Cushions and accent pillows for outdoor furniture are only as good as the materials that go into them.
At some point, patio cushions and pillows are going to be exposed to rain, sleet, wet bathing suits or damp beach towels. Even if you have invested in the best outdoor waterproof fabric for cushions, some moisture will find its way in through seams and zippered closures. Consequently, the foam core of your upholstery must not only hold its shape and comfort level, but it must also be able to dry quickly and prevent damage from moisture.
This all comes down to the quality of your foam. The quality of foam varies significantly, influenced by the material composition, production techniques, and specific treatments applied. Superior foam will ensure that your outdoor cushions remain comfortable and functional, providing lasting support and resilience against the elements.
Let us take a closer look at the best types of durable, quick-dry foam for outdoor cushions and pillows.
Open Cell Foam
Open-cell foam has pores that allow water and air to easily flow through it. This unique feature not only makes it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due to its quick-drying properties but also enhances comfort and breathability, ensuring a cool seating experience even on hot days.
The foam is typically constructed with an antimicrobial agent that provides an additional layer of protection by inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew. This is particularly important during the drying process to maintain the foam’s integrity.
While it is more expensive than many alternatives, this type of quick-dry foam for outdoor cushions is well worth the investment.
Urecel – QuickDry® Foam
Urecel’s QuickDry® is the premium brand of open-cell foam. It is an advanced, high-performance foam specifically engineered for outdoor upholstery.
QuickDry® uses a sophisticated process known as Hydro-Blast Reticulation, which makes the foam durable, strong and extremely comfortable. It also incorporates Uregard anti-microbial technology to keep it free from biological problems. QuickDry® is used by luxury outdoor furniture brands like Mamagreen and Cane-line.
PROS
- Quick-drying
- Comfortable
- Resists mold & mildew
CONS
- Expensive
Closed Cell Foam
Another option for your outdoor pillows and cushions is closed-cell foam(a.k.a. floatation foam). This type of foam repels water and is buoyant, making it a good choice for boat seating and life vests. It can be made from plastics including neoprene, polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene.
Each version has its own unique characteristics and applications. Spongy neoprene, for example, is flexible and provides thermal and moisture insulation for wet suits. Polypropylene is suitable for a wide range of uses, including automotive components, packaging and textiles.
PROS
- Repels water
- Floats
- Variations have benefits for specific applications
CONS
- Expensive
Here are a few of the most popular options for closed-cell foam patio furniture cushions.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Foam
Renowned for its durability and impact resistance, polyethylene is commonly used in packaging, containers and tubing. However, it can also be used for outdoor patio pillows and cushions.
PET foam inserts are durable, recyclable and provide optimum support for outdoor upholstery. They are firm and do not flatten out or lose their shape like some materials. PET dries quickly, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mildew and mold.
Dacron®
Dacron® wrap for cushions is a leading brand of hypo-allergenic PET foam and is often wrapped around other foams to provide an additional layer of protection. When wrapped around other types of foam, Dacron® adds a plush, luxurious feel to cushions. It enhances the initial softness to create a smooth, rounded look.
Dacron® wrap for cushions also helps to protect the inner foam from wear and tear. It acts as a buffer, reducing friction between the foam core and the outer fabric cover, which can prevent premature breakdown of the materials.
PROS
- Durable
- Supportive
- Eco-friendly
- Quick-drying
- Resistant to mold & mildew
CONS
- Premium brands can be costly
Polyurethane Foam
This common affordable seating foam has a medium firmness and will soak up water if it gets wet. Most polyurethane foam is treated with a biocide that prevents fungus, mold and mildew from growing as the wet foam dries out.
It’s often wrapped in plastic for extra protection before being inserted into an outdoor cover. It’s important to invest in the right type of fabric for outdoor cushions to ensure your polyurethane foam stays as try as possible.
PROS
- Low price
- Resistant to biological issues
CONS
- Soaks up water
- Dries slowly
- More flammable
Polyester Foam
Compressed polyester is an inexpensive alternative to traditional foam. It dries relatively quickly and is easy to wash. It works best in low to moderate-use outdoor environments, since it compresses over time and frequent use will cause it to lose shape quickly.
Polyester fiberfill is another low-cost option that is machine washable and resistant to mildew. It is usually stuffed into an inner pre-sewn cover that is then covered in outdoor fabric. One drawback is that the loose fibers tend to bunch up during laundering and may need reshaping after heavy use.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- Dries relatively quickly
- Easy-to-wash
CONS
- Loses its shape
- Usually requires additional protective wrapping
Best Type of Materials for Patio Pillows and Cushions
Investing in high-quality materials for outdoor furniture cushions is essential for ensuring the comfort, durability and longevity of your pillows and seats. Open-cell foam provides excellent breathability and quick-drying properties, making it a top choice for outdoor settings. Closed-cell foam offers superior water resistance and is often a more affordable option though it may not be as durable.
Understanding the unique benefits of each material helps in making informed decisions that align with specific needs and preferences. Continue to our final chapter to learn about how to clean and maintain your outdoor patio furniture, including pillows and cushion covers, for the years to come.
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