Outdoor furniture is much different than indoor furniture. Outdoor furniture is exposed to all of the elements. Rain, wind, sun, and extreme temperatures. There are so many different types of fabrics for outdoor furniture and each kind protects against different things. Consider these questions before you buy your fabric. Is your furniture under a covered porch? Do you live in a hot climate? Will your fabric need to be waterproof? Let’s go over the different kinds of fabric available to choose the best fabric for your outdoor furniture.
Cotton Canvas
Cotton canvas is cheap and can be bought anywhere. It is available in several different colors and patterns that can match any outdoor furniture set. The canvas is tough and typically does well being outdoors. This fabric is easy to wipe off with a damp cloth. If you have a specific design idea in mind, you can also paint the canvas yourself. Cotton canvas works the best for the outdoors if it is treated with a protective coating before use.
Duck Cloth
Duck cloth is a lot like cotton canvas except the weave is closer together. This cloth can be purchased in different thicknesses and toughness. So if you’re looking for a heavier duty cloth, duck cloth can suit your needs. A lighter duck cloth is available if you’re looking for something that will withstand only slight wear and tear. Duck cloth is a little more expensive than cotton canvas. It is also harder to paint or decorate yourself. If you’re looking for something cheaper that you can design, go with cotton canvas. If designing the fabric yourself is not important to you, duck cloth would be a great choice.
Olefin Fiber
Olefin fiber is synthetic. It is so synthetic that it is considered a plastic fabric so it is great for cushion covers. This fabric is resistant to all the outdoor elements and would make a great choice for your outdoor furniture if durability is important to you. This fabric can withstand water, heat, wind, and even mold.
Textilene Fabric
Textilene fabric is used for the majority of outdoor furniture. It is frequently used for sun shades because it is fade resistant. In addition, it is also mold and water resistant, and flame retardant. This is a great choice as far as durability and functionality of an outdoor fabric. Most hardware or home improvement stores carry this fabric. The only downside is that this fabric has a very plastic-y feel to it. It wouldn’t be very comfortable for sweaty thighs in the middle of the summer. You’d have a hard time peeling your legs off of this fabric. So if comfort is the highest on your list of priorities, this fabric is not for you. If durability and functionality are high on your list, this would definitely be a great choice!
Image Source: Pixabay
Summing Up
Whether you’re looking for something comfortable with a designer look, or something durable that will last there is a fabric for you. Summer is coming up and if you want your outdoor furniture to be a great place for your friends and families to sit, these fabrics are great options. Prioritize what you’re looking for in an outdoor fabric and consider all your choices. All of these fabrics are great and any one of them could be the best fabric for your outdoor furniture.
Image Source: Pixabay
