Most homeowners obsess over fabric and design when shopping for couches — but what’s inside the couch matters just as much. If you’ve ever bought a lounge suite that looked gorgeous but sagged within months, chances are the culprit was low-quality upholstery foam.
Whether you’re buying or custom-making sofas in South Africa, knowing the right sponge type is the key to comfort and longevity.
Sponge Density & Comfort Levels: What You’re Really Sitting On
Understanding sofa foam types will help you avoid costly mistakes. In South Africa, foam is often classified by colour and density, both of which affect comfort, durability, and cost.
| Foam Colour | Density Range (kg/m³) | Firmness | Comfort Level | Common Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White | 16–20 | Soft | 🚫 Low | Headboards, back cushions, budget couches | Inexpensive but not very durable; loses shape quickly |
| Pink | 22–26 | Medium | ⭐⭐ Medium | Dining chairs, ottomans, mid-range sofas | Great value and comfort for most general upholstery needs |
| Blue | 28–32 | Medium-Firm | ⭐ Low | Premium seat cushions, lounge sets, mattresses | Best for seating; durable with a good balance of softness and support |
| Yellow | 80–120 (Rebond foam) | Very Firm | ⭐⭐⭐ Medium | Gym mats, base layers, heavy-duty support surfaces | Not suitable for comfort — mostly used for structure and high weight areas |
| Grey | 28–36 | Firm | ⭐⭐ Medium – High | Custom seating, modern furniture, long-use cushions | More modern aesthetic; similar performance to yellow foam with added style |
Mixing foam types in layers (e.g. grey base + blue topper) can create custom comfort — especially useful for bespoke sofas or bedroom benches!
Upholstery Foam Comfort Levels – Not All Cushions Are Created Equal
When evaluating high-density foam cushions, don’t just go for the hardest option — comfort is a mix of firmness and bounce-back. The best sponge for couches should offer enough resistance to support body weight without flattening.
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Low-density foam (<20kg/m³): Cheap, but breaks down quickly.
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Medium-density foam (22–26kg/m³): Affordable, balanced comfort.
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High-density foam (28kg/m³ and up): Premium, long-lasting choice for everyday seating.
If you’re building a custom couch, ask your upholsterer to layer foam (e.g., firm base + soft topper) for the best of both worlds.
Sofa Foam Types Explained – What You Should Ask Before You Buy
Before purchasing your next couch or chair, ask:
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What’s the foam density inside the cushions?
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Is it suitable for daily use or light sitting?
The furniture foam that we use at Hometri is exclusively manufactured in South Africa and meets comfort and durability standards, making it ideal for custom couches, ottomans, and bedroom benches.
Custom Upholstery with Delivery Across South Africa
Hometri manufactures custom furniture in Johannesburg and delivers across South Africa in just 10–20 working days. Whether you’re shopping for custom ottomans, bedroom beds, or lounge seating, we’ve got your foam needs covered.
Designed for South African Homes
Not sure what foam suits your space? Hometri’s expert team can guide you based on usage, climate, and style. Whether you’re furnishing a compact Joburg flat or a large Durban family home, choosing the right upholstery foam is the difference between a “meh” couch and a wow-worthy one.
For humid climates like Durban, avoid foam that traps moisture. Go for high-density sponge to prevent mildew and odours.
Don’t Let Bad Foam Ruin a Beautiful Sofa
The biggest mistake South Africans make when buying furniture? Ignoring what’s inside the couch. Knowing your foam options gives you the power to buy smarter and sit better — for years.