New leather upholstered sofa for a beautiful living room

Many, having completed repairs in the apartment, acquire new upholstered furniture, if the means, of course, allow. But the choice must be correct. In addition to durability, comfort appearance, the transformation mechanism, you should pay attention to the filler and ask the seller what the "stuffing" of the sofa is. It depends on how comfortable you will be. Now there are a lot of fillers, you need to have an idea about some, about their quality, quality factor, how long furniture with such a filler can last.

Types of fillers for upholstered furniture

Furniture manufacturers often use polyurethane foam - PPU as filling. Lots of box spring sofas. Buyers are sometimes confused about which is better - a spring or PPU and cannot make a choice.

Blue orthopedic sofa with a sectional spring block

Sectional sofa with polyurethane foam with a list of materials and components

Filler - polyurethane foam for orthopedic mattresses and upholstered furniture

Before choosing a sofa, we find out what PPU is. This is a synthetic porous substance consisting of cells filled with air. During its manufacture, the liquid composition foams, then solidifies. Polyurethane foam is 90% air, has thermal insulation properties. PPU - the same foam rubber, is used almost everywhere - as a filler for furniture, toys for children, sponges for dishes, washcloths and much more are made from it.

Foam rubber sheet to give softness to products

As a filler, it is widely used due to compaction, this property gives softness and elasticity to the product. It is produced in the form of small sheets - this is foam rubber, as well as in the form of fairly strong and massive plates - this is PPU. If the material is of poor quality, it will quickly become unusable and begin to crumble. Then it needs to be replaced.

Advantages and disadvantages

Elastic polyurethane foam is used in the furniture and automotive industries

Polyurethane foam has pros and cons. Let's look at the positive properties.

1. The main quality is that dust does not accumulate in it, it is completely hypoallergenic. This ability is essential for those who are prone to allergies.
2. In the manufacture of it is treated with an antibacterial and antifungal agent, so it does not harm health.
3. It can last a long time, has wear resistance.
4. Has good breathability.
5. Thanks to elasticity, it instantly restores its original shape.

Imprint of the shape of the hand after pressing on the viscoelastic polyurethane foam

There are also negative properties.

1. Often come across PPU Bad quality- it will lose its original shape in a short time, and the furniture will quickly sag.
2. The material does not tolerate direct sunlight, begins to deform. By production use an upholstery from light-protective materials.
3. Polyurethane foam is a highly flammable substance that releases toxic substances when burned.
4. For many, the high density of PU foam may seem hard.
5. Excessive softness of the material can cause back problems, and in children - a curvature of the spine, so it is better for them to sleep on a hard surface.

Polyurethane foam or spring block? What is the best sofa filler?

Upholstered furniture based on an independent spring block

Enough time has passed since spring blocks were replaced by materials that are used as a filler for upholstered furniture - these are latex, holofiber, polyurethane foam, sintepon. But what is better - a spring block or polyurethane foam?

Filling sofa-accordion on a metal frame

Comfort	This property is important for any furniture, no matter what function it performs. It is important when you lie down that pits do not appear, then there is definitely no time for rest, and instead of a restful sleep, you will look for a comfortable position. The load must be distributed equally over the entire base. What can be said about PPU? It holds its shape well, has excellent elasticity, adapts to the contour of the human body. Withstands big weight, instantly returns to its original form. If the material is of sufficient quality, it will serve for a long time.
Spring blocks	There are dependents and independents. In the first version, the springs are intertwined and have long been out of use. It is simply unbearable to lie on such a basis, if you press on one spring, it will pull all the others. The second option allows you to have a great rest, in such blocks each individual spring is packed in a bag, the load in this case is distributed evenly.
Thoroughness.	Undoubtedly, PPU is a durable material. It does not accumulate dust, excellent breathability, it is harmless. Furniture with such a filler will serve for more than one year, if used for its intended purpose. But if you often jump on such a sofa, which children especially like to do, then it will quickly lose elasticity. The same applies to spring blocks, not everyone can withstand such loads, especially an inexpensive option. Economy class furniture will creak and springs will come out through the upholstery. in sofas High Quality a sufficient number of intermediate layers are placed between the spring block and the upholstery, so the springs always remain in place.
Price.	Furniture with spring blocks is more expensive than with polyurethane foam. But it all depends on the quality of the material. Therefore, think carefully before buying a cheaper sofa, otherwise the joy of buying will turn into big problems. Be sure to ask the seller what kind of filler is inside, what quality. After all, it depends on how long the furniture can last you, whether it will be comfortable, convenient to sit or sleep on it, so that the original appearance remains the same for as long as possible.

