upholstery foam compression chart
An upholstery foam compression chart takes the guesswork out of choosing cushion filling. Whether you are rebuilding a sofa seat, padding a dining chair, or making a window bench cushion, knowing how firm a foam feels before you cut it saves time, money, and fabric.
How to Read a Foam Firmness Chart
Most charts rate foam by ILD (indentation load deflection), the force needed to compress a foam sample by a set amount. A higher ILD means a firmer feel. Density, measured in pounds per cubic foot, tells you more about durability than softness.
General ILD Ranges
- Soft: back cushions, pillow inserts, and toppers
- Medium: everyday sofa seats and lounge chairs
- Firm: dining chairs, benches, and window seats
- Extra firm: boat seating, RV cushions, and heavy-use spots
What to Look For
For seats that get daily use, choose high density upholstery foam paired with a medium or firm rating so cushions keep their shape. Softer foam works best where comfort matters more than support. Consider thickness too, since thinner foam often needs a firmer rating to avoid bottoming out.
Ready to match the chart to your project? Browse the upholstery foam options listed below to find the right firmness for your cushions.
