The Difference Between Open and Closed-Cell Foam
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Open-Cell Foam
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Closed-Cell Foam
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Here at Foam N’ More Upholstery, we offer a wide range of products and services to serve all your foam needs. Two of our most popular and customizable foam products include our open-cell foam and our closed-cell foam. But, the average customer might not recognize the true differences between the two.
Open-cell foam is foam full of cells that are left open to allow a softer, cushier, and more flexible feel of the material. Closed-cell foam is the opposite in that the cells are sealed. This style of foam is much denser and stable, often used for packaging or sealing equipment.
In order to find out more about what the differences are between these two materials, let’s take a look at some of our featured products.
Foam density is the specific measurement of how much weight in pounds the polyurethane foam can handle per cubic foot. This density rating provides the strength of the foam. The higher the number, the more durable the foam. It should not be used exclusively as a sign of durability or comfort, because the firmness and lifespan of foam products such as mattresses and cushions depend on many factors, including density. The density can also vary between each foam shipment.
ILD or IFD measures how hard or soft the foam is. The higher number, the firmer the foam. The number also represents how many pounds the foam can hold before it will collapse. If you take a 12″ x 12″ x 12″ block of foam, it will collapse after reaching the ILD number.
PPI has no effect on the ILD, density, or how long the foam lasts but is relevant to the appearance of the foam and the size of its pores. A 20 PPI foam has cell structures and allows the most flow while a 70 PPI foam would have very small cells and is more restrictive.
Open-cell foam is most commonly used for mattresses, upholstery work, indoor and outdoor furniture, as well as pet beds and sofa cushions. This group is called polyurethane foam. All of Foam N’ More, Inc’s polyurethane foam is CertiPUR-US. Click here for more information on CertiPUR-US. There are also other types of open-cell foams like reticulated foam and open-cell rubber. Open-cell foam can also be used for foam padding protection, acoustic use, and foam packaging.
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For superior comfort and support use our four pounds of Gel Memory Foam. With innovative dual-wave gel technology, it provides cradling comfort and enhanced pressure relief. This foam will increase circulation, contour, and mold perfectly to your body, reducing pressure points to give you the restful sleep you need. It is the perfect topper for guest beds, air mattresses, waterbeds, daybeds, or any other mattresses you can think of. |
Antistatic Pink Foam is used to protect and cushion delicate electronic equipment during shipping. This foam is specially made to prevent electrostatic charges given off by electronic components. |
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HD23 Soft / Medium Rubber Foam Our HD23 Soft/Medium Rubber foam has a soft to medium feel. It offers a high degree of comfort while retaining its shape and density. If you are looking for soft comfort with long-lasting durability then this foam is for you. Can be used for soft to a medium foam mattress, back cushion, or medical seat foam. |
Charcoal packing foam is perfect for packing extra sensitive objects such as cameras, glasses, and light machinery because it is denser which makes it more resistant to damages. This density also provides sound absorbency when used to cover windows in a room. |
Closed-Cell Foam is much firmer than open-cell but still has flex to it. In scientific terms, the cells are completely enclosed by their walls and therefore do not connect with other cells. All closed-cell foams are waterproof. Closed-cell foam is very durable. It is not necessary for this type of foam to be covered unless you are looking for sun protection. In this case, you will want to use an EVA foam. Closed-cell foam is too firm for mattresses use.
Closed-cell foam is available in different types of materials, densities, and strengths. The following closed-cell foams are available in-stock:
- Volara
- Neoprene
- Minicell
- Polyethylene Ensolite Foam
Most closed-cell foam comes in a 2 lb density. The minicell and polyethylene are available at a higher density. The higher the density, the heavier and firmer the foam. Closed-cell foam can also be used for thermal installation. The higher the number the better it is. The closed-cell foam traps air for better insulation while resisting moisture.
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Ensolite is a flexible closed-cell elastomeric foam that is durable and is a little softer than other closed-cell foams. This foam offers anti-microbial protection (with skin) built in to give resistance to mold and bacteria growth allowing this foam to be used for many different applications. |
2.3 lbs. Density Polyethylene Foam Planks — Laminated Polyethylene Foam Sheets (also known as extruded Polyethylene) are laminated and have a 2.3 lbs. density. They are best used for products requiring a shock-absorbing, vibration dampening, insulation, barrier, and/or buoyancy component. It provides cube optimization, it's durable, flexible, and water-resistant. |
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3 lbs., 4 lbs., & 6 lbs. Minicell Foam Our HD23 Soft/Medium Rubber foam has a soft to medium feel. It offers a high degree of comfort while retaining its shape and density. If you are looking for soft comfort but long-lasting durability then this foam is for you. Can be used for soft to a medium foam mattress, back cushion, or medical seat foam. |
2 lbs. Minicell Foam with Adhesive Backing Minicell is also known as crosslink polyethylene is "Skin Soft" and is esthetically pleasing. The adhesive backing feature can be used for Exercise Mats, Kayak and Canoe Seats, Kickboards, and foam packaging. |
Foam N’ More: Commercial Foam & Foam Supplier in Michigan
Here at Foam N’ More, we understand that buying through the middleman can be timely and expensive — but not anymore! By offering a wide range of products, the custom cut foam for our themed party decorations results in premium products that last far longer than any other product in comparison.
In addition to closed and open-cell foam, we primarily specialize in mattress foam and foam mattress padding, foam cushion replacement, pillow foam, bulk closed-cell foam, medical foam or orthopedic foam, chair foam replacement, cotton felt batting, or any kind of custom foam packaging near Troy, Michigan.
We would also like to hear from you, so let us know how we can help you by filling out the contact form on our website. Give us a call at Foam N’ More and create the foam for you at (248) 284-0002.