Foam Grades, Types, Uses & Datasheets

Buy from a wide range of foam grades and types including packaging foam, memory foam, acoustic foam and more from the UK’s largest online foam store

This informative guide explains the different types of foam and their applications. Learn about foam materials used in packaging, mattresses, and installations to find the right foam for your specific needs.

Foam is a highly versatile material with applications across a range of industries, from bedding and furniture to packaging and insulation. This guide will introduce you to the various foam types suitable for cushions, outdoor furniture, and industrial purposes.

After many years of industry expertise, eFoam has compiled this detailed guide to help you explore the most popular foam types. Whether you need foam for comfort, support, or durability, you'll find solutions tailored to your needs.

	Average soft foam- SF21 soft foam datasheet This is light density foam suitable for headboards and general use. We do not recommend this grade for any seating application.
	Medium foam- SF33 medium foam datasheet This is a medium density foam suitable for domestic seating cushions of 5" (12.7cm) or more in thickness. An ideal replacement for fibre filled cushions.
	High firm foam- SF38 high firm foam datasheet This foam is a high density quality seating grade and is suitable for most foam cushion applications including sofas, dog and other pet beds, VW Camper foam, pallet furniture and more. Suitable for thicknesses between 3" and 4" (7.5-10cm). By far the most popular grade of foam available in UK.
	Severe very firm foam- SF50 very firm foam datasheet This is very high density seating grade foam suitable for foam cushions that are less than 3" (7.5cm) in thickness. Suitable uses would include window seats, quality dining chairs, and vehicle restoration projects.
	Reconstituted super firm chip foam- SFR6 recon foam datasheet- SFR9 recon foam datasheet Reconstituted chip foam or commonly known as Recon foam is a contract seating foam used for wheelchair seats, church kneelers, bar seating, bar stools and many packaging applications. Available in normal 6 pound or a heavier denser 9 pound.
	Reflex Superior medium foam- Reflex400 medium foam datasheet Branded foam, ultimate in comfort and durability, with instant recovery after use and consistent shape retention over many years. Excellent for armchair/settee cushions and as a mattress without bonding different foams.
	Reflex Superior firm foam- Reflex400H firm foam datasheet Same as reflex medium, but firmer.
	Memory Foam- SF50M memory foam datasheet At room temperature memory foam is harder than at skin temperature, which causes it to soften on contact and mould itself to the shape of a warm body within a few minutes.
	Random foam This can be any grade of foam. It may be fabricated (glued) together. We do not recommend this foam for any specific application.
	Cot safe foam- SF28CS cot safe foam datasheet- Cot mattress foam further information Soft-medium density foam, not suitable for seating. Does not contain antimony, arsenic, phosphorus, pbdes or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
	HLB Packaging foam- SF22P HLB packaging foam datasheet HLB High Load Bearing high impact light weight packaging grade foam. Charcoal grey in colour. Suitable for all kinds of protective packaging applications, for example flight cases, briefcases, cardboard boxes, etc.
	Antistatic pink foam- Antistatic esd AS22 foam datasheet Anti-static open cell polyurethane foam, great for packaging electronics, also known as ESD Foam (electro-static dissipation).
	Acoustic foam- PHOE25 acoustic foam datasheet Acoustic treatment and soundproofing foam. Charcoal grey in colour. Significantly reduces reverberation, reflections and flutter echoes. Sold in sheets, cut to size and tiles.
	Closed cell polyethylene foam- EFP30 closed cell datasheet- EFP30 FR closed cell datasheet Black/white rigid closed cell foam, non-absorbent and water proof comes in sheets of various thicknesses. Polyethylene foam is rigid and perfectly suited for many industrial and commercial applications.
	Zotefoam Plastazote® superior closed cell foam- LD33 datasheet- LD45 datasheet Nitrogen expanded cross-linked closed cell foam in 10 colours and various thicknesses, non-absorbent and water proof. With or without self adhesive backing. We also supply high density EVA Yoga Foam Rollers.
	Ethafoam semi-rigid packaging foam - ETHAFOAM-stratocell datasheet White medium density non cross linked expanded polyethylene comes in sheets of various thicknesses. Perfectly suited for many packaging applications for medium and heavy objects.
	Pyrosorb-S Class 0 Acoustic Foam- Pyrosorb-S datasheet Class "0" accredited cellular acoustic foam. With its flexibility and non-irritant characteristics Pyrosorb-S is a safe and easy to install product. Includes self-adhesive backing.
	EPDM Sponge Rubber foam- EPDM Sponge Rubber datasheet Flexible expanded closed cell synthetic rubber used in a wide range of applications such as packaging, transportation and construction. With or without self adhesive backing.
	Aquatic filter foam- 10PPI datasheet- 20PPI datasheet- 30PPI datasheet- 40PPI datasheet Reticulated polyether PPI foam, used for pond and aquaria filtration. Suitable also for salt water.
	General purpose heavy duty spray adhesive- Spray adhesive datasheet Exceptionally powerful adhesive conveniently packaged for a wide range of applications .
	High performance multi-purpose silicone spray- Silicone spray datasheet High performance multi-purpose silicone spray lubricant 500ml Exceptionally powerful multi purpose silicone spray, quick, clean and convenient in its application.
	EVA Yoga foam rollers High Quality, High Density Foam Rollers made from EVA foam and a strong PVC internal pipe. This highly popular and versatile product is perfect for use in Yoga, Pilates, Balancing, Stretches, Physical Therapy, Massage Therapy and many other sports related training applications.
	Packing foam wrap rolls Ideal for protecting a wide range of items in transit or storage, it can be wrapped around delicate items to prevent scuffs and scratches.

