outdoor pillows - the outdoor solution

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By Eva West

Outdoor pillows are an often overlooked, but essential way to bring warmth and color to your deck or patio. Whether you are looking for practical use comfort pillows for that swinging chair or for snoozing an afternoon away on a recliner, or just a few toss cushions to brighten up your wicker chair set, outdoor quality pillow fabric is essential.

In wanting to have the outside of your home as beautiful as the inside, there are a few concerns that make it more difficult; namely the sun, wind and rain. Having a canopy or gazebo is often not enough to protect your outdoor pillows and cushions from the elements. Fading, moisture and mold will shorten the life of a normal grade pillow used outdoors. 

An outdoor grade pillow can be made of several different fabric types. The best long term value fabric is woven from a solution dyed acrylic fabric. Being an exclusive outdoor “fabric,” it will be very resistant to ultraviolet rays and color fading. The fabric has a unique blend of water repellence and breathability. Mildew resistance is a main concern with outdoor pillows, and this fabric resists the mildew growth, rot and atmospheric chemicals the best. Any mildew growth on the surface of a dirty pillow can generally be easily removed with cleaning (see below). Before you get the impression that these pillows will be indestructible bricks, the fabric does have excellent sewability, and is known for still being soft and comfortable. Generally the life of an outdoor pillow will be about 5-10 years, depending on climate and proper care of the fabric. Other common outdoor pillow fabrics are Olefin, Spun Polyester (treated), PVC (known for a “plastic” feel) and Woven (solution died), all having similar features and qualities.

Outdoor pillow can be purchased ready made through online retailers or you can purchase the fabric yourself and have the cushions custom made. Do a search for “Sunbrella” fabrics for a plethora of outdoor fabric styles and colors.

Proper cleaning is a must in order to maintain the appearance and preserve the life of your outdoor pillows and furniture fabrics. Basic general cleaning will first involve brushing off all loose dirt. Then, using mild soapy water and a soft brush, scrub, and allow the solution to soak into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry only, do not apply heat.

Comments

Abnard 2 years ago

I think I may now go out and purchase 2 solution dyed acrylic fabric pillows for my outdoor patio! Thank you Eva

Tracy Monroy 23 months ago

Great hub! Check out FabricMaven.com Abnard for your project! You can get samples as well so that takes the stress out of buying online because you know what you're getting. Great hub!

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