Regular pillow inserts are not designed for outdoor use, as they are not weather resistant. If you want to use them outside, you should make sure they are covered in a waterproof material such as vinyl or outdoor fabric, as this will protect them from the rain and other outdoor elements.
It is also important to ensure the pillow insert is securely attached to the outdoor furniture. If it is not attached correctly, it may become loose and blow away in the wind. Additionally, if you live in a climate that is prone to heavy rains and other weather conditions, making sure the pillow inserts are securely covered will help to prevent mildew and mold buildup.
What is different about outdoor pillows?
Outdoor pillows are specifically designed to withstand the elements and last longer than their indoor counterparts. They are usually made from fabrics and materials that are much more durable, like polyester and polyester blend fabrics and acrylic fabrics.
These fabrics are water-resistant, UV-resistant, and more difficult to snag or rip than other fabrics. Plus, some outdoor fabrics have a coating or finish applied to them to make them even more resistant and long-lasting.
In addition to being more durable, outdoor pillows usually come in bright, vibrant colors that don’t fade in the sun, while the stuffing inside is usually resistant to mold, mildew, and UV damage. This combination of features makes outdoor pillows the perfect choice for outdoors and other areas that could be exposed to the elements.
What makes a good outdoor pillow?
A good outdoor pillow should have certain qualities to withstand different types of weather conditions, such as rain, snow, humidity, and extreme heat. For example, its material should be waterproof and mildew-resistant so it can handle moisture, and it should also be UV-resistant to protect it from the sun’s rays.
Additionally, the outdoor pillow should have a firm foam insert and a soft exterior, such as a plush cover, to ensure it can provide the perfect amount of comfort and support. The cover fabric should also be breathable and easily washable, so you can keep it clean with minimal effort.
Lastly, the size of the outdoor pillow is also important depending on its purpose. If you plan on lying down and lounging, it should be big enough to accommodate your body, while a sleek and slim design is perfect for a chair.
Overall, a good outdoor pillow should provide comfort, support, and resistance against outdoor elements.
How do you protect outdoor pillows?
Protecting outdoor pillows involves a few steps to ensure they last as long as possible. If the pillows are removable, it is best to store them in a dry area such as a storage bin or shed. This helps to protect the pillows from exposure to rain and other elements.
If the pillows are not removable, it is best to cover them with waterproof covers or wrap them in plastic. This will help keep them dry and protect them from sun, rain, and other elements. If the pillows are made of fabric, it is also important to purchase special outdoor fabric protector to keep the colors from fading and to protect against spills.
Additionally, using pillows made from weather resistant and durable materials will ensure that the pillows are able to withstand the elements better than the more common and cheaper options.
What is the filling for outdoor cushions?
Outdoor cushions typically have a filling of some type of foam. Foam is used because it’s lightweight, durable, and resilient. It’s also resistant to mold, mildew, and insects, making it an ideal filling for outdoor cushions.
Including high-density polyurethane foam, closed-cell foam, and memory foam. Each type of foam has its own unique benefits, so it’s important to consider which type is right for your outdoor cushions.
High-density polyurethane foam is the most common choice for outdoor cushions, as it has excellent durability and resilience while also offering a comfortable level of support. Closed-cell foam is also a popular choice and is often used in high-end cushions, as it provides better resistance to the elements while still providing a comfortable level of support.
Memory foam is a softer and more luxurious option, offering a great amount of comfort and contouring to the shape of your body. No matter which type of foam you choose for your outdoor cushions, you can count on it being comfortable and long-lasting.
Can you leave outdoor pillows in the rain?
No, you should not leave outdoor pillows in the rain. Outdoor pillows are typically made from waterproof, UV resistant materials that can withstand all-weather conditions, but leaving them in the rain for prolonged periods of time can weaken the fabric and cause the colors to fade and the pillow to become waterlogged.
If your pillows do get wet, let them air dry completely before using them again. It is also a good idea to store them in a protective cover or container when not in use.
Should you Scotchgard outdoor cushions?
Yes, you should Scotchgard outdoor cushions if you want them to be better protected from the elements. Scotchgard provides a protective layer that can help protect against dirt, water, and UV damage.
The Scotchgard will also make the cushions more resilient to wear over time, helping them last longer. Applying the Scotchgard is a simple process and can often be done yourself with a spray can that you can purchase at most home improvement stores.
Just be sure to prepare the surface by vacuuming any dirt, dust, or debris that may be on the cushion, then following the directions on the Scotchgard can.
How do I keep my outdoor pillow from fading?
To keep your outdoor pillow from fading, it is important to store it in a dry and shaded area when not in use, such as a garage or shed. To prolong the life of the color, you can also bring the pillow indoors during rain, or in the event of extreme heat.
