Outdoor Fabric: Everything You Need To Know

Outdoor Fabric: Everything You Need To Know

Outdoor fabric: Where To Start

Outdoor fabric brings the comfort of inside, outside. Choosing the best outdoor fabric for your space involves more than just color and pattern, though. Water resistance, UV resistance, durability, colorfastness, and cleanability all contribute to the enduring style of your outdoor space. Understanding the importance of these three factors will help you create comfortable, long-lasting outdoor furniture, pillows, and cushions. 

What To Look For

When you're shopping for outdoor fabric, you want to make sure you choose a material that will last well beyond one season of pool parties and barbecues. To help with that, we're here with a brief overview of the three most important factors in high-quality outdoor fabric: UV and Water Resistance, Colorfastness, and Cleanability. These three components are most helpful for residential outdoor upholstery applications like poolside cushions, patio furniture, accent pillows, and backyard seating. 

1. Water & UV Resistance

It’s always a good idea to store your outdoor patio cushions or pillows when not in use. After all, less time spent exposed to the elements means a longer lifetime for your outdoor fabric. Sunshine and moisture are the leading factors in the deterioration of any kind of fabric. To combat this, look for outdoor fabric that has a high UV and water resistance. 

UV resistance is the most crucial aspect of long-lasting outdoor fabric. A high UV resistance rating means the fabric will last longer when exposed to the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays. For shaded areas like porches, patios, pergolas, and sunrooms, you can opt for a lower UV resistance rating. But for areas that experience full sun exposure, the higher the UV rating the better.

Water resistant fabrics are not waterproof. This means water will bead on the fabric surface and roll off, but will eventually soak through if subjected to moisture for long periods of time. Of course where there's wet fabric, mildew isn’t far behind. In addition to UV and water resistance, high-quality outdoor fabric will also be mildew resistant to protect your outdoor cushions and pillows throughout the seasons.  

2. Colorfastness

Colorfast fabrics will maintain their color and pattern over time without fading or bleeding. Colorfastness is determined by the fabric’s ability to hold color while facing exposure to sun, rain, and snow over an extended period of time. Typically a fabric’s colorfast rating will be provided with an estimated hourly exposure, such as “Colorfast to 1,000 hours.”

Since harsh sunlight will cause fabrics to fade, colorfastness and UV resistance are largely related. That means the higher the UV resistance, the higher the colorfastness, and the longer the fabric’s pattern and color will endure.

3. Cleanability

Whether you need cleanable fabric is a factor that is on a sliding scale of importance based on personal preference. If the fabric is used for outdoor eating areas or spaces where children and pets may make messes, cleanable fabric may be more important to you. Essentially, a fabric’s cleanability measures how easily a fabric releases dirt from the weave of the yarns and fibers. Most acrylic or olefin outdoor fabrics can be effectively spot cleaned. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions specific to your material, but in the absence of guidelines, the following cleaning steps are generally effective:

Blot liquid spills with a clean, dry cloth. Blotting is key here--rubbing the spill will drive the stain deeper into the fabric weave. For oil-based spills, apply an absorbent such as corn starch, then remove with a straight edge (again, avoid rubbing). 

Mix a mild cleaning solution of soap (like Dawn) and warm water and apply it to the area. 

Rinse the fabric thoroughly. Get all the soapy residue out and air dry.

Now that you know to look for UV and water resistance, colorfastness, and cleanability it’s time to start shopping. The first name you’ll come across in outdoor fabric is Sunbrella, which is one of the leading names in high-quality outdoor fabric. While Sunbrella has a wide selection of colors, patterns, and textures, it isn't the only brand that offers a quality outdoor product. Next, we’ll explore the best brands and toughest materials for outdoor fabric. 

What’s In A Name? 

