Ever left garden furniture cushions outside, only to find them soggier than your morning tea? Short answer: most aren’t fully waterproof, just water-resistant. But don’t panic. With the right materials, covers, and care, you can outsmart Britain’s drizzle. Keep reading to discover how to keep your cushions cosy and dry.
If a cushion is labelled as waterproof, it means water simply can’t get through, no matter how hard it rains. These cushions use sealed seams, special coatings, or built-in membranes that block moisture completely.
The trade-off? They’re tougher against the rain but not always as comfy. Waterproof fabrics can feel a bit stiff and trap heat, making them less pleasant to relax on for long summer evenings.
Now, water-resistant or showerproof cushions are a different story. They’ll happily shrug off a light shower but won’t hold up under a full British downpour.
Think of them like a raincoat, you’ll stay dry in a drizzle, but if you stand in a storm too long, the water gets in. Most garden furniture cushions fall into this water-resistant camp.
Walk through any garden centre and you’ll find cushions made mainly from synthetic fabrics. Polyester, acrylic, and olefin are the big three. They’re quick-drying, durable, and less likely to fade in the sun.
Natural fabrics like cotton and hemp sometimes make an appearance too. But they need treatments to cope outdoors, otherwise they soak up rain like a sponge.
So, why don’t manufacturers just make everything waterproof? Simple, comfort. A completely waterproof cushion can feel like sitting on a plastic bag.
Instead, they use water-resistant fabrics. This gives you a cosy, breathable seat while still offering protection against the odd shower. It’s the balance between comfort and practicality.
The easiest way to check is the label. Manufacturers will usually say whether your cushion is waterproof, water-resistant, or untreated.
Look out for keywords like DWR (durable water repellent), showerproof, or waterproof membrane. If none of these are listed, assume the cushion is only lightly resistant.
Want a quick DIY trick? Drip a little water onto the fabric. If droplets sit on the surface and roll off, your cushion is water-resistant.
If the water disappears into the fabric, it isn’t protected. Just don’t try this test with wine, trust me, it doesn’t end well.
Not all hope is lost if your cushions aren’t waterproof. A good waterproofing spray can transform them. The same sprays used for tents, jackets, or shoes work wonders on outdoor fabrics.
Sealants are another option if you want something longer-lasting. These add a strong barrier but may slightly change the texture of the fabric.
Clean the cushions first – dirt stops sprays from working properly.
Dry them fully – waterproofing won’t stick to damp fabric.
Spray evenly – hold the can 15–20 cm away and cover all areas.
Leave to dry overnight – patience is key.
Reapply each season – or after you wash the covers.
Even the best waterproof cushions can struggle in a long wet spell. If heavy rain is on the way, bring them inside.
When winter rolls around, don’t leave them outside. Prolonged dampness is a recipe for mould. Instead, pack them away until spring.
Outdoor cushion storage makes life easier. Waterproof storage bags are affordable and simple. Deck boxes give you roomy, weather-resistant protection. Storage benches combine style with practicality, you get seating and hidden storage in one.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s ventilated. A sealed box without airflow can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Yes, for light showers. But if the forecast says heavy rain, it’s better to bring them in. Water-resistant isn’t the same as waterproof, and they’ll eventually soak through.
Remove the covers if possible, blot the excess water with towels, and stand them upright so the air can circulate. Sunshine or a fan helps speed things up. Avoid tumble dryers, they can damage the filling.
Prevention beats cure. Keep cushions dry, clean them regularly with mild soap, and store them in breathable covers. A little care goes a long way to stopping mould from ever appearing.
Ever noticed how your neighbour’s garden looks like it belongs in a glossy magazine while yours is still rocking the same tired chairs? Here’s their secret: the best garden furniture sales hit in spring pre-season, late summer clearances, and during...
British weather is full of surprises, sunshine one moment, sideways rain the next. So, can Garden Furniture be left outside? Yes, but it depends on the material and how you care for it. Stick around and you’ll discover which pieces survive...
British weather treats Garden Furniture like a chew toy; rain, wind, and surprise sunshine. Short answer: cover garden furniture with well-fitted, heavy duty waterproof covers. Want it to last for years instead of months? Keep reading for smart, simple tips on cleaning,...
Tired of chasing soggy cushions across the garden after a storm? The short answer: store garden furniture clean, dry, covered, and sheltered. Simple enough, but each material has its own quirks. Stick around for practical tricks (and a few insider...
Garden furniture isn’t just there to look pretty. It’s where the family BBQ happens, where you sip your morning coffee, and where guests gather for summer evenings. The short answer to how to care for garden furniture? Clean it often,...
