Waterproof VS Water Resistant

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant Outdoor Cushion Fabrics

What You Need to Know About Sunbrella® and Outdoor Cushion Performance

One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Is Sunbrella fabric waterproof?”

The short answer is no — standard Sunbrella fabrics are not waterproof. They are water-resistant, which is very different.

Understanding the difference between waterproof and water-resistant fabrics is essential when choosing outdoor cushions. It affects how your cushions perform in the rain, how quickly they dry, and how they should be cared for.

What is the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant?

Waterproof Fabric

Waterproof fabric is designed to completely block water from passing through.

This is typically achieved by:

• A backing or membrane (such as polyurethane or vinyl)

• A coated or laminated construction

Waterproof fabrics prevent water from penetrating the material under normal conditions. Waterproof fabric

However, waterproof fabrics often have trade-offs:

• Less breathable

• Stiffer feel

• Can trap heat and moisture

• Less comfortable for seating

Water-Resistant Fabric

Water-resistant fabrics are designed to repel water, but not completely block it.

They typically:

• Allow water to bead up on the surface

• Slow down water absorption

• Remain breathable and comfortable

Most outdoor cushion fabrics — including Sunbrella upholstery fabrics — fall into this category.

Sunbrella fabrics are engineered to be:

• Water-resistant

• Stain-resistant

• Mold and mildew resistant 

But they are not waterproof, meaning water can eventually pass through the fabric under prolonged exposure.

Is Sunbrella Fabric Waterproof?

No — standard Sunbrella upholstery fabric is not waterproof.

It is:

✔ Water-resistant
✔ Breathable
✔ Designed for comfort and durability

This means:

• Light rain will bead up and roll off

• Prolonged rain will eventually soak through

• Cushions will get wet if left out in heavy rain

Even though Sunbrella performs extremely well outdoors, it is designed as a performance upholstery fabric, not a waterproof barrier.

What is Sunbrella Rain Fabric?

There is one exception.

Sunbrella Rain is a specialized fabric designed to provide waterproof performance.

It includes:

• A waterproof backing layer

• A barrier that prevents water from passing through

• Surface water beading and runoff

Sunbrella Rain is specifically engineered so that water does not penetrate into the cushion interior, helping cushions stay dry even during rain. 

Why Isn’t All Sunbrella Fabric Waterproof?

Because comfort matters.

Waterproof fabrics:

• Trap heat

• Reduce airflow

• Feel stiffer

Water-resistant fabrics like standard Sunbrella:

• Breathe better

• Feel softer

• Are more comfortable for everyday seating

Most outdoor cushions are designed for comfort first, with water resistance as a secondary benefit.

What Happens When Outdoor Cushions Get Wet?

Even with high-quality outdoor fabric, water will eventually reach the inside of the cushion.

That’s where the foam construction becomes critical.

Are Outdoor Cushion Foams Waterproof?

No — outdoor cushion foam is not waterproof.

However, it is designed to manage water effectively.

Most outdoor cushions use:

Standard Outdoor Foam

• Absorbs water

• Dries slowly

• Best for covered patios

Reticulated (Quick-Dry) Foam

Reticulated foam is engineered with an open-cell structure that allows water to pass through quickly.

Benefits include:

• Water drains through the foam

• Air circulates freely

• Cushions dry much faster

This type of foam is commonly used in:

• Poolside furniture

• Commercial outdoor seating

• High-moisture environments

Quick-dry foam allows cushions to shed water and dry within hours instead of days. 

Why Your Cushions May Still Feel Wet

Even with high-performance fabric and foam:

• Water can enter through seams

• Zippers are not waterproof

• Stitch holes allow moisture penetration

• Prolonged rain saturates the cushion interior

This is completely normal for outdoor cushions.

Best Practices for Managing Water on Outdoor Cushions

To extend the life of your cushions:

• Stand cushions on edge after rain

• Allow airflow for drying

• Clean regularly to prevent buildup

• Store cushions during prolonged storms

• Use furniture covers when appropriate

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Water-Resistant (Standard Sunbrella) If:

• Your furniture is under a covered patio

• You want maximum comfort

• You prefer breathable seating

• You live in a moderate climate

Choose Waterproof (Sunbrella Rain) If:

• Your furniture is fully exposed to weather

• You want cushions to stay dry in rain

• You are in a high-rainfall area

• You prioritize water protection over softness

Waterproof fabrics offer protection, but water-resistant fabrics offer comfort and versatility.

Key Takeaway

Most outdoor cushion fabrics — including standard Sunbrella — are designed to resist water, not eliminate it.

Waterproof fabric is a specialty solution.
Water-resistant fabric is the industry standard.

Understanding the difference helps set the right expectations and ensures your outdoor cushions perform exactly the way they were designed to.