As it turns out, quite a bit. Leading names in outdoor fabric like Sunbrella have engineered a high-quality product and set the gold standard in outdoor fabric that other brands strive to reach. It's thanks to Sunbrella’s innovation of solution-dyed acrylic that the brand is a household name in outdoor fabric. The popularity of solution-dyed acrylic is attributed to its long history of durability, fade resistance, and mildew resistance. It is now used by a variety of outdoor fabric brands other than Sunbrella, including Al Fresco by Swavelle and Fortress by Richloom. 

Solution-Dyed Acrylic

So, what’s the secret sauce to solution-dyed acrylic? The key to this material’s durability and colorfastness is that the acrylic is dyed before the yarn is ever created. Liquid acrylic solution is mixed with dye and then formed into a fiber and spun into yarn, creating a superhero fabric that resists water and won’t fade or bleed.

Solution-dyed acrylic comes in a kaleidoscope of color options, patterns, and the texture can range from coarse canvas to plush chenille all while boasting the same outstanding performance specifications.

Solution-Dyed Olefin

Solution-dyed acrylic isn’t the only option for outdoor fabric, although it is the most widely recognized. A recent innovation in outdoor fabrics comes from Revolution Fabrics, which has developed its own rockstar product made of olefin. While it doesn’t have the brand recognition of Sunbrella’s solution-dyed acrylics, solution-dyed olefin is making a name for itself as a diehard outdoor fabric.

As we mentioned in our blog post on Performance Fabrics, olefin is inherently resistant to stains, water, mildew, and abrasion. Add in a solution-dyeing process and you’ve got a powerhouse fabric that checks all the boxes for outdoor performance. As if that wasn’t enough, olefin is usually offered at a lower price point than acrylic, making it a winning choice both for durability and your pocketbook. The only downside is that some people find olefin coarse and scratchy, but as this new technology evolves, the comfort level will continue to improve.

Spun Polyester

Often found on patio accent pillows or in spaces without frequent, direct sun exposure, spun polyester outdoor fabric is a durable material that can hold its own in the great outdoors. It's made by spinning normal polyester fibers into yarn that are then woven into fabric. Thanks to this process, spun polyester is water resistant and offers good durability against daily wear and tear.

Because it's not solution-dyed, spun polyester tends to fade more quickly than other outdoor fabrics like acrylic and olefin. For this reason, it is more commonly used in short-term applications like outdoor pillows or tablecloths, leaving the heavy lifting to solution-dyed acrylic and olefin. 

Spun Polyester is an easy way to add pattern and color to outdoor areas at a low price point. Because it's a low-commitment fabric, you have the flexibility to change the look of your outdoor space more frequently.

Let's Get Outside 

The color and pattern offerings in outdoor fabric are almost limitless. You’ll find nautical-inspired stripes, tropical blossoms and botanical leaves, splashy florals, and quirky animal designs. Of course there’s an abundance of neutral, beige, ivory, and oatmeal textures for a natural look for outdoor spaces, too. Whatever your outdoor style, we can help outfit your next backyard adventure for style, comfort, and durability. 

Ready to begin exploring outdoor fabric? We offer a wide range of special order fabrics from Sunbrella, P.K. Lifestyles, Revolution, Al Fresco, and Fortress available to order in store. Or, you can start browsing our stocked items here. 

How to Choose the Perfect Fabric for Your Outdoor Furniture

Preparing for the warmer months often includes a porch refresh. With sofas, lounge chairs, and fun pillows, you can create a warm-weather oasis that showcases your personality. But it's important to consider which outdoor fabrics your products will be made from before buying.

Depending on if you live in a rainy area or your porch lacks shade, you'll need to choose between water-resistant and waterproof fabrics for your pillows and cushions. Knowing the different kinds of outdoor fabrics will help you to stay within your budget, and prevent your pillows from fading in the sunlight or being ruined by rain. This quick guide will help you choose the best outdoor fabrics for your porch or patio.

Photo: Jacob Fox; Stylist: Joseph Wanek

Types of Outdoor Fabric

There are various types of outdoor fabrics to use. From acrylic to polyester to vinyl, each kind has its pros and cons.

