many projects from a bulk supplier there. Please advise me as to what foam products that would fill my needs. I have other projects such as automotive seats and upholstery, chairs and couches.
For this application, we recommend our Lux-HQfoam.
I’m looking to place a piece of foam to the underside of above the springs rather than replacing the cushions. It’s a broyhill very nice leather sofa. I’ve already addressed the issue of to broken support boards. However I don’t believe that was the big issue with the cushions sagging. I’m not sure what thickness or density I need. There will be occasions where the weight will exceed 250 lbs when we have company. Can you give me some guidance please?
For this application, we would recommend our Lux-HQfoam.
Hello, I am working on a pretty unique project and need your help. I’m pretty short and need to make a custom seat to to keep in the plane when I go flying. I am looking for a very low density foam with high firmness. The back of the seat needs to be 18″ and the seat hight needs to be 6.” I would like this foam to be light, yet durable, and somewhat comfortable…. The seat being light and durable priority for safety reasons. Too heavy of a seat means increased fuel consumption and factoring the seat for weight and balance purposes. The seat needs to not compress much where I will sink down because I need to maintain this height to fly the airplane correctly. Please advise what type of foam would be the best fit for this project. Thank you!
Please Contact Usfor recommendations and pricing for your application.
As many have already said, this is a super informative website! I am interested in making a DIY Plyo Box for doing box jumps. The dimensions of the box would be 18″x24″x30″. What type of foam would be suitable for this application?
We would recommend either our 2lb Cross-Linked Polyethylene, or our Minicel T200for your application.
I am intrested in making foam letters 8× 30inches, there about, with a plexi glass table top creating the words baby or love. What weight would you recommend?.
Please Contact Usfor guidance on the best foam for your application.
Need new mattress for RV. Bought your HQ Lux 50 (6inch) but it is a bit too hard. Tried a 1 inch softer foam on top, still too hard. I need firm but not quite that firm,,, Considering doing 3″ HQ Lux 50 with 2-3″ HQ Lux 36 on top. or just 5″ of the 36. Your thoughts? lays on solid fiberglass, no give.Thanks!
For your application, we would recommend our HD36-HQfoam. Either of the options you mentioned will work.
Hi I am looking to order multiple replacement cushions for my sofa. Current cushion thickness is 6″ and it’s no longer comfortable as the cushions have degraded in 4yrs, original sofa cushions (light blue color foam). I weigh 260 lbs, can you recommend replacement cushions that will maintain the medium firmness for 5 yrs?
For your application, we recommend our Lux-Rfoam.
Need a very firm mattress with just a hint of give for hips and shoulders and a total thickness of 8”. What configuration do you suggest? Thanks
For a very firm mattress, we recommend our Lux-HQfoam. If you want a topper that is not memory foam, we would recommend looking into our Latex Topper. Please Contact Usfor further information.
Our 4 month old suite covered with italian leather is puddling badly and we are told that this will happen due to the foam losing 30% of its firmness in the first 3 months of use. Is that correct as it requires dressing after every use?
This can be caused by foam that has broken down. It can also be caused by the leather material being stretched beyond its elasticity. If the furniture is fairly new, it may require new foam. Contact Usfor more information.
Looking to reshape my motorcycle seat by thinning the padding, what would you recommend for someone who weighs 185 lbs and would like to keep the thickness to 2”. If I leave 1” of the current foam and add another 1” of your foam would that change your recommendation
In either case, we would typically recommend our Super Maxfoam.
I have a 3/4 antique bed which gets minimal use and I’d like to find an affordable option for a mattress and box spring. Is there a very firm foam you could recommend which could work as a box spring? It would need to be 5-6 inches deep. Also if that is possible what type of mattress would work with it? From other posts it sounds as if it’s important to have a good base layer to support the mattress. Again, this gets used only a couple times a year and then only by children.
Thank you for your time and advice.
For this application, we would recommend our Lux-HQfoam if you are looking for a firm base.
I’m trying to build a large pad for dropping heavy weights on. Used in pairs, each pad needs to cope with rubber olympic bumper plates dropped from 1 metre, weight 120kg.
The top surface needs to remain horizontal under the static load and the structure rebound to horizontal after impact.
The pad must absorb as much low frequency energy as possible to minimise damage to the floor beneath it.
I’d expect each to be about 75cm wide X 60cm long X 15-20cm high. Pad would be covered in vinyl sheet.
Similar products use reconstituted foam, but I’m looking for even greater low frequency energy absorption.
