Waterproofing outdoor cushions is an important part of maintaining patio furniture and ensuring it lasts for years to come. Outdoor cushions are exposed to the elements – sun, wind, rain, snow, and humidity – all of which can damage fabric and stuffing over time. With some simple waterproofing steps, you can protect your cushion investment and keep them looking fresh. This comprehensive guide will provide tips and advice for waterproofing different types of outdoor cushions.
Choose Water-Resistant Fabrics for Outdoor Cushions
Selecting cushions made of water-resistant fabrics is the first step in waterproofing. Look for these high-performing outdoor fabrics when shopping for patio cushions:
Acrylic
Acrylic fabric has a soft, wool-like feel but resists mildew and stains. Acrylic cushions work well in damp climates.
Olefin
Olefin has excellent resistance to mildew, fading, stains, and moisture. This versatility makes it one of the most popular outdoor cushion fabrics.
Polyester
Look for heavy polyester fabric with a special coating or treatment to repel water. Polyester dries quickly and maintains its shape.
Solution-Dyed Acrylic
The dye is mixed into acrylic fibers before spinning rather than dyed on the surface. This process enhances colorfastness and water resistance.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene repels water, resists mildew and stains, and dries quickly after rain. It’s a good budget-friendly option.
Vinyl
Vinyl-coated fabrics block moisture completely. Look for vinyl cushion covers rather than fully vinyl cushions, which can get hot.
Avoid non-waterproof cotton cushions which will become waterlogged and musty when wet. While many outdoor cushion fabrics are water-resistant, further waterproofing steps will maximize protection.
Use a Waterproof Barrier Under Cushion Covers
Adding a waterproof barrier beneath the cushion cover provides an extra layer of defense. Look for washable barriers made of vinyl or polyurethane laminate fabric.
Vinyl Barriers
Clear vinyl barriers slip under the cushion cover to keep moisture from soaking into the interior. They’re inexpensive and easy to clean.
Polyurethane Laminate
This stiff, rugged fabric laminated with waterproof polyurethane blocks moisture better than vinyl. It won’t puncture as easily as vinyl.
Barriers with zippered edges make removing covers for washing simple. Put the open end of the barrier at the cushion bottom so moisture runs off.
Select Water-Resistant Fill and Stuffing
The cushion fill absorbs most of the moisture that gets through the barrier and cover. Choose a fill made of synthetic, water-resistant fibers:
Polyester Fiber Fill
Polyester fill dries quickly, resists mildew, and springs back after compression. It’s a good budget filler for outdoor cushions.
Poly-Wrapped Foam
Shredded foam wrapped in polyester batting repels water and retains cushion shape. More expensive than poly fill but lasts longer.
Olefin Fiber Fill
Olefin fill is mold, mildew, and moisture resistant. It’s lightweight and fluffy but packs tightly into cases.
Polydacron Fiber
This very dense polyester has good water resistance. Use for firmer outdoor bench and sofa cushions that need support.
Avoid regular polyurethane foam, cotton stuffing, feather, or down fill in outdoor cushions.
Use Outdoor Cushion Covers
Outdoor cushion covers provide the first line of defense from the elements. Follow these tips for maximum water protection:
- Choose fabric with hydrophobic coatings like Scotchguard to repel spills.
- If the cover has piping, make sure it’s colorfast so rain won’t stain lighter fabric.
- Check zipper quality since you’ll remove them frequently for cleaning. Metal is better than plastic.
- Look for covers with drain holes in the underside seam to prevent water pooling if the barrier leaks.
- Straps that anchor the cover to the frame will prevent wind lifting and water intrusion.
- Have spare covers so you can swap out damp ones to dry fully before remounting.
Look for reversible covers to get double the life span. Follow washing instructions to maintain water repellency.
How to Make Cushion Covers Water-Repellent
To restore water resistance to faded outdoor cushion covers, re-treat the fabric. Choose a product made specifically for outdoor fabrics.
To waterproof cushion covers:
- Clean covers thoroughly before application.
