Garden and Patio Outdoor Chair Cushions Buying Guide
Gardens and patios are an extension of the home, and you'll want to find outdoor furniture that allows you to maximise this valuable living space. Whatever you choose needs to be soft and comfortable so you can relax and spend as much time outside as possible.
The soft furnishings and cushions you select can make a garden or patio feel homely and comfortable while also reflecting your taste and style. If you're looking to breathe a new lease of life into tiered garden and patio furniture, new cushions are a simple and cost-effective way to update your outdoor space in line with the seasons or latest decorating trends. Here’s what you need to know when shopping online.
How many types of cushions are there?
There are four main types of cushions.
- Throw cushions are square, rectangular, or triangular and they’re generally a lot longer than they are in height. You can get them in almost any kind of material and they’re great decorative cushions. They can also be filled with any type of down or polyester.
- Lumbar cushions are cushions that are designed to give you full back support. They can either serve that specific purpose, to give you a more comfortable sitting option, or they can be decorative. They’re usually a bit harder than polyester designs.
- Bolster cushions are the long, tube-shaped ones that look great on large outdoor sofas. They help to support your back if you’re sitting, and your neck if you’re having a lie down.
- Box cushions don't always have to be in the shape of a box – some are round – but they all have a side between the top and bottom, instead of just having the top and bottom sewn together.
What are most outdoor cushions made of?
Garden and patio furniture cushions come in an array of fabrics such as luxurious 100% cotton and harder wearing nylons and polyesters. You'll also find several styles of cushion that are made with a PVC or vinyl coating, so you don't have to choose between function and style. The PVC or vinyl coating creates a waterproof barrier that will enable you to keep your cushions out all year round, safe in the knowledge that water will run straight off should they come into contact with rain. What should outdoor cushions be made of? Polypropylene is one of the best options. It is a synthetic material that is very strong it can withstand humidity, UV, and wet weather, making it ideal for outdoor cushions.
For the inside of the cushion, you’ll find that most are compressed polyester. Is memory foam good for chair cushions? Many of us have memory foam for our bedding and pillows, even indoor cushions, but it can be great for outdoor use as well. Outdoor memory foam is soft, lasts a long time, and it’s comfortable.
Do couch cushions break in?
If your cushions are brand new, you’re going to want to break them in to make them a bit more comfortable. Whether you use them for a full day, no matter where you’re sitting, and squish them up a bit, or you just allow them to be broken in over time. The purpose of breaking your cushions in is that they’ll become a lot more comfortable.
How long should sofa cushions last?
If you take care of the cushions on your outdoor furniture, they will last for years. Look for outdoor, all-weather fabric that will resist water, mildew, and the sun's harmful rays. That way, it doesn't matter if the cushion gets wet. If they do get wet, put them in the sun to dry so mould and bacteria doesn’t grow. And during hot weather, try to not leave them in the sun for too long or the colours may fade. You can give the cushion fabric more protection by spraying it with a fabric protector.
Add the Wow-factor to your garden or patio
You'll find thousands of cushions designed to suit a range of seating options including benches, loungers and recliners, patio chairs and dining chairs. Take your pick from seat pads, deep seat cushions, regular cushions, and cushion sets.
Choose from circular, rectangular, and square cushions in muted blacks, browns and beiges or bright splashes of colour in pinks, blues, oranges, reds, and purples. You can also opt for a bold pattern such as stripes and checks, animal print, polka dot and paisley.
Whether you're looking for used or new cushions, there’s something for every style and budget on eBay.