Outdoor textiles

Outdoor textiles – for your comfort and relaxation

Your terrace, balcony or garden can be part of your home and a great extension of your living space, especially during warm, summer days. The only things you need in order to achieve this are outdoor furniture and proper outdoor textiles.

What are outdoor textiles?

Outdoor textiles are cushions, outdoor chair cushions, patio cushions, and cushion covers as well as outdoor rugs, or picnic blankets – so basically all textiles that you use outside of the home, on your patio, balcony or in the garden with your outdoor furniture or sun beds.

How to choose outdoor textiles?

When choosing outdoor textiles make sure you take into account the following characteristics of outdoor fabrics, to make sure your outdoor textiles will serve you longer than just one season.

• weather, mold and mildew resistance – always check if the fabric is resistant to the effects of severe weather, such as rain or cold.
• waterproof fabrics resist liquid water passing through
• fade and UV resistance – it makes the fabric last longer than a "standard" fabric and more durable for outdoor use. The most common measure of sun resistance is “hours to fade.” Using this standard, fabrics are tested in a lab using special UV lights.
• stain resistance – choose materials that are resistant to stains and that are washable (machine or hand wash)
• breathable fabrics dry quicker and therefore smell and feel much better than those with a higher absorption level

What is the best outdoor fabric?

The best outdoor fabrics are polypropylene, polyester and acrylic. Polypropylene has superior UV resistance compared to other fibres and is the best choice for outdoor cushions because it dries quickly. One of the best outdoor fabrics is polyester which is versatile and durable and works well outside because it is lightweight, and resistant to stretching, abrasion, mold, mildew, and rot. Polyurethane Laminate is a completely waterproof fabric, breathable and flexible.