The Best Outdoor Cushions of 2023
Furniture with comfortable outdoor cushions may be used in various settings, from private backyards to charming patios and lovely balconies. Outdoor cushions with this design are made to endure the elements and wear, and many of them come with removable covers for cleaning.
Patio cushions are available in various sizes and shapes to fit a range of furniture: outdoor benches and loveseats, lounge chairs, patio chairs, Adirondack chairs, and more. Keep reading to discover some of the most comfortable and stylish outdoor cushions, as well as how to locate them for your outside areas.
- BEST OVERALL: Greendale Home Fashions Outdoor Chair Cushion
- RUNNER UP: Quality Outdoor Living Deep Seating Chair Cushion
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Pillow Perfect Outdoor/Indoor Tufted Seat Cushions
- UPGRADE PICK: Comfort Classics Inc. CHANNELED Chaise Cushion
- BEST ROUND PILLOW: Greendale Home Fashions Outdoor Bistro Seat Cushion
- BEST CHAISE PILLOW: Classic Accessories Montlake Patio Furniture Cushion
- BEST LOVESEAT PILLOW: Quality Outdoor Living Loveseat Cushion
- BEST BENCH PILLOW: Classic Accessories Montlake Bench/Settee Cushion
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor Cushions
When looking for outdoor patio cushions, there are several things to consider. If you want to match presently installed outside furniture, aesthetics and size may be important factors to consider. Cleaning is a significant concern when selecting the color for high-back patio chairs, lounge chairs, or patio benches. Comfort is also important for those who spend a lot of time sitting outside.
Size
When buying patio cushions, it’s critical to measure the existing furnishings. These numbers will assist you in eliminating options that are either too big or too small. Some chairs aren’t available in standard sizes to suit standard cushions. A poorly fitted seat cushion may result in the buyer’s regret, regardless of color or material.
Consider the appropriate cushion thickness after determining the ideal patio furniture size. The depth of the cushions on an outdoor sofa is between 19 and 23 inches. If you want comfort, choose cushions with a thickness of 24 to 26 inches.
Cover Material
The type of cover material matters when patio cushions are outside a lot. There are several distinct materials with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
- Vinyl (PVC) covers are among the least expensive options. Vinyl is long-lasting, water-resistant, and stain-resistant. However, this fabric is extremely hot in the sun, and PVC is nonrecyclable.
- Polyester covers are similarly water and stain-resistant. Polyester dries faster than vinyl, making it mold and mildew resistant. Polyester is a low-cost material that has a negative environmental impact.
- Cotton canvas is another low-cost option that is also machine washable. The disadvantage of cotton is that it is not water-resistant, which might cause mold and mildew problems. It’s also susceptible to stains.
- Textilene fabric is made of polyester yarns coated with PVC and has a woven mesh. The material is durable and waterproof, but it becomes hot and fades in the sun.
- Olefin (polypropylene) is durable, stain-resistant, water-resistant, and maintains its color. This fibre is made from recycled materials, and it’s better for the environment than vinyl and textilene.
- Sunbrella fabric is water-resistant, so it’s perfect for use on sunny and rainy days. It’s also simple to maintain with soap and water because it is easy to clean. It’s also mold and mildew proof. The fabric is UV-resistant and highly fade resistant.
Fill
The interior fill of a cushion must be considered when selecting one. The most popular fill materials for outdoor cushions are foam and polyester.
- Foam is available in various densities, with the most supportive being dense foams. Dacron foam, for example, is substantial and gives cushions a firm and well-maintained appearance.
- Polyester fiberfill is a soft and pleasant material that is less costly than foam. Unless the cushion contains extra fill or a combination of polyester and foam, these cushions will soften out over time.
Ties
Ties are another feature of some outdoor cushions that keep them in place when you move around, stand up, and sit down. The ties, which are usually made from the same fabric as the rest of the cushion cover, keep cushions from flying off furniture in solid winds and assist in keeping them clean by preventing them from landing on the ground.
