What kind of pillows can go outside?

Nov 25,2024 | snowcityshop

Beautiful outdoor decorations can brighten up your outdoor patio. Adding outdoor pillows to your furniture is the easiest way to add color. Spaces with color and warmth can increase the time we want to spend on the patio. Your outdoor space should be just as warm, harmonious, and colorful as your indoor space.

A few pillows on existing patio furniture can be a refreshing change, but outdoor pillows are often windy and not durable anymore. To help you solve this problem, I've researched what kind of pillow is best for the outdoors, how to choose its fabric, and other related propositions, and find the best answer for you.

Best fabric for outdoor pillows

Ipso facto, Polypropylene is a great choice for outdoor pillows because it dries quickly when wet and has no stain points. These non-reactive stain points prevent staining and can be easily cleaned with bleach and water. An additional waterproof graphic layer would be perfect.

Considerations for Purchasing Outdoor Pillows

Climate

The weather conditions where you live should not be overlooked. This will help determine how much wear and tear the pillow can tolerate. Assume you live in a rainy and humid climate. In this instance, waterproof materials are essential for keeping your pillow dry and ready to use. Sunny areas, such as Arizona, require excellent UV protection to prevent degradation and brittleness, which are common issues with low-cost textiles like vinyl.

Cost

When it comes to outdoor decorations, you typically get what you pay for. Your pillow's quality has a significant impact on its comfort, durability, and lifetime. We're not saying you have to spend a fortune but bear in mind that if a cushion is inexpensive, there's generally a reason behind that. Inexpensive pillows may age faster, require more frequent replacements, and cost more in the long term owing to repeated repairs and replacements.

Maintenance

Something else to consider is how much time you are willing to spend cleaning and maintaining your pillow. Dust, pollen, and other debris can build up and make your pillows look uncomfortable. Will you stick to wiping down your pillows once a week with a mild detergent, or do you prefer to “do it someday”? If you're leaning toward the latter, we know the answer to your next question: yes, you can wash specific outdoor pillow materials in the washing machine. However, you should not throw the pillow inserts in the washing machine, but rather the pillowcases. Keep in mind that not all outdoor fabrics can be washed in the washing machine, so you'll need to check the label to be sure. (If you would like to purchase machine-washable outdoor pillows, we can accommodate you).

Color and Layout

While we tend to focus on the more useful aspects of outdoor décor, don't overlook how it complements your outdoor furniture. Many companies provide a wide range of colors and patterns, so consider your aesthetic preferences. If your furniture is vibrant and vivid in color, you may want to use more muted pillows for accessories. When purchasing, keep a snapshot of your current patio décor on hand for reference.

Check the stitching and seams.

Quality outdoor cushions are double-stitched and strengthened at stress locations. This ensures that the cushion cover remains intact even after repeated use and exposure to the elements.

Materials and Functions

When purchasing an outdoor pillow, the most crucial factor to consider is the material that will best suit your needs. It determines the pillow's durability, longevity, comfort, cost, and many other factors. There are numerous materials to pick from, each having advantages and disadvantages that match your lifestyle. Try to strike a balance between durability, comfort, and cost.

What materials are outdoor cushions composed of? There are numerous materials and combinations available, making it challenging to select the ideal fit. The most prevalent materials are vinyl, polyester, and cotton canvas. Each material has certain advantages that might help you choose the best one for your needs. When considering your alternatives, develop a list of physical or mental priorities. These may have water and fade resistance. Compare your priorities to your budget and examine each fabric to determine which pillow provides the best value for your money.

As a whole, polyester is the most popular fabric because of its well-balanced qualities. Polyester provides a silky, attractive appearance without losing performance. Because of its resilience, it may also be used to produce outdoor patio furniture cushions, covers, and other items.

Pros of Polyester Pillows

Waterproof
Scratch resistant.
Simple to clean.
Mildew and corrosion-resistant.
Lightweight.
UV- and fading-resistant.

Pros of Vinyl Pillows

Water resistant.
Inexpensive
Easy to clean and lightweight.
Easy to find at most shops.

Benefits of cotton/canvas pillows

Softest substance.
Breathable
Most bright and patterned.
Cotton or canvas pillows are not waterproof, so store them indoors or in a storage bag during wet weather.

Tips To Clean Outdoor Pillows

How does one clean outdoor pillows? The first step, of course, is to keep them from becoming soiled or damaged! We understand that pillows are intended for outside usage and that accidents will undoubtedly occur, but taking a few extra precautions will keep your pillows looking and feeling their best for as long as possible. Here are some helpful actions you can take:

Keep your pillows from the elements

I know you're wondering, "Why aren't these pillows supposed to be kept outside?" That's exactly why I purchased them. Yes, pillows are subjected to a variety of situations in your yard, but they are not immune. Simply because they are water, stain, and fade resistant does not guarantee they will last indefinitely. Even the most fade-resistant textiles will eventually lose their battle with the sun. Assume you frequently use your garden as a calming sanctuary or prefer to host visitors at barbecues. In that situation, it makes sense to utilize them outside. However, if you know you'll be taking an extended break for a vacation or during the off-season, it's better to store them.

When not in use, keep your pillows in a storage bag to protect them from sunlight, water, dust, snow, and other elements. Remember to clean and properly dry your pillowcases before storing them to prevent mold formation.

Weekly Cleaning of Outdoor Pillows

Keeping up with regular cleaning can keep your pillows fresh and ready for usage. There is no need to thoroughly clean your pillows each time you use them. Dusting your pillows with a soft-bristled brush will help prevent leaves and debris from becoming embedded in the fabric. (Another time-saving tip is to use a reputable cleaning once a month to keep your pillows from becoming soiled from repeated use and exposure. If your pillows are often exposed to the weather, a more regular cleaning program may be required.

Throwing your pillows in the washing machine is the best way to deep clean them. This feature is not available on all pillows, however it is an option for those looking to save time and effort. Polyester, cotton, and canvas are often machine washable. To prevent cracking or peeling, use a spot cleaner on vinyl. Each fabric requires a different setting, so consult the manufacturer's care instructions. The directions are usually found on a label inside the pillowcase.

Unfortunately, not all plans go exactly as anticipated. Even if you clean them thoroughly and store them properly, your pillows may be permanently harmed. Don't worry! The majority of damage is cosmetic. This means you may easily buy a replacement pillowcase from the manufacturer or another firm as long as the size matches your existing pillowcase.

With these recommendations, you'll be able to locate the ideal outdoor cushions to complement your patio seats and provide year-round enjoyment.

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