When evaluating a foam product for use in a comfort application, perhaps the most useful testing value for determining its usability is compression strength. This value rates a foam’s feel and firmness by testing how it yields to or supports applied weight. These values are the easiest way to categorize materials, making the selection of a foam type easier by narrowing the field and even helping make a purchase decision if the chance to feel the foam in person is not possible.
Compression strength is evaluated through a test called Indentation Load Deflection (ILD), also known as Indentation Force Deflection. This is a computer controlled performance evaluation, with standardization allowing all materials tested using this process to be measured against each other on a balanced plane. This sort of standardization is necessary in the foam industry, where there are hundreds of similar products and only minor differences can make one foam type suited for an application and make another the wrong choice.
There are multiple ways foam strength is tested, but the most prevalent is the 25 percent compression test. As the main method of testing, if a material is simply stated as having an ILD value of “Z,” that refers to its 25 percent compression test results. The most important aspect of this evaluation is ensuring that a proper sample size is tested. Samples must be 4 inches thick, 15 inches wide and 15 inches long. Maintaining this consistency across every test is important because foam materials can bear weight and pressure differently depending on thickness and size, even if the sample is cut from the same bulk material. Thinner sections of foam will yield more easily to weight while thicker sections will be more resilient. Additionally, testing products of different dimensions eliminates the test’s control and, in turn, the ability to evenly compare results from one material to another.
To conduct the test, a circular metal indenter applies downward force into the testing sample resting on a flat surface until the foam is compressed 1 inch (25 percent of the sample’s 4 inch height). The amount of pressure the indenter requires in pounds to compress the foam to its correct height is its ILD. If 50 pounds are required to compress the sample 25 percent, its ILD value is 50. On average, most ILD values fall on a spectrum from the low teens up to the 60s and 70s.
With foam’s ILD values directly correlated to the weight needed to compress it, customers can use those values to interpret the feel of a tested material type. The lowest ILD values indicate the softest and most cushioning foams, as they require the fewest pounds to be compressed. These products are often used in a pressure relief system as seating pads, mattress toppers and chair backs where comfort is the exclusive goal. ILDs in the high-20s to the mid-40s generally mean the foam carries a balance of comfort and support. These materials can also be used for pressure relief cushions where a little extra support is desired. These foam types are firmer than the lower-ILD types but can still provide cushioning pressure relief. These materials are used predominantly as a pillow or in body wedges where the product needs to support weight while offering the most comfort. They are also utilized in mattresses, shredded foam filling or for orthopedic support. ILD values in the 50s and greater are the most supportive and firm foam materials. These are most commonly used in seating cushions that bear the full weight of a body centered on a smaller area, automobile seating and the firmest bedding materials.
Recognizing that ILD is not indicative of a material’s quality is an important distinction to understand. The spectrum of ILD values only interprets a material as hard foam or soft, not long-lasting or high-quality. To understand those foam characteristics, a product’s density should be examined. Along with ILD, Density can help you find the perfect foam for creating a better mattress, pad or cushion.
In addition to the standard 25 percent test, there are additional compression strength evaluations that provide more insight into a material. Frequently included along with the 25 percent ILD data is a 50 percent compression value, which is a measure of the pounds required to compress a foam sample half of its height. This is tested because compression is not necessarily linear, so you cannot simply double the 25 percent compression value to know how it responds to greater pressure. Many types of foam have similar 25 percent ILDs but very different 50 percent ILDs.
Yet another test is support factor, which may also be called sag factor or compression modulus. This value is a comparison ratio between the 25 percent compression value and a deeper 65 percent degree of compression. The 25 percent value is divided into the 65, typically resulting in a value from 1 to 3 that more accurately represents support capability than a single test. Because foam is going to be compressed by 65 percent more often in real-world use than 25 percent, this combination generates a performance value while still utilizing the 25 percent ILD. The greater the support factor value, the more supportive the material is.