There are many different kinds of ties, each with its own number. There may only be two ties on chair cushions, and cushions for chaises and loungers might have many. Ties are not required for all outdoor cushions, so check for this characteristic if you’re looking for one.
Aesthetic
Cushions are a decorative element that may be used to update or complement a room, and outdoor cushions and covers come in various colors, designs, and prints. A neutral color palette may scheme in with the environment or match the colour of other outdoor furniture, while a bright colour or eye-catching design can make an outdoor area more prominent.
The look of different cushions is improved with specific details and features. Cushion covers with decorative elements such as tufts and welting are available, which is the tiny piping along the edge of the cushion cover emphasizes a cushion’s form.
Ease of Cleaning
If you come across machine-washable cushions, cleaning them will be a lot simpler. It also guarantees a complete cleaning because the detergent will go all the way through the pillow for a complete clean.
The removable covers on sure cushions can be washed in the machine, but the pillows within must only be cleaned gently. Then there are cushions with non-removable covers that need to be vacuumed and hand-washed.
Read the tags for cleaning instructions and follow them carefully. When the cushions are not in use, placing them inside a patio storage bench or within the house helps to keep them cleaner. Cleaning and caring for cushions may help the product survive longer.
Our Top Picks
The following goods were chosen based on the shopping criteria outlined above to make the search process more convenient. These are some of the best outdoor cushions for various patio, deck, and porch seats. They might be exactly what you need to develop a pleasant and attractive outdoor space at home.
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This chair cushion is made of weather-resistant fabric and provides comfort and warmth. The 5-inch thick and extra-firm one-piece cushion offers maximum comfort. The eco-friendly inner material of 100 percent recyclable plastic bottles makes up for the polyester exterior fabric.
The fabric cover is water-resistant, stain-resistant, fading-resistant, and mildew-proof. Chair attachments include string ties for a secure fit. To increase the life of this cushion, keep it in an indoor deck box or cover it when not in use. Clean with a soft, dilute soap solution as needed.
Pros
- Affordable 2-pack
- 100% recycled fill
- Reversible cover resists water and stains
- Cover is reversible
- String ties hold the cushions in place
Cons
- Square seats should be avoided with rounded edges.
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Quality Outdoor Living Deep Seating Chair Cushion
The Deep Seating Chair Cushion from Outdoor Living’s ‘Outdoor Comfort.’ It’s a heavy-duty and supportive option for larger patio chairs, with a length of 26 inches from front to back. A 4-inch-thick seat cushion with a polyurethane foam pad and a soft overstuffed back cushion to rest against make up this two-piece attire.
The olefin fabric is resistant to UV rays for up to 1,000 hours of exposure, and it also resists water, color fading, mildew, and mold. Spot clean only and treat more thoroughly by removing the cushion’s foam insert.
Pros
- Comfortable deep seating
- Plush cushion backing
- Removable foam seat pad
- Cover provides UV and water resistance
- It comes in many colorways
Cons
- Expensive for a single cushion
The deep red Pillow Perfect cushions from Tufted Furniture come in a classic design and offer a touch of color to outdoor areas. The cushions are filled with 100 percent recycled polyester fiberfill for a soft and comfortable feel. This two-piece set is reasonably priced and may be purchased with a pair of lumbar or throw pillows (both sold separately).
The exterior cloth is tear-resistant, stain-resistant, and fade-proof. The cushions are 19 inches by 19 inches square and feature a rounded back so that they won’t fit every patio chair set. Only water and mild detergent should be used to clean these seat cushions.
Pros
- Overstuffed for plush comfort
- Reversible cover resists water, stains, and fading
- Made from recycled materials
- String ties hold the cushion in place
- Available in multiple colorways
Cons
- Limited neutral color options
These Comfort Classics Inc. chaise lounge cushions are protected from water, mold, mildew, and UV rays, thanks to their Sunbrella cover. The cushions also dry quickly with quick-drying comfort technology for safe and long-lasting use.
The waterfall edge construction on the 5-inch-thick cushions gives them a smooth rounded appearance with no seams. The cushions of this chaise lounger are held in place by ties at both the top and center. A mild detergent and warm water will keep the cushions clean.
