Outdoor cushions can add comfort and style to any patio, deck or pool area. However, because they are exposed to the elements, outdoor cushions require some extra care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Protecting outdoor cushions from rain, sun, dirt and more will extend their lifespan so you can enjoy them for many seasons.
Choose the Right Outdoor Fabric
The first step in protecting outdoor cushions is selecting ones made of durable, weather-resistant fabrics in the first place. Consider these fabric options:
Acrylic
Acrylic fabrics have excellent resistance to mildew, fading and stretching. Acrylic cushions have a soft, wool-like feel and hold their shape well. The downside is acrylic can pill after rubbing and may not be as breathable as other fabrics.
Olefin
Olefin fabrics like polyethylene and polypropylene are colorfast, stain-resistant and quick-drying. Olefin cushions are budget-friendly but can sometimes fade faster than other materials. They also absorb moisture rather than repel it.
Polyester
Polyester cushions are affordable, easy to clean and fast-drying. Look for specially treated polyester designed for outdoor use. Polyester holds its shape well but can sometimes bleed dye when wet.
Sunbrella
Sunbrella is a popular brand of acrylic fabric made to withstand intense sun exposure. Sunbrella fabric resists fading for years and repels liquids. It’s mildew-resistant but expensive compared to other outdoor fabrics.
Canvas
Canvas is a classic outdoor fabric made of natural cotton or cotton-polyester blends. It’s breathable and soft but requires frequent re-treatment with water repellent to resist staining.
Performance Fabrics
“Performance fabrics” are proprietary materials designed for outdoor use. They are engineered to be waterproof, stain-resistant and breathable while maintaining a soft hand. 3M and Gore-Tex are two common brands.
Use a Water-Repellent Spray
Applying a water-repellent spray adds an extra layer of protection from liquid stains. Spray cushions with a fabric protector before placing them outside. Reapply as directed on the product label or whenever cushions start to absorb moisture instead of repelling it. This helps resist spills and retain the fabric’s vibrancy.
Avoid wax-based products that may discolor fabrics over time. Instead, look for water-repellent sprays made for outdoor fabric use. Be sure to test spray in an inconspicuous area first and allow time to dry completely.
Invest in Outdoor Cushion Covers
Outdoor cushion covers provide full enclosure to protect the cushion insert inside. They have either zipper or Velcro closures to seal out moisture. The fabric of the cover takes the brunt of sun, wind and rain exposure instead of the cushion itself.
Look for cushion covers made of durable, water-resistant outdoor fabrics like polyester or olefin. Covers can be removed and machine washed periodically to remove dirt and stains accumulated on the outer shell.
Some covers come with vents or mesh windows to allow airflow and prevent mildew. Storage pockets are also handy for tucking away cushion ties when not in use. Measure carefully so covers fit snugly over your cushion inserts.
Use Proper Outdoor Cushion Inserts
The inner cushion inserts should also be made of moisture-resistant materials:
- Polyester batting is an affordable option that resists mildew. Avoid cotton which can get musty when wet.
- Polyurethane foam is waterproof and extremely durable. Look for high-density foam that retains its structure.
- Infinity foam contains both polyurethane and advanced polymer materials. It dries quickly after rain with little shrinkage.
- Polyester wrapped around a waterproof core is another combination option for durability.
No matter what fill you choose, solid inserts hold up better than loose fill like feathers or beads. Make sure any inserts used outdoors are specifically designed for it.
Check Cushion Fill Levels
As cushions are used and compressed over time, they lose some fullness. Plump up cushions occasionally by reshaking or adding more fill to keep them in top shape.
Cushions that are over- or under-filled lose their supportive structure. Test fill levels by pressing down in the center of a cushion. It should depress down less than one inch then spring back to form.
Supplement cushion fill as needed each season to maintain the right degree of thickness, comfort and support. Add foam fillers or polyester stuffing to bring back sagging cushions.
Allow Proper Airflow Behind Cushions
Trapped moisture between a cushion and surface can lead to mold and mildew. Allow airflow behind cushions by:
- Using cushion covers with mesh vent panels.
- Selecting cushion inserts made with quick-drying materials.
- Periodically turning or plumping cushions to dry out undersides.
- Elevating cushions off wet surfaces with feet or risers.
- Storing upright instead of stacking when not in use.
- Checking for water pooling after rains.
Good airflow dries cushions faster after getting wet and prevents dampness from being trapped against furniture, patio or deck surfaces underneath.
Keep Cushions Clean
Dirt, grime and debris not only look bad but can break down fabric fibers over time. Here are some tips for keeping outdoor cushions clean:
- Shake cushions regularly to remove accumulated dirt and leaves.
- Spot clean stains immediately with a mild detergent and rinse well.
- Check zippered cushion covers and wash in the machine if dirty. Line dry.
- Use a fabric cleaner made for outdoor items and rinse thoroughly.
- Allow cleaned cushions to air dry completely before replacing cover or inserts.
- Steam clean cushions as needed to sanitize and remove engrained dirt. Allow to fully dry before reuse.
- Replace faded or broken zippers, ties or grommets as needed.
Take time a few times per season to thoroughly clean all outdoor cushion covers, inserts and surfaces.
