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Water-resistant fabrics are textiles treated or engineered to repel water. They are a key material for custom cushions, especially outdoor cushions that may be exposed to rain, snow or damp, where they help extend the cushion’s life by reducing water damage and the growth of mould and mildew.
There are many types and grades of water-resistant fabric. This guide explains their properties, the technologies used to make them water-resistant and how they are used in custom cushions.
| Fabric | How It Resists Water | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester, nylon, acrylic | Synthetic fibres that absorb little water; often treated for extra protection | Durable, but less breathable than natural fabrics |
| Canvas and duck cloth | Tight weave, often with a water-repellent coating | Not fully waterproof in heavy rain |
| Vinyl | A plastic material that is naturally waterproof | Easy to wipe clean |
Water-resistant fabrics are designed to resist water penetration. They are not completely waterproof, so they cannot stop all water getting through, but they significantly reduce the amount that does, helping to keep the cushion drier.
Water resistance can come from a tight weave, a special coating or synthetic materials that naturally repel water, and the level of protection varies greatly with the fabric and treatment used. See our fabric selection guide for more on choosing cover fabrics.
Some of the most common water-resistant fabrics for custom cushions are polyester, nylon and acrylic. These synthetic fibres absorb little water and are often treated to further improve their water repellency.
Other options include canvas, which is often treated with a water-repellent coating, and vinyl, a plastic material that is naturally waterproof. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the best choice depends on your needs and preferences.
Not all water-resistant fabrics are equal. Some are only mildly water-resistant, while others can withstand heavy rain or even brief submersion.
Consider the conditions the cushion will face. Outdoor cushions exposed to heavy rain or snow may need a high grade of water resistance, while indoor cushions or those used only in mild weather may need a lower grade.
The main ways of making fabrics water-resistant are tight weaves, special coatings and naturally water-repellent synthetic materials.
Tightly woven fabrics, such as canvas or duck cloth, resist water because the small gaps between the threads make it hard for water to pass through. However, they are not completely waterproof and may let water seep through in heavy rain or if submerged.
Many water-resistant fabrics are given a coating or treatment to improve their water repellency, either applied to the surface or built into the fabric during manufacture.
Synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water, while vinyl is a plastic material that is naturally waterproof.
These materials are widely used in custom cushions because they are durable and water-resistant. However, they can be less breathable than natural fabrics, which can make them less comfortable in hot weather.
Water-resistant fabrics are particularly popular for outdoor cushions, such as those on patio or garden furniture, where they help protect against rain, snow and damp. Pairing a water-resistant cover with a suitable foam, such as a closed-cell foam, helps outdoor cushions cope with the weather.
They are not limited to outdoor use. They also suit indoor cushions where spills or moisture are a concern, such as kitchen or dining chair cushions and cushions in a child’s playroom.
Continue exploring cushion fabrics and outdoor seating across our glossary:
Whether you need garden bench pads, boat cushions or wipe-clean kitchen chair cushions, the Foam & Covers team can help you choose a suitable water-resistant fabric and foam, and make your cushions to your exact measurements.
Contact Our Foam Specialists or Order Custom Cut Foam Online .
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