How to Care for Outdoor Cushions in the Winter

Winter is tough on outdoor furniture, especially your custom outdoor cushions and pillows. Homeowners often ask: Can you leave outdoor cushions outside all winter? How do you keep patio cushions from getting moldy or ruined by freezing temperatures?

At Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we believe the best approach is proactive care. By following a few simple steps, you can protect your cushions, extend their life, and make sure they’re ready to enjoy when spring arrives. Here’s your complete Winter Outdoor Cushion Care Guide.

How Should I Clean My Outdoor Cushions Before Winter?

Before storing or covering your outdoor cushions, it’s essential to give them a thorough cleaning. Dirt, pollen, leaves, and organic matter left on cushions can lead to staining or even mold and mildew growth during storage.

• Start by brushing off debris with a soft brush or vacuum.

• Spot clean with a mild soap-and-water solution (never harsh chemicals, which can damage performance fabrics).

• Rinse lightly with a hose if needed.

• Allow cushions to dry completely before storing—this is key to preventing mildew.

If you own Sunbrella®, Outdura®, Tempotest®, or Revolution® cushions, they’re designed to resist mildew on the fabric itself, but mildew can still grow on dirt or debris. That’s why cleaning before storage is a must.

How Do I Make Sure Outdoor Cushions Stay Dry?

Moisture is the number one enemy of outdoor cushions during winter. Even water-resistant fabrics can eventually absorb water if left buried under snow or ice for months. When that trapped moisture freezes, it expands and can damage the fibers, seams, and filling.

To keep cushions dry:

• Always store them completely dry.

• If left outside, make sure covers are waterproof but breathable to reduce condensation.

• Avoid plastic tarps that trap moisture inside.

By controlling moisture, you’ll reduce the risk of mildew, unpleasant odors, and fabric damage.

Where Should I Store Outdoor Cushions in the Winter?

The best option is indoor storage. A garage, basement, attic, or even a large closet will keep cushions safe from snow, ice, and prolonged dampness.

If indoor storage isn’t available, a waterproof outdoor storage box is the next best thing. Look for one with ventilation to reduce condensation buildup.

As a third option, you can keep cushions on furniture and use weather-resistant covers. Choose covers made from heavy-duty, breathable fabric—not vinyl or plastic that traps moisture.

Should I Check My Cushions During Winter?

Yes! Even if you’ve stored your cushions away, it’s smart to check them periodically. A quick inspection every few weeks helps you catch problems early.

Look for:

• Signs of mildew or musty odors

• Condensation inside storage boxes

• Fabric stress (tight seams or cracking from cold)

A five-minute checkup can save you the expense of repairs or replacements later.

When Should I Order New Custom Outdoor Cushions?

Winter is actually a great time to plan ahead for spring and summer. Custom cushions often have 4–6 week lead times, and popular fabrics like Sunbrella can go on backorder in peak season.

By ordering during the off-season, you:

• Beat the spring rush

• Have cushions ready the moment warm weather returns

• Lock in pricing before seasonal price increases

At Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we can help you choose fabrics, request samples, and place an order so your cushions are ready for your first sunny day outdoors.

The Takeaway

So, can you leave outdoor cushions outside in the winter? In mild climates, it might be fine—but for most homeowners, storing or covering cushions is the smarter choice. Clean them, keep them dry, store them properly, and check them occasionally. With these simple steps, your custom outdoor cushions and pillows will last longer, look better, and stay comfortable for years to come.

How to Measure for Outdoor Cushions: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it’s time to order new outdoor cushions for your patio furniture, nothing is more important than accurate measurements. Many people search for outdoor chair cushions, patio cushions, or even Sunbrella cushions, but quickly realize there’s no true “standard size” for outdoor furniture. Every chair, sofa, and chaise is different.

That’s why at Cascadia Outdoor Cushions, we specialize in custom-made patio furniture cushions and outdoor patio furniture replacement cushions. With the right measurements, we can create cushions that look like they came with your furniture—only better.

If you’d like a printable guide, download our HOW TO MEASURE GUIDE

Why Measuring the Frame Matters

Old cushions stretch, flatten, and lose shape over time. If you measure your old cushion, you’ll likely end up with a poor fit.

The key to ordering the perfect patio chair cushions or patio furniture replacement cushions is to measure the furniture frame itself. This guarantees your new outdoor furniture cushions will sit correctly, look sharp, and provide lasting comfort.

 Step 1: Measure the Width

• Measure across the seat or back, inside edge to inside edge.

• Record the widest point for accurate outdoor chair cushion sizing.

• Remember, different chairs—even from the same set—can vary slightly.

Step 2: Measure the Depth

• Measure from the front edge of the frame to where the backrest begins.

• For benches and chaises, measure the full depth.

• Depth is especially important when ordering outdoor cushions for patio furniture like sectionals, lounges, and modular sets.

Step 3: Measure the Height (Back Cushions)

• Measure from the seat base up to the top of the frame.

• Rule for Separate Seat & Back Cushions: Deduct the seat cushion thickness from the back cushion height, since the back cushion sits on top of the seat cushion.

  • Example: If your frame measures 24" high and your seat cushion is 6" thick, the correct back cushion should be ~18".

• This is a common mistake customers make when ordering outdoor patio furniture replacement cushions, and it can result in backs that are too tall.

 Step 4: Decide on Cushion Thickness

Thickness determines both comfort and the finished look of your patio furniture cushions.

• Dining chair seat cushions: 2"–4" thick

• Deep seating cushions: 5"–8" thick

• Back cushions: 4"–8" thick

👉 Rule of Thumb: Once your cushion is on the frame, the top should measure 18"–20" from the ground. This ensures the average person can sit comfortably with feet flat on the ground.

This is especially important for outdoor chair cushions used in dining sets or lounge seating.

Step 5: Double-Check Your Measurements

Write down your measurements in Width × Depth × Thickness format. Double-check before placing your order for patio cushions or Sunbrella cushions. Getting it right the first time means your new cushions will fit perfectly and last for years.

Why Custom Outdoor Cushions Are the Best Choice

Because outdoor furniture isn’t standardized, custom-made outdoor furniture cushions are the only way to ensure a flawless fit. At Cascadia, every cushion is handcrafted, whether you’re ordering patio furniture replacement cushions, outdoor chair cushions, or full sets of Sunbrella cushions.

With custom sizing and premium fabrics, your patio will look polished and feel comfortable season after season.

Final Thoughts

Accurate measuring is the foundation of great outdoor comfort. Whether you need patio cushions, outdoor cushions for patio furniture, or long-lasting Sunbrella cushions, following these steps ensures a perfect fit.

Download the [Outdoor Cushion Measuring Guide PDF] to make the process even easier. Then let Cascadia create cushions that fit your furniture—and your lifestyle—perfectly.