Patio sets come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on your preferences there are thousands of different types of patio sets available, each one with its own design element, its own price, and its own ability to complement your backyard décor, available here.
One of the things you will need to consider when you find patio sets is the type of cushion you’d prefer. Generally patio set cushions are designed with four different types of fabrics:
• Acrylic
• Poly/Olefin
• PVC/Vinyl
• Spun Polyester
Choosing between these patio set fabrics is important, because each comes with its own benefits and weaknesses that may affect its potential as an addition to your yard.
Acrylic Fabrics
Overall, acrylic fabrics appear to be the best option for patio set cushions. Not only is acrylic the most comfortable type of fabric available, it also one of the most durable and the easiest to clean. It resists mold and manages to keep much of its color against sun bleaching. It is also one of the most expensive patio set cushion fabrics, but those willing to invest will find it to be the best choice.
Poly/Olefin
Poly/Olefin is a synthetic fabric made of polyester and olefin. The fiber is extremely fade resistant and far less costly than acrylic. It is also a little less comfortable, but only slightly so. It can fight mold and mildew well, but doesn’t have the resiliency of acrylic against things like body oils.
PVC/Vinyl
PVC/Vinyl is a type of coating that covers standard polyester patio set cushions. The coating makes the cushions feel rougher to the touch, which takes away from their comfort. They are also much harder to clean, but handle rain much better than any of the other fabrics, and are often more competitively priced.
Spun Polyester
From a comfort-only perspective, Spun Polyester may actually be a little bit softer than acrylic. The problem is that the fabric itself is far less sturdy and harder to clean, so that while it begins as a soft fabric, it may easily dry out and stain, becoming something that is less comfortable over time. It also has a tendency to bleach in the sun and far more prone to stains.
Choosing Between Patio Furniture Cushions
Acrylic is easily the best choice for patio set cushions, but may not be the most affordable. The others have their benefits and weaknesses, and should be chosen based on budget and décor. However, remember that some of the fabrics may fade, so keep that in mind as you make your choices. If your patio set cushion’s color is the perfect complement to your backyard, but the fabric is prone to fading, it may not be the right choice.