Watch For Signs of Mildew and Regularly Sanitize
The moist, humid environment outdoors makes cushions prone to mold and mildew growth. Stop it before it starts:
- Mix up a solution of 2 cups white vinegar and 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Mist cushions generously and allow to dry in sunlight. The acetic acid in vinegar kills mold and mildew spores on contact while brightening fabrics.
- Make a sanitizing bleach solution of 1 teaspoon bleach per 1 quart water. Spray onto cushions focusing on seams, crevices and undersides. Allow 10 minutes contact time before rinsing. Let air dry. Use bleach solutions sparingly as they can fade fabric over time.
- To help remove existing mildew, mix a solution of 1 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup salt, 1 gallon water and 1/4 cup white vinegar. Scrub into mildew stains using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
- After cleaning, allow cushions to completely air dry before replacing covers. Remove covers and expose inserts to fresh air and sunlight periodically.
Routine cleaning, daily airflow and vinegar spraying deter mold and mildew growth.
Use Outdoor Cushion Covers in Storage
To keep outdoor cushions in great shape all year long:
- At the end of each season, launder removable covers first or have professionally cleaned if needed.
- Allow cushion inserts to fully air dry.
- Place inserts into clean covers and store in a dry, covered area like a shed, basement or garage.
- Storing upright helps retain shape and prevent flattening or sagging.
- Avoid stacking as the weight can compress inserts over time.
- Use breathable plastic covers over cushion storage bags or boxes to protect from dust while allowing airflow.
Proper storage protects your investment in cushions so they emerge next season like new.
Additional Outdoor Cushion Care Tips
- Choose dark colors like navy blue, forest green and chocolate brown to hide dirt better. However, know dark cushions absorb heat from sunlight.
- Flip reversible cushions over periodically to spread wear evenly on both sides.
- Rotate cushions on a weekly basis from seating to backrest positions to distribute weight and flattening.
- Cushions used in sheltered areas like gazebos or screen porches require less frequent cleaning and treatment.
- Feather and down cushion inserts are not ideal for outdoor use as moisture causes them to clump and mildew.
- Polyester wrapped cushion inserts resist water better than those wrapped in cotton covers which stay damp.
With some routine care and maintenance, outdoor cushions can retain their good looks for many years of enjoyment. Be diligent about cleaning, sanitizing and protecting them from the outdoor elements. Your cushion investment will provide comfort all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions About Protecting Outdoor Cushions
How often should outdoor cushions be cleaned?
Outdoor cushions should be wiped down or spot cleaned as needed after spills and usage. For deeper cleaning, launder removable covers every 2-3 weeks during peak usage seasons. Clean entire cushion inserts 2-3 times per year or whenever they appear dirty.
What is the fastest way to dry wet outdoor cushions?
The best way to quickly dry soaked outdoor cushions is to remove covers and inserts, shake off excess water, separate components and allow everything to air dry in direct sunlight. Turn inserts occasionally to expose all sides. Replacement covers can be used while others dry fully.
Should outdoor cushions be brought inside during rainstorms?
It’s ideal but not absolutely necessary in all cases. For quick-drying synthetic cushions without feather fills, leaving them out in the rain is OK if the cushions themselves drain well and airflow behind them is good. Just be sure to dry them out completely soon after precipitation stops. For longer storms, do bring delicate or natural fiber cushions indoors until dry again if feasible.
How can I make outdoor cushions last longer?
To extend the life of outdoor cushions, choose fade- and stain-resistant fabrics, use water repellents, allow for airflow, clean frequently, check fill levels, store properly between seasons and keep them protected from sun and moisture damage with cushion covers when not in use. Rotating and distributing weight evenly also prevents premature breakdown.
What is the best material for outdoor cushion covers?
Polyester, olefin and acrylic fabrics make excellent outdoor cushion covers. Look for performance fabrics engineered specifically for outdoor durability against sun, wind and rain while still being easy to clean. Canvas needs frequent re-treatment but ages nicely. Synthetic blends and microfibers clean easily without absorbing moisture.
How do I get rid of mildew smell from outdoor cushions?
To remove mildew odors from outdoor cushions, first clean the cushions thoroughly using a bleach solution on moldy spots. Then spray with a mix of vinegar and water which sanitizes and helps neutralize musty odors. Allow cushions to dry completely in direct sunlight then rewash covers. A few drops of lemon essential oil on dry fabric can also help freshen air flow through cushion covers.
Should outdoor cushions be stored upright or lying flat?
It’s best to store outdoor cushions upright rather than stacking horizontally if possible. Vertical storage allows air circulation all around the cushion which prevents moisture and mildew. Stacking can compress and flatten the cushion fill over time. If horizontal storage is unavoidable, rotate stacking direction between seasons.
Can I use indoor cushion inserts on outdoor furniture?
This is not recommended. Outdoor cushions require more mold-resistant fills and durable, weatherproof fabrics. Indoor cushions left outdoors will likely absorb moisture, grow mildew and break down faster than those designed for outdoor use. For best results, swap indoor cushion inserts for ones specifically created for patios and decks.
Conclusion
Outdoor cushions provide welcoming comfort to any alfresco living area. Like any outdoor accessory, they require some routine care and maintenance to withstand the ravages of weather exposure. By choosing the right materials, frequently cleaning cushions, allowing airflow, spraying with protectants and using cushion covers, you can keep outdoor cushions in top shape for seasons to come. With the right prevention and proper storage between uses, outdoor cushions can withstand the elements and provide cozy seating for years of enjoyment.