Foam Materials: A Comprehensive Guide to Foam Types, Grades and Uses

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is one of the most widely used foam materials due to its versatility and availability in a range of densities and firmness levels. This foam is commonly used in:

Upholstery
Mattresses
Seat Cushions
Insulation

Its excellent cushioning and insulation properties make it ideal for indoor furniture and bedding applications. Polyurethane foam is an ideal choice for comfort and durability in everyday items.

Memory Foam

Memory foam, a type of polyurethane foam known as viscoelastic foam, is renowned for its ability to conform to the body's shape, providing superior pressure relief. Originally developed by NASA for test pilots and astronauts, this "space-age" foam adapts to body heat, ensuring a personalised sleeping experience.

Common uses for memory foam include:

Mattresses
Pillows
Medical applications

Consider options like Deep Sleeper eFoam mattresses for premium memory foam mattresses, which combine support and comfort for restful sleep.

Polyethylene Foam

Polyethylene foam is a closed-cell foam known for its durability and exceptional shock absorption. Closed-cell foam features sealed cells that prevent air and water from passing through. Its water-resistant and firm properties make it a popular choice in:

Packaging
Sports & Water sports equipment
Automotive applications
Flotation devices
Insulation

Polyethylene foam is available in various forms, including EVA foam, Plastazote foam, and Ethafoam, each suited to specific industrial and recreational uses.

Different types of closed-cell polyethylene foam include:

EVA Foam: Known for its resilience and versatility.
Plastazote foam: Suitable for packaging applications, insulation and Cosplay.
Ethafoam / Stratocell foam: A non-cross-linked polyethylene foam suitable for packing/protecting items during transit.

Closed-cell foam's resistance to water absorption ensures its durability and effectiveness in challenging environments.

Choosing the Right Foam for Your Needs

With such a wide variety of foam types available, selecting the right material depends on your application and performance requirements. Whether you're looking for comfort, support, insulation, or durability, foam materials offer endless possibilities.

If you need further guidance or specific foam solutions, explore our full range of products to meet your unique requirements or contact our team of experts.

Many other types and grades of foam available from stock.

We also have an easy cushion refilling service