No one will give an answer to the question "Which is better?" Each filler has advantages and disadvantages. What you prefer is up to you.

The Best Springless Synthetic Fillers

• Many furniture makers prefer to use polyurethane foam as it is affordable and easy to work with. There are two types - cast and block. In the first case, special forms are filled with the necessary composition, similar in density to sour cream. After it hardens, you get the desired shape. In the second case, the sheets are cut into layers of the required thickness and size and glued together.

Furniture polyurethane foam - an affordable and convenient material for frameless furniture

• Synthetic down. A spiral fiber made of silicone, in a matter of minutes, restores its former shape after compression. It has properties such as quality factor, reliability. It is mainly used for stuffing cushions for furniture, as a filler for backs and armrests.

Synthetic down - the artificial material of the future

• Sintepon. non-woven, very lightweight material which is made from polyester fibers. The substance is hypoallergenic, so furniture with a synthetic winterizer as a filler is used in children's rooms, suitable for people prone to allergies. They are also stuffed with pillows, used in the manufacture of clothes. Eco-friendly material, does not wear out for a long time, is resistant to various fungi, has a water-repellent property, is safe.

Sintepon - a material suitable for people with allergies

• Periotek. It looks like weightless puffy felt, is safe for allergy sufferers, and may contain wool or cotton fibers. The compaction of such furniture can be normal or high.

PerioTek filler is an elastic, voluminous and durable material

• Vatnik. This is, in fact, a flooring of cotton wool 5-10 cm thick, located between layers consisting of dense fabric. Furniture with such a filler is soft, but there is no elasticity.

Vatnik-flooring for the manufacture of upholstered furniture

The best springless natural fillers

Any filler that is used in the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses has its own properties.

• Latex natural. It is made from the sap of the rubber tree using an individual technology. It is foamed, as a result of which cells are formed, so it "breathes". Excellent heat and moisture conductivity, the material is solid, of very high quality. Shelf life is approximately 10 years. Instantly returns to its original shape after heavy loads. There is only one drawback - a very high price.

Latex mattress - high quality, comfortable and safe

• Horsehair. Excellent filler. The horse's mane is treated with latex. This is done so that the material is elastic and serves for a long time, moisture resistant, breathable. High quality filler, but expensive. Not suitable for people prone to allergies.

Horse hair for the production of upholstered furniture and mattresses

• Coconut coir. Fibers are produced from the intercarp of coconut, they, like horse hair, are treated with latex to be elastic and strong. In addition, they also have antibacterial properties, are hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly, do not rot, breathable material. Furniture with such a filler is perfect even for small children.

Coconut filler for children's mattress

• Sea grass. The most environmentally friendly filler. In the manufacture of raw materials combined with jute. The furniture has sufficient rigidity, which is beneficial for the back and maintaining the health of the spine. In addition, such a filler strengthens the immune system, normalizes sleep, as it contains iodine and various minerals.

Useful and healing filler for upholstered furniture - sea grass

• Bamboo fibre. Produced from young shoots of bamboo. The material is able to absorb water vapor, pass air, has anti-allergic and antibacterial properties. It is not subject to rotting, it does not deform for a long time.

Bamboo fiber is ideal for mattress toppers, duvets and pillows

• Camel's wool. Fine breathable material, can absorb static electricity. Not suitable for people prone to allergies.

Camel wool is an excellent warm filling material for blankets, pillows, blankets, mattress covers and winter mattress options.

• Felt. Made from sheep wool. It has good thermal conductivity. Of the shortcomings, one minus is that it is able to accumulate moisture, which may cause mold.

Natural felt for furniture and other industries

How to choose the right PPU filler. What is it in the sofa

High-quality and durable PPU fillers

Not every PPU has good quality. Only excellent polyurethane foam has the necessary properties. You should not make a difference between foam rubber and polyurethane foam - these are materials identical to each other. The difference lies in the function, cost, properties, category. Before choosing furniture, be sure to ask about its density - it should be from 30 kg / m3. Accordingly, the higher the density, the higher the quality and cost.

Sofa with polyurethane foam filling on the frame

Do not overlook the thickness of the material. The normal figure is four centimeters. It happens that in order to save money, a filler with a thickness of 3 or 2 cm is used. It is better to ignore furniture with a filler of this thickness. How resilient and rigid the sofa is depends on your personal preferences. The choice is always yours.

