Outdoor Cushions

Picking outdoor cushion fill and fabric for the Australian climate

Outdoor cushions designed for Australian conditions should use a quick-dry polyester fill rather than standard foam, which absorbs moisture and takes days to dry after rain. The cover fabric matters just as much: solution-dyed acrylic, such as Sunbrella, holds colour up to five times longer than standard polyester when exposed to direct sun.

Layer with an outdoor umbrella to reduce direct UV exposure and help your cushions last longer.

Getting outdoor cushion sizing right for your chairs and benches

Seat cushions for dining chairs typically measure 40 to 45cm square, while bench cushions are sized by the length of the seat, usually starting at 100cm. Before ordering, measure your chair seat from front to back as well as side to side, since some curved or bucket-style outdoor chairs need a smaller depth than standard.

See the matching rattan outdoor chairs in our range if you're building out your seating and cushions at the same time.

How to style outdoor cushions on your patio or deck

Mixing two or three cushion sizes on a sofa or bench creates depth without requiring a large number of pieces. For a cohesive look on your patio, keep the same base colour across all seating and vary the pattern or texture in one or two accent cushions.

Shop our white outdoor benches as a clean backdrop that works with almost any cushion colour palette.

Frequently asked questions

Can outdoor cushions be left outside all year?

Cushions made from solution-dyed acrylic covers with quick-dry fill can handle occasional rain, but extended exposure accelerates wear. Most manufacturers recommend storing them indoors or in a deck box during heavy summer storms and in winter.

What is the best fill for outdoor cushions in a wet climate?

Hollow-fibre polyester and open-cell foam designed for outdoor use are both good options, as they allow water to drain and dry within a few hours. Avoid standard upholstery foam, which can take two to three days to fully dry and may develop mould.

How do you wash outdoor chair cushions?

Most outdoor cushion covers with zips can be removed and machine washed on a gentle cold cycle, then line dried. For fixed covers, scrub with a solution of mild detergent and water using a soft brush, rinse thoroughly with a gentle hose spray and allow to air dry flat.

What size outdoor cushion fits a standard dining chair?

A 40 x 40cm cushion fits most standard square dining chair seats. For chairs with a deeper seat pan, a 40 x 45cm or 45 x 45cm cushion provides better coverage.

How do I stop outdoor cushions from fading?

Choosing solution-dyed acrylic fabric is the single most effective step, as the colour is locked into the fibre rather than applied as a surface treatment. Storing cushions out of direct sun when not in use, particularly over the peak summer months, also extends their colour life significantly.