Bench seats and window seats are beautiful, practical additions to a home — but the comfort comes down to one thing: the right foam.
If your seat feels too hard, goes flat quickly, or sags in the middle, the foam grade is likely incorrect. In this guide, we explain how to choose the best foam for bench seating so your cushions look great, feel supportive, and last for years.
Why Foam Selection Matters for Bench Seating
Unlike lounge back cushions, bench seats carry consistent weight in a smaller surface area. They’re often used daily in:
- Kitchen banquettes
- Window seats
- Entry benches
- Dining seating
- Built-in cabinetry
Because of this, the foam needs to balance:
- Support
- Durability
- Comfort
- Shape retention
Choosing foam that is too soft leads to sagging. Choosing foam that is too low in density means it breaks down quickly.
Understanding Foam Density for Bench Seats
Density determines how long the foam will last — not how firm it feels.
For residential bench seating, we generally recommend:
27/180 or 29/200 foam grades
These provide:
- Strong structural support
- Excellent shape retention
- Long-term durability
- Minimal compression over time
For lighter-use areas such as decorative window seats, a slightly softer grade may be suitable.
If the seat depth is shallow, firmness becomes even more important to prevent “bottoming out.”
What Thickness Should Bench Seat Foam Be?
Most bench seats use foam between:
- 50mm
- 75mm
- 100mm
Thicker foam provides more comfort, but the correct choice depends on:
- Seat height
- Cabinet design
- User preference
- Whether the seat is used for dining or lounging
For dining benches, medium-firm support is usually preferred to maintain posture.
Custom Foam Cut to Size
Built-in seating is rarely standard. That’s why custom cutting matters.
Enviro-Foam specialises in:
- Foam cut to exact measurements
- Angled or irregular shapes
- Mitred corners
- Trapezoid and bay window designs
- Multiple-piece seating
Whether your window seat wraps around a wall or fits into a tight alcove, precise cutting ensures a clean, tailored look once upholstered.
Replacing Foam vs Replacing the Entire Cushion
If your existing covers are in good condition, replacing the foam insert is often the most cost-effective solution.
New high-density foam can:
- Restore comfort
- Improve support
- Extend the life of your seating
- Eliminate sagging
It’s a simple upgrade that makes a dramatic difference.
Why Choose Australian Made Foam?
Locally manufactured foam ensures:
- Consistent quality
- No CFCs
- Long-lasting performance
- Reliable density grading
Enviro-Foam manufactures and cuts foam in-house, giving you complete control over size, shape and grade selection.
Ready to Upgrade Your Bench Seating?
Whether you’re building new cabinetry or replacing tired inserts, choosing the right foam makes all the difference.
Send us your measurements or a simple sketch, and we’ll recommend the ideal foam grade for your project.