Why Choose Fabric Outdoor Furniture? Benefits And Care Guide
Why Choose Fabric Outdoor Furniture? Benefits and Care Guide
Introduction to Fabric Outdoor Furniture
You may be wondering what kind of fabric will last the longest and look the best for your outdoor furniture. It's certainly a tricky question when you’re purchasing fabric outdoor furniture: choose well and you'll have durable, comfortable, beautiful furniture that lasts for years with proper care, come rain or shine. There are many different fabrics out there, and they offer different benefits, coping well with things like humidity, sunlight, and rain while maintaining a natural fibre feel.
Advanced technology has helped engineer these fabrics to ensure they can withstand whatever the outdoor world throws their way, giving them properties such as water repellency and increased UV resistance. They use protective coatings and synthetic fibres, which means they will last far longer than your regular organic fabric materials. You don't have to sacrifice style for function, though; there are some luxury, very aesthetically pleasing options out there! We're going to help you understand the benefits of different outdoor fabric choices and pick the best one for your lifestyle and functionality.
Characteristics and Benefits of Fabric
Certain qualities matter a great deal when it comes to finding an outdoor fabric that will last. High UV resistance, breathability, resistance to fading, and, of course, water repellence is all crucial in an outdoor setting such as a deck or balcony. High-quality outdoor fabrics also offer exceptional comfort when compared to other materials like Resin or Teak; they provide soft, smooth textures despite their durability, making them a perfect choice for luxurious lounge seating.
This is all thanks to advancements in textile technology, which have helped create a perfect blend between performance and aesthetics, ensuring everybody can have outdoor furniture that's stylish, highly practical, and above all, comfortable! If you choose high-end pieces such as those designed by COUTURE Jardin, you'll also find that your furniture lasts longer than budget brands, offering better value for money in the long run.
The Different Types of Outdoor Fabric and Their Benefits
Unsurprisingly, there are quite a few different kinds of outdoor fabric! Each material on offer will give different benefits, so choosing with care to suit your local environment is crucial. Let's break these down so you have an idea of what these different advantages are:
| Fabric | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Olefin | This fabric is both durable and lightweight, and it dries fast when it gets wet. It's also UV-resistant, meaning it will stand up well even in sun-exposed environments. |
| Acrylic | This shines when it comes to fade-resistance, as it holds its colours exceptionally well. It's also soft, making it great for comfortable furnishings such as sofas, and it has superb mould and mildew resistance. All-around properties make it an excellent pick for outdoor furniture. |
| Polyester | More affordable, this is a highly versatile fabric that can have both UV and water resistance treatments applied. It won't last as well as the former two options, but it does tend to be cheaper. |
| Textilene | With strength and flexibility, this serves very well in high-traffic environments. It's made from woven PVC-coated polyester fibres, which means it's both water-resistant and easy to maintain. The Verona Sun Lounger combines this high-quality fabric with durable and stylish aluminium for the best effect. |
Thinking about the climate and the amount of use your furniture is likely to get will help you determine which option is best for you, but don’t forget to also consider your maintenance preferences. If you want minimal fuss, choose materials like Textilene and opt for mould-resistant fabrics wherever possible.
Design Options and Style Guide
However, it shouldn't just be about practicalities. When it comes to designing your perfect outdoor space, you've also got to think about the appearance. You want a space that feels delightful to spend time in – and that means considering fabric choices from an aesthetic angle too.
You should think about things like the colour, texture, and patterns of the fabric, and how they will work with other materials used within the furniture. Does rope furniture look better with a rustic fabric, for example? Does colour in the fabric help the natural tones of the wood "pop"? All of these things matter.
It's a good idea to look for neutral tones if you're after timeless elegance, but perhaps go for bold colours if statement pieces are your thing. Textured weaves can add interest and energy to a space, making it more dynamic and engaging. The Rope Pavilion Lounge, for example, has all you could ever need in terms of both functionality and a gorgeous appearance. If your space is smaller, an Outdoor Rope Armchair or two could be a perfect alternative to add texture to the space.
