The 5 Must-Know Tips Designers Use to Shop for Outdoor Fabrics

If you’re fortunate enough to have your own dedicated outdoor space, you’re going to want to make the most of it this season.

Selecting an outdoor fabric that will last you for seasons to come is essential, as you don’t want to go about replacing your patio furniture year after year.

We spoke with professional designers to gather their top tips as to what to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor fabric, how to clean outdoor fabric in a pinch, and which brands to prioritize as a consumer.

Read on to find out what outdoor fabrics to look out for—you’re just one step closer to bringing your dream backyard setup to life.

Remember Form and Function

When shopping for fabric to use on outdoor furniture, it’s imperative to keep both form and function top of mind.

“You want to make sure the materials are fade, stain, and mold and mildew resistant but are still soft and cozy,” explains interior designer Max Humphrey.

Luckily, he says, advancements in recent years have made most outdoor fabrics to be just as soft as those used inside—they’re also high-performance. Morgan Hood, the co-founder of the textile brand Elliston House, notes that 100% solution-dyed acrylic fibers will do the trick here. Making sure your fabric is comfortable is key especially if you’re going to spend a lot of time in your outdoor space or having guests over. You want your fabric to feel airy and cozy, so long nights feel easygoing.

Additionally, prior to landing on an outdoor fabric, you should map out your ideal furniture layout.

“You want to think about where the furniture is going and what climate you live in,” Humphrey explains. “Is your patio set on a covered porch or out on the lawn?”

Either way, he suggests opting for pieces with removable cushions that can be stored inside when temperatures drop; furniture covers are also a useful alternative. Lastly, don’t forget to pay special attention to the cushion inserts you purchase for your outdoor chairs and sofas. Choose colors or patterns that go with the overall aesthetic of your space to make everything feel cohesive.

“You want cushions that are specifically made for outdoor settings,” the designer notes.

Be Mindful of Spills

Spills and stains are bound to happen when you’re gathering outdoors. However, it’s important to be prepared to tackle them from the get-go so you don’t permanently damage your furnishings. Consider getting covers for big gatherings, so you can avoid any future messes that may happen on your fabrics.

“You want to blot any spills first, and then you can use soap and water to clean any tough spots,” Humphrey comments. “For real dirt and grime, there are many fabrics that are actually bleach cleanable.”

Shop for Durable Choices

When it comes to specific designer-approved fabric brands to use outdoors, many pros cite Sunbrella as a top performer.

Kristina Phillips of Kristina Phillips Interior Design also appreciates Sunbrella, in addition to a number of other types of fabric, including olefin, which is known for its strength and resistance to water. Phillips also recommends polyester, a fabric that’s durable and resistant to fading and mildew, and PVC-coated polyester, which is highly waterproof and resistant to UV rays.

“Remember, proper care and maintenance are important regardless of the fabric you choose,” the designer reiterates.

“Regular cleaning and protecting your outdoor furniture from prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions will help extend its lifespan.”

Go for These Picks

Anna Olsen, JOANN Fabrics’ crafted content leader, notes that the fabric retailer, JOANN’s, carries solarium fabrics in over 200 colors and prints. These fabrics are known for being UV fade, water, and stain resistant. Shoppers can select from over 500 styles.

“From hot pink solids that complement your inner Barbie to bold statement stripe patterns that are perfect for summer decks and cushions,” Olsen comments.

If you’re not looking to take on a DIY and are instead hoping to shop for pre-covered outdoor furniture, Hood suggests turning to Ballard Designs and Pottery Barn.

“They have a great selection of outdoor furniture with solution-dyed acrylic covers,” Hood says.

Any questions please feel free to ask me through Andrew@sinotxj.com