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Outdoor Pillows for Patio and Deck

Outdoor pillows need covers that resist fading and mildew. Start here.

Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Home stores, garden centers and furniture shops stock patio pillows in spring. End of season sales clear them out in late summer.

Professional insight

Patio furniture buyers judge outdoor pillows by the cover fiber first. The insert and seams come next.

  • Solution dyed acrylic keeps color through many sunny seasons.
  • Printed polyester fades fastest on the sun facing side.
  • Look for a zip cover so the insert can dry.
  • Welted edges hide wear better than plain knife edges.

Check the label

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Materials

Common outdoor pillow covers
Cover fabricStrengthWeak point
Solution dyed acrylicColor runs through the fiberCosts more
Solution dyed polyesterGood fade resistance, lower costFeels less soft
Printed polyesterCheap, many patternsPrint fades in strong sun
OlefinSheds water and stainsCan feel stiff

Sizing

  • 18 x 18 inches suits most dining and bistro chairs.
  • 20 x 20 or 22 x 22 inches fits deep sofa seats.
  • Lumbar pillows around 12 x 20 inches support lower backs.
  • Measure the back cushion height before choosing a size.
  • Inserts one size up give a fuller, plumper look.

Care

  1. 1Brush off loose dirt and pollen once a week.
  2. 2Spot clean spills with mild soap and water.
  3. 3Remove covers for a full wash as the label allows.
  4. 4Stand pillows on edge after rain so water drains.
  5. 5Dry the insert fully before zipping it back in.

Storage

Bring patio pillows inside during storms and winter. Store them dry in a ventilated deck box.

Common questions

Can outdoor pillows stay out in the rain?
They can get wet, but they last longer when dried and stored.
Why do my patio pillows smell musty?
Water trapped in the fill grows mildew. Dry inserts in the sun.
Are indoor pillows fine on a covered porch?
Humidity still reaches them. Outdoor rated fabric holds up better.
Do outdoor pillow covers come without inserts?
Often yes. Check the listing before you order.