Remember, you can mix and match fabrics to create a design that suits your desires. A blend of colours and neutrals might be perfect for you, or you might like to include some smooth fabrics alongside some textured ones. It's worth taking the time to think about these things so you can create the outdoor space your heart desires.
Of course, you've got to bring functionality into these calculations – having a non-waterproof finish alongside a pool is just going to be a headache. Opt for light fabrics in sunny spots to reduce heat absorption, and go for cosier materials in your snug spaces. Think about things like seat height if you're trying to create an outdoor dining space; here, you'll need something like our Truro Outdoor Rope Dining Chair to ensure everybody is comfortable around the table.
The Best Fabrics for Each Outdoor Area
Deciding the best fabrics for your outdoor area might feel overwhelming, so we've put together a breakdown of where you might use each kind of fabric in the table below. Check it out to determine exactly where the different options might be at their best.
| Outdoor Area | Fabric Description & Benefits | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Outdoor Area | Olefin Fabric would suit a covered outdoor area like a deck, balcony, or patio. Olefin Fabric, while very durable and resistant due to its natural-looking synthetic fibres, which offer excellent colourfastness and is naturally quick air drying compared to more commercial grade products that use Acrylic Fabric due to its reinforced waterproof treatments, which occur in the production process. | Milano Teak and Rope lounge with Olefin Fabric. |
| Uncovered Outdoor Area | Acrylic Fabric is best suited if your furniture will primarily be uncovered. It’s extremely durable and long-lasting, often exceeding 10 years with proper care, while also offering superior softness and comfort for how closely this synthetic material mimics natural fibres. | Lawson Armchair with PVC rope, Acrylic Fabric with waterproof coating, and TIGER powder-coated aluminium – Commercial grade furniture. |
| Poolside Area | Textilene Fabric is the ultimate choice for poolside furniture, especially sun loungers, due to its waterproof, quick-drying, and UV-resistant properties. Its woven mesh structure allows water to drain away instantly, preventing moisture buildup when you relax after a swim. Unlike absorbent fabrics, Textilene’s PVC-coated surface prevents water penetration, ensuring it remains dry, comfortable, and resistant to mould and mildew. Designed to withstand constant sun exposure and harsh weather conditions, it won’t fade, crack, or degrade over time. This low-maintenance, durable, and breathable fabric makes it perfect for year-round outdoor use in a poolside setting. | Verona Sun Lounger with Textilene Fabric and Powder Coated Aluminium Frame. |
| Commercial Spa | Acrylic Fabric is an excellent choice for high-traffic commercial settings like spas due to its exceptional performance and resilience. Designed to withstand constant use, it resists mildew and moisture, making it ideal for humid poolside environments. Its breathable, stain-resistant properties ensure easy maintenance for commercial staff, while its ability to retain vibrancy under prolonged sun exposure keeps spaces looking fresh and inviting. The combination of durability, low maintenance, and premium comfort makes Acrylic Fabric a practical yet sophisticated option for businesses prioritising both aesthetics and functionality. | Lawson Pavilion with PVC rope, Acrylic Fabric, waterproof coating, and TIGER powder-coated aluminium – Commercial-grade furniture. |
| Outdoor Hospitality Setting | For high-traffic hospitality venues such as restaurants, resorts, and outdoor lounges, Acrylic Fabric is an ideal choice due to its exceptional durability, superior UV resistance, and water repellence. With a lifespan of over 10 years when properly maintained, it withstands frequent use while retaining its colour and integrity. The fabric’s soft, cotton-like feel enhances guest comfort, while its mildew-resistant properties make it suitable for humid or coastal environments. | Truro Dining Chair with Acrylic Fabric, Olefin Rope and TIGER powder-coated aluminium – Commercial-grade furniture. |
Cleaning and Care Instructions
Once you've settled on your perfect furniture, you've obviously got to put time and effort into maintaining it. This will help it last longer and look better. Fortunately, keeping your furniture looking amazing doesn't have to be difficult.
