Preparing your patio for the summer season with fresh and colorful furniture is fun and exciting. But how do you choose a fabric that won’t get damaged by rain or sun and will last for years to come? In this guide, we cover the main things you should look for in fabric for outdoor furniture, look at popular outdoor fabric types, and share tips for maintaining and storing them in the off-season.

How to choose fabric for outdoor furniture?

Before hopping into the best types of fabrics for outdoor use, we want to highlight some factors that should guide your decision. Outdoor fabrics have to be able to stand up to the challenge of rain and sun, as well as need to be durable and breathable. Think about the typical weather in your region to decide which of these factors will be your focus.

1. Water resistance

Outdoor furniture has to withstand all kinds of weather, starting from rain to possibly even snow. Fabrics that aren’t suitable for wet conditions are at risk of developing mold and becoming home to bacteria. Some fabrics, such as olefin or Sunbrella outdoor fabrics have built-in water resistance, while others need treatment with waterproof outdoor fabric sprays.

2. UV resistance

Sun exposure can cause fabrics to fade and weaken over time. Outdoor Sunbrella fabric and other UV-resistant fabrics are designed to retain their color even after being exposed to the sun for a long time. Some fabrics are also solution-dyed to ensure color retention and prevent degradation caused by harsh sunlight. 

3. Cleanability

Spills, dirt, and mildew are inevitable outdoors. That’s why it’s best to choose a fabric that is easy to clean and saves you the headache of keeping your furniture fresh. Some fabrics are naturally resistant to stains and can be easily wiped clean, while others may need deep cleaning with specialized solutions once in a while. Proper cleaning of the fabric will not only keep it looking great but also help your outdoor upholstery last longer.

4. Breathability

Good air circulation is essential to prevent trapped moisture, which can lead to mildew or mold. Meanwhile, in warm climates, good airflow will reduce heat buildup. Outdoor canvas fabric and acrylic fabric are excellent options that combine breathability and durability. 

5. Durability

Lastly, as with all types of furniture fabric, outdoor upholstery fabric needs to be durable. It might need to endure harsh weather conditions, heavy use, and potential wear and tear. Fabrics with reinforced fibers, high tensile strength, and strong seams are all very well-suited for high-traffic outdoor areas. Some of the most durable options include Sunbrella outdoor fabric, olefin, and vinyl-coated fabrics.

7 popular outdoor furniture fabric types

Now, let’s move on to our favorite types of fabric for outdoor furniture. While all of them are great options, each fabric has unique properties that make it suitable for different applications. This list highlights the pros of each textile as well as the top use cases for each of them!

1. Sunbrella

Sunbrella is a market leader in outdoor fabrics. It is UV-resistant, durable, and mold-resistant. It is solution-dyed, which means that the color is infused throughout the fibers. This makes it highly resistant to fading. What’s more, Sunbrella outdoor fabric is stain-resistant and easy to maintain. A great choice for long-term outdoor use.

Use cases: Ideal for patio furniture, awnings, and marine applications because of its durability and fade resistance. Also great for outdoor drapery, pergola covers, and boat covers.

2. Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a lightweight and affordable outdoor fabric. It repels water and resists stains, making it ideal for high-moisture areas and frequent use. This fabric is naturally moisture-repellant, which helps prevent mold and mildew buildup.

Use cases: Great for outdoor rugs, cushions, and upholstery in areas that see moisture often. Also used in poolside seating, outdoor bean bags, and quick-drying lounge chairs.

Explore our elegant Bouclé Nautical Stripe Polypropylene Fabric—the perfect mix of style and durability for outdoor spaces!

3. Acrylic

Acrylic fabrics have excellent resistance to fading and mildew. Their soft texture is similar to indoor fabrics; however, they still have the durability of outdoor fabrics. This fabric is also resistant to chemical exposure, making it a great option for use around swimming pools.

Use cases: Best for cushions, umbrellas, and furniture upholstery where comfort and fade resistance are key. Suitable for poolside lounge chairs and shaded patio seating.

4. Polyester

Polyester is a great budget-friendly outdoor fabric option. It is durable, and some polyester fabrics are also treated to improve UV resistance and water repellency. It is an excellent option for those looking for an inexpensive outdoor fabric yet one that functions as well as others.

Use cases: Suitable for outdoor curtains, cushions, and temporary shade structures. Also used for picnic blankets and casual outdoor seating covers.

