No matter if you prefer socializing over strawberry margs with friends or relaxing solo in your backyard zen space, plush modern outdoor furniture is available to meet all of your needs. However, before purchasing new patio furniture it’s important to carefully consider how much maintenance and upkeep will be necessary over its lifespan.
Consider investing in a set without cushions, or one with quick-dry foam for best results.
Cushions
Some outdoor furniture comes equipped with cushions for added comfort. Although these add warmth and visual interest, they also require regular care and cleaning. When selecting this type of furniture, look for fabrics that are stain-resistant and machine-washable – this will protect it against coffee spills, sun rays, and other everyday messes that might affect its fabric.
To prevent your cushions from staying wet for days after a rainstorm, look for inserts made of quick-drying foam. Also referred to as reticulated or open-cell foam, these types of inserts allow water to pass quickly through them and dry more quickly than traditional foam alternatives.
Some designers recommend taking steps such as removing and storing cushions when not in use, while others advocate covering them to protect from the elements. Either way, be sure that whatever strategy you adopt utilizes a waterproof cover that fits snugly around each cushion in order to prevent moisture seepage and mold growth; furthermore it should also allow airflow through so as to avoid overheating issues.
Fabric
Cushions add comfort to outdoor furniture, yet require maintenance. “Drying them out after rainstorms and keeping them clean can be challenging if you have pets,” states Cheryl Khan, an interior designer with over three decades of experience in her business. For optimal performance she advises selecting outdoor cushions made with quick-drying foam such as reticulated or open cell foam that allows water vapor transmission.
For longer-lasting fabric options, look for solution-dyed acrylic yarns which feature UV fading resistance. These colors are dyed into the yarn during manufacturing rather than printed or dyed later on.
Phifertex and Sunbrella fabrics feature Microban protection that inhibits mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. Follow our step-by-step patio sling chair fabric replacement tutorial to see just how straightforward changing out original fabric for replacement can be – keep extra replacement fabric handy so you can switch up your decor seasonally!
Color
Before selecting patio furniture, carefully consider how you plan to utilize your outdoor space. Will it serve as dining area or reading nook? How will you entertain guests? Once you know exactly how your patio will be used, take note of its color and style options – neutral tones blend better into nature while bolder hues offer more visual impact. If blending is desired, search for neutral or natural-toned pieces while bolder aesthetics could use furniture with primary colors that stand out.
To protect your furniture from sun damage, select fabrics crafted with solution-dyed acrylic fabric dyed with an infusible coat infused with color – this helps them retain their original hues for longer and avoid fading in sunlight’s harsh UV rays.
Your patio might tempt you with white patio furniture for its breezy and relaxing vibe, but remember this choice may present challenges. Dust, spills and body sweat/oils may settle on white surfaces leaving unsightly marks. In order to prevent these problems from occurring, be vigilant about regularly lint rolling cushions/upholstery to rid it of unwanted debris such as fuzz.
If you aren’t ready to commit to an entire set of white patio furniture, cushion covers can still add color. Easy to take off for washing and washable too, they will protect upholstered pieces from sun damage and rainstorms alike. If soggy covers become an issue after rainfall occurs, look for cushions designed with quick-dry foam inserts which allow water to pass through and dry quickly so as not to leave you with wet feet!
Style
Patio furniture defines your outdoor space and shapes the overall aesthetic of your yard, from lounge chairs and wicker sectional sofas that seat multiple people comfortably to dining tables equipped with matching side chairs or benches for outdoor entertaining.
To achieve a relaxing ambience, select coastal patio furniture in light or navy shades with resin-wicker construction and nautical-themed accessories. Rustic pieces feature wood or distressed metal frames with weathered finishes for natural textures.
If you enjoy reading or taking an afternoon nap outdoors, opt for deep seating furniture that provides maximum comfort. Sofas and loveseats with seats deeper relative to back dimensions are the most inviting, providing full support for thighs seated with thick cushions that stay cozy even during warm weather. For added ease of cleaning your furniture in no time so you can spend more time relaxing in the sun!
Durability
Outdoor furniture helps you take full advantage of warm weather whether you’re hosting friends for coffee or snuggling intimately at sunset – from gathering with close family to romantic sunset cuddling sessions with your partner, outdoor furniture can make all the difference in making memories outdoors. It should be designed to withstand elements while remaining easy to maintain; additionally, stylish pieces of decor that complement patio decorations ensure maximum enjoyment in outdoor areas.
One way to extend the lifespan of your furniture is selecting materials that resist corrosion and weathering effects, like teak wood which resists decay and rot; metals like aluminum and stainless steel offer durability; while UV-protected plastics will not fade over time.
Fabrics play an integral part in extending the longevity of patio furniture without cushions, especially when selecting materials without water-repellent coatings or cushions. If fading concerns arise, solutions-dyed acrylic fabrics might provide some relief; their colors are added during production rather than printed directly onto fabric surfaces.
Fabric furniture can be damaged in extreme conditions, so during periods of intense rain or direct sunlight it should be brought inside or covered with waterproof covers when not being used. Another alternative would be purchasing furniture which can be easily stored away indoors.