Handsome and comfortable corner sofa filled with polyurethane foam

Video: Polyurethane foam mattresses, foam mattresses, types of PPU

Hello! Welcome to Furniture & Textiles. This article is about modern sofa fillers. Remember the fairy tale about the princess and the pea? Indeed, the young lady was a connoisseur of high-quality fillers for sofas. You, too, will not interfere with such skill. After all, sleeping or sitting on an uncomfortable couch is not a rewarding task. In order not to spend sleepless nights, like a princess from a fairy tale, let's figure out what affects the comfort of the sofa.

Types of sofa fillers

The smaller the diameter of the springs, and the greater their density per square meter, the better the orthopedic effect of the spring block. In such spring blocks, the springs can be additionally covered with layers of special materials: coconut coir, horsehair, polyurethane foam. The different density of each layer allows you to create more rigid or, conversely, softer seats and backs.

The spring block, reinforced with a steel frame-frame, keeps its shape better and longer.

It consists of barrel-shaped springs, each of which is packed in a fabric cover and act independently of each other. Such a block does not sag and does not create unnecessary vibrations when changing positions., it is also silent, because the springs do not touch each other. The springs have a diameter of 5-6 cm and a density of about 250 pieces per square meter, which allows them to compress-unclench under each part of the body separately and create a comfortable position for sleeping and sitting. This type of box spring is more commonly used in bed mattresses than in sofas.

Fillers without spring blocks

Fillers without springs can be divided into two groups. Hard fillers and soft fillers.

Fillers made of polyurethane foam (PPU)

There are two types of polyurethane foam.

Block PPU

Block PPU is sometimes called a "sandwich" because of the way it is produced. Represents thick sheets of polyurethane foam of large size, different density.

In production, sofa parts of the desired shape and thickness are cut from such sheets. The result is a sofa back or seat glued together from sheets of different densities (layers, like a sandwich) - from stiffer to softer.

Cast polyurethane foam

Initially, it has a liquid state. It is poured into a mold, the future part of the sofa, and hardening occurs under the influence of pressure and temperature. The result is a block exactly the size and shape of a sofa cushion or seat.

The disadvantage of cast polyurethane foam is the "crust" formed on the surface of the foam, as a result of baking, such a crust does not pass air well and can create a greenhouse effect. The advantage is that cast products have smooth, comfortable shapes

PPU products are afraid of exposure to light. With constant exposure to light, they can crumble and collapse. Therefore, PPU parts are hidden in opaque fabric covers.

The quality of the finished product made of PUF is affected by the density of PUF, measured in kg / m?. Usually, polyurethane foam with a density of 30 to 40 kg / m? is used in furniture. The higher this value, the more durable the furniture will be. PPU with a density less than 25 kg/m? suitable only for decorative pillows. The density of polyurethane foam in a particular model of furniture is usually indicated in the model passport

Interesting! There are pillows that are filled with memory foam foam. They "remember" and keep the shape of the person sitting, adapt to the curves of the body. But as soon as you rise, the pillow takes its original state.

Polystyrene balls

An intermediate view between PPU and soft fillers. Reminds in appearance, balls of crumbled foam. They are usually used to make

bean bags. Furniture from such balls very comfortable and comfortable to sit on.

The disadvantage of this filler, is its rapid compaction. Because of what it is required to periodically top up the filler.

Soft fillers for sofas

The first group of soft fillers are fillers made of synthetic materials..

Sintepon

Synthetic material produced in the form of a non-woven fabric. The material for its production is polyester fibers. The synthetic winterizer refers to heaters and fillers. In everyday life it is used to warm clothes and give it shape, it is applicable for filling soft toys, blankets and pillows.

In furniture, synthetic winterizer is used to fill sofa cushions, armchairs, chairs and sofa armrests. Often a synthetic winterizer is used as an additional layer in combination with another filler, usually it is the last one before the finishing upholstery.

Advantages of a synthetic winterizer low price,

disadvantages The synthetic winterizer does not hold its shape very well under significant loads, it can wrinkle. The production of synthetic winterizer does not have a single standard, as a result, you can get products with low quality and with additives that are harmful to health, which can result from the use of recycled raw materials in the production.

Sintepukh

Obtained by combing, winding polyester fibers. As a result of the pile, a material is formed that looks like natural fluff. The piled fibers are treated with silicone and connected. The material has good volume and softness. Interestingly, synthetic down has higher rates of heat saving and maintaining the shape of the product than its natural counterpart. For this, it is often used to make warm outerwear.

In sofas, sintepuh is used to fill pillows and armrests.

To the virtues synthetic down can be attributed to the fact that it keeps its shape well and prevents the formation of fungi inside the sofa.