While only one of the various factors to take into consideration while evaluating a material for use in an application, compression strength remains one of the most important. Firmness, feel and support are the characteristics foam users are going to be most sensitive to and the ones that dictate if they like the material they have selected or not. Knowing how to interpret ILD values can make selecting the right material much easier, which can save you time, effort and even money.
Would it be safe to say that if I needed polyurthane foam for a Physical theraphy table top that would support 200 pounds very well; it could be 2″ thick and have a 26 density and about 45 compression? Please advise what a piece of this 27″ x 76″ would cost.
Our Lux-HQ foam would be suggested for your application. You can price out and custom order that through our seats and couch cushions page.
I need a 24″ x 84″ piece of foam for a bench seat. If the foam is to be 3″ deep, what density would be required so that and adult of 200lbs would not compress the foam more than 1.5″ when sitting on the bench?
I could use 4″ thick if that helps.
We would suggest our 3″ Lux-HQ foam for your application. 3″ should be sufficient. See custom cut seats and cushions for pricing.
We have an older camper with a sofa which converts into a bed-queen size. The current 4″ foam is too hard for my husband who is 6’3″ and weighs 210. What foam would be good for his sleeping comfort and also for a sofa to support sitting people.
We would suggest either our firm Lux foam or our medium HD36 foam for your application.
I am in the planning of making a sectional. Both me and my boyfriend are bigger him being about 290. The cushions should 28 by 28 roughly. I was thinking about 4 or 5 inches thick. I am torn between your Lux foam HQ or HD36 foam. Keeping in mind that it will probably be slept or napped on
Our suggestion for your application will be the Lux-HQ foam.
I am making a large dog bed . Need to know what compression of supporting foam to use. I prefer 3in . I am also using memory foam for the top layer.
We suggest either the HD36-Regular (Medium) or the Lux-Regular (Firm) foam for your application. Memory foam layer can be our 3LB density memory foam.
I need a 1.2meter X 0.4Meter foam to withstand a load of 4tons at 50% compressibility. Can you suggest me what foam has to be used? I am planning to have 4″ foam so that final thick will come down to 2″ by the time applying the 4MT load. Please suggest the density as well as Foam Material.
Our calculations show that either our 2.2LB polyethylene or our 2LB cross-linked polyethylene would give you the results you need.
I sit on a small sofa all day every day for my work on a laptop. I prefer a hard and supportive foam, perhaps with a cushioned layer on top. What type of foam will hold up under such frequent use? About how many years of wear could I expect to get from it?
4″ or less, we would suggest our firm lux foam. 5″ or greater, we would suggest our medium HD36 foam.
Hi, I have back pain also had surgery. Last time I went for physical therapy and found that table very comfortable. I did not have any pain as long as I lay down on that table. what kind of foam they use. I need firm mattress 2″ of 1″. what do you recommend
It was most likely a very firm foam. The foam I would suggest for your application is our Super Max foam.
Would your hd-36 6 inch be too soft for multiple hour tv binges sitting on my couch cushions? I am 220 lb 5’10. After how many hours would the foam fully expand to gauge correct firmness?
The HD36 Regular or HQ foam is what we would suggest for your application.
Hi. I’m looking for a compressed foam similar to a “yoga” block. But I need it on a large scale application. The yoga blocks are about 700/800mm of very dense foam and I need it in sheet format. Any suggestions. Thank you.
We are thinking about replacing the seat cushions in our large sectional. We love the sectional, but the foam in the seats have already worn out and are mushy! We want a firm foam to sit on, so you don’t “sink” so much. I am a bigger guy: 6′-0″ 210 lbs. However my mother-in-law in slight: 5′-8″ and 110 lbs. What foam would you suggest that could support me – but no be to firm for my mother in law?
I am worried Lux HQ might be too firm for her. Then again, perhaps I will sink in the HD36-HQ. Help!?!?!
I have a screened in porch. I would like to replace me patio seat cushions. They don’t get rained on, but of course are subject to humidity and cool temps. Is HD36 or to use?
Closest foam we have available is our 3lb cross linked polyethylene foam. The thickest it comes is 4″ thick. Anything thicker will need to be layered together and glued.
