Outdoor cushion listings use a lot of fabric terms: solution-dyed acrylic, olefin, spun polyester, Oxford, TPU coating, C0 finish. They describe real differences in how a cushion handles sun, rain and cleaning, and they help explain why two cushions that look alike can age very differently.

This guide explains the main fabric types, how dyeing and coatings change performance, and what foam labels mean. Each roundup in our Outdoor Cushions category lists the fabric each maker states.

How the Color Gets In

The dyeing method matters as much as the fiber. In solution-dyed fabric, color is added to the liquid fiber before it is spun, so the color runs all the way through each strand. In yarn-dyed fabric, finished yarn is dyed before weaving. In printed fabric, color sits on the surface.

Color that runs through the fiber is harder for sunlight to bleach, which is why solution-dyed fabrics usually hold their color longest outdoors.

Solution-Dyed Acrylic

Solution-dyed acrylic, with Sunbrella as the best-known brand, is the traditional premium choice for outdoor cushions. It resists fading well, feels soft and breathable, and makers such as Sunbrella publish detailed cleaning instructions, including for mildew.

The trade-offs are cost and water. Acrylic resists water but is not waterproof, so foam underneath can still get wet. Some products in our guides, such as the RSH Decor and Cushion Source ottoman cushions, use Sunbrella fabric.

Olefin

Olefin (polypropylene) is also usually solution-dyed. It resists fading and moisture, dries quickly and tends to cost less than acrylic. It can feel slightly less soft, and it is more sensitive to high heat, so keep it away from fire pits and follow the maker's drying limits.

In our picks, Arden's chaise cushion, SUNROX's rocker set and ACTREST's sectional cushions use olefin.

Polyester

Polyester is the most common fabric on budget and mid-range cushions. It is strong and takes prints well, but unless it is solution-dyed, it generally fades sooner in full sun than acrylic or olefin. Many listings now offer solution-dyed polyester, which narrows the gap.

Terms you will see include spun polyester (a softer, cotton-like weave), Oxford (a sturdy basket weave), and a GSM figure, which is the fabric weight. A higher GSM usually means a heavier, more durable cloth.

Coatings and Finishes

  • TPU or PU coating: a thin layer on the back of the fabric that helps block water.
  • DWR or C0 finish: a water-repellent treatment on the surface. C0 finishes are PFAS-free.
  • Water-resistant vs waterproof: most cushions are water resistant. Water can still get in through seams and zippers.

Coatings help, but no fabric keeps a cushion dry if it sits in rain for days.

Foam and Fill Labels

Listings often give foam density as a number followed by D, such as 28D or 35D. A higher number usually means firmer, longer-lasting foam. Shredded foam and fiberfill feel softer but shift and flatten more. Some premium cushions use open-cell quick-dry foam that lets water drain through instead of soaking in.

Which Fabric Should You Choose

  • Full sun, long life: solution-dyed acrylic or olefin.
  • Covered porch or budget: polyester, ideally solution-dyed, with a washable cover.
  • Pool and rain: olefin or acrylic with quick-dry foam, and store cushions dry anyway.

FAQ

Is Sunbrella worth the cost?

It tends to hold color longer in full sun. If your cushions live under a roof, a good polyester cushion may be enough.

Is olefin better than polyester?

Olefin is usually solution-dyed and resists fading and moisture better than standard polyester. Solution-dyed polyester narrows the difference.

Are any outdoor cushions fully waterproof?

Very few. Most are water resistant, and water can reach the foam through seams. Store cushions dry in wet weather.

The Bottom Line

For long life in full sun, choose solution-dyed acrylic or olefin. For covered spaces and tighter budgets, solution-dyed polyester with a removable cover is a sensible choice. Whatever the fabric, drying and storage decide how long a cushion lasts. See Best Outdoor Cushions and How to Clean Outdoor Cushions.