- Apply water repellent spray or solution evenly according to product instructions. Avoid over-saturation.
- Allow the fabric to dry completely, usually 24 hours.
- Reapply once or twice per season. The more it’s used, the longer protection lasts.
Try products containing fluoropolymers like Scotchguard or silicone water guard for durable water protection.
Improve Drainage Under Cushions
Excess water pooling under cushions speeds up mildew growth and deterioration. Improve drainage with these tips:
- Keep cushions raised off the floor of the patio furniture frame using spacers or feet. This allows air circulation and water runoff.
- Elevate outdoor furniture feet to promote drainage off the cushions.
- Angle lounge chairs back when not in use so rain drains downhill off cushions.
- Use an outdoor patio rug cut to fit inside the furniture frame. The absorbent rug prevents puddles while allowing airflow.
Check under cushions after rain and remove any standing water with a towel to keep your patio cushions dry.
Allow Cushions to Dry Out Completely
It’s crucial to allow outdoor cushions to dry fully between uses. Trapped moisture from rain or humidity leads to mold and mildew.
- Bring all removable cushions indoors or under cover anytime heavy rain is expected.
- After light rain or morning dew, stand cushions on end to promote airflow through the fabric.
- Use a soft towel to blot up excess water if cushions do get wet before drying. Never put soaked cushions away.
- Consider investing in spare covers so one set can air out while the other is on your furniture.
Rotate cushions to evenly distribute wear and drying time. Prompt drying extends the life of your outdoor cushions.
Clean Mildew Off Outdoor Cushions
Mildew thrives on damp fabric and fill. Follow these cleaning tips to remove and inhibit mildew:
- Inspect cushion seams and undersides routinely for green or black mildew spots. Catch it early before it spreads.
- Mix 1 part bleach and 4 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray mildew and allow 10 minutes of contact before rinsing.
- For tougher mildew, rub undiluted lemon juice into the stain and let sit in sunlight for a few hours before rinsing. The citric acid kills mold.
- If fill is mildewy, replace it. You can salvage the cover by cleaning. New fill will resist mildew if the cushion dries fully between uses.
- Discard cushions with mildew through all the stuffing. The spores will continue spreading even if outer stains are removed.
Regular maintenance cleaning and quick drying are key to preventing stubborn mildew.
Increase Waterproofing for Winter Storage
Cushions left outdoors over winter need maximum protection from snow, ice, and freezing rain.
- Clean covers thoroughly at the end of the season so they absorb less moisture.
- Spray cushions with a UV-resistant fabric guard to repel snow and rain.
- Make sure covers are secured tightly to furniture frames so wind won’t whip them loose.
- Elevate furniture feet to prevent water pooling on cushion seats if snow melts.
- Move cushions indoors or under an outdoor cover if possible. It’s the surest way to keep them dry over winter.
- If left outside, angle cushions to promote runoff. Place absorbent terrycloth towels under covers to soak up melting snow before it seeps in.
Check for standing water under cushions after winter weather. Leaving snow and ice to melt on cushions will dampen and damage them.
DIY Waterproofing Spray for Outdoor Fabric
Protect outdoor cushions from the elements by making your own heavy duty water repellent spray:
You will need:
- 16 oz (500 ml) water
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fabric softener or hair conditioner
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) rubbing alcohol
- Clean spray bottle
Directions:
- Mix ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake well to fully blend.
- Mist cushions evenly until damp but not soaked. Let air dry completely.
- Reapply every 1-2 weeks for ongoing water resistance between washings.
The fabric softener seals fibers while the alcohol helps penetration. This dilute solution resists rinse-off better than silicone sprays. Store excess spray in the refrigerator between uses.
Why Outdoor Cushions Get Moldy Easily
Outdoor cushions provide cozy comfort on your patio, deck, or porch. But their constant exposure to the elements also makes them prone to developing mold, mildew, and other fungal growth. Here’s why outdoor cushions easily fall victim to mold:
- Moisture – Rain, humidity, snow, and irrigation all introduce moisture that gets absorbed by cushion exteriors and stuffing. This dampness kickstarts mold growth.