Our suggestion would be the HD36-HQ medium foam for your application.
HD36 Foam is OK, as long as the foam is covered in plastic. Otherwise we would suggest our dryfast foam for your application.
How would 8 inches of HD36-HQ Foam, plus 4 inches high dnsity memory foam feel like? Would it be medium firm, I am told the memory foam is medium firm! iIs this the wrong combination.? I am building my own bed!
Using that combination, the foam should have a medium feel to it.
I am making 4 Bar Height benches. The bench is 38x29x18. Looking for a 2″ foam to upholster the top of the bench. Which one will work the best to not feel the edge of the seat?
We would suggest our Lux High Quality foam for your application.
We bought a couch from a major retailed and I love it but I sink (I weigh 155 lbs) in the 6 inch cushion down to the frame. I would really love a more firm cushion and I’m wondering how hard it is to get it and what it would cost?
You can price out and order custom cut cushions for your couch on our website. See our custom seats and cushions page.
I need a piece of foam that is 13.25 inches thick, 20 inches long, and 19 inches wide that firmly supports weight up to 200lbs. It is to be used as a cushion at our home. Could you make such a piece?
I would suggest our Lux-HQ foam for your application. This foam is considered firm foam. You can price out and customer order this cushion on the custom seats and cushion page of our website. If you need very firm foam, it would be best to contact us for help with custom cutting our other options of very firm foam. Thanks.
I would like to make a dog bed that can roll up as easily as possible for travel and is comfortable for a 50 lb dog. Would like it to be at least 2-3 inches if possible. Thank you!
We would suggest our eggcrate pet bed for application. Check out Eggcrate Foam Pet Bed – Twill Cover.
Hi! What foam should I use if It needs to be a 1″ sheet such that if I put a 3lb brick on top it sinks about 1/2″? How is this calculated, generally?
The foam that would closely match your requirement is our HD36-Regular or HD36-HQ foam.
Hi. I’m looking for an ultra-ultra-lightweight foam for a backpacking chair. It must be comfortable for a 200lb person to sit on (on a hard surface) for at least an hour, and a 12″ x 16″ x 3/4″ piece must weigh less than 1 once. Got anything that will work?
This is a difficult request, because with foam typically the lighter density is a lower quality foam and / or is very soft. The density you would be looking for in foam is about 0.8lb density. The closest match I would say is our 1.2lb density polyethylene foam.
I am needing a 1″ foam for western saddle seats that is medium firm and does not compress flat under the riders pelvic bone points. It needs to last for many years in a saddle that is used for hours a day. Is this possible?
We would suggest our Gym Rubber for your application. The foam has a medium / firm feel and can be used for outdoor cushion use.
I have a Bassett leather sectional sofa and one of the modules gets the most wear. It has 2 types of foam and corrugated zig-zag suspension spring suspension. The lower foam layer is 5 inches and the loosely attached topper is 2 inches. I need to replace all the foam. Can you suggest a good foam combination?
Please contact us and provide additional details. Thanks.
Hello:
Am planning to reupholster 6 dining room chairs. We want a 3” cushion that will compress comfortably about halfway under a 170 lb. person over four hours of card playing. Cost is not a consideration. We value your advice.
Sincerely,
Larry Lapham
We would suggest our firm Lux-Regular or firm Lux-HQ foam for your application.
I have a built in bench that is 82″ long, 21″ deep and 15 1/4″ high. I want a foam cushion that when compressed will be standard chair height of 18″. What foam would you suggest?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Sarah Stevensob
I would suggest either our firm Lux-Regular or Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can custom order this foam on our seats & cushions page.
I am restoring an antique Morris chair. The seat is supported by 8 way tied copper coil springs covered with coconut husk, burlap and finish material. I need to make a cushion that is 22″x21″ by 6″ thick that will compress about 30% when a 160 pound, average build person sits on it. I want the very highest quality, long lasting foam that will meet those requirements. What do you reccomend?
I would suggest our HD36-High Quality foam for your application. You can order that on our custom cut cushion page.
