Understanding Cushion Materials

Choosing the right materials for your outdoor cushions determines their comfort, durability, and maintenance levels.

 

Types of Fabrics

Outdoor cushion fabrics are designed for durability and to withstand the elements. Sunbrella and Olefin are commonly used for their fade-resistance and ease of cleaning. Sunbrella is recognized for its extensive range of colors and patterns. Olefin is praised for its strength and colorfastness.

Fill Materials

The feel and support of your cushions are dictated by their fill materials. Polyurethane foam is widely used for its balance of comfort and support, and is often wrapped in polyester fiberfill for extra softness. High-resiliency foam holds shape longer, providing a firmer seat.

Weather Resistance

Your cushions' ability to withstand weather conditions is critical. Look for water-resistant fabrics to prevent moisture damage and mold-resistant fills to fend off mildew. Some cushions feature a waterproof layer between the fabric and fill, further protecting against the elements.

Preparation for Storage

Proper preparation is essential to maintaining the quality and longevity of your outdoor cushions. Follow these steps to ensure they are stored correctly.

Cleaning Procedures

Before storing, thoroughly clean your cushions. Use a mild detergent and lukewarm water to remove any dirt or stains. For stubborn spots, employ a soft-bristled brush in a gentle, circular motion.

• Spot Cleaning: Apply a solution of 1/4 cup mild detergent to 1 gallon of water.
• General Cleaning: Soak cushions in the detergent solution and hand-wash.

After cleaning, rinse the cushions completely with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Drying Techniques

After cleaning, cushions must be completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.

• Air Drying: Place cushions on their side in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
• Towel Drying: Pat down cushions with an absorbent towel to remove excess water.

Check the cushions multiple times to ensure all moisture is gone, especially within seams and crevices.

Choosing Storage Locations

Selecting the right storage location for your outdoor cushions is vital for maintaining their condition. Consider both protection from the elements and accessibility when making your choice.

Indoor Storage Options

For indoor storage, utilize spaces like basements or garages, ensuring the area is dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold and mildew.

• Basements:

  • Make sure the space has dehumidifiers if necessary.
  • Place cushions on shelves or in sealed plastic bins to protect them from dust and pests.

• Garages:

  • Clear out a spot away from any equipment or vehicles that might cause damage.
  • Hang larger cushions on walls with sturdy hooks to save floor space.

Outdoor Storage Solutions

If indoor storage is not an option, explore weather-resistant outdoor storage boxes or sheds with good sealing capabilities to shield cushions from moisture and UV damage.

• Deck Boxes:

  • Choose UV-resistant materials to prevent fading.
  • Verify that the box has a tight seal to keep moisture out.

• Storage Sheds:

  • Opt for elevated shelves inside to avoid direct contact with the ground.
  • Ensure that the shed doors can be securely closed to keep the cushions safe.

Storage Conditions

Ensuring the longevity of your outdoor cushions depends greatly on the storage conditions you maintain. Specifically, stable temperatures and low humidity levels are essential, as well as robust pest prevention strategies.

Temperature and Humidity Control

To protect your cushions from mildew and material degradation, store them in a place where the temperature stays consistently between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity remains below 50%. Using silica gel packets or a dehumidifier can help maintain the right humidity levels.

Pest Prevention Measures

Avoiding pest infestation is crucial. You can do this by keeping your cushions in airtight containers or bags with a seal to deter insects and rodents. Incorporating mothballs or cedar chips can also repel pests, but these should not be in direct contact with the cushion fabric to prevent any damage.

Organizing Cushions for Storage

Before storing your outdoor cushions, ensure they are clean and dry to prevent mold and mildew. Proper organization is vital to maintaining their condition.

Stacking and Layering

• Stack cushions flat to maintain their shape.
• Allow space between stacks for airflow.
• Place heavier cushions at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• If stacking is high, use shelves to prevent toppling.

Use of Protective Covers

• Choose water-resistant and breathable covers.
• Ensure covers fit snugly to avoid slipping off.
• Label each cover for easy identification upon retrieval.

Maintenance During Storage

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your outdoor cushions in pristine condition while they're stored. This includes conducting routine checks and repositioning the cushions to ensure their longevity.

Routine Checks

• Monthly Inspection: At least once a month, inspect your stored cushions for any signs of damage or mold. Look for discoloration, tears, or critter activity.
• Climate Control: Ensure that the storage area maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level to prevent the growth of mildew.

Repositioning Cushions

• rotating Cushions: Every couple of months, rotate your cushions to help them keep their shape and prevent any one side from getting flattened more than the others.
• Reposition as Necessary: If you notice any imprints or pressure points during your routine checks, adjust the cushions' positioning to alleviate stress on the material.

Long-Term Storage Considerations

When preparing outdoor cushions for long-term storage, consider the following steps to ensure they remain in good condition:

Choose an Appropriate Location:

• Dry Area: Select a storage space that is dry to prevent mold and mildew.
• Away from Direct Sunlight: Avoid areas with direct sunlight that could fade colors.
• Low Traffic: Choose a low traffic area to prevent compression and distortion of cushions.

Clean Cushions Thoroughly:

• Remove Dirt: Brush off any loose dirt.
• Wash Covers: If removable, wash cushion covers according to manufacturer instructions.
• Dry Completely: Ensure that cushions are thoroughly dry before storing to avoid mildew.

Proper Packing Material:

• Breathable Covers: Store cushions in breathable fabric bags or use old cotton sheets to cover them.
• Avoid Plastic: Steer clear of airtight plastic bags, which trap moisture and encourage mold growth.

Storage Do's	Storage Don'ts
Use cedar balls for natural pest repellent.	Don't stack cushions under heavy items.
Place silica gel packets to absorb moisture.	Avoid wrapping cushions tightly with ropes or cords.

Maintain Shape and Integrity:

• Horizontal Stacking: Store cushions flat to retain their shape.
• Rotation: Periodically rotate stacked cushions to distribute weight evenly.

Check Periodically:

• Inspect the storage area and cushions every few months to ensure there are no issues such as pests or moisture build-up. Address any problems promptly to safeguard the cushions.