The outdoor fabrics we use across our garden furniture collection are designed to withstand exposure to the elements. They are fit for purpose. They are highly durable, water-resistant, UV-resistant, fade-resistant, and resistant to mould and mildew.
However, in the UK we have the perfect climate for both types of fungi to form.
While the majority of the outdoor fabrics used across our industry are also designed to be mildew and mould-resistant, just like ours, they are not completely immune to them.
Resistance is just a degree of protection. In other words, mould-resistant fabrics are designed to withstand some exposure but it is not impervious to it, although they should be easier to remove and less likely to leave stains.
Our climate, which at the moment is seeing a lot of sunny weather followed by rain, is the perfect breeding ground for these types of fungi to thrive.
Mould is often the more likely of the two to form when we see persistently wet weather.
Mildew is more commonly found on plant leaves, however, it can spread quickly to patio furniture in humid conditions if the right care and maintenance are not performed, especially during a warm, wet summer such as this one.
Outdoor fabrics are specialist textiles that we, as an industry, have designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor use.
There are several different types common in the UK and they are typically used in our outside spaces for items such as patio furniture cushions, parasols, awnings, and other patio accessories such as garden rugs, etc.
The key features that distinguish them from regular indoor fabrics are their durability, resistance to the elements, and ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Whilst, outdoor fabrics are made to last, resisting constant exposure to sunlight, moisture, and varying temperatures, they can not just be left outside in all weather and forgotten about. A degree of care, maintenance, and correct storage is required.
They are commonly woven from strong synthetic fibres that will resist heavy wear and tear, and they are often treated or coated to repel water, making them suitable for use in our outside spaces.
To prevent fading and degradation from prolonged sun exposure, outdoor fabrics are often treated to make them UV-resistant too. This will help maintain their colour and integrity over time.
There are many different fabrics used, and each has its pros and cons in terms of weather resistance and comfort - for example, the fabric used on a patio awning will often be more waterproof but not as soft as the cushion material on a garden chair or lounger.
What outdoor fabrics do we use at Lazy Susan?
Here at Lazy Susan, we use high-quality outdoor fabrics for both our garden cushions and parasols.
Our garden cushions are made from fast-drying, water-resistant fabric that is made from 100% polyester to give it the perfect blend of weather resistance and comfort.
The cushion covers are removable, making them easy to clean. They can be wiped down to remove marks or stains but are also machine washable at 30 degrees.
Our care label is shown above and this is applicable for our Seat Pad, Curve Back, High Back, Lattice Bench, April Bench and Lattice Lounger Cushions.
The fabric is designed to withstand the unpredictable UK weather, including occasional rain showers, mould, mildew, and fading from the sun.
The fabric used for the canopies on our parasols is also made from a slightly heavier weight g/m2 than our cushion covers but it is still a UV and lightly water-resistant 100% polyester.
It is specifically designed for outdoor use, it is fast-drying and will help protect you and your furniture from the sun and a passing summer shower.
The reason we have chosen 100% polyester for our outdoor fabric range is that it gives us all the durability and resistance we need with softness and breathability - which is important when it comes to mould and mildew prevention.
What is mould and mildew?
Mould and mildew are both types of fungi, but they have distinct characteristics and implications, particularly when it comes to outdoor fabric.
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Mould
Mould is a type of fungus that forms multicellular filaments called hyphae. These can appear as fuzzy or slimy patches. It thrives in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and can grow on various surfaces, including outdoor fabrics like cushions. -
Mildew
Mildew is a specific type of mould that tends to grow on flat, moist surfaces. It typically appears as a thin, powdery or fluffy layer, usually white, grey, or yellow. Like mould, mildew thrives in warm, damp environments.
What causes mould and mildew on outdoor fabrics?
Outdoor fabrics, whilst resistant, can develop mould and mildew if they are exposed to moisture and not properly maintained.
Outdoor cushions, for example, are often exposed to rain, dew, humidity, or even condensation if not stored correctly, which can create the perfect breeding ground.
Mould and mildew also feed on organic material. Outdoor cushions, especially those accidentally left outside, can accumulate organic debris like pollen, dirt, leaves, or even food particles, providing them with a food source.