I’m looking to modify a stock motorcycle seat on my Honda Fury cruiser. I’m about 200 lb with gear on. Basically I want to shave the stock foam away, do a cutout for a gel pad, then layer a 1″ thick pad of memory foam on top of everything and shape the seat back. What type and density of open cell foam would be recommended for this retrofit? Thanks in advance!
We are building a banquette in our dining room. What foam would you suggest for a 250 lb. person that would compress about 2″? The foam will be 22″ x 75″
Rebond foam or Super Max Foam is suggested for your application.
We would suggest our Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and custom order that cushion on our seats and cushions page seats and cushions page seats and cushions page.
Hi I’m building two motorcycle seats from scratch and wondering the best foam choice? One bike has rear suspension and the other does not and I don’t want the foam to compress after an hour or two of riding. It would also be 1/2” layers to make it easier to conform to the seat pan and 2” thick finished. Thanks!
We would suggest our Super Max Foam for your application.
I’ve read all the motorcycle seat foam suggestions, still not my answer.
I have tried buying used motorcycle seats, savaging their foam but in the long run, they failed.
I’m refoaming a touring seat for **many** long hours and years in the saddle (I’m retired). What foam combo will best suit this? The top layer will be the near molded form of the persons butt, (similar to a tractors seat). The beneath layers will be of stock thickness(s) and replaceable as they deteriorate or required of a persons weight differences. Said base layers are the seat pan shape and edge cut to match top custom layer.
I’ve already tried different densities of medical foam. They formed quickly but compressed to nothing after an hour. Neoprene is too stiff in any thickness tho it’s good for edge support.
It seems I’m either at your mercy or find some mini ‘Z’ car seat springs and layer up from that. But alas, that’s even more complicated.
Ah-hem… HELP!?
The foam that I would suggest for your application is our Super Max Foam.
I am in the process of converting an 2 existing futon mattress (twin) made of cotton layers into a tufted mattresses that can be stacked up and used as a daybed or opened up into a larger bed. I wanted to give the current futon more support and was thinking of using a foam insert sandwiched in the middle of the existing cotton. I would like the foam layer to be 3 inch and very firm. What would you suggest?
I would suggest either our Lux-Regular or our Lux-HQ foam for your application. However, keep in mind that any firm foam will be difficult to bend back to be re-used in a futon application. You can custom order foam mattresses on our website.
Hello,
I am looking for a foam type that would be able to roll/fold into a portable carrying bag. The foam needs to be able to be compressed, lightweight, but expand and be comfortable enough for a child weighing 40 pounds to lay on. What would you recommend?
I would suggest our T200 EVA Minicel Foam for your application.
I need to make new cushions for our boat. Cushions will be partially exposed to weather (under a bimini top) so I plan to use Dry Fast foam. However, I would like a firmer cushion that lasts longer than Dry Fast, if possible, and am considering adding a 1″ layer of a closed-cell foam under a 2″ layer of Dry Fast. Do you think this will work? If so, which closed cell foam would you recommend? Thanks!
It could work, as long as you drill holes, about 1″ in diameter, throughout the closed cell foam layer. The water needs somewhere to drain, having a hole about 8″ to 12″ apart should work.
Thanks, very helpful. I’m considering using Minicel T-200 1″ for the closed cell foam as it appears to be similar to foam used on a friend’s boat. Would something else work better? You carry so very many closed cell foams; difficult to choose.
Yes, you could go with that foam type for your application.
I’m making a bench cushion that is 70x20x4 in size. What foam type would you recommend? Thanks.
For medium, go with our HD36 foam. For firm, go with the Lux foam.
I just purchased a couch, but the cushions go down to just about 1.5″ and I can almost feel the springs beneath it. If I purchased new foam for the cushions, what compression would I need? I weigh 200 lbs. But, keep in mind that I will lose about 15 lbs after the holidays, if that makes a difference. And where do I find the cost?
We would suggest our firm Lux-HQ foam for your application. You can price out and order custom cut cushions here custom cut cushions here custom cut cushions here.
