Foam Bench Cushions

More of us are using our gardens and yards as living spaces and the demand for foam bench cushions is growing. Bench foam provides that extra bit of comfort, whether sitting quietly ourselves or entertaining friends and family. Your Foam bench cushions can become tired or worn out, but they are easy to renovate. New covers can be purchased or made and replacing the foam is easy with our foam cut to size service. But what kind of foam do you need?

Your first consideration should be how and where your cushions are to be stored. If bench foam seating is to be left outside, then Calipore foam is a good choice. This foam is especially manufactured for outdoor use. Its structure is open celled allowing moisture to drain easily and therefore quick drying following rain. It also has an environmentally friendly antibacterial additive to prevent mould and fungal growth. Calipore foam is not suitable for bench cushions indoors as it doesn’t have the correct fire resistance to meet safety regulations.

If your foam bench cushions are to be stored or brought indoors then there’s a wide choice of foam types from hard-wearing chip foams for frequent use to the superior comfort of a memory foam bench cushion. If you are unsure of the foam type, then we’re only a phone call away and our experienced staff will be happy to help.

Once you have decided on the foam for your project then see our How to Measure Foam page to help you achieve the perfect size for your project. An experienced sewer can make new covers, and this is best done using the old cover as a template. This also applies to the existing foam that is being replaced, simply measure the old foam. Replacing the bench foam can give your foam bench cushions a new lease of life and ensure your garden space is relaxing and comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foam Bench Cushions

What is the best foam for bench cushions?

The best foam depends on where your bench cushions will be used. For outdoor benches that remain outside, we recommend Calipore Outdoor Foam, which is specially designed to allow water to drain through the foam and dry quickly. For indoor bench cushions or outdoor cushions that are stored indoors, high-quality upholstery foams such as CMF38, CMF35H or Reflex 400H provide excellent comfort and long-lasting support.

What foam is best for outdoor bench cushions?

For outdoor bench cushions, Calipore Outdoor Foam is the best choice. Its open-cell construction allows moisture, including rain, to pass through the foam, helping it dry much faster than standard upholstery foam. It also contains an antibacterial additive that helps reduce mould and fungal growth.

Can outdoor bench cushions stay outside all year?

Bench cushions made with Calipore Outdoor Foam are designed for outdoor use and cope well with rain and damp conditions. However, storing cushions under cover or in a dry place during prolonged bad weather will help extend the life of both the foam and the fabric covers.

Can you cut foam bench cushions to any size?

Yes. We can cut bench cushion foam to virtually any size or shape. Whether you need a standard rectangular bench cushion, an L-shaped seat or a completely bespoke design, simply provide your measurements and we’ll cut the foam to fit perfectly.

What thickness foam should I choose for bench cushions?

If you are replacing the foam in existing covers, then the thickness of the foam will depend upon the size of the cushion cover. If making new, the ideal thickness often depends on the style of bench. With foam cut to size, replacing foam means that you can choose foam to match the level of comfort you want. As a guide, or if you are making new covers, we suggest:

• 50mm – Suitable for occasional seating.
• 75mm – A popular choice for most garden and dining benches.
• 100mm – Offers extra comfort for longer periods of sitting.
• 125mm or more – Ideal for luxury seating and deep bench cushions.

If you’re unsure, our team can recommend the best thickness for your project.

Can I replace the foam in my existing bench cushions?

Yes. Replacing just the foam is often much more cost-effective than buying completely new cushions. If your existing covers are still in good condition, new foam cut to size can restore comfort, improve support and extend the life of your bench cushions. It’s easy to do too, simply visit the foam cut to size page, select the shape you need, add dimensions then choose your foam. If you need help with measuring for your new foam, you can get help here on our How to Measure Foam page.

Is memory foam suitable for bench cushions?

Yes. Memory foam can be used for bench cushions to provide additional comfort and pressure relief. Many customers choose a supportive Reflex foam base with a layer of memory foam on top for a luxurious seating experience. Memory foam bench cushions can be used outside but will need to be brought indoors or stored during wet weather and conditions.

What foam is best for indoor bench cushions?

For indoor bench cushions, upholstery foams such as CMF35H, CMF38 and Reflex 400H are excellent choices. These foams provide long-lasting comfort, good support and comply with the fire safety requirements for domestic furniture.

How long do foam bench cushions last?

High-quality foam bench cushions can last for many years when the correct foam grade is selected. Premium foams retain their shape and support much longer than lower-density alternatives, making them a worthwhile investment for frequently used seating.

Can I use ordinary upholstery foam outside?

Yes, however, standard upholstery foam should not be left outdoors because it absorbs and retains water, which can lead to prolonged drying times and potential mould issues. If your cushions are toremain outside, we recommend choosing Calipore Outdoor Foam, which has been specifically developed for outdoor furniture.

How do I measure replacement foam for bench cushions?

The easiest method is to use the cushion’s cover. You will measure the width, length and depth from seam to seam using the stitch line as a guide. You can get help on measuring here on our page or call our friendly team who will be happy to help.

Why choose F.C. Hancox for foam bench cushions?

F.C. Hancox has been in the upholstery trade since 1960, and we’ve been supplying foam cut to size for many of those. Our expert technicians cut foam to the exact measurements provided by the customer using the latest cutting technology. We stock a great choice of premium, UK manufactured foam grades for indoor and outdoor use. Whether you’re replacing worn-out bench cushions or creating a completely new seating area, our experienced team can help you choose the most suitable foam for your project.