Cushions that are placed in poorly ventilated areas or stored without adequate air circulation can also retain moisture, making them more susceptible to mould and mildew growth.
Warm temperatures also accelerate the growth of mould and mildew. Outdoor fabrics in a shaded or covered area can stay warm and damp for longer periods, increasing the likelihood of growth
If outdoor fabrics are left outside during a downpour and then not left to properly dry, they are at high risk of developing mould and mildew.
Storing outdoor cushions while they are still damp or in a sealed, non-breathable container is a mistake many make too. It traps the moisture, leading to the formation of mould and mildew.
What are the different types of outdoor fabrics?
Many outdoor fabrics are treated with specialist coatings or finishes that help to resist the formation of mould and mildew.
However, these treatments are not foolproof, and their effectiveness will diminish if the fabric is not properly maintained.
Regular cleaning and proper care depending on the type of fabric is essential to keep these protective features intact.
The common types of outdoor fabrics on sale in the UK include:
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Acrylic
Acrylic fabrics are soft, lightweight, and breathable. They are known for good resistance to UV, making them ideal for outdoor use. Common uses include patio furniture, awnings, parasols, and outdoor cushions. Whilst UV-resistant, mildew-resistant, and colourfast, the downside is they can be more expensive than other fabrics. -
Polyester
Polyester is a strong and durable synthetic fabric that is often treated with a special coating to enhance its water resistance and UV protection. It is commonly found on outdoor furniture cushions, parasols and garden furniture covers. It is resistant to stretching and shrinking but it can fade over time with prolonged sun exposure if not cared for. -
Olefin (Polypropylene)
Olefin is the trade name for a synthetic fabric known for its strength and resistance to moisture, mildew, and chemicals. It is more commonly used for outdoor rugs but can be found on some outdoor upholstery and cushions. It is water-resistant and stain-resistant but not as soft as the polyester and acrylic fabrics. -
PVC-Coated Polyester (Vinyl)
This fabric takes polyester and coats it with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to make it highly waterproof and durable. It is commonly used on awnings and outdoor furniture covers as it is extremely waterproof and durable. Also popular is a wider mesh version known as Texteline or Textoline that is generally used for patio seating and sun loungers. It is ideal for hot climates as is breathable, durable, UV and water-resistant. On the downside, they are often less comfortable than solid padded fabrics, and whilst great poolside, they are much less breathable than the first 3 types of fabric. They can become sticky in hot weather but we looked at mesh fabrics in detail in our recent How do you clean plastic mesh patio furniture? -
Canvas
Outdoor canvasses are traditionally made from cotton or a cotton blend. The canvas is then blended with synthetic fibres such as polyester for added durability. You generally tend to see it used on traditional deckchairs or those foldable director-style chairs, however it is more commonly used on tents and awnings. And whilst it is durable, strong, and versatile, it requires regular treatment to keep it water and mildew resistant and it is prone to degrading and is highly susceptible to staining from mould and mildew. -
Nylon
Nylon is a strong synthetic fabric that is lightweight and water-resistant when treated. It is more commonly used for tents and outdoor gear but there are some companies selling nylon parasols. The big advantage it has is that it is lightweight, strong, and quick-drying, however, it too can degrade with prolonged UV exposure and it will often require re-treating to keep it water-resistant. -
Marine Vinyl
Designed for harsh marine environments, marine vinyl is a heavy-duty fabric that resists water, salt, and mould. It is most commonly found on boat seats and marine upholstery, and some manufacturers have used it on outdoor furniture too. It is fully waterproof, UV-resistant, and easy to clean, however, it is much less breathable and has a stiffness to it that can make it uncomfortable to sit on for longer periods.
Each type of outdoor fabric has its specific strengths, making it suitable for different outdoor applications. The polyester we use is the most commonly used fabric for detachable outdoor cushions and parasols as it offers the perfect balance of mould resistance and comfort
Many outdoor fabrics are treated with chemical coatings or finishes that help resist mould and mildew. However, these treatments are not foolproof. Regular cleaning and proper care are essential to keeping their resistance intact.
How to safely remove mould and mildew stains from outdoor fabrics
If the worst should happen, then removing mould and mildew stains from outdoor fabrics requires a careful approach to avoid damaging the fabric.