I’m thinking of a top layer of 9lb reconstituted foam with a further layer beneath it of a foam with greater energy absorption characteristics.
9lb recon foam is a very high density.
I don’t know what its ILD is.
I’m thinking the bottom layer, say about 5cm height, would have a high density but lower ILD than recon foam.
This would mean it will compress more under impact but be sufficiently resilient to cope with the usage.
I’d appreciate your opinion.
For your application, we would recommend our 4lb or 6lb Cross-Linked Polyethylene.
Hello! I was wondering what you would recommend for something that gets dynamic force on a regular basis. I am looking to make a safety mat for rock climbing and want to make sure the base layer of foam I use is soft enough to provide cushion, but stiff enough to not have too much give and act as a safe landing zone. Ideally it would be stiff enough to stop potential hazards like rocks and roots on the ground to cause an issue when landing, and to extend the life of the mat by making sure it stays stiff so these hazards won’t also have a better chance of piercing the material the mat’s outer shell will be made from. I’d be coupling this with a cross link style top sheet to have a safe and even landing platform, but am curious what your recommendation would be for foam that would meet these needs. Thanks so much!
For this application, we recommend our Lux-HQfoam, which is firm enough and durable enough to last a while. It will still offer cushion to pad the fall.
Looking for a solution to change the feel of a 1yr old original Purple mattress that is not working for a stomach sleeper (125lb/5ft tall). Is there a latex foam or memory foam topper you could recommend for either the top of the mattress or on top of the base of the mattress (when flipped upside down) to better accommodate a stomach sleeper who is experiencing back issues on the original mattress? Flipping the mattress prevents the back issues but is very firm as it is the base layer. Was considering 44ILD 3 inch Dunlop latex from another mfg but not sure if that will be effective. Your latex foam is not rated on the same scale so I’m not sure how it compares. Thank you-
For stomach sleepers, it is recommended to stay away from Memory Foam. We would suggest our Latexfor your application. Please do not hesitate to Contact Usfor more information.
I am building a camper and looking to make a mattress only out of the foam I buy. What is something firm to not bottom out but soft enough to lay on and be comfortable? I need something thin, like 2”. Would the Lux Foam High Quality be sufficient for my needs? Thanks.
Yes, for your application, we would recommend our Lux-HQfoam.
Hi, i sleep on a mattress that is kind of hard in my shoulders. I have added an old 2.5 inch egg crate topper. It is not memory foam. I think it is the “normal” cheaper material. It provides the softness i need but i think it will not last long since it keeps compressing. Is there a similar but longer lasting product you would recommend? Thanks
For this application, we would recommend either our Memory Foamor Latex foam.
Hello, Love the site and all the info! We’re looking to get a foam mattress to sleep on in the back of our Subaru Outback while camping. We tried a 4 inch thick memory foam topper from amazon, but that turned out to be too soft and I sank through and can feel the floor beneath it. Would the HD36 foam at 4″ thick be sufficient to prevent bottoming out? If weight matters, I’m around 160 lbs. Thanks!
For your application, we would recommend the HD36-HQfoam for a medium-firmness or the Lux-HQif you prefer something a little firmer.
I’ve having difficulty comparing foams because some datasheets list ILD and others like compression strength in PSI. Is there a way to convert between those? If not, do you have ILD data for your your polyethylene foams?
ILD is typically a measurement used for Open-Cellfoam only, so the methods to test do not translate to Closed-Cellfoams like Polyethylene. If you have a specific question for what foam will work best for your application, feel free to Contact Usfor assistance!
I’m looking for a foam to rebound a hockey ball back from my homemade hockey rebound board? I want it to last – what type of foam do you recommend?
Thank you
Please Contact Usfor information regarding the best foam for your application!
Thank you for providing this channel to assist. I have a relatively new and expensive queen sized mattress that is too soft for me, a wrong choice when I made the purchase. I am a small and light person. If I add a layer of your LUX-HQ foam to the mattress, will it make the mattress firmer? If yes, how thick should this pad be?
Thank you very much for your adivce.
Typically you want a comfort layer on the top of the mattress and a supportive layer on the bottom of the mattresses. Unfortunately adding firm foam on top of a soft mattress will not achieve a desired result of a firmer mattress. You will need to replace the base layer with a firmer product.
10 years ago I bought a 5″ thick Lux-R mattress from you (still going strong). Mostly side sleeper, 125lbs. At first, it seemed hard and crunched my shoulder, but I rearranged pillows and got used to it. It still seems hard, but for 10 years I’ve had no shoulder pain, no back pain, nothing.