Hi, I am disabled and need a booster cushion to take with me when out of the house. Assuming a 17″ seat height, I need a 4″ booster when compressed. I weigh 375. What wood you suggest?
Please contact us directly for information and pricing.
Hello, If I sliced foam in half to be thinner would it still have the same compression & density qualities? I am making knee pads and don’t want them to be bulky. & these knee pads would be used on hardwood floors a lot. What do you suggest I use?
The physical properties of the foam will not change. However, the foam will provide less support, so you will feel the hardwood floor more with less foam. For open cell polyurethane foam, no less than 1″. For closed cell foam, no less than 1/2″ in thickness.
I want to use a foam rubber core with a feather blend top and bottom-what should I be using for the core?
What is suggested is our Medium HD36-Regular foam or our Super Soft foam.
Hi – I am interested in buying a sheet of HR foam, 3 inches in depth, to replace a top layer on my husbands side of our diy latex mattress. I used HR foam as a top layer on my side in 2014 and it is still going strong. I have no idea what my ild is, but it is VERY firm. My husband needs something softer but still more supportive than the soft talalay latex we have now. I know it is hard to make a recommendation but I am trying to decide between the med vs med soft hr foam. He is 5’9” abt 165 pounds. What would you recommend? Thanks
For medium foam, we suggest HD36-HQ foam. For firm foam, we suggest our Lux-HQ foam.
I have a 3″ thick TEMPUR-ADAPT foam Topper & am looking to put as thin of a base as possible under it for sleeping out of my SUV. I’m 5’9″ & weigh 135 lbs. & bottom out a but on the Topper sleeping on my side with it right on a hard surface. Will a 1″ thick ILD 54 work?
I would suggest 1″ of our super max foam for your application.
GREAT discussion. I’m a 40-year design engineer and appreciate the technical perspective taken in this. How boring guys like me are trained to go into considering a material or product for integration into a system under design. I’ve done other applications that involved foam and I was not pleased with the process of going to the local place and squeezing the product like I was buying a cantalope. My question is this.. Do you have a chart that summarizes/categorizes the technical ratings/parameters of your various foams so we can proceed from this excellent discussion to making an informed choice of a specific foam? Thanks for any help you can provide.
The best place to find technical data for our foam is on our Data Sheets page.
Hi I have a bench that is 18.75 inches high. I’m looking for a 2 inch thick foam topper so that when a 120lb person sits down on it, it compresses to no more 19.25 inches. Which one would you suggest?
Please Contact Us for information on what foam will work best for your application.
Currently sleeping on 3, 4 inch layers of ‘memory’ foam. The problem is it ‘remembers’ too well
and I get a sag that makes it uncomfortable. It gets worse with 4 layers as I sink deeper.
I was thinking a bottom piece of 4 in higher density with maximum ‘recovery’. The memory foam would allow for softness but the firmer regular foam would supply support. Suggestions appreciated.
What thickness and type of foam is needed for a 300lb individual to not compress a 16″ x 18″ foam area by no more than 1.50″ (or 50% whichever is greater)?
Memory foam is typically used with a firmer conventional foam base, such as our Lux-HQ foam. A typical combination would be 5″ of conventional foam with 3″-4″ of memory foam on top. We sell these layers as our memory foam mattress combinations.
Please Contact Us for more information.
I have a glider that has 4″ seat and 3″ back. Currently the seat cushion bottoms out and I can feel the slats beneath. I would like a cushion that prevents that. Would the Lux-HQ be too firm? I don’t know whether to replace the back foam. If I chose to replace, what foam would you advice? The glider is 20 years old. Thank you!
Our Lux-HQ foam is what we would recommend for your seating application. Super Soft foam is recommended for back cushions.
What density foam would I want for a couch where a 300lb person sits regulary?
For this application, we would suggest our Lux-HQ foam.
What type of foam is needed for a standing 350lb individual to not compress a 24x18x6 foam area by no more than 4″?