Different types of fabrics need slightly different treatments, but here are some general methods we would recommend you follow for the common outdoor materials we’ve listed above:
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Acrylic Fabrics
The best way we’ve found to clean acrylic fabric is with washing-up liquid and a soft-bristle brush. Mix 1/4 of a cup in a bucket of water and gently scrub the fabric to avoid damaging it. Rinse with clean water to remove all soap residue. If you have any stubborn mould or mildew stains that this doesn’t remove, then try mixing a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach and 1/4 cup of washing-up liquid in a bucket of water. Apply it to the stained area but let it sit for 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Allow the fabric to air dry completely before using or storing. -
Polyester and Olefin (Polypropylene)
These two can be cleaned in the same way, and as with acrylic, a solution of warm water and washing-up liquid is the best place to start. However, rather than a soft-bristle brush, we would recommend a soft cloth or sponge to apply. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water. If there is a stubborn mould or mildew stain, never use bleach. Mix equal parts white vinegar with water and apply directly onto the affected area with a spray bottle. Let it sit for 2 minutes, wash it with the washing-up liquid solution, rinse the area again with cold water, and leave it to air dry. -
PVC-Coated Fabrics (Vinyl & Mesh)
To clean PVC-coated vinyl and mesh fabric, the starting point is to wash them with washing-up liquid, warm water a soft brush or a sponge. Apply the solution to the mildew-stained area, and rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue. If that doesn’t remove the stains, then you can try disinfecting it with a bleach solution. Mix a cap of bleach with warm water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) and apply cautiously. Avoid prolonged contact with the fabric. Thoroughly rinse off the bleach solution completely and allow the fabric to air dry. -
Canvas
For canvas, again a solution of washing up liquid and warm water is the best place to start or just to give it a general clean. Apply with a soft bristled brush. For more stubborn mould and mildew stains, we would suggest you try the solution above of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Again, apply with care, as bleach can fade the fabric, so make sure you rinse well and let the fabric dry completely in a well-ventilated area. -
Nylon
The best solution we have found for cleaning nylon outdoor fabric is to mix warm water with a few drops of washing-up liquid. You don’t need much as it is a little more difficult to rinse. Apply with a sponge or soft cloth. If the stains are a little more persistent, then try a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply it with a spray bottle and dab it gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Don’t let it sit, rinse the area well with clean water and leave it to air dry.
Our final tips on fabric for outdoor furniture…
The above methods are basic techniques that we have found work best on each fabric. However, it is important to always follow the manufacturer's guidelines first and foremost. If they recommend a particular cleaning product or protection, then use it.
To be on the safe side, we would always recommend that you test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolour or damage the fabric.
Always avoid any harsh scrubbing too as this can damage the fibres of the fabric. Be gentle and blot if you can.
To prevent further mould and mildew from forming, always ensure that the fabric is 100% dry before using or storing it.
After cleaning, you could also consider applying an outdoor fabric protector to help resist future mould and mildew growth and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
Our parasols need to be cleaned on the frame, so open them up, and drop them down as low as they’ll go or tilt towards you. Our How to clean your parasol and awning article looks at how we recommend you do this.
For our cushions, you can remove the cover and wash them on a cool temp as per the care label above. Do NOT bleach them or use any cleaning agents that have any form of chlorinated chemical.
Remove the cover from the seat pad and wash the cover only. The cover fabric can shrink a little as it dries, so we advise that you put the cover back on the padded filling material before the cover is completely dry to prevent this and help retain the shape.
To prevent mould and mildew from forming, keep your outdoor fabrics dry. If they do get wet, shake off excess water and ensure fabrics are thoroughly dried before you use them or store them. Only put them on your furniture when using and do not leave them out overnight.
Regularly hoovering and cleaning outdoor fabrics with a little washing-up liquid will help to remove any dirt, debris, and organic matter that could promote mould growth.
Always store your fabrics in a dry, well-ventilated area when not in use. If you want to put them in something, then purchase the breathable but waterproof outdoor cushion storage bags.
If you have our outdoor furniture with or without our outdoor fabrics on your patio, then we would love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.