Now I am upsizing the bed and thinking I’d best stick with what works (Lux-R or Lux-HQ I guess). If I did want a little softer, tho, would 1″-2″ latex topper be a good way to achieve that, or would just a softer foam be better? Not a fan of memory foam.
Thank you!
Latexcan add a bit of softness on top of a Lux-Rmattress. Latex is considered a medium firmness. Other conventionaloptions are also available.
Hi we are trying to replace a mattress in a roof top tent on our camper trailer with a firmer mattress that needs to be thin (50-60mm thick) but offers a firm sleep not letting our hips etc compress the mattress to a point where we feel the hard base. We will be sleeping on typhus mattress for 5 months straight, later this year and want a comfortable sleep. Our combined weight is approx 190kg, the base for the mattress is solid and the mattress will need to bend in the middle when the camper trailer is packed up for long periods of time. Thank you in advance for your assistance
For this application, we would recommend our 2″ Lux-HQfoam.
Hi! I’m so impressed with your knowledgeable answers!
I’m looking to find a good combination of foam to sleep on in our camper. It can only be three inches thick, and the top 1in is a latex topper. Right now we have 2in gel memory foam for the bottom 2in but I’m lightweight and terribly achy seeping on this. It feels not soft enough. The whole thing lays on plywood. What would you suggest we get for the bottom 2”? Your answer is much appreciated.
Please Contact Usfor more information regarding your application.
I’m looking to reno my m/c seat to provide more comfort on the seat of my touring bike, I weigh 150#, what type of foam would you suggest?
For this application, we would recommend either our Super Maxfoam or a combination of the Super Max with our Minicel T200foam.
I’m looking for the correct foam to build out a checked luggage case to hold up to 12 wine/liquor bottles and be protective. The maximum case weight full would be 50 lbs. Each bottle averages 3 lbs. Standing on end, there could be as many as 8 bottles in alignment which would be 24 total pounds on the bottom sections of foam. I’d expect to have as little as 1-2″ of foam around each bottle. Given different size/shape of spirits bottles, I think I only can use pick/pull foam and it seems you have only one kind. Is it dense enough for this application?
Pick and Pull Foamshould work for this application. We can also do custom cutting, if you would like to look at different foams, though. Contact Usfor further information!
I am looking for the foam for massage table. I have custom made massage table using 5″ high memory foam. Stretching and back walking requires a therapist to stand on the table. The foam is too soft when the therapist stand on the table. The feet are sinking down. I would like the firm foam, but not too hard for the Female clients when they face down. I am looking at 3″ charcoal firm foam. Do you think this is too hard?
Please Contact Usfor further information regarding your application.
Valuable information! Thank you. I’m a hot sleeper and like really firm support (but not plywood firm). So, I’m thinking of getting a 3-5″ thick foam with ILD 50 or more, put a cooling cover on it and make my own thin and firm mattress.
I’m hesitant among Lux Foam – Regular, Lux Foam – HQ and Dryfast Foam regarding airflow and coolness. Which one do you think makes a cooler mattress?
The Dryfastfoam would likely be too firm for an everyday mattress. As far as the other two, they will likely function the same, but the Lux-HQhas a longer lifespan than the Lux-Rfoam. That said, most polyurethane foams run a bit warmer. The only foam that we have that is naturally cooler is our Latexfoam.
Hello. I am 5’6” 200 lbs woman, arthritic hips, knees and shoulders. Bad back too, but it usually does not hurt when I sleep. My hips and shoulder are the biggest problem for pain. I am a side sleeper.
I was thinking of using HQ regular foam base core 5” (or maybe 6”) And wanted to put a topper
on for pressure points relief in my joints. Was thinking of a 2” or 3” of 3 or 4 lb
Memory foam, or 2” or 3 inch of soft poly foam 12 ILD.
What do you suggest? Thanks much.
For this application, we would recommend our 4lb Memory Foam Topper.
Hi and thank you for your reply to my question.
What thickness of 4 lb memory foam topper do you suggest?
Thanks, Lee
Years ago I had some sofa cushions replaced with “boat” foam. I love its firmness! Can’t figure out how to find similar foam to replace a very too soft sofa cushions in another sofa. I have considered an IDL of 50 or higher with high density. Is this available? Am I looking at something one could live with?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to The Foam Factory via our blog.
