Fillers for sofas: types and recommendations of specialists on choosing fillers

Content:

1.    Classification of popular sofa fillings

2.    Choosing filling for a sofa: useful tips

Sofa filler is a design element of upholstered furniture that directly affects its comfort and service life. The quality of sleep and daytime rest, the uniform distribution of the load on the spine, and the ability of the product to conscientiously perform its functions depend on the correct choice of filler. Therefore, when choosing a sofa, special attention should be paid not to the shape or design of the upholstery, but rather to the “filling”. In order not to make a mistake with your purchase, it is worth learning more about the types of sofa fillings and the features of each of them.

Classification of popular sofa fillers

Depending on the production technology and the raw materials used, there are several types of sofa fillings: spring blocks and snakes, polyurethane foam, synthetic and natural sofa fillings. Here are the main characteristics and advantages of each option.

Spring designs for sofa

Spring structures have been used in filling sofas for decades. Depending on the structure of the block, the diameter of the springs and some other factors, there are the following types of spring “fillings” for the sofa:

• “Bonnel” is a dependent block. In this design, the springs are connected to each other by wire and fixed by an elastic metal frame. When you press on a specific area of ​​the sofa, all elements are pulled in one direction, causing the load to become uneven. In addition, if one or more springs fail, the filler quickly becomes unusable. The service life of the Bonnel block does not exceed 7 years, but it is one of the cheapest fillers.
• Pocket Spring is an independent block. In this version, barrel-shaped springs are placed in separate fabric covers. During mechanical impact on the surface of the sofa, only the springs under load bend, while the rest remain straightened. Sofa fillers with the Pocket Spring mechanism last much longer - up to 10-12 years. The independent block does not creak, does not sag, or sway when a person changes posture - the spine will be in a comfortable position, and this has a beneficial effect on posture. The cost of Pocket Spring blocks for a sofa is quite high, but this disadvantage is compensated by convenience and long service life.

A block of “snake” type springs is included in a separate category of fillers for sofas. This design can be fixed both inside the frame and on top. Between the upholstery material and the metal elements of the sofa, a filler is laid that prevents hard springs from contacting the upholstery - padding polyester, felt. “Snake blocks” support significant weight, do not make noise and ensure normal air circulation. However, their orthopedic effect leaves much to be desired: the spine does not like such structures too much.

Polyurethane foam (HR PPU)

High Resilience polyurethane foam is a new generation material that is indispensable in the manufacture of sofas, car seats, mattresses and various sleep accessories, for example, decorative pillows. The purpose of its development was to replace obsolete types of foam rubber. To produce this highly elastic material, polyol components with cells of different sizes and shapes, arranged in random order, are used.

The special structure of raw materials provides improved consumer properties of the finished product. Among the main advantages of this sofa filler are:

1.    Density and durability. In terms of density, HR PU foam (30-55 kg/m3) is superior to such sofa fillings as rubber and rubber, and its service life starts from 10 years.

2.    Wear resistance. The “filling” of a sofa made of foamed porous material is quite difficult to damage.

3.    Excellent air circulation, preventing mold or mildew.

4.    Hypoallergenic. HR PU foam used to fill the sofa almost does not accumulate dust.

5.    Good rigidity indicators. Moreover, depending on the load, the rigidity may be non-uniform. Since the cells are of different sizes, they react differently to mechanical stress. With severe deformation, rigidity and elasticity increase. Accordingly, people of large build will not experience discomfort, “sinking” into the sofa seat, and people of normal weight category will not feel extra rigidity.

6.    Orthopedic effect - a sofa filled with polyurethane foam evenly supports the body, so that the spine is in the correct position.

Among the disadvantages of polyurethane foam, one can highlight a decrease in tensile strength - this is a kind of payment for numerous advantages. However, this type of load is not typical for sofas and other upholstered furniture. Another feature is that the material is afraid of ultraviolet radiation: light-proof covers will help solve the problem.

Periotec

Periotek is a material for sofa stuffing, which is a springless soft filler. It is a voluminous non-woven fabric consisting of polyester threads and various impurities. The composition of the fabric can include both artificial components - for example, viscose, and natural fibers - cotton, linen, coconut, wool. The more synthetics added to the sofa filler, the harder it will be. So you can choose a sofa that is suitable for its rigidity by simply reading the label indicating the composition.

The production technology of Periotec for filling sofas is to form three layers. The first layer with vertical fibers bears the main load. The next two layers perform a strengthening and reinforcing function. This improved structure explains the excellent consumer characteristics of this sofa filler:

• Hypoallergenic. Pathogenic microorganisms and mites do not survive in the structure of perioteca, so the material is completely safe for allergy sufferers.
• Safety for health and the environment. Periotec for sofa does not contain resins, glue or other toxic components.
• Long service life - thanks to the multi-layer construction of the filling, the sofa will last for decades.
• Resistance to deformation and prolonged loads. A sofa with a “filling” of Periotec is perfect both for daytime relaxation and as a permanent sleeping place.
• Fire safety. The presence of non-flammable fabrics prevents the spread of flame in the event of a sofa fire.
• The ability to evenly distribute the load - according to this indicator, Periotek is a worthy competitor to a block of independent springs.
• Democratic cost. Periotek is often used to stuff sofas belonging to the budget segment. However, high levels of comfort and quality make it possible to use it even for filling premium designer sofas.

True, some buyers find sofas with Periotec fillings a little harsh. This drawback, although it is a matter of taste, is easily mitigated by combining it with soft materials.