5. Olefin

Olefin is a synthetic fiber made from polypropylene or polyethylene. This makes it highly durable and resistant to moisture. Olefin also maintains its color well. It is commonly used in outdoor cushions and upholstery. This fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, and eco-friendly, as it is often made from recycled materials.

Use cases: Frequently used for outdoor pillows, cushions, and furniture covers. It is also an excellent choice for weather-resistant carpets and daybed covers.

6. Canvas

Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric with top-notch durability. However, it may need waterproofing to improve its resistance to moisture. It has a natural aesthetic appeal and is often chosen for rustic or classic outdoor décor.

Use cases: Perfect for outdoor tents, canopies, and heavy-duty furniture covers. Also ideal for hammocks and cabana curtains.

7. Vinyl-coated fabrics

Vinyl-coated fabrics are waterproof, making them ideal for areas that get wet often. They are easy to clean but may lack breathability compared to other fabric options. The synthetic coating helps prevent damage from rain and humidity.

Use cases: Used in waterproof upholstery for extreme weather conditions. Also a great choice for outdoor restaurant seating and stadium cushions.

Caring for outdoor furniture fabrics

Taking good care of your outdoor furniture is no less important than choosing the right fabric for it. Cleaning and storing it properly and making sure it doesn’t get damaged by the sun too much will help keep the pieces looking brand new for many seasons. Keep reading for some useful tips and tricks.

Cleaning

• Regularly brush off the dirt from your outdoor furniture to prevent it from building up.
• Use mild soap and water to spot clean. This will help to avoid damaging fabric coatings.
• Stay away from harsh chemicals that could weaken fabric fibers and affect UV resistance.
• For tough stains, use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner and rinse it off thoroughly.

Storage

• Store cushions and fabric-covered furniture in a dry, ventilated area during the off-season to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Use breathable storage bags or fabric covers for protection against dust and dirt.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on cushions while storing them. This will ensure they keep their shape and structure for the next season.

Sun protection

• Place the furniture in shaded areas when possible to minimize direct sun exposure.
• Use fabric protectant sprays to improve UV resistance and prevent fading.
• Rotate cushions and covers to ensure even exposure to sunlight and improve their lifespan.

Final verdict: What fabric should I use for outdoor furniture?

The best outdoor fabric depends on your specific needs. If UV resistance and durability are your main priorities, Sunbrella and acrylic fabrics are fantastic choices. Polyester and polypropylene also offer good performance at a lower cost. If moisture resistance is a concern, olefin and vinyl-coated fabrics are great options. 

Explore the wide variety of outdoor fabrics at Fabric Mill, and showcase your style outdoors as well as indoors.

FAQ

What fabrics don’t fade in the sun?

Sunbrella, acrylic, and olefin fabrics are highly resistant to fading because of their solution-dyed properties.

What is the best color for outdoor fabric?

Lighter colors reflect sunlight and resist fading longer, while darker colors can retain heat but also hide dirty spots better. Neutral tones like beige, gray, and taupe are a great timeless option as well.

What is the most waterproof outdoor fabric?

Vinyl-coated fabrics and marine-grade Sunbrella fabric have superior water resistance. Olefin and polypropylene are also highly water-resistant and quick-drying.

What is the most durable fabric for outdoor furniture?

Sunbrella, Olefin, and marine-grade fabrics are among the most durable options due to their high resistance to wear, UV exposure, and moisture.

How many years does Sunbrella fabric last?

Sunbrella fabric can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Its solution-dyed acrylic fibers have great UV resistance, preventing fading and degradation from sun exposure. Clean it regularly and use protective sprays to extend its lifespan.

How do I clean and maintain outdoor fabric?

Regularly brush off dirt, spot-clean stains right away with mild soap and water, and use fabric protectants to extend their lifespan. For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Can outdoor fabric be machine-washed?

Yes, some outdoor fabrics, such as polyester and acrylic, can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before washing.

Are there eco-friendly outdoor fabric options?

Yes, some brands offer recycled polyester or sustainable solution-dyed fabrics made from repurposed materials. Look for OEKO-TEX or GREENGUARD-certified products that are proven to be environmentally friendly.

What fabric is best for outdoor cushions?

Solution-dyed acrylic and olefin fabrics are excellent choices for outdoor cushions as they resist fading, mildew, and moisture.