Comfortel

Synthetic small balls are made of polyester fibers. Used to fill sofa cushions, chairs, ottomans and bean bags.

Durafil

Synthetic material obtained by heat treatment and bonding of fibers with a base. At the same time, the fibers "grow" from the base like grass vertically. Due to this, the material has good elasticity and shape retention.

Advantages does not absorb moisture, has good resistance to fire, has antibacterial properties

It is a canvas with a large volume. It can be made both from natural fibers - cotton or wool, and from synthetic polyester.

Visually, the material resembles a lush woolen blanket. The material can have a different density, due to which sofas with periotec can have different stiffness

Development of Russian scientists. Appeared in 2004. Hollofiber is registered as trademark. Due to its unique properties and reasonable price, holofiber is gradually replacing other synthetic fillers from the market.

The material is obtained by twisting and "splicing" synthetic fibers. As a result, a spiral filler is formed which has many internal air pores. At the same time, the material has a homogeneous structure, due to which it keeps its shape well and retains heat.

In the furniture industry, it is used to fill sofa cushions. and sofa seats.

Advantages:Does not absorb moisture, Does not break down in the sun Does not absorb odors. Prevents fungus from spreading. Environmentally friendly Has properties of self-healing - takes the primary form after removal of the load.

Struttofiber

Struttofiber is a relatively young product. It was born in 2012 thanks to the invention of the engineers of the Podolsk factory of nonwoven materials. The birth of this filler was facilitated by the desire to replace obsolete foam rubber. Struttofiber entered the market as an inexpensive alternative and substitute for foam rubber.

The name of the filler is compound and comes from the words Strutto (Italian) - vertically located and Fiber (English) fiber. The name speaks for itself. The material consists of vertical fibers. Due to this arrangement, it has good elasticity and density.

Polyester is used in the production of fibers, which makes the material inexpensive. Struttofaiber is used both in mattresses and for filling upholstered furniture.

Advantages:

• long service life
• moisture resistant
• not combustible
• does not allow microorganisms and mites to multiply in their environment
• elastic and comfortable when sitting and lying

Disadvantages::

despite the long service life, the material still shrinks and, with prolonged load in one place, deflections may form over time.

Foam fillers

Foam rubber is one of the old and budget types of fillers. Foam rubber can be used in the form of small pieces that fill the frame of the sofa or in the form of sheets when the foam sheet is equal to the size of the sofa element.

Filling with pieces quickly rolls down and begins to sag. Therefore, it is better to take a sofa with sheet foam rubber.

Foam rubber is more often used as an additional layer in the construction of sofas.

General lack of foam rubber short service life, during operation, the foam rubber loses its shape, sags.

To dignity can be attributed to the low price.

Let me summarize the synthetic soft fillers. The materials are worthy of choice. They have good strength and performance characteristics and relatively low price. When choosing this group, you should pay attention to the density and thickness.

The second group of soft fillers are fillers made of synthetic materials..

natural latex

Latex is obtained from the sap of the rubber tree. During vulcanization, latex forms a cellular structure with millions of cells, which are responsible for hygroscopicity and air exchange.

Latex is a very reliable and durable material that does not cause allergies.

The main disadvantage is the high price. Therefore, latex is usually used in the production of expensive furniture.

Felt

Felt is both natural and artificial origin. Natural felt is produced from wool through the process of influence. Felt is used in sofa fillers as an additional layer. As a rule, felt is placed directly under the upholstery of the sofa. Due to its low thermal conductivity, felt creates a cozy and warm sofa seat. The thickness of sofa felt is from 0.5 to 2 cm.

Dignity felt naturalness and excellent heat-insulating characteristics

Coir filler

Filler made from fibers of coconut palms is also called coconut tow. The raw materials for the production of this filler are the fibers of the trunks and fruits of coconut palms. The fibers are like dense threads. Coconut fibers are compacted by pressing. The result is a dense air-penetrating structure. In sofas, coconut tow is rarely used. It is mainly used in children's mattresses. The material breathes well and passes water well and does not retain water. So, even if the baby had an embarrassment, he will not have to sleep on the wet ..

Advantages good water and air permeability, low price, good rigidity and durability

seaweed filler

Algae filler is used in sofas as additional material. Seagrass is mainly used for stuffing pillows and blankets. It can also be used to fill sofa cushions. The material is very comfortable to sit on.

disadvantage is a low density and because of this, the pillows can fall off.

