• Upholstery Insight Blog

Foam Fundamentals

When it comes to upholstery projects, selecting the right foam can make a huge difference in comfort, durability, and performance. At Albright’s Supply, we stock five varieties of open-cell foam that are available for custom cutting, plus a selection of pre-cut sheets. Today, we're breaking down foam density and compression and discussing the types of foam we carry.

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Understanding Foam Density and Compression

Density
Density reflects the weight of the foam which impacts its quality and lifespan. Density does not impact the foam’s firmness. A foam's density, measured by weighing a 12” x 12” x 12” piece. For instance, a foam with a 2.0lb density means that a 12” cube of the foam weighs 2.0lbs.

Compression
Compression measures how firm the foam feels. It's determined by applying pressure to a 15” x 15” x 4” foam sample with a 50 sq. in. circular indenter. If the foam takes 50 pounds of pressure to compress 1 inch (or 25% of its thickness), it has a 50lb compression rating. Higher compression means a firmer feel.

 

Types of Foam at Albright’s Supply

Comfort Foam
Our softest foam option, Comfort Foam, has a 1.8lb density and 45lb compression, making it ideal for furniture projects where you want a cozy, slightly giving feel. This CertiPur-US certified and Prop 65 compliant foam is perfect for couches, window seats, and other seating areas. Available exclusively for custom cutting, Comfort Foam offers lasting comfort.

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Deluxe Foam
For an all-purpose solution, Deluxe Foam is versatile enough for car seats, benches, and more. With a 2.0lb density and 50lb compression, it provides medium-firm support with a comfortable give. This foam is anti-microbial, pink-stain resistant, Prop 65 compliant, and meets California Tech 117 flammability standards. Choose Deluxe Foam in 24” x 82” pre-cut pads, 55” x 82” mattresses, or custom cut sizes to fit your needs.

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Super Foam
Slightly firmer than Deluxe, Super Foam offers a higher 2.5lb density and 55lb compression, making it ideal for automotive seats and benches where durability is key. It’s resilient, anti-microbial, Prop 65 compliant, and meets flammability standards. Available in 24” x 82” pre-cut pads, 55” x 82” mattresses, or custom cut to fit.

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Ultra Foam
This all-around durable foam features a 2.5lb density and 45lb compression, ensuring it stands up to heavy use. Ultra Foam is CertiPur-US certified, Prop 65 compliant, meets flammability requirements, and is available for custom cutting only. It’s a great choice for projects like therapy tables, window benches, and similar high-use applications.

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SafeGuard Foam
With a 1.8lb density and a firm 78lb compression, SafeGuard Foam is built for strength and support. Its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties make it ideal for marine, healthcare, and hospitality uses. SafeGuard is pink-stain resistant, Prop 65 compliant, meets California Tech 117 standards, and is available in 1” and 2” – 27.5” x 82” pre-cut pads.

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Quick Dry Foam
Designed for outdoor and marine use, Quick Dry Foam features a porous structure that allows water to flow through. With a 1.8lb density and 30lb compression, it’s soft yet durable, anti-microbial, and meets California Tech 117 standards. Quick Dry Foam is available exclusively for custom cutting.

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Custom Cutting at Albright’s Supply

At Albright’s, we pride ourselves on providing customized solutions tailored to your project needs. Whether you need foam for automotive seats, outdoor cushions, or furniture, our custom-cutting service ensures you get the perfect fit.


Click here to explore our entire foam collection.