Pros
- UV-protected mold- and mildew-resistant cover.
- Quick-dry fabric perfect for outdoor pools and rain
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- String ties keep the cushions securely in place
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Expensive compared to other options
Put cushions on the table that give your patio a unique look. Greendale Home Fashions’ 15-inch round bistro seat cushions are made of a heavy-duty outdoor polyester fabric that is resistant to water, stains, fading, and mildew.
The soft poly fiberfill is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic bottles and provides excellent support thanks to the overstuffed cushions. The circular tack stitching and string ties keep them in place. Spot clean the cushions with a mild detergent and warm water to wash them. It’s also worth noting that pillows should be kept dry and stored when not in use.
Pros
- Affordable set of 4
- Overstuffed for plush comfort
- 100% recycled materials
- Cover resists water, stains, mildew, and fading
- String ties keep the cushion firmly attached
- Available in many colorways
Cons
- It only arrives compressed and takes 48 hours to inflate completely
The Montlake chaise lounge cushion from Classic Accessories is a top choice for poolside and backyard lounging. This chaise cushion includes a semi-firm 3-inch foam fill that provides optimal comfort while relaxing in a bent position. The rain-resistant, water-proof, and stain-resistant cover keeps the weather out and protects the foam interior. The cushion is held in place by ties on the bottom of the chair.
The double-stitched design and bound interior seams provide further strength and durability. The Montlake lounge cushion is designed to be used for an extended time, and it has an incredible price-to-quality ratio.
Pros
- Firm and supportive foam fill
- Weather-resistant, double-stitched, removable cover
- It comes with click-close straps and locking zippers
- Available in many colorways
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Expensive for a single cushion
The Quality Outdoor Living’s loveseat cushion set comes with a 4-inch-thick polyurethane foam pad in the seat and two 5-inch-thick overstuffed fiber cushions for added support in the back. The set is made of waterproof olefin fabric, which allows water to leak through and prevents mildew or mold formation. For up to 1,000 hours in the sun, the cushions are protected against UV and fade by weather protection. However, the cushions should only be cleaned using a clean cloth and a mild soap solution.
Pros
- The thick and comfortable foam seating pad
- Supportive, overstuffed back cushions
- UV protected, moisture- and mold-resistant
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- It comes in multiple colorways
Cons
- Expensive compared to similar options
This Classic Accessories cushion has three 3-inch-thick, triple-layered polyester foam seat cushions in one single piece. It is available in lengths ranging from 41 to 59 inches and can fit benches of various sizes. The fabric is dyed using a solution to resist water, staining, and fading. The cover is double-stitched for greater strength and durability with repeated use. Spot clean this cushion only.
Pros
- Supportive foam fill
- Weather-resistant cover
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons
- No ties included
- A cushion may be too firm for some people
Our Verdict
The Quality Outdoor Living set is our top pick for patio chairs due to its padded seat, soft cushioning, and durable olefin covering. These multi-purpose seat and back cushions are weatherproof, so they’ll look great with all of your patio decorations. The Greendale Home Fashions patio chair cushion, on the other hand, is a softer and more cost-effective option. This seat/back cushion features easy side ties and a variety of cover designs to choose from, but it is made of less durable materials.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Cushions
On the other hand, outdoor cushions are an essential component in creating a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere on your deck, patio, or porch. The best outdoor cushions are selected based on several criteria, including cover design alternatives, durability, comfort, and support.
The best choices are covered with covers that provide some measure of protection against water, UV radiation, fungus, and mildew damage. A selection of patio chairs, outdoor dining chairs, chaise lounges, benches, and love seats are included in the list above. These tips are a combination of soft and supportive cushioning to complete a variety of comfort preferences.
Many of these cushions are built with 100% recyclable materials for the environmentally-conscious consumer. A variety of colors, patterns, and sizes were chosen to complement the rest of the space. The list also included low-maintenance clothes and cushions with removable covers for easier cleaning.