Advantages comfort, natural material, in contact with the heat of the human body, algae are able to emit the smell of the sea - in fact, the smell of iodine.

horsehair filler

Horsehair is almost never used as a filler for sofas. Unless in exclusive models. The manufacturing process is very labour-intensive and therefore horsehair filler has a very high price. But the result is a very durable and comfortable material. The hair is breathable and does not absorb moisture.

Advantages durability, comfort, naturalness

Flaw high price

What filler for upholstered furniture is better?

You can answer this question by comparing fillers according to certain criteria. And already within each of the selected criteria to find a leader.

The best filler in terms of service life

If high-quality materials were used in the production of the filler, then there is no clear leader. Spring blocks and PPU will also serve well. Foam rubber noticeably lags behind

Usually service life

• Spring blocks 7-10 years.
• PPU 5-8 years.
• Hollofiber 5-10 years
• Foam rubber 3-5 years

When buying a sofa, always find out the density of the filler. The higher the density, the better. The durability of the sofa depends on the density.

The best fillers depending on the purpose of the sofa

The choice of filler depends on the main purpose of the sofa.

• If the sofa is going to be used for sleeping, it is better to choose models filled with independent spring blocks. It will be good to sleep on latex.
• Sofas for heavy seating- the filler is suitable both from spring blocks and from polyurethane foam and holofiber
• Sofas with light load and occasional use. all the described fillers will cope with this task. Therefore, you can save.

Now, you are ready to choose the filler of the sofa and I think that you can even teach the sellers in furniture stores)))

What filler better for sofa choose? The answer to this question will depend on the desired degree of rigidity and on the purpose of this piece of furniture. For example, if you choose, then the characteristics of its internal filling will differ significantly from the characteristics of the sofa filler that will stand in the living room or. From what will be under the upholstery, there will be depend and life time your furniture. Let's take a closer look at all the possible options.

1. Spring block

This option used already many years and to this day has a demand and popularity among consumers. His main advantage is a high level of comfort, correct and even distribution of the weight of a person both in a sitting and lying position. There are two kind spring fillers: dependent, which is called "Bonnel" and independent – "Pocketspring".

To the main benefits spring blocks include:

• Long service life with proper quality of performance;
• Reliability;
• Ability withstand significant loads;
• Surface sofa will be flat, without dents;
• Elasticity and sufficient rigidity, which can be selected depending on the number of springs and their density;
• Possibility of free air circulation, which will prevent the appearance of various insects;
• orthopedic properties, which will appreciate your spine.

Disadvantages, of course there are also:

• Over time it may appear creak;
• Independent blocks have high cost;
• If one or more springs break, repair maybe get by enough expensive;

2. Polyurethane foam

PPU- This synthetic, highly porous foam material, which is obtained by mixing several synthetic polymers.
In terms of its density, it can surpass materials such as rubber and rubber. This indicator also affects the quality of products made of polyurethane foam. For furniture, polyurethane foam is usually used with an indicator of 30 to 40 kg per square meter. The higher this indicator, the more durable there will be a product. Material with an indicator of less than 30 units is used only for the manufacture of decorative pillows. To find out what filler density your chosen model has, you need to ask passport on the product. For factory furniture, this parameter will be indicated. Production technology This material is quite simple, which has a positive effect on its cost.

Distinguish two kinds PPU:

For the manufacture of various elements of the sofa, sheets of various degrees of rigidity are also used. PPU products do not tolerate direct hits sun rays. Under their influence, they can crumble, so mattresses made of this material additionally protect with covers from opaque fabric. An interesting feature of some PU foam formulations is that they have shape memory effect. From it, usually, which remember the contours of the human body and adapt to them as much as possible. But as soon as you get up, the pillow will instantly return to its original state.

A product filled with high-quality polyurethane foam at a cost will more accessible than block "Pocket Spring" and in terms of their properties and level of comfort are approximately the same. This mattress can also be used for sleep."Bonnel" will be cheaper than both of these options and significantly worse in terms of technical characteristics.

To benefits PPU can be classified as:

• Long term operation;
• Absolute security and environmental friendliness of the material;
• Good balance of softness / hardness;
• Air- and moisture permeability;
• Material does not provoke allergic reactions;
• Does not accumulate dust;
• Rapid shape restoration after deformation due to high elasticity;
• Ability withstand heavy loads for a long time.

disadvantages this material has a significant smaller:

• Cheap PPU quickly loses its elastic properties, due to which dents will soon appear in places of greatest stress:
• Some types of PUR may seem pretty tough compared to the spring block.