Solution-Dyed Fabric

Softer acrylic fabrics are solution-dyed, so the fibers are dyed before the yarn is created. They lean on the more expensive side and they'll resist water but are not waterproof.

Printed Fabric

For a less expensive fabric, there are cheaper acrylics or polyester versions that are printed. Since they are printed, they will fade faster.

Vinyl Fabric

The last option is vinyl fabric, which is often coated in a color or pattern. Vinyl fabric is very affordable but has limited use.

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Fabrics

Ever buy a piece of clothing that you thought was going to keep out rain only to find yourself soaked? When it comes to outdoor fabrics, knowing the difference between water-resistant and waterproof fabrics is essential. Waterproof refers to a fabric or material that is treated to provide a complete barrier to water. This is the highest protection level. Water-resistant refers to fabric or material that is woven to deter water but does not completely repel it. These types of fabrics have a medium protection level.

Related: 25 Colorful Backyard Decorating Ideas

Nathan Kirkman

What to Look for When Shopping for Outdoor Fabric

When finding your perfect porch cushions or pillows, consider if water-resistant fabric is enough protection or not. You can find water-resistant cushions, pillows, and curtains at plenty of online and brick-and-mortar stores. Occasionally, some options might require special ordering so remember to plan ahead before spring arrives.

If DIYing pillows are an option, purchase outdoor fabric by the yard to craft your own cushions, curtains, or pillows. You can find lots of options online and might be able to order from upholstery services in your area or from fabrics stores. Remember to check if the fabric is waterproof or water-resistant before adding it to your cart.

Photo: Jacob Fox; Stylist: Joseph Wanek

How to Care for Outdoor Fabrics

Most outdoor fabric is water-resistant but not waterproof. Water-resistant fabrics can be used on uncovered decks and patios, but cushions will need to be propped on their sides to dry after a good rain. Waterproof fabrics handle rainy climates or wet environments best but are not as soft to the touch. Waterproof fabrics typically come in fewer patterns.

If spills happen, clean thoroughly as promptly as possible. Scrub with mild soap and warm water into the stain and let dry thoroughly. In general, wash, but don't dry outdoor fabrics.

Some outdoor fabrics fade faster from sunlight than others. The fabric composition will determine the amount of fading. The more acrylic in the fabric generally means more hours in the sun without a noticeable change.

Olefin vs Sunbrella: The Best Fabric for Outdoor Furniture

Like most Aussies, you probably like to make the most of the warm, sunny weather that swings around every summer. Owning a swimming pool or hitting the beach are both great ways to take advantage of the summer months, and the right outdoor furniture can make a significant difference in terms of comfort and enjoyment. Investing in a pool bean bag or outdoor bean bag by Bean Bags R Us is always a smart move, but it also pays to understand the differences between the most popular outdoor fabrics found in such products. In this post, we’ll examine the differences between two of today’s leading options: Olefin and the well-known solution-dyed acrylic fabric known as Sunbrella. But who wins when Olefin vs Sunbrella? And where can you find the

Exposure to the Elements and How it Affects Fabrics

The majority of fabrics don’t stand up well to the elements when left outdoors. Options like cotton, polyester and nylon are all susceptible to fading quickly from exposure to things like UV rays, saltwater and chlorine, found in pools. After investing your hard-earned money into a quality outdoor bean bag chair or other types of outdoor furniture, you’d likely prefer for it to continue looking great for years to come. If so, you’d be wise to steer away from fabrics like nylon, canvas and polyester in favour of ones designed to withstand harsh outdoor elements. Such materials tend to fade quickly, losing their colourful designs and patterns and ending up bleached and unattractive before too long. Furthermore, elements like chlorine and saltwater wreak havoc on the structural integrity of such materials, causing them to wear thinner and thinner over surprisingly brief periods. Before you know it, they are tearing, ripping, developing worn patches and otherwise falling apart.

