When it comes to decorating your patio or backyard seating area, outdoor furniture throw pillows do more than add color and style—they enhance comfort and complete the look of your outdoor oasis. But not all throw pillows are created equal. To keep your pillows looking fresh and functional through sun, rain, and everyday use, it all comes down to one key factor: fabric.

At Cushions by Wicker Imports, we specialize in custom outdoor cushions and throw pillows designed to stand up to the elements. Here’s a guide to the best fabrics to look for when selecting outdoor furniture throw pillows that are built to last.

1. Solution-Dyed AcrylicSolution-dyed acrylic is one of the most popular and reliable fabrics for outdoor pillows. Brands like Sunbrella® are known for their fade resistance, water repellency, and durability. Because the dye is added during the fiber production (not afterward), the color penetrates deeply, making it resistant to UV rays and fading. It also resists mildew, stains, and general wear—making it perfect for sunny patios and poolside lounges.
2. Polyester Outdoor FabricPolyester is another excellent choice for outdoor furniture throw pillows, especially when treated with weather-resistant coatings. It’s less expensive than acrylic and comes in a wide variety of colors and prints. When coated with UV protectants and water-repellent finishes, polyester fabrics can perform well outdoors, though they may not last quite as long as acrylic under intense sun exposure.
3. Olefin (Polypropylene)Olefin is a synthetic fiber that offers great resistance to moisture, mildew, and fading. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and very easy to clean—making it ideal for wet climates or near pools and spas. Olefin is also a sustainable option, as it’s made from recycled materials and uses minimal water in its production process.
4. Textilene® Mesh and PVC-Coated FabricsOften used in sling chairs and marine-grade cushions, Textilene and similar mesh fabrics are incredibly durable and moisture-resistant. While they’re more commonly found in structured outdoor furniture, they can also be used as stylish and breathable covers for throw pillows in high-moisture areas.
5. Blended Outdoor FabricsSome outdoor furniture throw pillows feature fabric blends that combine the best properties of multiple fibers. For instance, an acrylic-polyester blend may offer both vibrant colors and improved resistance to pilling or fraying. Always look for pillows labeled specifically for outdoor use to ensure they’ve been treated with the proper UV and water-resistant coatings.

What to Avoid: Stay away from indoor fabrics or untreated cotton, linen, and silk for outdoor use. While they might look stylish initially, they won’t withstand outdoor conditions and will quickly fade, mold, or deteriorate.

Final Tip: Don’t Forget the Fill While fabric is key to a long-lasting throw pillow, the fill matters too. Outdoor-friendly inserts should be made from quick-drying foam or polyfill and encased in water-resistant liners to help them last through unpredictable weather.

Elevate Your Patio with Cushions by Wicker Imports Ready to upgrade your outdoor seating with stylish and durable throw pillows? At Cushions by Wicker Imports, we offer hundreds of weather-resistant fabrics and custom options to match your patio furniture perfectly. Whether you’re going bold with color or staying neutral and timeless, we’ll help you design outdoor furniture throw pillows that are as tough as they are beautiful.