3. Sintepon

Highly common material used as filler inexpensive models. It is a synthetic material in the form of a non-woven fabric. It is made from polyester fibers. The best option will use it in combination with other types of filler. He usually serves as an intermediate layer between a full-fledged filler material, such as PU foam, and upholstery. It gives the finished product additional softness and elasticity. To benefits sintepon include:

• Low price;
• Environmental friendliness material, thanks to which, it is not prone to appearing inside the fibers;
• Despite the synthetic origin, synthetic winterizer does not cause allergies and can be used as a filler even for;
• His structure elastic and elastic.

Despite all the positive qualities, he has a number significant disadvantages:

• The most basic is short operating period. With active use and frequent loads, this material loses its elastic properties, and dents and irregularities quickly form on the surface of the product. Therefore, despite the affordable cost, furniture filled with synthetic winterizer will last a very short period.
• On the this moment there is no single technology for the production of this material. Therefore, you risk poor quality product in the manufacture of which could be used harmful substances. To avoid this, be sure to ask the seller for a product certificate that can confirm its safety.
• As a full-fledged filler, it can only be used for pillows or armrests, in some cases - for the back, in order to give it decorative curves or projections. For example, if the back of the sofa is made using the “carriage tie” technology;
• With time goes astray in lumps.

After evaluating the advantages and disadvantages, we can conclude that such a material is better suited for sofa which will be used in living room.

4. Periotek

This is modern non-woven material, which is made up of high quality polyester fibers. It is increasingly used for the manufacture of mattresses and various bedding, as well as for filling. Thanks to special additives in the form of artificial components (for example, corn fibers, bamboo or viscose), or natural fibers (wool, coconut, linen or cotton), this material has high strength and elasticity. Along with these indicators, the service life of products with such a filler also increases.
To strengthen Perioteka can additionally be used knitted fabric - dublerin, non-woven single-stitched or needle-punched fabric or woven fabric, such as coarse calico. To understand exactly what components are included in the composition, and what indicator of rigidity this filler can provide, he has a special label. It also indicates the density and width.

To obtain this, while unusual for us, material is used special technology. It lies in the formation three various layers. First layer - the main one, it must bear the entire load. Its fibers are stacked in a vertical direction and fixed in this position under the influence of high temperature. Second and the third layer perform the function of reinforcement. They strengthen and support the first layer. Such unique building and explains the high technological performance of this type of filler.

Advantages perioteca are obvious:

• The material is hypoallergenic;
• In its structure reproduction is impossible harmful and disease-causing microorganisms;
• He is completely safe for human health. This is due to the fact that its composition does not contain glue, resins and other components that can be toxic. The fibers are held together under the influence of temperature.
• Periotheque mattresses provide a very high level of comfort;
• Capable of regaining shape small residual deformation even with prolonged exposure to significant loads;
• Indicator its elasticity and mass distribution similar independent spring block;
• Durability, thanks to the three-layer reinforced structure;
• breathability;
• Fire safety.

To shortcomings can be attributed:

• Price, which is equal to the cost of the "Pocket spring" block.
• This material is ideal for filling upholstered furniture, but for some it may seem too tough. In such cases, it is used as the main, elastic layer, and softer materials are additionally used to achieve a lower degree of rigidity.

This sofa can use for daily sleep. After all, the degree of its deformation is practically minimized.

5. Struttofiber

One of the most resilient types of modern fillers, which is ideal for filling upholstered furniture. His second name "non-woven independent springs", speaks for itself. It is made from synthetic and natural fibers such as cotton, linen, coconut, camel hair, or combinations thereof. Manufacturing technology resembles the process of obtaining periotec. The fibers of the carrier layer are also stacked in a vertical position and fixed with a very hot air stream. This technology is called "strutto". Due to this, the finished material has increased elasticity and wear resistance.
He maximum exactly capable take contours body and prevent problems with the musculoskeletal system. Struttofiber has a number of significant advantages:

• He not subject to decay;
• Term his exploitation very large;
• Due to the increased elasticity, it is better than other fillers restores shape after prolonged exertion;
• Withstands large weight;
• Does not absorb moisture;
• Do not support process burning;
• breathable;
• In this material appearance is impossible dust ticks and other microorganisms
• Hypoallergenic;
• Does not produce extra noise and squeaks;
• It has acceptable cost.

Correct selection of stiffness for different weight categories is necessary, for example:

• Filler with high hardness index recommended for people weighing 90 kg or more;
• Middle level rigidity withstands loads weighing from 60 kg to 90 kg;
• Soft the filler is recommended for use by people whose weight does not exceed 60 kg.

Due to such weight restrictions, there may be difficulties when choosing in the elderly, who are uncomfortable sleeping or sitting on a hard surface, but whose weight exceeds the allowable norms.