Additionally, it is essential to check the care instructions that come with the product, as some pillows may require special cleaning or maintenance. Additionally, treating with a UV protectant can also help protect the material and color from fading.
Finally, if your outdoor pillow is exposed to a lot of sunlight, it can be helpful to rearrange the item periodically so that it is not exposed to the same area of sun all the time. Taking these steps can help preserve the color and overall look of your outdoor pillow.
Can any pillow be used outdoors?
No, not all pillows are designed to be used outdoors. In general, it is best to avoid taking regular pillows and cushions outside, as these materials are not suited for outdoor conditions. The materials can become stiff and uncomfortable when exposed to direct sunlight and moisture, and mildew and mold may also start to grow.
To best protect outdoor furniture and cushions, it is recommended to use outdoor fabrics specifically designed for outdoor use, preferably one with a waterproof layer, such as Sunbrella fabric, that help protect the pillow from water and sunlight.
Additionally, when not in use, outdoor pillows and cushions should be brought inside and stored in a dry place.
What should outdoor pillows be made of?
When selecting outdoor pillows, it is important to consider what material they should be made of. Outdoor pillows need to be able to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, from sunshine and heat to rain and cold temperatures, so durability is key.
The ideal material for outdoor pillows should offer superior comfort while also resisting mold, mildew, and fading due to exposure to the elements.
Outdoor-grade fabric is the best option for outdoor pillows. The most popular fabrics used for outdoor pillows are polyester, olefin, acrylic, and solution-dyed acrylic. Polyester and olefin are light and strong, and resistant to water and fading.
Acrylic and solution-dyed acrylic offer superior comfort and are highly fade-resistant. Each fabric can come in a variety of styles, from plain cotton to high-end designer prints. If selecting a printed fabric, make sure to choose one with a tight weave to further resist fading.
In addition to fabric, outdoor pillows should also be filled with a synthetic material designed for outdoor use, such as polyester fiberfill, polystyrene beads, or poly-fill. All fill materials are designed to resist mold, mildew, and fading while providing superior comfort.
As a final step, consider adding a protective coating over the pillow. This will help to guard it against dirt, moisture, and fading.
In summary, when selecting outdoor pillows, look for fabric, fill, and protective coating that are specifically designed for outdoor use. The right materials should offer superior comfort, protection against fading, and protection against mold and mildew.
Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor cushions?
Yes, there is a difference between indoor and outdoor cushions. Indoor cushions are designed to provide comfort and support to those who use them while THEY are mainly found indoors. Outdoor cushions, on the other hand, are designed to be weather-resistant in order to withstand exposure to the elements, such as rain, snow, wind, sun, and more.
They are crafted from weather-resistant and fade-resistant fabrics, such as 100% polyester and other durable materials. These cushions often have additional features to enhance their resilience, such as water-resistant fillings and UV protection.
Outdoor cushions also come in a variety of sizes and colors, making it easier to coordinate with outdoor décor.
Do outdoor cushions get moldy?
Yes, outdoor cushions can get moldy due to moisture when they are not properly cared for. In order to prevent mold from forming, it is important to store the cushions in a dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
Additionally, it is also important to make sure the cushions are completely dry before storing, as even small amounts of moisture left on the fabric can contribute to mold growth over time. If the cushions have already begun to grow mold, several methods can be used to clean them.
Typically, light brushing with a soft bristle brush and laundry detergent is the recommended cleaning method for small amounts of mold; for larger areas, it is important to use more powerful cleaners such as bleach or borax.
It is also important to regularly inspect the cushions for any signs of mold, and take immediate action when detected.
Is it OK for outdoor cushions to get wet?
It really depends on the material the outdoor cushions are made of. Generally speaking, high quality outdoor cushions should be able to withstand getting wet without sustaining significant damage. All-weather fabrics like Sunbrella are designed to be resistant to water, mold, fading, and mildew, so cushions made with these materials can handle occasional wetness such as rain or snow.
However, if you have cushions made with a less durable material, such as foam or cotton, getting them wet can cause them to become soggy and start to break down, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the cushion.
It’s also important to note that outdoor furniture cushions may be water-resistant, but they’re not necessarily waterproof. So if you have cushions that have gotten wet, be sure to dry them as quickly as possible and store them a dry place when not in use.
Is it OK to leave Sunbrella cushions in rain?
No, it is not okay to leave Sunbrella cushions in rain. Sunbrella cushions are designed to be fast-drying, but they are still susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to moisture, so they should be brought in if rain is expected.
Sunbrella’s fabrics are designed to be fade and stain resistant, but if left exposed to the elements for too long, the colors can start to fade or the material may become weakened. Additionally, leaving cushions in the rain increases the risk of mold and mildew developing, which can be both unsightly and hazardous to one’s health.
Therefore, it is best to remove Sunbrella cushions when it is raining to keep them in optimal condition.