How Modern Technologies Have Improved Upon Traditional Outdoor Fabrics

Throughout most of modern human history, people were limited to options like cotton when seeking materials for outdoor use. In awnings, for example, cotton was once the most frequently used material. However, shopkeepers bemoaned the speed with which such materials would start appearing worn and unappealing. When fresh and new, cotton awnings brightly displayed shop names, attracting business with ease. Before too long, however, they would become faded, warped, torn and otherwise damaged – and that reflected poorly upon the stores that they represented. Starting around the mid-20th century, however, new fibres and materials were developed using complex chemical processes, and they have transformed the world of outdoor furniture through their improved strength, durability, colourfastness and other positive attributes.

Properties to Look for in Quality Outdoor Furniture

When shopping for outdoor bean bags and other types of outdoor furniture, some of the top properties to look for in terms of fabric and materials include:

UV resistance

Colourfastness and fade resistance

Water resistance

Durability

Comfort

Stain resistance

Style and appearance

Eco-friendliness

Resistance to mildew, insects and chemicals

Ease of maintenance and cleaning

The Importance of Choosing Solution-Dyed Fabric

Another critical factor to take into consideration when investing in outdoor furniture involves how its fabrics are dyed. Although very affordable, materials like nylon and polyester are piece-dyed, which means that the fibres are soaked in dye after being produced. As a result, the colour is applied only to the surface; the core remains undyed. Materials that are coloured using solution dyeing, on the other hand, feature fibres that are dyed all the way through. As you can likely surmise, this means that they stand up far better to elements like UV rays, chlorine and saltwater, maintaining their style and visual appeal for significantly longer.

Sunbrella: The Household Name in Solution-Dyed Acrylic Fabrics

For several decades now, the leading fabric used in outdoor furniture has been Sunbrella. Sunbrella is the brand name of the most popular type of solution-dyed acrylic fabric, and it is used extensively for everything from awnings to cushions to outdoor bean bags like the ones that are supplied by Bean Bags R Us. In his quest to find an alternative to cotton for store awnings,

How Sunbrealla Fabric is Made

To understand how solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella are made, it helps to know a bit about acrylic itself. Acrylic is a synthetic fabric that is designed out of a polymer called polyacrylonitrile. Invented by DuPont in the early 1940s, it quickly caught on for outdoor use. This is thanks to its superior softness, mildew resistance, ability to stay cool in direct sunlight and quick-drying nature. Until the advent of solution dyeing, it would typically still fade when exposed to the sun for extended periods. Solution dyeing changed this by adding colour to the chemical solution before it was drawn through the spinneret. A spinneret is a showerhead-like device with tiny holes. In turn, the resulting fibres boasted the benefits of acrylic along with amazing colourfastness.

Benefits of Sunbrella

As the best-known solution-dyed acrylic or SDA, Sunbrella boasts many advantages that have made it the household name in outdoor fabrics. Some of its top benefits include:

Fade-resistant – Although not impervious to the effects of the sun, Sunbrella can withstand up to 1,500 hours of exposure before starting to fade.

Water-resistant – Sunbrella isn’t completely waterproof, but it resists moisture quite well.

Mildew resistant – Because of its water-resistant nature, this material resists the development of mildew.

Comfortable – Compared with materials like canvas and polyester, in particular, Sunbrella is soft and comfortable to the touch.

Cool – Even when exposed to continuous, direct sunlight, synthetic-dyed acrylics like this tend to remain cool to the touch.

Durable – Thanks to the unique chemical process that is used to create it, Sunbrella is very strong and resilient.

Stylish – This popular material is available in a wide array of eye-catching colours, patterns and designs.

