Car Seat Foam

It is important when driving that we are comfortable, and because of this car manufacturers take a great deal of time and trouble when designing seating and selecting car seat foam. But what happens if despite this you are still uncomfortable when driving? If this is you, then no doubt you are thinking about a car seat foam cushion. Adding a cushion to the seat, either to the base or to the back, is a good way to increase your comfort when driving. At F.C. Hancox, we supply car trimmers, upholsterers, car enthusiasts and individuals with a range of foams that are suitable for this purpose.

Can I make my own foam car seat cushions?

The answer is yes! Using our foam-cut-to-size service making your own car seat foam cushion is simple. Firstly, what part of the seat needs a cushion? Will it be for your back or for the seat or perhaps both?  In its simplest form you need only a square or rectangle of foam. You don’t want the foam to be too deep as this can make you sit too high, affecting visibility through windows and mirrors. Being too high can also affect blind spots – see Things to consider below. Alternatively, you may need a cushion to help you to sit higher to improve visibility.

You will also need to think about how you are going to cover your foam. Covers for car seats and cushions are readily available online, or you may have the ability to make your own or know someone who can do this for you. It is best if the foam fits into your cover snugly.

Once you have decided on the cover, you will need to think about the foam itself. On our foam-cut-to-size page there are numerous examples of shapes. Simply choose the closest to the shape you are aiming for. For example, you will probably want a curved edge at the front of the foam if it’s for a seat base. In this case, choose the curved sofa cushion or bullnose cushion options.  For more complicated shapes choose the closest. Next, add measurements. Whatever the shape, try to gain accurate measurements as these will make for a better fit. For more bespoke shapes, you can add extra cutting instructions in the comments section when ordering or, if you are unsure, contact us and we’ll help you out. Finally, adding stockinette will help when inserting the foam into the cushion cover. Next, you need to select your foam.

What type of foam makes the best car seat foam?

Firstly, the seat base. Whilst our general-purpose CMF foams are suitable for seating, if you are looking for comfort, why don’t you add a 25mm layer of our memory foam? Memory foam moulds itself to the shape of the body and is great for pressure point relief. Memory foam absorbs motion reducing jolting, thus making it ideal an ideal car seat foam. A good choice is Vasco 40 memory foam.

Whilst memory foam is an ideal  foam topper for the seat, normally our standard SF33/190 foam is used for backs, or something softer as back foams do not support any weight, they are just for cushioning. It is a matter of personal taste and all about the level of comfort and support you are looking for. For example, our CMF foams are of high-quality, they can be cut to any thickness. Reflex foams are versatile, high-density foams and are firm yet bounce back into shape after use.

F.C. Hancox staff are always happy to chat about any of our foams and recommend the best for you, so if you are unsure which to choose, do get in touch.

Things to consider when adding a car seat foam cushion.

If you add a cushion then it is important that you adjust your seat to compensate for any added height or reduced distance from the controls. Too high and visibility can be reduced through the rear-view mirror, too low and visibility forward, including the A pillars (the part of the frame at the sides of the front windscreen) can be affected. Bad positioning can also increase the blind spot.  Modern vehicles have either manual or electric seat adjustment. When you use your new car seat foam, take time to readjust your car seat’s position. 

Comfort when driving is important and helps reduce fatigue, especially when driving long distances. Good posture will prevent aches and pains, and this is all affected by driving position. The addition of a car seat foam cushion can help with all these factors and F.C. Hancox can provide a range of foams that will match your own individual needs. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.