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.