Tips to Keep Your Bench Cushions Looking Great

Tips to Keep Your Bench Cushions Looking Great

An increasingly essential part of our homes is our outdoor living space, providing nature and comfort literally right on our doorstep. Outdoor spaces can be used as an outdoor retreat, or as a perfect place for hosting a range of outdoor activities. However, taking care of the furniture in these spaces is extremely important, and one often overlooked aspect of this is caring for your bench and outdoor seating cushions. 

At The Cushion Guys, we provide cushions for all your living spaces, including bench cushions for outdoor use. It’s important to properly care for these cushions to keep them in good condition for years to come and to save them from the effects of the outdoors, like mould growth, insects, and bleaching from the sunlight. That’s why our experts have put together this guide, full of useful tips to help you take care of your bench cushions. 

Are Bench Cushions Suitable for Outdoor Use? 

Being designed specifically for outdoor use, bench cushions are designed for use on garden benches but can be utilised in other seating options. They add a layer of comfort to the sturdy furniture – which may value durability over comfort – and contribute to the overall ambiance of your garden space. 

While outdoor cushions have been designed for outdoor use, they are by no means indestructible. Some extreme weather conditions like intense heat, freezing temperatures, or excessive rain can cause them to deteriorate over time, so it’s important to take steps to protect them year round. Keep reading below for more information about caring for your bench cushions.

Bring Cushions Inside During Bad Weather

For typical UK weather, bench cushions can hold their own against the elements, but there are certain situations where playing it safe can be beneficial. Remember the intense heatwave the UK experienced in 2021? With temperatures easily reaching 40+ degrees, bench cushions left in direct sunlight in that condition would certainly bleach or discolour due to UV exposure. 

Similarly, excessive moisture and freezing can have negative effects on cushion covers and the filling, with heavy rains and storms leaving behind standing water that can freeze and lead to stainage as well as mould growth. During such weather events, its advisable to move them indoors – whether this is your home or a garden shed – or store them in a waterproof outdoor storage box. 

Perform a Monthly Deep Clean

You should stay on top of cleaning and maintaining all outdoor furniture at least once a month, and your bench cushions are no different. Different cushion types have different requirements, for cushion covers that can be removed, we recommend: 

  • Removing the cushion covers and vacuuming the cushion itself to remove any dust or allergens. 
  • Use a washing machine and mild detergent to wash the covers, making sure to check the label for any recommended guidelines. 
  • Always use a gentle cycle to prevent discolouration, fading, or warping of the shape. 
  • When drying, lay on a flat surface. Hanging could lead to distortion. 
  • Do not replace the covers until they are completely dry. 

For cushion covers that cannot be removed, a more hands-on approach is recommended: 

  • Vacuum the surface to remove any dirt, debris, dust, or allergens. 
  • Using lukewarm water and a gentle detergent or dish soap, wipe down the surface and any stubborn dirt that could not be removed with a vacuum cleaner. 
  • During this step, make sure you aren’t scrubbing as harsh movements could lead to scratches. 
  • Using a toothbrush or similar, dislodge dirt along seams of the cushion. 
  • Wipe with clean, lukewarm water to rinse. 
  • Leave the cushions to dry before using them again. 

By following these steps, you’re sure to prevent mould build up, or damage from dirt left to sit for long periods, as well as contributing to the overall aesthetics of your cushion. 

Tackle Issues Early

Any issues that arise with the cushions should be treated as soon as possible to avoid spreading or an unattractive appearance. If you spot mould, make sure you use a mould remover or appropriate home remedy to clear it up before it spreads to the softer parts of the cushion, or to wooden furniture. 

In some cases, it’s best to know when to replace your bench cushions. Issues like general wear and tear can lead to scuffs or rips in the cushion cover. If you have a cushion cover that can be removed, simply replacing the cover is acceptable, however when it can’t be removed, replacing the whole thing may be necessary. 

For our bench cushion stock, choose The Cushion Guys! 

To find out more about bench cushion maintenance, or to find out about our stock, please don’t hesitate to reach out to The Cushion Guys today! We’re here to help, and if you would like more information on bench cushions including the trends to expect from them in 2024, or any of our other products, make sure you check out our blog for our informative guides and articles! 

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