HOW TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR FURNITURE CUSHIONS LAST LONGER

We all want to be able to spend time outside comfortably. Enjoying the nice weather with friends or family makes for a pretty nice weekend! When enjoying time outdoors, there’s nothing more important than having the right patio cushions for you and your guests. 

Many people hold back on buying patio furniture because they think it will have a short life and they’ll just have to buy a new set in a few years, but what if you could enjoy your outdoor furniture and make it last for much longer?

Read our recommendations on how you can make your outdoor furniture cushions last longer. 

IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING YOUR CUSHIONS 

Unfortunately, not all outdoor cushions are weather resistant. Here in Calgary, the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. Proactive steps must be taken to protect your cushions before the change in weather hits. 

Protecting your patio furniture cushions can save you money and keep your favourite pieces in top condition season after season. Whatever patio furniture material or brand you have selected, there are methods to help protect it. 

By following these steps, you can keep your cushions looking and feeling great while lasting longer! 

PROTECTING FROM THE SUN 

When you first buy a new set of patio furniture, the cushions look great! They are fresh with colour and make your backyard pop with style. Damage from the sun is something you don’t notice until it’s too late. 

Having sun-damaged, faded cushions can be upsetting and become a visual eyesore in your backyard. 

If you have purchased cushions that are already UV resistant, you can rest easy knowing your cushions will be safe from fading and general sun damage. If you didn’t, it’s not too late to protect your cushions. 

Applying a simple fabric guard to your cushions is an easy way to keep them UV safe and looking like a great place to sit in your backyard. Be sure to check the fabric guard works with your cushion material before applying. 

No matter where you live, it is recommended that you either purchase cushions with UV protection already in place or apply a fabric guard after purchase. 

PROTECTING FROM RAIN 

Protecting from the rain (and in Calgary the odd snowstorm) is what is most important for keeping your cushions in great shape. The solution for most people is to remove their cushions and take them inside when it starts to rain. This process can become annoying quickly and shouldn’t be something you have to deal with every time there is a cloud in the sky. 

Cushions can either be made of water-resistant material, such as vinyl, polyacrylics, or fabric, or they may be mould, mildew, and stain-resistant. However, some cushions still need protection if they don’t meet these standards. 

If you need additional protection, apply a waterproof silicone spray to protect your cushions from mould and mildew (make sure the spray is right for your cushions material). 

Hesitant about putting a spray on your cushions but don’t want to take them inside? Using a clear plastic covering is another good option to keep your cushions safe from the weather. 

In addition to protecting your cushions before the weather strikes, it is important to clean your cushions regularly. These cleanings will help protect your cushions from mould and mildew. 

KEEPING CUSHIONS COMFORTABLE 

Once your cushions are protected from the elements of the outdoors, there is one more factor that could be causing them to become uncomfortable. It’s bound to happen over time, as it’s just general use. 

Just like your furniture indoors, your patio cushions will begin to sag over time. Even though it is inevitable, there are steps you can take to prevent your cushions from sagging and even repair them if the sagging has already set in. 

If you want to protect your cushions from sagging, check to see the cushions that are being used the most. Give these cushions a break by either switching them with others in your set or simply sitting in a different spot when you’re enjoying your patio. 

If your cushions are already sagging, you can add extra support to your cushions to bring back their bounce and stop them from getting worse. To add this support, try placing a mat (an exercise mat is best) or folded blanket under your cushions to stop them from sagging. 

COMFORT AND STYLE THAT LASTS 

Patio furniture should be enjoyed all spring, summer, and (hopefully) fall long. Don’t settle for having to keep your cushions packed away inside your house because of the sun or the chance of rain. 

If you’re currently looking to purchase new patio furniture, pay attention to the material that makes up the cushion. Selecting a material like teak is an excellent option! However, if teak isn’t quite your style, it’s best to find cushions that are already protected against the outdoor elements. 

Not sure what cushions are right for your patio? Give us a call or stop by to speak with one of our experts.