Foam for Church Pews and Kneelers
The versatility of foam means it's found across many environments, and one less commonly considered is church pews and kneelers. First appearing in thirteenth-century England, pews were usually stone and focused more on decorative appeal than comfort. Today they're generally wooden, and some have cushioned seating and footrests, though older, more conservative churches don't tend to.
To the modern churchgoer, pews are notoriously uncomfortable and often cold. Many congregations and organisations now want peaceful environments that combine tradition with comfort, and have adopted foam to meet attendees' needs.
Foam for pews and kneelers
The most popular foam for pews and kneelers is a very high-density polyurethane known as reconstituted foam. As pews and kneelers are often covered in intricate or specialist fabric, reconstituted foam offers the longest lifespan, minimising how often the foam is replaced or the fabric disturbed. Rigid yet comfortable, it helps maintain a premium appearance, and its density can support the equally heavy, dense embroidered material encasing it.
Foam supports for accessibility
Using specialist foams in pews, kneelers and other soft furnishings is also part of making community buildings more accessible for those with disabilities. Many elderly people, or those with medical conditions, find hard surfaces difficult for long periods, so modern churches – particularly those with older congregations – invest in foam-based supports. These include angled footrests, back supports and leg raisers, plus memory foam seat pads, medium-density polyurethane wedge cushions and foam bolster cushions.
Pews beyond churches
The pew's popularity extends beyond religious and communal settings. Their long-standing influence in Europe means they're now also found in courtrooms and synagogues. As people in courtrooms are often seated for long periods, much like churchgoers, the traditional pew is a natural fit, and these tend to use the same high-density polyurethane foams for longevity, shape retention and comfort.
eFoam is a leading UK supplier of foam products, specialising in cut to size foam in many shapes. We also offer pre-cut, off-the-shelf reconstituted foam pads for prayer mats or kneelers. To discuss your foam requirements, please contact us.
Frequently asked questions
What foam is used in church pews and kneelers?
Very high-density polyurethane, known as reconstituted foam, is the most popular. It offers the longest lifespan, minimising how often the foam is replaced, and is rigid yet comfortable and dense enough to support heavy embroidered outer fabric.
What foam supports help elderly churchgoers?
Many churches now invest in comfort supports including angled footrests, back supports and leg raisers, as well as memory foam seat pads, medium-density polyurethane wedge cushions and foam bolster cushions.
Are pews used outside churches?
Yes. Pews are also found in courtrooms and other settings such as synagogues, where people are seated for long periods. These tend to use the same high-density polyurethane foams for longevity, shape retention and comfort.