6. Felt and padded jacket

Felt is a non-woven fabric natural origin, which is obtained from felted goat or sheep wool. The structure of these types of wool allows you to get a very dense material, the formation of which uses high-temperature pressing. It is rolled through hot cylinders, after which a fairly strong and hard crust is obtained on both sides of the sheet. Felt is produced in the form of panels, which have different thicknesses.
Vatnik represents composition from cotton wool, the layer of which has a thickness of 5 cm and a dense fabric that covers it on both sides. It can be packing, bag, gauze fabric or technical calico. To connect all the layers to each other, use a machine stitch with dense threads at a certain interval. AT quality 100% filler upholstered furniture, these two materials are not commonly used due to their excessive density. However, the felt serves as protective layer for spring or PPU blocks, thereby making their surface more wear-resistant and protecting against punching. This significantly increases the service life of products. The padded jacket is used as intermediate layer between fillers. It is used to improve comfort and convenience. bed. These materials have many advantages:

• protective properties, which increase the service life of upholstered furniture;
• Natural Ingredients in the composition, which allow the use of this filler even for small children's sofas;
• high density and wear resistance;
• Affordable price;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Possibility uniform load distribution;
• Good regulates heat.
• Smooth surface even after many years of use.

to essential shortcomings relate:

• In natural wool wind up insects and other pests
• This cover is good. absorbs moisture and can quickly moldy because of which it must be constantly dried, which is extremely problematic to do if we are talking about sofa fillers.

7. Holofiber

It can be said that this improved synthetic winterizer. It resembles fluffy balls of small size, which are formed from polyester spiral fibers of polyester and have many internal pores.
Thanks to spiral structure it has the main advantage, which is very much appreciated when choosing a filler for upholstered furniture, - it is able to quickly restore its shape after prolonged loads. However, he remains very soft and warm. It is actively used as a filler for sofa cushions and seats. If holofiber in the form of balls is used for pillows, then a special furniture material. It looks like a mat with the same spiral structure. It is very thick, resilient, and retains its shape well.
Today it is considered one of the most quality fillers. This is due to the large list positive qualities:

• Absolute security and environmental friendliness, which makes it possible to use it to fill children's furniture;
• Does not cause allergic reactions;
• It has light weight;
• Does not absorb odors;
• Not absorbs and does not collect on its surface dust;
• Easily changes and restores shape;
• In him not may form harmful microorganisms;
• Possesses high softness and elasticity;
• Does not absorb moisture;
• breathable;
• Does not roll;
• Does not support combustion;
• It has long term services.

Essential shortcomings this material not found. Is that a higher cost than that of a synthetic winterizer.

8. Foam rubber

Most accessible at the cost and the most low quality filler type. Foam rubber is the same polyurethane foam, but the lowest quality and lowest density. Therefore, it is a mistake to assume that these are two different material. Very often sellers can deceive customers claiming that it is not. In fact, they differ only in their characteristics. By the way, the thickness of the foam does not affect the degree of its rigidity. Even a tall sheet can easily wrinkle and be very porous, while a thin sheet is able to instantly restore its shape. Foam rubber rarely used as a filler for soft sofas.
Unless, for their armrests or formers. It has found its use as a material for .

His positive sides This:

• Low price;
• Security for good health;
• antistatic properties;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Good breathable and moisture;
• Not possibility mold formation.

Disadvantages, unfortunately very important:

• fragility;
• Poor quality foam very fast loses elasticity why dents form on the surface;
• With time shrinks and crumbles;
• Not intended for filling furniture which is subject to heavy use.

As you can see, such a filler will become unusable very quickly, and your sofa will quickly lose its aesthetic appearance.

9. Latex

It's a filler natural origin, which is used in expensive models of upholstered furniture. It is made from rubber plant juice which greatly increases its cost. At vulcanization latex, it is possible to obtain a structure that has a lot of cells that contribute to the penetration of air and are responsible for hygroscopicity. Production technology latex, which is used in the furniture industry, is quite simple. The latex mixture is poured into a container in which it is constantly mixed and foams after a certain period of time. After that, it is poured into special molds and at a temperature of 100 ° C, the vulcanization process takes place. The resulting blank is taken out of the mold, cleaned of unnecessary foam residues and dried at a temperature of 120°C. After that, the sheets are tested for rigidity, weighed, packaged and sent to the furniture factory. Due to the fact that rubber in its natural form does not tolerate hits fat, ultraviolet and collapses from this, in the production of a latex mixture, special stabilizing additives. Thus, the maximum proportion of natural rubber in latex foam is no more than 85%. Such a product is considered completely natural. In terms of requirements for filler for soft furniture, then the allowable latex content is 45-60%. This indicator is quite enough to obtain the required level of strength, elasticity and wear resistance. If you are not limited in finances and prefer to use furniture made from natural materials in your home, we recommend that you pay attention to this type of filler.
He has next advantages:

• Lifetime is about 20 years;
• Does not cause allergic reactions;
• breathable;
• Maximum exactly follows contours body;
• Capable dampen vibration;
• Distributes the load evenly due to which it has orthopedic properties;
• Non-toxic;
• Highly quickly regains shape.