For seat cushions we suggest going with either our HD36 Regular or High Quality (medium feel), or our Lux Regular or High Quality (firm feel). The Regular and High Quality feel about the same, but have different lifespans. The Regular will last about 5-8 years, and the High Quality will last about 10-12 years. With both of these foam types, the thicker you go, the firmer they will feel. Once you get up to about 5” thick the HD36 starts to feel medium-firm, and the Lux starts to feel very firm. I would not suggest going any less than 3” thick with the Lux and 4” thick with the HD36.
The HD36 foam has an ILD of 35LB, and the Lux foam has an ILD of 50LB.
For all future questions, please contact us.
Thank you for this great information. I am constructing a bed, and I’m curious about what ILD I should use for the base layer. The final thickness of the bed will be 8 inches, 2 of which will be a 20 ILD talay latex topper. The bed will be used primarily by a 6 ft 1, 185 lb male who is lean and muscular with a lot of weight at the shoulder area. I prefer a firm mattress, but with enough “give” because I am mostly a side sleeper. I’m wondering if I should get 6 inches of 35 ILD foam as a base layer, or if I should get 3 inches of 50 ILD (base) + 3 inches of 35 ILD (transition layer). Would having 3 inches of the 50 ILD provide a significantly different feel or level of support? Does my overall mattress thickness and configuration sound reasonable and ideal for my situation? Would another setup be potentially better? Thanks!
Also, what is your most popular foam that is used for a 6-in base layer on a bed? (Especially for people that are under 200 lb. Thanks again!
Good Morning,
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail via our blog.
Per your question, based off this information, 5-6” of the HD36 35LB ILD base would work best for comfort and support. As the LUX foam will be too firm for what you are looking to accomplish. Typically we only suggest this foam base for customers who are over 200 LBS or prefer an extremely firm mattress.
For all future questions please contact us.
Thank you!
I’ve had a latex mattress (100% latex, Medium idl 30, 3 years old) which has been sagging since it’s 2nd year. I have since moved to my couch, which has 5 inches of your LUX-HD foam for the seat cushions.
The LUX-HD gives me much better sleep for about 2 weeks, then I also notice a bit of soreness or sagging. To alleviate this I take out my sleeping bag and a small pillow and place in onto the hardwood floor. This improves my comfort and give me better rest I feel than the sleeping on top of the 5″ of LUX-HD.
Now I’m trying to build a queen mattress for my bedroom. What would work best for me:
A) 6 inches of LUX-HD
B) 5 inches of LUX-HD and 1 inch of HQ36
c) Pocket-coils with 3 inches of LUX-HD (if this is as firm as the 6 inches of LUX-HD)
D) open to any other suggestions you might have.
E) I’m a difficult sleeper and should just sleep on the floor 🙂 🙁
Any advice or guidance is appreciated!
Happy to be a repeat customer!
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail via our Blog.
Per your question, the foam type would be a personal preference. We unfortunately do not work with coils or springs so we would not have that information.
Are you placing the foam directly on the floor or on top of a box spring or metal frame slats?
If you prefer a firmer mattress, we would suggest starting with the LUX-HQ foam and then purchasing other foam toppers as needed.
For all future questions, please contact us.
Hi I am searching for a pressure-relieving mattress topper. I am a side sleeper weighing almost 300 pounds. I have an all latex mattress comprised of two extra firm layers on the bottom, a firm layer in the middle, and a medium layer on top. This is much, much too firm for me, and my hip and thigh are in extreme pain every night. I tried a 3″ memory foam topper from Amazon but I bottom out on it and it provides no benefit. Please tell me the best solution for me for a mattress topper that provides excellent pressure relief without bottoming out, supports my weight while still providing a soft cloud-like feel, and that will be long-lasting. Thank you in advance.
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail via our Blog.
Per your question, this would be a personal preference based on trial and error.
What are the ILD / firmness ratings of each of the Latex layers? As this will help us see what we offer that is comparable.
Please let us know!
This is really a nice detailed information. I recently bought 6″ LUX-HQ foam mattress from you. But this is really feeling hard to me as a back sleeper . I need to add some softness . My target is to use medium soft ( what they call the scale of 7 . 10 being hard and 1 is soft ) . My options may be add 4″ memory foam or add 4″ HD36-HQ foam or combination of both . Can you please recommend, what will be best in this scenario.
Hello,
Unfortunately we are not mattress experts and the foam type will be a personal preference. The HD foam is a medium firmness and will only add a touch of softness, as at 3” thick this foam can be used by a mattress on its own.
The memory foam will add softness, but the topper will bottom out and you will still feel the firm foam underneath.
Foam samples are available! Check out our website for some 8” x 8” foam sample kits that are available for purchase, see here:
Foam Sample Kit
For future questions please contact us.