FAQs About Outdoor Cushions
There are a lot of factors to consider while purchasing new seat cushions for a deck, porch, or patio area. If you have any questions about outdoor cushions, don’t hesitate to go on. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about outdoor cushions.
Q 1 What are the best-quality patio cushions?
Water-resistant, UV- and fade-resistant, mold and mildew-proof are some of the qualities Sunbrella fabric seats offer. Denser foam fillings provide both support and comfort.
Q 2 Are patio cushions waterproof?
Waterproof patio cushions exist, but most are water-resistant.
Q 3 Are patio cushions washable?
Some patio cushions are machine washable, but most can only be cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water.
Q 4 Can you leave outdoor cushions outside?
Certain cushions can be left outside when not in use, while others must be kept inside. For further information, see the product instructions.
Q 5 Can I leave my outdoor cushions in the rain?
Sunbrella is a brand of outdoor textiles that are moisture, mildew, and fade resistant. This generally implies that if you leave the cushions uncovered in a rainstorm, the water will bead and roll off. Cushions should not be left out in the rain when it is not raining. As soon as it stops, shake or wipe off any remaining water and allow them to air out for a few minutes.
Q 6 Can you leave patio cushions outside in the winter?
Stack cushions in a dry location off the ground for the winter. If you’re storing your cushions in a shed outside, a cloth tarp may be useful.
Q 7 How do you keep outdoor cushions from molding?
Regularly clean the outdoor cushions. I recommend vacuuming the cushions once every few months to prevent mold from growing within them. Spray the cushions with distilled white vinegar every few weeks to keep them clean.
Q 8 How do you clean dirty outdoor cushions?
If you’re looking for a simple way to clean your outdoor furniture, try cleaning it with vinegar. Use a spray bottle to mist with 4 cups warm water, then add ¼ cup distilled white vinegar. Spray the cushions with the solution and allow them to sit for 15 minutes after cleaning the surface. Use a soft brush to scrub any stained areas.
Q 9 Can you wash outdoor cushions in the washing machine?
You should remove the cushion covers and put them in the washing machine to quickly clean. This should be done at least once a year, using a mild cleaning detergent on a low cycle. Ensure that the cushions are completely dry before covering them. Allow them to air in the sun if possible.
Q 10 Can Sunbrella cushions get wet?
The new line of worry-free performance fabrics from Sunbrella is completely waterproof. The Sunbrella Rain fabric thread grows when wet, and any water beads up on the surface. Simply clean Sunbrella Rain furniture cushions as needed with a soft brush.
Q 11 Can I wash my patio cushion covers?
The covers on many patio cushions and outdoor pillows can be removed and placed in the washing machine. Follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions and allow the surfaces to air-dry fully before replacing them.
Q 12 How do you clean large cushions?
Sprinkle the cushion with baking soda, then vacuum it clean. If it still smells, add some more baking soda to the cushion and leave it outside for a few hours on a non-humid day. A light spritz of vinegar or a mix of equal parts water and vinegar can also aid in the removal of smells.
Q 13 How thick should my patio cushions be?
The thickness of a patio chair cushion is normally 2.5″ to 4″ depending on the size of the chair and your desired level of comfort. Deep-seat patio chairs require at least 5.5″ of cushion thickness to give optimum support.
Q 14 Is high-density foam suitable for outdoor cushions?
Some high-density foams are antibacterial, too. Open-cell foam cushions can be used with various outdoor fabrics or Phifertex Mesh to create a virtually maintenance-free cushion in the sun, rain, and snow. The following characteristics make this foam excellent for boat cockpit cushions. Dry Fast is a popular, easy-to-use open-cell foam.
Q 15 What makes a good outdoor cushion?
Polypropylene fabric is the finest material for cushions outside. It was one of the first marine fabrics due to its higher UV resistance than other fibers. Polypropylene is the finest choice for outdoor cushions since it dries fast when wet and has no dye sites.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor cushions can help create a relaxing and comfortable space on your deck, patio, or porch. Picking the best outdoor cushions depends on various factors, including the size of the furniture, aesthetics, weather, wear and tear, and ease of cleaning.
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