6 Tips for Choosing an Outdoor Fabric That Will Hold Up
One of the most important details to remember when shopping for outdoor furniture is that not all outdoor fabrics are the same. While some may look nice, inferior quality can mean they will break down quickly when exposed to outdoor elements. To avoid investing in materials that won’t hold up as long as you want, take a look at the tips below.
1. Check for Waterproof Qualities
When water leaks onto outdoor materials, it should bead up and slide off. If you notice a material absorbs the water, then it will be a bad choice for your furniture. Once absorbed, mold will grow, and the material will break down quickly from remaining wet.
2. Find Something That is Sun and UV Ray Resistant
The sun’s rays will ultimately be the reason why most outdoor furniture doesn’t survive. Fortunately, a good quality fabric can help your cushions look newer for longer by avoiding fading and breaking down. UV-resistant fabrics will also remain strong, which means less risk of rips and tears no matter how frequently you use the pieces.
3. Check the Fabric Strength
While it’s important to have a soft outdoor fabric, one that’s too soft can break down more easily than others. Stronger materials will withstand the friction created by daily use, so you notice fewer tears and blemishes over time.
4. Is it Easy to Clean?
When furniture is outside, it’s bound to end up with stains from animals, food, people, or the elements. Fortunately, most fabrics are stain-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about blemishes. However, not all fabrics offer this feature, so you must look for it when shopping around.
5. Learn About the Material
Polyester, acrylic, PVC mesh fabric, and Alcantara are the most commonly used fabrics for outdoor furniture. Polyester is a great choice because it’s soft, easy to clean, and lasts for a while. Acrylic resists fading and stains while also being soft to the touch. PVC mesh fabric is something you’ll see on curtains or solar covers, as it’s extremely water resistant. Alcantara is a fabric you’ll find on boats because it resists UV rays and is water resistant.
6. Don’t Focus on Price
While it’s reasonable to want the best price for outdoor furniture, it shouldn’t be your main focus. Buying a lower-quality material because it costs less can mean having to replace it sooner, which will ultimately cost you more. Instead, find something that offers the features you are looking for so you can use it without needing to replace it for a long time!
When you invest in high-quality fabrics, your outdoor furniture can last for decades! Additionally, it’s important to make sure the fabric has a high thread count, as increased density can ensure the fabric can withstand frequent use. Although this is a lot to keep in mind, working with a fabric manufacturer can guide you in the right direction. Advice from those who know materials the best can mean getting exactly what you want for your outdoor space.