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If your outdoor cushions have been soaked in the rain or in the wash, or you’re looking to protect them from getting wet, here’s our expert advice on how you can dry them and keep them dry.
After Getting Soaked or Being Washed
Sometimes, it’s too late to bring in your outdoor furniture when an unexpected rain hits. While the garden furniture frame is usually OK to be left outside and get rained on, it’s a different story for the cushions. If you end up in this situation, you can always give them a wash and dry. Here’s what you can do:
Rewash the outdoor furniture cushions (cover + foam)
Most cushion covers are removable and washable, so start by taking them off. Washing instructions will depend on the fabric, so check the care label and follow it. Next, hand wash the cushion core, whether it’s foam or fibre-filled, by soaking it in warm water with a mild detergent. You can use a soft brush to scrub off stains if needed, but if there aren’t any, you can skip this step. Rinse everything and wring out the excess water from the cover and cushion.
Great examples of weather-resistant fabrics are Sunbrella, olefin, and polyester. These materials work well for outdoor use and can be washed.
Drying process
For the covers, hang them somewhere shady and airy to stop them from fading in the sun. Air drying works best unless the care label says the fabric is safe for the tumble dryer.
As for the cushions, put them in direct sunlight if you can and turn them now and then to help them dry faster. If you’re drying them indoors, a fan or dehumidifier will do, but it’ll likely take longer than drying them outside.
These methods work whether you follow the washing steps above or have your own routine. Just be careful not to overdry the cover and cushion, as this can make the fabric stiff and damage the core. It’s also worth keeping in mind the type of material your outdoor cushions are made from. For instance, open-cell foam and polyester fibre filling are quick-drying and can handle washing.
Note: This is a general guideline, but it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions whenever possible.
Invest in Garden Furniture Cushions Covers
Use covers to keep your cushions dry and save yourself the hassle of rewashing and drying them. This doesn’t just protect the cushions but the entire piece of furniture, depending on the size. Not just safe from rain and snow but also from UV rays and debris.
When it comes to materials, go for something durable, water-resistant, and UV-resistant, like polyester, vinyl, or canvas. Take this garden bench cover, for instance; it checks all those boxes and comes in an attractive forest green colour.
Furniture covers come in handy when the set isn’t in use—whether during extreme British weather, the off-season or while you’re away on holiday. You can also use them daily if you don’t mind removing the cover each time you use the set. The latter is worth the effort, knowing the cushions will stay dry to sit on whenever you need them.
Give this guide a read to learn more: Should You Use Garden Furniture Covers?
Sheds or Outdoor Storage Boxes Also Work
Covering your cushions and furniture is one thing, but storing them in a dry, dedicated space is another. A garden shed, for instance, has solid walls to protect your set from every angle and is arguably the best way to keep everything dry. Plus, having one means you’ve got extra storage for other items, too, especially if it’s a medium or large-sized structure. More outdoor belongings staying safe and dry—what’s not to love?
If you’re short on space, this cushion storage box is your best bet. It’s compact enough for patios, decking, or small gardens yet spacious enough to store more than just cushions.
Here’s another guide that can help with storing outdoor furniture: How To Store Rattan Garden Furniture
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