Outdoor cushion buying guide

Buying the right outdoor cushions are crucial to making sure your outdoor cushions lasts longer while looking its best.

Materials – Although you may think that all outdoor furniture fabrics are the same, cheap covers can lead to mold and mildew that can discolor and ruin your furniture. When it comes to outdoor fabrics vinyl is the least expensive option. Although this material is cheap, it is heat resistant. However, vinyl can get quite hot if left outdoors, making it uncomfortable. Cotton canvas is another good quality fabric that is comfortable yet not water, mold or mildew resistant. If you are looking for a material that is strong and waterproof, texteline is a good choice.

Seat core materials – Your cushion foam should always be comfortable and suitable for your outdoor needs. Look at a polyester fill cushion if you are price sensitive but remember that it will not offer much support. Clustered Polyfillis similar to polyester but will be firmer and less susceptible to flattening out. If you can afford foam, start with selecting a foam that is dense to offer support and to maintain the shape of your outdoor cushions for longer. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a synthetic polymer resin that is used for luxury beds and now for outdoor cushioning. PET cushions are firm and do not flatten out over time. For visual appeal, outdoor cushions are welted. Welting is a thin piping that goes alongside the cushion over to help cushions maintain its form. Although they are not necessary, they can offer structure and shape to your sofa.

Article by The Foam Factory.  Specialists in manufacturing various foam products ideal for the indoors and outdoors. Look to them for your next custom cushion project.