Article: Foam Maintenance 101: How to Care for Your Cushions & Foam Items
Foam Maintenance 101: How to Care for Your Cushions & Foam Items
Foam cushions, mattresses, outdoor seating, and custom-cut foam pieces can last for many years — as long as they’re cared for properly. Whether you’re refreshing your lounge, upgrading your caravan cushions, or maintaining outdoor furniture that cops WA’s harsh sun, a good maintenance routine makes a huge difference in comfort, appearance, and durability.
Below is a simple guide to help you keep your foam items in top shape all year round.
1. Rotate & Flip Regularly (Especially for High-Use Areas)
Foam naturally compresses over time, especially in common sitting or sleeping spots. Rotating and flipping helps:
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Distribute weight evenly
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Reduce long-term sagging
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Extend the life of your cushions or mattress
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Keep seating comfortable for longer
How often:
Every 2–4 weeks for lounge cushions and mattresses.
Every 3–6 months for occasional or spare room furniture.
2. Protect Your Foam From WA’s Strong UV & Heat
Western Australia’s UV index is among the highest in the world. Direct sun can degrade both fabric and foam.
What to do:
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Keep cushions out of direct sun when not in use
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Use UV-resistant fabrics or covers
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If outdoor cushions are used near the pool or ocean, rinse off salt and chlorine
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Avoid storing foam in enclosed hot spaces (sheds, cars, enclosed trailers)
For outdoor seating, reticulated foam is ideal because it drains quickly and handles moisture better.
3. Keep Moisture Under Control
Moisture is one of the biggest causes of mould, odours, and foam damage — especially in coastal or humid WA areas like Mandurah, Busselton, and Bunbury.
Tips:
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After cleaning, always let foam dry completely
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For outdoor cushions, stand them upright after rain so water drains out
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Don’t store foam items in sealed tubs while damp
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If foam gets wet internally, remove the cover and air-dry in a shaded, breezy spot
4. Spot Clean Spills Early
The longer a spill stays, the deeper it soaks into the foam.
How to spot clean safely:
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Remove covers (if possible)
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Blot — don’t rub — the spill with a clean cloth
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Mix mild detergent with warm water
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Use a sponge to gently work the solution through the foam surface
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Rinse with clean water
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Squeeze gently (don’t twist)
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Air-dry fully before re-covering
Avoid harsh chemicals — they can break down foam structure.
5. Use Washable, Durable Covers
A removable cover is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your foam investment.
Choose covers that are:
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Machine washable
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UV-resistant (for outdoor or sunny rooms)
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Quick-drying
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Strong enough for everyday use
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Breathable to prevent moisture buildup
If covers are old or damaged, replacing them is often cheaper than replacing foam.
6. Deodorise Naturally (Avoid Chemical Sprays)
Foam absorbs smells from sweat, pets, cooking, and the environment.
Deodorising options:
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Sprinkle bicarb soda on cushions → leave for 8 hours → vacuum
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Air-out cushions outside on a dry, shaded day
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For stubborn odours, lightly mist with a water + white vinegar solution and allow to dry
Avoid commercial sprays — many contain solvents that can weaken foam.
7. Check for Signs of Foam Wearing Out
Even high-quality foam won’t last forever. Watch for:
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Permanent dips or flattening
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Reduced comfort
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Crumbling or flaking inside the cover
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Foam that stays compressed after sitting
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Visible discolouration from age or heat
If your foam shows these signs, it may be time to replace it — and Foam Supplies WA can cut fresh foam to any size or shape.
8. Store Foam Properly When Not in Use
For seasonal items like outdoor cushions or caravan bedding:
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Store in a cool, dry place
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Avoid plastic bags — they trap moisture
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Use breathable fabric or mesh storage bags
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Keep off the ground in garages or sheds
This prevents mould, pests, and moisture damage.
9. Keep Pets From Sleeping Directly on Bare Foam
Pet claws can damage foam quickly, and oils from fur cause odours.
Use:
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A washable pet bed cover
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A blanket
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A slipcover for lounge cushions
Pets get comfort, foam gets protection.
10. Replace Covers or Foam When Needed — It’s Cheaper Than New Furniture
One of the biggest benefits of buying from a local foam supplier is the ability to refresh old furniture affordably.
Instead of replacing:
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Lounge cushions
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Dining seat pads
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Caravan or boat cushions
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Outdoor seating
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Bench seating
You can simply order new custom foam cut to size — shaped exactly how you need it.
Conclusion: Take Simple Steps for Long-Lasting Comfort
Looking after your foam items is easy when you follow a few basic habits — rotate, protect from sun, clean gently, and keep moisture away. With proper maintenance, your cushions and mattresses will stay supportive and comfortable for years.
If you ever need replacement foam, custom shapes, or advice, Foam Supplies WA offers high-quality foam cut to any size — perfect for WA homes, caravans, boats, outdoor areas, commercial spaces, and more.
