What Are Outdoor Pillows Made Of: Fabrics, Fillers & Functionality Explained

Outdoor pillows are more than just a splash of color—they’re an essential part of creating a cozy, inviting outdoor space.

Whether you’re lounging on the porch with a morning coffee or hosting a backyard BBQ, your outdoor cushions go through a lot.

The sun, wind, rain, and even pollen can wear them down faster than indoor pillows.

So, if you’ve ever wondered what are outdoor pillows made of and why some last longer than others, we’re breaking it all down for you here.

What Are Outdoor Pillows Made Of?

Outdoor pillows are specially designed to endure the elements while keeping comfort top of mind.

What separates them from their indoor counterparts is primarily the fabric and fill.

Common Fabric Types:

Why Fabric Matters:

• Solution-dyed acrylics (like Sunbrella) are top-tier for resisting UV rays, mold, and moisture.

  • Their colorfastness comes from fibers dyed before weaving, which means they won’t fade easily—even under intense sunlight.

  • They’re also breathable and soft, making them a go-to for luxury-level comfort outdoors.

• Polyester is affordable and easy to clean but may fade over time.

  • While not as fade-resistant, polyester offers solid moisture resistance and is often treated with coatings for enhanced durability.

  • Its versatility in textures and prints makes it a popular choice for trendy or seasonal updates.

• Olefin is strong, quick-drying, and popular for its resistance to stains and mildew.

  • It has low moisture absorption and dries faster than many other materials, making it great for humid or wet environments.

  • Additionally, it resists chemical cleaners, which adds to its longevity in high-use outdoor areas.

After years of swapping out discolored pillows every summer, we finally went with acrylic options.

It made a noticeable difference—they held up through sun and rain without a trace of fading.

What to Fill Outdoor Pillows With

The fill material is just as important as the outer fabric when it comes to comfort and longevity.

It impacts how your pillows feel, how quickly they dry, and how well they stand up to the elements over time.

Best Outdoor Pillow Fillers:

• Polyester fiberfill

  • Lightweight, quick-drying, and affordable.

  • Great for toss pillows and occasional use.

  • Holds shape decently but may compress with heavy use over time.

• Foam (open-cell or reticulated)

  • More structured and supportive.

  • Best for seat cushions or areas with frequent use.

  • Reticulated foam allows water to pass through easily, preventing waterlogging.

• Polypropylene beads

  • Commonly used for beanbags or loungers.

  • Mold-resistant and very lightweight.

  • Conforms to body shape but may shift or bunch with regular use.

• Memory foam (less common outdoors)

  • Soft and moldable but must be in a waterproof casing.

  • Offers great pressure relief, ideal for hybrid indoor/outdoor spaces like covered patios.

For long-lasting comfort and function, consider using a blend of materials—fiberfill for softness with a thin foam core for added structure.

Avoid traditional down or feather fills for outdoor use. They retain moisture, attract mildew, and take forever to dry.

Even a single summer rain can ruin them beyond repair, making synthetic alternatives a much more practical choice.

How to Store Outdoor Pillows

Proper storage is key to keeping your outdoor pillows fresh and ready to go when the season starts.

Thoughtful storage not only protects your investment but also ensures your cushions remain soft, vibrant, and odor-free year after year.

Seasonal Storage Tips:

1. Clean before storing: Wash covers and wipe down inserts with mild soap and water. Be sure to remove dirt, debris, and sunscreen residue that can degrade materials during storage.

2. Dry completely: Always air dry thoroughly to prevent mildew. This applies to both the inner fill and the outer cover—trapped moisture is one of the fastest ways to ruin a pillow.

3. Use breathable storage: Choose fabric bins, deck boxes with ventilation, or mesh bags. Avoid plastic trash bags or sealed totes that trap moisture and promote mold.

4. Add pest deterrents: Cedar blocks or lavender sachets can keep bugs away. You can also consider sealed pouches of baking soda to absorb residual humidity and odors.

5. Keep elevated: Avoid storing directly on garage or shed floors to reduce the chance of moisture damage. Use pallets, low shelves, or plastic risers to promote airflow underneath your storage bins.

Much like a Puffy Lux Mattress, which stays fresh thanks to its breathable and hypoallergenic materials, proper airflow around your outdoor pillow storage makes all the difference in keeping them feeling and smelling fresh.

Are Outdoor Pillows Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

Not all outdoor pillows are waterproof, but most are water-resistant.

• Water-resistant: Repels light rain and dries quickly but can soak through during heavy or prolonged exposure.

• Waterproof: Typically has a plastic liner or vinyl coating inside to prevent moisture from reaching the fill.

Tip: Look for pillows with removable, water-resistant covers and a mesh bottom panel for drainage.

Pairing freshly cleaned patio pillows with a Puffy Cloud Mattress indoors helps create a home that feels cozy and fresh, no matter the season. From outdoor lounging to bedtime unwinding, smart fabric choices make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what are outdoor pillows made of helps you make smarter choices—whether you’re upgrading your setup or prepping for a new season.

Durable fabrics, weather-resistant fill, and thoughtful storage practices all contribute to keeping your space beautiful, functional, and cozy year-round.