Outdoor cushions – how to find the right garden cushions
- The right material for outdoor use
- The right size
- Colours and style: which outdoor cushions work best?
- Cleaning: how to care for weatherproof cushions
- Summary
1. Indoor vs. outdoor – what is the right material for outdoor cushions?
On the sofa, the armchair or the bed – cushions make any home feel cosy. But we want comfort outdoors, too. Fortunately, many design brands offer a wide range of outdoor cushions that are weatherproof and decorative, inviting you to linger comfortably in the garden or on the balcony.
To enjoy your outdoor cushions and seat cushions for as long as possible, the key is choosing the right material for the cover and the filling. Indoor cushions mainly use light, pleasantly soft materials, whereas outdoor cushions need to be weatherproof and dirt-repellent. They also need to be water-repellent and UV-resistant so they don't fade. That's why garden cushion covers are mainly made of robust materials such as polyacrylic/polyester or cotton blends, which stand up to the weather and are easy to clean.
Weatherproof outdoor cushions are usually filled with hard-wearing polyurethane foam, which ensures long-lasting comfort outdoors. So when you buy outdoor cushions, make sure they are specifically labelled for outdoor use and made from the appropriate materials.
2. Square or rectangular? Choose the right size and shape
Almost as varied as indoor cushions, outdoor cushions come in the standard square sizes of 50 x 50 cm and 40 x 40 cm or in rectangular sizes of 30 x 50 cm and 40 x 60 cm. Square cushions fit on any chair and are therefore especially versatile. Rectangular outdoor cushions look particularly good on wider pieces of furniture, such as a garden bench, or as decoration on larger outdoor lounge furniture.
Before you buy, think about where you want to place the cushions. Do you need a seat cushion for a piece of outdoor furniture or a decorative outdoor cushion? Measure up to create the greatest possible comfort in your outdoor space. For outdoor seat cushions, additional ties help keep them firmly in place.
"Particularly practical: most design outdoor chairs have matching seat pads or outdoor chair cushions. The advantage is that their size and colour match the furniture perfectly, they don't slip and they suit the design. That way, you're guaranteed a harmonious look." – Viktoria, interior expert
3. From nautical to boho – the right outdoor cushion design
Depending on their design, decorative cushions and seat cushions can have a big influence on the mood in your garden or on your balcony. Just like indoors, cushions are a key decorative element outdoors that you can swap and combine as you like. Plain cushions look simple and attractive outdoors and blend easily with a wide variety of furniture and other outdoor textiles. Also popular in the garden: a classic striped look that creates a nautical atmosphere. Outdoor cushions in natural tones, checks or delicate floral patterns exude elegant country-house charm and look especially good in larger gardens. Still very much on trend: outdoor cushions with a boho look, with bold Aztec patterns, pompoms or fringing, which bring a relaxed Bali feel to your home in no time and come into their own alongside rattan or bamboo furniture.
Whatever style you choose, stick to one colour family when combining cushions – that's the secret to a cohesive look outdoors
4. How to clean outdoor cushions
Outdoor seat cushions in particular get a lot of use, so a barbecue, a fire pit or a relaxing glass of wine on the terrace can leave the occasional stain. Fortunately, as outdoor cushions are usually made of dirt-repellent, waterproof fabrics, they're very easy to clean. In most cases, it's enough to wipe the covers with a damp cloth and a mild soapy solution, such as a few drops of washing-up liquid.
You can simply shake out crumbs, dust and pet hair in the fresh air. And if the dirt is more stubborn, some cushions or cushion covers can even go in the washing machine. Be sure to check the label and washing instructions of your outdoor cushion first.
Another tip: even though outdoor cushions can easily cope with a light shower, it's best to store them indoors or in a garden shed after the garden season in winter or during prolonged rain or hail. That way, you'll enjoy the beautiful design of your outdoor cushions for a long time and avoid the risk of deformation, stains or mould, which can develop if the cushions stay wet for too long.
5. Buying outdoor cushions – what to look for
- Look for water- and dirt-repellent fabrics such as polyester and polyacrylic, which are made specifically for outdoor use and protect garden cushions from fading and unsightly stains.
- Think about where you'll use the cushion before you buy. Square cushions are best as outdoor seat cushions, while rectangular cushions look good on benches or as decorative cushions on outdoor lounge furniture.
- Outdoor cushions come in a wide range of styles. Think about which style suits you and your outdoor space best, and always stick to one colour family when combining them.
- Weatherproof materials are usually easy to clean with a damp cloth and a mild soapy solution.
- Many outdoor seating pieces from nestoran.livee with matching seat cushions as an extra. Buy outdoor cushions that match your furniture for the greatest possible comfort.
Buy design outdoor textiles online at Connox – your benefits at a glance
- High-quality outdoor textiles – originals from top design brands
- Personal support from our customer service team
- Fair delivery costs
- Secure payment thanks to SSL encryption
Shopping advice at Connox
Would you like to buy a design outdoor cushion online but need some help? Our customer service team is always happy to help. We'll support you with advice while you shop, make recommendations and answer your questions quickly. Then simply sit back and have your chosen item delivered straight to your door.
