Care Guide: Outdoor Seat CushionsUpdated 3 hours ago
Caring for your outdoor seat cushions
Outdoor seat cushions are designed to be weather-resistant and comfortable through the season. With regular care and correct storage they will stay looking fresh and hold their shape for many years.
Initial appearance
Cushions may arrive with some light creasing or compression from packaging and transit — this is completely normal and will ease naturally with regular use over a short period outdoors. Do not attempt to iron or steam cushions to remove creasing.
Routine cleaning
Brush off any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush before cleaning. For routine cleaning, spot clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge, working on one small area at a time. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry naturally and fully before stacking, folding, or covering. Do not submerge cushions in water and do not use a pressure washer.
We recommend spraying any cleaning product onto the cloth rather than directly onto the cushion fabric.
Recommended care products
For a deeper clean or to restore water repellency after a season of use, our Golden Care fabric care range is ideal for outdoor cushion fabrics. The Fabric Cleaner removes ingrained dirt and restores the fabric's appearance. Follow with the Fabric Protector to restore the water-resistant barrier and the built-in mould and mildew inhibitor.
Dealing with spills
Blot liquid spills immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth — do not rub, as this spreads the spill and pushes it deeper into the fabric. Once blotted, clean the area with mild soapy water and rinse well. For oil-based spills such as sun cream or food grease, a small amount of washing-up liquid applied to the area and left for a few minutes before rinsing can be effective. Always allow the cushion to dry fully after treating any spill before using or storing.
Removable covers
Many of our seat cushions feature removable covers. However, we recommend caution when removing them. Inner cushion pads often have a thin protective membrane or inner liner that can be difficult to refit correctly once removed. Unless the care label specifically states the inner pad is also washable and removable, we suggest keeping it inside the cover and spot cleaning the cover in place rather than removing it entirely.
Please note: Always check the care label before washing a removable cover. Machine washing is only suitable if the label specifically confirms it. If machine washing is permitted, use a gentle cycle with cool water and a mild detergent, and allow to air dry fully before refitting to the cushion pad.
Drying cushions
Always allow cushions to dry fully and completely before stacking, folding, or placing in storage. Stand cushions upright or prop them on their side to allow air to circulate around all surfaces — do not lay them flat on the ground while drying. Do not tumble dry outdoor cushions unless the care label specifically states it is safe to do so.
Important: Placing even slightly damp cushions into a storage bag or under a furniture cover will lead to mould developing inside the cushion pad. Mould inside a cushion pad causes permanent odour and staining that is very difficult to remove. Always ensure cushions are completely dry — not just surface-dry — before storing.
UV fading
Outdoor cushion fabrics are UV-treated and solution-dyed where possible, but prolonged direct sun exposure will cause gradual fading over time. This is normal wear and is not covered under guarantee. Bringing cushions indoors or storing them in a cushion bag when not in use, using a parasol during the hottest part of the day, and applying our Fabric Protector regularly will all slow fading considerably.
Mould and mildew
If mould or mildew develops on the cushion cover, clean with our Golden Care Fabric Cleaner or a solution of warm water and a small amount of white vinegar applied with a soft brush. Work the solution into the affected area, leave for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely in the open air. Once dry, apply the Fabric Protector to restore the mould-inhibiting barrier. If mould has penetrated into the inner cushion pad itself, the cushion may need to be replaced as the odour and staining in the pad is very difficult to resolve fully.
Bringing cushions in
Cushions should be brought inside or placed in a dedicated cushion storage bag whenever the furniture is not in active use — particularly overnight and whenever rain is forecast. Consistently bringing cushions in when not needed is the single most effective way to extend their lifespan.
Winter storage
At the end of the season, clean cushions thoroughly with our Fabric Cleaner, allow to dry completely, and apply the Fabric Protector before storing. Store in a dedicated cushion storage bag or in a dry indoor space such as a cupboard, garage shelf, or shed. Do not store in airtight containers — moisture needs to be able to escape. Do not store cushions under furniture covers outdoors over winter.
Important: Never store cushions while damp or under furniture covers outdoors over winter. Even a breathable cover does not provide adequate protection for cushion pads during sustained cold, wet weather, and mould will develop in the pad over several months.
What to avoid
Seasonal maintenance checklist
Work through this at the start of each season before bringing cushions back into use.
- Inspect cushions for any mould, odour, staining, or damage that developed in storage
- Clean with Fabric Cleaner or warm soapy water and allow to dry fully before use
- Apply Fabric Protector to restore water repellency and the mould-inhibiting barrier
- Check that water beads off the fabric surface — if not, re-apply Fabric Protector
- Check removable covers are correctly fitted and secure
- Inspect cushion storage bags for damage and replace if they no longer offer full protection