When it comes to outdoor cushions, not all foam is created equal. If you’ve ever dealt with soggy seats, mouldy cushions, or foam that never seems to dry, the solution might be simpler than you think — reticulated foam.
This specialised foam is designed specifically for outdoor and wet-area use, making it one of the best choices for alfresco furniture, poolside lounges, boats, and caravans.
Let’s break down what it is, how it works, and why it’s become the go-to foam for outdoor comfort.
What Is Reticulated Foam?
Reticulated foam is a highly open-cell foam where most of the internal cell membranes are removed during manufacturing. This creates a sponge-like structure with:
- Up to 97% open cells
- Extremely fast water drainage
- Excellent airflow and ventilation
Unlike standard upholstery foam, which traps water inside, reticulated foam allows water to pass straight through — so it dries dramatically faster.
Why Standard Foam Fails Outdoors
Traditional foam is designed for indoor use. When exposed to rain, humidity, or pool splash, it tends to:
- Absorb and hold water
- Develop mould and mildew
- Break down faster
- Smell damp and musty
- Become uncomfortable and heavy
That’s why outdoor furniture cushions often feel great at first… then terrible after one wet season.
Why Reticulated Foam Is Perfect for Outdoor Furniture
1. Dries Ultra-Fast
Water drains straight through instead of soaking in — meaning cushions dry in hours, not days.
2. Mould & Mildew Resistant
Because moisture doesn’t sit inside the foam, mould growth is dramatically reduced.
3. Long-Lasting
Reticulated foam maintains its structure far longer in outdoor environments than standard foam.
4. Comfortable Support
Despite its drainage ability, it still provides excellent seating comfort for lounges, benches, and sunbeds.
5. Ideal for Harsh Aussie Conditions
Perfect for Australian backyards, coastal homes, pool areas, and boats where moisture is unavoidable.
Best Uses for Reticulated Foam
Reticulated foam is commonly used for:
- Outdoor lounge cushions
- Alfresco seating
- Poolside daybeds
- Caravan and campervan cushions
- Boat seating
- Marine upholstery
- Outdoor bench seats
- Hospitality outdoor venues
If it’s exposed to water, humidity, or weather — reticulated foam is the smart choice.
How Reticulated Foam Works with Cushion Covers
For best results, pair reticulated foam with:
- Water-resistant or marine-grade fabrics
- Mesh or vented cushion bases to allow drainage
- Breathable outdoor covers
This creates a complete quick-dry system that keeps your outdoor furniture comfortable year-round.
Custom-Cut Reticulated Foam for Your Outdoor Space
At Foam For Home, we supply reticulated foam cut to size, making it easy to upgrade your outdoor furniture without replacing the entire setting.
Whether you need:
- Replacement cushions
- Custom sizes for built-in seating
- Caravan or boat foam
- Hospitality outdoor seating
We cut your foam precisely to suit your measurements — Australia-wide delivery included.
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of soggy outdoor cushions, constant replacements, and uncomfortable seating, switching to reticulated foam is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
It’s fast-drying, mould-resistant, durable, and designed specifically for life outdoors — exactly what Australian homes need.