- Lack of sunlight – Shaded areas of your patio furniture prevent cushion surfaces from fully drying out between uses. The darkness also encourages mold.
- Limited airflow – Cushions stacked tightly together or pressed flush against furniture frames don’t allow proper airflow to dry them.
- Organic fill materials – Natural fibers used in cushion filling like cotton provide food for mold to thrive on.
- Surface abrasions – Small snags or holes in cushion covers allow moisture intrusion into the interior to create mold. Mildew then spreads outward across fabric.
- Warm environments – Warm, humid climates accelerate the proliferation of mold on wet outdoor cushions.
Routine cleaning and drying of cushions helps counteract these factors that make your patio cushions so vulnerable to fungal growth and staining.
How to Keep Outdoor Cushions Clean
While waterproofing outdoor cushions is crucial, regular cleaning also plays an important part in cushion maintenance. Follow these tips to keep patio cushions fresh and vibrant:
- Vacuum cushion covers frequently to remove pollen, dirt, and other environmental debris that can abrade fabric. Use a brush attachment.
- Spot clean spills and stains right away so they don’t have time to set. Use a mild detergent and damp sponge.
- Disinfect cushion covers occasionally with a fabric-safe antibacterial cleaner, especially after seasons of heavy use.
- Check zippers and velcro closures routinely and treat with lubricant if they become stiff to keep closures working smoothly.
- Repair snags, holes or loose seams that could allow moisture intrusion into cushion interiors right away.
- Launder removable covers regularly according to washing instructions. Re-treat with water repellent once dry.
- Replace faded, worn or damaged covers and filling as needed to keep cushions looking fresh and vibrant for seasons to come.
Proper outdoor cushion care and maintenance will extend their life and keep them in top condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterproofing Outdoor Cushions
Waterproofing outdoor cushions can seem complicated. Here are answers to some common questions to help you protect your patio cushions:
What is the easiest way to waterproof outdoor cushions?
Slip waterproof vinyl or laminate barriers underneath your cushion covers. They create an impermeable shield between covers and fill.
How often should you reapply waterproofing spray to outdoor cushions?
Typical waterproofing sprays need reapplication every 1-2 weeks in high use areas. More durable sprays can protect up to a full season before needing renewal.
What’s the best way to dry outdoor cushions quickly?
Stand cushions on end so air can fully circulate through the fabric. Use a patio umbrella or move cushions into shade to avoid sun damage as they dry.
Should outdoor cushions be brought inside during rainstorms?
It’s wise to bring cushions in anytime heavy rain is forecast since exposure to driving wind and downpours can overwhelm barriers and coatings.
How do I stop mildew from growing on my outdoor cushions?
The key is to keep your cushions clean and completely dry between uses. Eliminate any moisture immediately and clean off any mildew that appears right away before it spreads.
Can I put waterproofing spray on Sunbrella outdoor cushions?
Yes, you can safely apply special waterproofing formulas made for acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella. Avoid wax-based sealants which can leave residue on acrylics.
What is the best waterproof fabric for outdoor cushions?
For ultimate water resistance, marine-grade vinyl is best. However, vinyl can be hot for cushions. Solution-dyed acrylic and polyester with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish are excellent alternative options.
How do I make my outdoor cushions last longer?
Use covers and fill made of water-resistant synthetic materials. Allow cushions to dry thoroughly between uses. Clean and re-treat covers regularly. Repair any holes promptly. Replace worn parts before damage worsens.
Conclusion
Protecting outdoor patio cushions from the elements is simple with good waterproofing. Choose cushions made with water-resistant exteriors and poly-fill stuffing. Add a vinyl or laminate moisture barrier beneath covers. Apply water repellent spray regularly and allow cushions to dry fully between uses. With proper care, your outdoor cushions will stay dry and durable for many seasons of alfresco lounging to come. Be diligent, treat mildew early, repair problems promptly, and your cushion investment will reward you with years of comfort.