Sintepon

Inexpensive, time-tested padding polyester is usually used as the top layer of sofa filling, as well as for stuffing pillows. This lightweight elastic material gives the product softness and volume. It does not get along with fungi, almost does not absorb moisture, and if you accidentally spill liquid on the sofa, the porous structure will help the filler dry quickly.

Unfortunately, there were some downsides. The filler is unlikely to live longer than 5-7 years, especially if the sofa experiences increased loads. Over time, the padding polyester will begin to lose its shape and clump into clumps, and dents will form on it. But a sofa with padding polyester filling is one of the best types of guest sofas - thanks to its softness and budget price, such models are in stable demand.

Holofiber

This material, which is sometimes called modernized padding polyester, is elastic balls of spiral-shaped thin fibers. Loose, soft and warm holofiber adapts perfectly to the contours of the body, quickly returns to its previous state after compression, and does not retain moisture.

Other advantages include hygiene, immunity to odors, breathability, and harmlessness to health. In addition, sofas filled with holofiber weigh much less than their competitors with a spring block or PPU filling. Thanks to their advantages, they take root well in kitchens and other rooms where inexpensive, practical furniture is needed.

Struttofiber

In its structure and properties, struttofiber is a bit like periotek, but the fibers in it are not located horizontally, but at an angle. This arrangement of components gives the material increased elasticity - in this indicator it is superior to most sofa fillings. The work of its fibers is similar to the work of many springs, steadfastly resisting external pressure. In addition to elasticity, the advantages of struttofiber include resistance to combustion and a long (12-15 years) service life.

Felt and padded jacket

The raw material for making felt is dried sheep or goat wool, which is passed through hot cylinders twice - as a result, panels with a hard crust are formed. To produce a quilted jacket, cotton wool and thick fabric are used, covering both sides with a 5-centimeter layer of cotton wool.

As a rule, these materials are not used as the only filling for a sofa due to their excessive density. But they are considered excellent sealants. Felt performs the function of protecting springs and PPU blocks, protecting them from crushing and increasing the level of wear resistance. The quilted pad serves as a layer between other fillers - its use helps to optimally distribute the load and ensure comfortable use of the sofa.

Latex

Latex is a natural filler made from rubber sap and has virtually no disadvantages. The only drawback is the high price due to complex production technology. But latex filling for sofas has many advantages:

• Softness and elasticity.
• Optimal rigidity indicators. Since the latex filling is slightly springy, most people feel comfortable on such sofas.
• Excellent orthopedic properties. When you get up from the latex-filled sofa, you feel refreshed.
• Long service life - about 20 years.
• Thermal stability. Lying or sitting on a sofa with latex “filling” is not hot in summer and not cold in winter.
• The ability to allow air to pass through and not accumulate moisture. Such properties are especially important for people suffering from excessive sweating.

In addition to natural raw materials, artificial latex is used in the production of sofas. These options can be distinguished by color and structure. The natural filler has a gray tint and a slightly greasy texture. The artificial analogue is characterized by a yellowish color and some dryness to the touch.

Choosing filling for a sofa: useful tips

Choosing a suitable filling for a sofa is not an easy task, because the range of furniture “fillings” is so wide today. To make your task easier, here are some helpful tips:

1.    The technical passport of the sofa will help you get acquainted with all the characteristics of the product. This document gives a complete description of the design, as well as the materials used in the manufacture of the upholstery, frame and filling.

2.    In the production of modern sofas, a single padding material is rarely used. In many cases, the design is quite complex, resembling a multi-layer cake. When studying the data sheet, you need to pay attention to each component: some polymers and natural components can cause allergies. Especially common among children and allergy sufferers is intolerance to sofa filling materials such as wool, latex, and horsehair.

3.    The next important point is the purpose of the sofa. If the owners only plan to sit on it, fillers such as holofiber, padding polyester or durafil will be quite sufficient. If you need a full-fledged sleeping place, you should choose a sofa with padding made of Periotec, PPU, or a model with a Pocket Spring block.

4.    Many buyers are attracted by comfortable sofas with a “filling” of soft types of foam rubber. Indeed, you can fully relax on them, but fillers that are too soft begin to crumble over time and lose their elasticity.

5.    When choosing a polyurethane foam filler, you should make sure that the upholstery material is lightproof. Otherwise, a sofa standing in a sunny part of the apartment will quickly lose both its aesthetic appearance and performance characteristics.

6.    People who smoke are recommended to choose holofiber as a filling for the sofa. This material practically does not absorb the smell of smoke and other specific aromas.

7.    To determine the required level of hardness of the sofa, it is advisable to sit and even lie on it before purchasing. Sellers who are confident in the quality of their goods provide buyers with this opportunity.

8.    Polyurethane foam is considered the best filler for large modular sofas consisting of several connecting parts. Each module will quickly take the desired shape and return to its original position.

9.    For the “filling” of sofas that experience daily intense loads, a filler made of dense polyurethane foam or an independent spring block is suitable.

10.   Many conscientious sofa manufacturers equip their products with furniture covers with zippers. Before purchasing a sofa, you can unzip the cover and make sure that the contents correspond to the data specified in the passport. When the cover becomes unusable, it can be easily replaced with a new one.

In the Garda Decor store you can find designer sofas filled with polyurethane foam - a high-tech material that has virtually no disadvantages. Exclusive upholstered furniture presented in the online store catalog is the embodiment of comfort and exquisite luxury. Garda Decor managers are always happy to help with choosing a sofa that will become an interior decoration and a favorite piece of furniture for the whole family.