Choosing the Right Outdoor Seat Cushions for Casual Furniture

One of the advantages to having outdoor furniture is that it is designed for both weather and comfort. While not all chairs and seating accessories need cushions, they add an element of style and a splash of color to a casual outdoor setting. The right cushion can be decided by choosing the shape, size, material, thickness, color and type of fastener.

Fasteners
The traditional attachment for cushions to chair backs is to tie strings in a bow. This adds a little flourish around the seating area and makes the cushion easy to remove for cleaning or seasonal storage. Some people find it difficult to make a bow look presentable or to make the strings match in length and form on opposite sides of the seat. In some cases, the length of the bow strings can be a distraction rather than a stylish twist. Whether for ease of use or for looks, many cushions are now available with hook-and-loop closures instead. This is a quick solution to keeping seat pads on chairs. While more casual, they are also less noticeable than ties. Some seat pads come without any fasteners and are more suited to sheltered areas, such as a screened-in porch or small balcony than an outdoor patio.

Colors
Adding a splash of color to outdoor decor with patio furniture is one way to put a homeowner's personal stamp on the space. For versatility from season to season, manufacturers offer a variety of cushion colors that can be changed. For example, the same size, shape and thickness seat pad is often available in diverse color selections such as green, red or brown. Neutral colors and earth tones are easy choices to mix with exterior flooring. Brick, natural stone, linoleum and cement are popular patio flooring options that can change their looks depending on the colors displayed around them from season to season.

Shapes
The shape of the cushion should typically conform to the shape of the chair seat. Avoid cushion shapes and sizes that hang over the edges. These tend to grow crease marks and may become uncomfortable for the person sitting on it. There should typically be a margin of one-half inch or more around the circumference of the cushion.

Features
Seat pads may come with custom features to match a specific design. For example, a lounger, loveseat or bench would have a custom-sized pad and trim, buttons or a foldable feature. The thickness of the pad is often directly related to the comfort level. They range from an inch in thickness to several inches. Filling material choices include foam core and polyester.

Materials
Look for materials that are waterproof and colorfast. Fire-retardant, non-compressive and mildew-resistant materials are also desirable. Many of today's manufacturers now offer fashionable cushions that can be left outside in the weather year-round. Popular choices include canvas and acrylic.