Please Contact Us for more information on the best product for your application.
I need 2″ foam to replace weight bench in a gym. I do new vinyl covers and some times I have to replace the foam. My problem is finding foam firm enough to not bottom out and durable enough to last at least as long as the vinyl cover.
For this application, we would recommend our Super Max foam.
Hello, is there a foam available that is very light weight but wouldn’t compress when someone stands on it? I was thinking I would need it in 1/2” thickness for my application.
I am 185 lb with severe osteoporosis and I need a cushion for my chair that boosts me up 3” and will not compress too much.
For this application, we would recommend our Lux-HQ.
Please Contact Us for more information on the best product for you application!
Could you please send me some info regarding how you calculate the correct foam for each application people post? I have a couple projects I am working on for engineering school and curious how your calculation methods compare to mine
Please Contact Us for further information.
I am redoing a chair that will be outside on a covered porch (will not get direct rain). And I don’t want it to compress to feel the slats beneath. Can the Lux HQ foam be used? Or should it be the Dry Fast – and will the Dry Fast not compress for a 230# person?
Please Contact Us for further information regarding your application.
Hey. I have a 2 materials of EVA foam with different hardness. each of them comes with 30 deg and 40 deg of hardness. Can you suggest to me which one should I choose to be used as padding for rack so that I can put my stuffs weight around 30kg on it? Thank you
Please Contact Us for further information regarding your inquiry.
I would like to build a medium mattress myself. I plan to use 2 inch of ILD 20 foam on top and 2 inch of ILD 28 in the middle. But I am uncertain about the bottom. Given the HD36 and Lux foams you have, I am uncertain if I use a 6 inch foam of ILD 50 at the bottom will make the mattress too firm.
Please Contact Usfor more information regarding your inquiry.
hello, i weight ~140lbs and would like to have a firm cushions for my RV to sleep on. What is your suggestion? thanks
Please Contact Usfor further information regarding your inquiry.
I have a case with a 25 lb equipment in it. I am able to put a 1 inch foam around each side, top and bottom separating my equipment from the case. If the case is dropped from 6 feet, will the 1 inch foam cushion it? If not, what material would cushion it?
Please Contact Usfor further information regarding your inquiry.
I need a 24″ x 84″ piece of foam for a bench seat. If the foam has to be 2″ deep, what density would be required so that and adult of 200lbs would not compress the foam more than 1″ when sitting on the bench?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail.
Per your question, if you interested in a firmer 2” thick foam for an adult around 200 LBS we would suggest the firmer Super Max foam. As the other foam types will most likely compress more than 1”.
The Super Max is only sold in sheet sizes, but can but custom cut to specified dimensions.
Super Max – https://www.foambymail.com/product/super-max-foam.html
For all future inquires please contact us.
What foam would you recommend for Cylindrical shape foam insert for bed bolsters
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail via our blog.
For your application, you can use either our Poly Round Bolster, open cell, or our Polyethylene Cylinder, closed cell.
Below are links to both of these on our website, please let me know your thoughts.
Poly Round Bolster
Polyethylene Cylinder
What kind of loaded foam do you suggest to use for a bed with a plywood platform. Need for 200lb person
Thank you for reaching out to Foam By Mail via our blog.
You can typically put anything on top of a solid plywood platform, as long as it is firm enough. For example, using the HD-HQ or LUX-HQ base as a 5-6” thickness will work.
The foam should be firm enough to lay directly on the slats, however the mattress may begin to sink through the slats over time. Typically we recommend to lay plywood over the slats so the mattress has a flat surface to lay on.
For mattresses 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. Check out our YouTube video for a short explanation of the different foams:
Conventional Foam Bases
From there, you can go as thick as you would like with the base, or add on one of our many different topper options.
Mattresses
I would like to buy a piece of egg crate foam that is very soft like what you cannot buy anymore. Do you make a very soft one? That is the most comfortable for me
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to The Foam Factory via our blog.
You can see our available Convoluted Eggcrate foam toppers here:
The softest option would be Super Soft Foam.