To shortcomings can only be attributed high cost, which is due to the specifics of production and the components used. There is also artificial latex. So called highly elastic polyurethane foam. To don't be deceived need to know that natural filler has a grayish tint, and to the touch, it seems greasy. While synthetic has a yellowish tint and is dry to the touch.

10. Durafil

This material has structure, which, according to indicators similar to the spring block. This is a high-quality non-woven fabric, which is made from hollow polyester fibers by heat treatment and gluing the fibers to the base. His fibers located vertically and, as it were, grow out of the base, resembling grass. This structure allows you to achieve high elasticity, combined with softness and splendor.
This material perfect fits for filling sofas, giving their backs and seats volume and attractive appearance. Such furniture looks very cozy and comfortable, and in fact it is. His Benefits make this material more popular every day:

• Hypoallergenic material that does not contain substances that can cause even the slightest allergic reaction;
• Do not support process burning. This is due to the peculiarity of production, in which it undergoes special heat treatment and loses combustible properties. It can char, deform or collapse completely, but not ignite.
• high elasticity, which was achieved thanks to vertically directed individual fibers. This structure is actively resists the load upon the disappearance of which, the fibers instantly tend to take their original position.
• This material does not accumulate dust;
• sustainable to moisture and temperature changes;
• Possesses antimicrobial properties;
• Has a pleasant softness which makes it popular in the furniture industry;
• Long service life.

disadvantages this material so far not found. And, based on the list of its positive qualities, we can conclude that a sofa with such a filler can be used as a full-fledged sleeping place.

11. Lamels

Do not forget that if you are looking for a sofa that can play the role of a bed, then in order to achieve orthopedic properties and extending its service life, it is necessary to choose models that additionally equipped with slats. Of course, this is not a filler, but only an additional support for him, which is very helpful. slats represent planks of veneered wood, which have a slightly curved shape. This design allows you to compensate for the load and ensure the correct position of the body. Under pressure, they bend, allowing you to evenly distribute the load.
The material used is birch, poplar or beech. The thickness of the lamellas is 2-10 mm. It is clear that the thicker this element and the more often it is located on the frame, the stronger and more durable it will be. disadvantage lamellas is that if they break they cannot be repaired. However, almost everyone can buy a new one and replace it on their own. Especially considering their low cost and the possibility of acquiring even one piece.

12. Leader among fillers according to various evaluation criteria

We have listed quite a few various options fillers and you are probably already a little confused. To make it clear summarize and select the most suitable types depending on different requirements.

Average indicators for the duration of operation

When using the sofa as a bed

For sitting with a constant and intense load

When choosing a sofa, keep in mind that they are often used combined fillers, which make it possible to achieve optimal performance stiffness/comfort and price/quality ratio. Be sure to ask the seller more about all types of fillers used. Ask certificates, that confirm the safety of materials. And the most important thing- be sure to sit or lie down on the selected sofa. You should be comfortable and comfortable on it. In this case, you will be satisfied with the purchase.

 07.01.2018

 Georgy Zhmutsky

There are three types of spring blocks

• Independent spring block, also known as orthopedic spring block.
• Bonnel, dependent spring block.
• Spring snake.

Each block has its pros and cons, it is necessary to build on the main purpose when choosing.

1. Independent - if the sofa will be used as a bed, for daily sleep. It will save your back. It is elastic and comfortable, but costs 4 - 7 tr. more expensive than a sofa made of alternative filler.
2. Bonnel - when you sleep on the couch, wake up in extreme cases. In terms of comfort for the seat, they are not inferior to an independent spring block. It feels like when you sit down, they are softer than an independent block.
3. Snake - put on small seats, short sofas and armchairs in 95% of cases. This is not done to save money, but to make the place evenly soft. Since for spring blocks around the perimeter, a foam rubber frame with a minimum thickness of 80 mm is laid out. and this frame will be felt by softness in a small area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe seat.