Density is about longevity
Density describes how much material is in the foam. Higher density often supports a longer useful life, but it does not automatically mean the cushion will feel firm.
Materials & care
Better choices.
Longer life.
A practical, plain-language guide to fabric, vinyl, foam, performance ratings, cleaning, and island conditions.
Upholstery material comparison
Choose for where it will live.
The best-looking material is not always the best-performing one. We consider how the piece will be used, what it will be exposed to, how it will be cleaned, and whether the project requires performance documentation.
MaterialBest forImportant considerations
Indoor upholstery fabricSofas, chairs and interior spacesComfort, abrasion rating and cleaning method
Outdoor performance fabricPatios, lanais and cabanasUV resistance, moisture and fading
Marine-grade vinylBoats and exposed seatingWater resistance, mildew and salt exposure
Automotive vinyl / fabricVehicle interiorsHeat, abrasion and color stability
Hospitality-grade fabricHotels and public spacesDocumentation, durability and cleaning compatibility
Inside the cushion
Foam affects comfort,
shape, and service life.
Foam should be selected for the application—not only by squeezing a sample. Seating style, thickness, use, exposure, and drainage all influence the right choice.
Firmness is about feel
Firmness determines whether a cushion feels soft, medium, or supportive. Two foams can feel similar while having very different densities and expected lifespans.
Water changes the choice
Open-cell foam allows air and water to move through it more easily. Closed-cell foam resists water absorption and can add flotation, but it feels and behaves differently.
Drainage matters outdoors
Marine and outdoor cushions need the right combination of foam, cover, drainage, ventilation, and installation. A performance fabric alone cannot prevent trapped moisture.
Fabric is only half the seat
Compressed, crumbling, or waterlogged foam can affect comfort, shape, drying, and the life of a new cover. Replacing worn foam can be as important as replacing the fabric.
Performance terms, made simple
Know what the specification is telling you.
Ratings help compare materials, but no single number guarantees performance. The complete application—and the manufacturer’s instructions—still matter.
Double-rub rating
A laboratory estimate of how much repeated rubbing a fabric can withstand before visible wear. A larger number can be useful for busy seating, but construction, cleaning, and actual use still matter.
UV resistance
How well a material tolerates damage from ultraviolet sunlight. UV-resistant does not mean fade-proof, especially under intense tropical sun.
Lightfastness
How well a color holds when exposed to light over time. It helps compare fabrics for bright rooms, windows, lanais, and outdoor areas.
Stain resistance
A finish or material property that helps spills release more easily. It does not make fabric stain-proof, and incompatible cleaners can damage the finish.
Cleaning codes
A manufacturer’s shorthand for safe cleaning: W usually means water-based, S means solvent-based, W/S allows either, and X means vacuuming or professional care only. Always confirm the specific product instructions.
Downloadable care guides
Simple care instructions
for the finished project.
Each short guide covers routine cleaning, cleaner types, products to avoid, drying and ventilation, mold or mildew precautions, sun and moisture exposure, when to call Chung Nam, and manufacturer-care limitations.
Indoor upholstered furniture
Everyday care for sofas, chairs, cushions, and interior fabrics.
Download PDF ↓Outdoor cushions
Cleaning, drainage, sun exposure, and tropical moisture precautions.
Download PDF ↓Marine vinyl & boat seating
Salt, mildew, ventilation, vinyl care, and waterlogged-foam warning signs.
Download PDF ↓Automotive interiors
Care for vehicle fabric, vinyl, headliners, carpet, and high-wear seating.
Download PDF ↓Hospitality & commercial fabric
Staff-friendly guidance for approved chemistry, documentation, and room turnover.
Download PDF ↓Awnings & shade systems
Routine cleaning, safe drying, storm inspection, and material protection.
Download PDF ↓A professional finishing touch
Each completed customer project can receive the appropriate care guide by email or as a printed card. This helps customers protect their investment and keeps the material’s approved cleaning guidance close at hand.
Not sure which material or foam fits your project?