Guides
Sofa Cushion Buying Guide
In a sofa, type of cushion fill is one of the best ways to determine construction quality – and how long the seat will last.
What Is Foam Density?
A sofa’s foam density is the weight of one cubic block of the foam cushioning. For example, if one cubic block of foam weighed 1 pound, then the foam would have a density of one pound. High-density foam is regarded by manufacturers as foam with a density of 1.8 and above. Low-density foam is regarded by manufacturers as foam with a density of 1.8 and below. The higher the density, the firmer the feel of the foam.
Polyurethane Foam vs Memory Foam
Polyurethane foam is the most common type of foam fill for sofas, and is also often used as “toppers” for mattresses. It is usually yellow in color and high-resiliency (meaning it bounces back quickly). Memory foam is a type of foam that contains polyurethane foam, blended with additional compounds to create a low-resiliency, slow-to-bounce-back feel.
Common Fills
|
Cushion Type |
What It Is |
|
Foam |
The most common type of sofa filling. Varieties include memory foam, high-density foam and low-density foam. |
|
Dacron Wrap |
Dacron wrap is a polyester lining that goes around foam cushioning. It is used to fill in any loose gaps between the foam cushion and the fabric seat cover. It also acts as a buffer to help prevent thinning and wearing out of the seat cover fabric. |
|
Feather/Down Wrap |
A foam core wrapped in feathers, feather wrap (also called ‘down wrap’) helps create a cushion that feels both downy and supportive. |
Before making a sofa purchase, remember to consider your size, budget and quality preferences!
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.