Regularly cleaning your outdoor fabric furniture will be enormously helpful in preventing mould and mildew from forming, or removing any that has started. This is crucial for increasing the longevity of your fabrics!
Let's acknowledge that different kinds of fabric will require different kinds of care. If, for example, you have Textilene, you can clean it with fresh water, and scrub stains with a soft cloth and mild, soapy water. Find out more about its care processes here.
If you're trying to figure out how to clean cushions, you might need to wait for sunny weather. This will let you spray the cushions with water and then scrub them with soap. They can then be rinsed and allowed to air dry. Some cushions might be machine washable, but make sure you follow their care instructions to avoid damaging them. You can even pressure wash some cushions, although you will again need to follow the care instructions! You can learn more about cleaning cushions on our blog.
What about getting rid of stains? This is another common issue with outdoor fabrics, as they are exposed to all kinds of environmental stressors. Things like fake tan, which you might be wearing to even up your summer glow, can leave unwanted marks on your fabric furnishings. Fortunately, though, Magic Stain Remover will shift most of these stains. To use a product like this, follow the steps below:
Avoid using harsh chemicals, especially bleach, on your fabrics. These substances can damage the colour, weaken the fibers, and strip away protective coatings. For the best results and long-lasting quality, do not use bleach or any strong chemical cleaners.
Remember that the drying stage is critical, as this will reduce the risk of mould forming and damaging the fabric. If the outdoor fabric is UV-safe, consider placing it in the sun to dry, or opt for a spot with good airflow. Cushions can be placed on a clothesline or an open-weave chair to allow the air to circulate. This will help ensure that all the moisture evaporates.
Maintenance and Storage
Proper maintenance and storage are also key to maximising your fabric's lifespan and ensuring it looks good for as long as possible. You should make sure you regularly remove debris and dirt from the fabric, using a soft brush to loosen it if possible.
Outdoor covers can also be very beneficial, minimising the sun exposure and moisture damage when not in use. Covering your furniture up when the weather is at its worst and when not in use could add years to its longevity, and takes minimal effort.
Where possible, cushions and fabric pieces should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent them from going mouldy. Even mould-resistant fabrics may suffer damage if they are wet for long periods, so take this seriously.
With the right care and maintenance, you're much more likely to get years of use out of your furniture – and you'll also ensure that it stays comfortable and looks great for far longer than if you don't store and cover your fabric when not in use. Don't underestimate the value of this; you don't have to spend hours on maintenance, but taking a little extra time can make a lot of difference to the lifespan of your furniture.
Conclusion
Outdoor fabrics are crucial to creating an outdoor space that breathes quality and comfort, and it's really straightforward to incorporate them in ways that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Of course, this is done to the best effect when you think carefully about both the practicalities and appearance of the space you're working with.
If you've got a pool, choose an outdoor waterproof fabric like Textilene. You can hop straight onto the furniture after a dip without having to worry about marking it. It will also stand up to the sun extremely well!
For an open area or high-traffic spot such as a commercial space, think about acrylic fabric. It will cope with being uncovered and stands up to a lot of use year after year. It's also highly comfortable, making it great for outdoor spaces.
The right fabric matters perhaps more than any other aspect when it comes to creating outdoor spaces that are comfortable, long-lasting, and stylish. Think about the climate, your maintenance preferences, and the aesthetics before you make your pick. If you're ready to start exploring this world in more detail, you might choose to check out online or in-store fabric options, consult a design expert, or even begin choosing your fabrics!
Reference
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/blogs/maintenance/textilene
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/blogs/maintenance/how-to-clean-outdoor-furniture-cushions
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/blogs/maintenance/remove-fake-tan-stains-from-fabric
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/products/outdoor-furniture-cover-for-lounge-7
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/products/verona-outdoor-aluminium-sunlounger
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/products/lawson-outdoor-rope-pavilion-lounge
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/products/lawson-outdoor-rope-armchair
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/products/truro-outdoor-rope-dining-chair-1
Share this