Drawbacks of Sunbrella

Although it is by far the most popular material that is used in premium outdoor furniture, Sunbrella poses a few notable disadvantages. In particular, it is the most expensive fabric that is used in such instances. Products that are designed out of it tend to be much pricier than others. In addition to paying a premium for products that are made out of Sunbrella, you may also notice that it’s not quite as soft and comfortable as materials like Olefin, which we will delve into more below. It also transmits static electricity, which can produce quite a shock to bare skin on hot summer days. Finally, because of its name recognition, many people assume that Sunbrella is the only option for outdoor furniture; as you will learn below, that isn’t the case.

Olefin: A Superior Outdoor Fabric with an Eco-Friendly Twist

Olefin, the trade name for the textile that is produced out of polypropylene fibre, was developed by Italian chemist

How Olefin Fabric is Made

Polypropylene is derived from a gas called propylene. A co-product of oil production as well as ethylene production through a process called steam cracking, the colourless gas has a slight petroleum-like odour. To make polypropylene, the small, single molecules that makeup propylene are polymerized. Or combined and linked, to form longer chain molecules that feature repeated structural units. The resulting polypropylenes, which resemble beads or pellets, are then melted and processed through a spinneret that links them into thread. Because this material is strongly stain-resistant, solution-based dyes are added during the melting process. The thread is then woven into yarn and woven to form textiles.

Benefits of Olefin

Some of the top advantages of Olefin include:

Less expensive – The process that’s used to create Olefin is widely available. As a result, Olefin is more affordable than materials like Sunbrella.

Environmentally friendly – Propylene was traditionally burned off during oil production because it wasn’t considered to have many practical uses. Now, however, the former waste material is upcycled to create polypropylene or Olefin. No land or water is used during production, lending it a low carbon footprint. What’s more, is that the fibre itself is highly recyclable and can be re-extruded up to 10 times to create new products.

Comfortable – Olefin does not transmit static charges, and it is remarkably soft and smooth.

Water-resistant – Moisture is wicked away and dries off quickly when it comes into contact with this material.

Durable – This material is highly durable and stands up particularly well to abrasion.

Colourfast – Solution dyeing is used in production, lending Olefin incredible colourfastness.

Versatile – This material is available in a vast range of colours, patterns and designs and is therefore quite versatile.

Additionally, Olefin is resistant to mildew, chemicals and insects and is easy to clean and maintain.

Drawbacks of Olefin

There are very few drawbacks when it comes to Olefin. The biggest one is that it is highly sensitive to heat and can melt when exposed to extreme temperatures. Therefore, extra care is required during cleaning, and this material should be air-dried after being washed. It is naturally sensitive to sunlight, but UV inhibitors are added during chemical processing to counteract this.

Olefin vs Sunbrella

So, which material is superior for use in outdoor furniture? Let’s examine a few key important properties:

Durability: Olefin boasts superior durability versus Sunbrella and is especially resistant to abrasion.

Water-resistance: Although Sunbrella tends to be more water-resistant, Olefin wears less over time, even when frequently exposed to saltwater and chlorinated water.

Style: In terms of style, Olefin and Sunbrella are pretty much on equal footing. Both are available in a wide range of patterns, colours and designs.

UV and fade resistance: Solution dyeing is used in the production of both fabrics, so each is quite resistant to fading. Olefin is naturally not resistant to UV rays, but UV inhibitors are added during processing to put it on equal footing with SDAs like Sunbrella.

Eco-friendliness: Olefin is the clear winner here. The process behind creating it has a low carbon footprint, and it can be recycled up to 10 times without adverse results. The acrylic that is used in Sunbrella, however, is not readily biodegradable – and it is not easy to recycle.

Comfort: Both fabrics are quite comfortable to the touch. They both remain cool when exposed to direct sunlight. However, unlike Sunbrella, Olefin doesn’t transmit static charges.

Stain resistance: It’s a draw when in terms of the stain resistance of these two fabrics. Both are quite impervious to stains and resistant to things like mildew.

Maintenance: Sunbrella and Olefin are both easy to clean; spot-cleaning typically does the trick, and both can be cleaned with bleach. However, Olefin is sensitive to extreme heat and should be hung up to dry rather than placed in a dryer.