Rubber or Polyurethane feet: who comes out on top?

Rubber feet vs. Polyurethane feet

When it comes to selecting the right material for bumper feet, the choice often boils down to two contenders: rubber and polyurethane. While both materials have their merits, only one can be victorious today. This insight will explore the pros and cons of each material when in the context of self adhesive bumper feet.

As we mentioned in a previous Bumper feet insight blog post, bumper feet are small, adhesive-backed pads attached to devices, items or surfaces, usually to prevent sliding, scratches, absorb shock, and provide stability. They’re found on devices such as laptops, kitchen appliances, cabinet doors, coasters, and much much more. I have even seen them used in train toilets to prevent the lids from banging against the wall when lifted! The potential applications of these products seem to be endless.

So whilst both rubber and polyurethane are both popular choices, their properties and effectiveness certainly differ. This is important as the material used in bumper feet directly impacts their durability, performance, and ability to adhere to surfaces. Who will win the battle of the blobs?!

Rubber: the traditional choice

Rubber has long been a go-to material for bumper feet due to its affordability and flexibility. There is no denying that rubber feet offer decent shock absorption and grip, making them ideal for preventing slips on smooth surfaces like glass or polished wood. They’re also relatively easy to manufacture, which keeps costs low for these mass-produced items.

However, rubber has some notable drawbacks. Over time, rubber can degrade, especially when exposed to high stress or continuous use. This degradation eventually leads to cracking, hardening, or yellowing, compromising the bumper’s functionality and discreteness. Silicone is more resistant than other rubbers when exposed to the elements, but silicone feet also still may lose their adhesive properties, particularly in humid or oily environments, causing them to peel or drop off. Additionally, rubber tends to have a lower load-bearing capacity, this means it may compress or deform more easily than Polyurethane under heavy weight.

Polyurethane: the game-changing alternative?

Polyurethane, a relatively newcomer on the scene, in recent times has gained traction as a premium material for self-adhesive bumper feet. The combination of elasticity, toughness, and resistance to environmental factors makes it ideal for demanding applications. Unlike traditional rubber, polyurethane maintains its integrity across a wider range of temperatures, It’s also more resistant to UV light and abrasion, which prevents cracking and means less discoloration over time. While Silicone can outperform Polyurethane in some instances, such as high temperatures and UV exposure but is much less effective at dealing with low temperatures, stress and has reduced impact resistance.

One of polyurethane’s standout features is its superior durability when used for protection. Polyurethane bumper feet when tested against rubber can withstand repeated impacts and heavy loads without deforming, making them perfect for heavy appliances or even industrial equipment. Their resilience translates to a longer lifespan, thus reducing the need for frequent replacements and as a bonus, offering better value in the long run.

Adhesion is another area where polyurethane shines. The material bonds exceptionally well with adhesives, ensuring that bumper feet stay securely in place even in the most challenging environments like warm kitchens or steamy bathrooms. Polyurethane’s compatibility with advanced adhesive technologies also means it can maintain stickiness longer than old fashioned rubber. Aesthetically, polyurethane offers greater flexibility over other materials. It is generally easier to be formulated to be crystal-clear and moulded into precise shapes, making it suitable for applications where visual appeal is important. For example, transparent polyurethane bumper feet blend seamlessly with glass tabletops and work discreetly when applied to glass or epoxy resin coasters, enhancing the overall design. To really let the handmade craft or coaster take centre stage, opt for a mini or micro sized option.

Comparing Performance

When comparing rubber and polyurethane for adhesive feet, the differences are clear. Rubber is cheap and provides adequate grip with good cushioning but falters in durability and adhesion over time. Polyurethane, while slightly more expensive, excels in ability, longevity, environmental resistance, and aesthetic versatility.

Conclusion: Polyurethane Wins!

When it comes to the best material for manufacturing self-adhesive bumper feet, polyurethane is the clear winner. Its durability, resistance to wear, and superior adhesion outperform rubber in nearly every aspect, and this is why Happy Bananas opt for Polyurethane for their bumper feet. While rubber may suffice for low-cost, low-demand applications, polyurethane’s ability to maintain performance under stress and its strong adhesive properties mean it is the number one choice for both consumer and industrial applications of self-adhesive feet. Whether you’re building a house, designing an electronic device or a home crafter making some coasters, choosing polyurethane bumper feet is the way to go.