Best Waterproofing for Outdoor Cushions: Types Compared and How to Choose

Best overall: Scotchgard Water and Sun Shield Outdoor Fabric Protector, around $29, is a spray made for patio fabrics that adds waterproofing and UV blocking.

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Best value: BERlOVE Outdoor Fabric Protector Spray, around $13, offers waterproofing and UV protection in a 12.8 ounce can.

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Best for mixed indoor and outdoor fabrics: this fabric protector spray, around $45, is a water and stain repellent for upholstery, rugs and outdoor fabrics.

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Here is how the main options compare.

Spray On Fabric Protectors

Spray protectors coat fibers with a water repellent finish that makes water bead up and roll off. Outdoor formulas often add UV inhibitors that slow fading. They are invisible on most fabrics and take just minutes to apply.

The trade off is that they wear off with sun, rain and cleaning, so plan to reapply once or twice a season.

Waterproof Cushion Covers

Fitted waterproof covers slip over cushions or entire furniture sets. They provide the most complete protection from rain and dew, which suits cushions left outside all season.

Waterproof Inner Liners

Liners wrap the foam inside a zippered cover. Even if the outer fabric gets wet, the foam stays dry and dries quickly, which helps prevent mildew.

Storage Boxes and Bags

The most reliable waterproofing is simply keeping cushions out of the rain. Deck boxes and cushion bags protect them during storms and over winter.

Choose a spray protector if you want to keep the look of your cushions, use them often and can bring them in during heavy rain. Choose covers if cushions stay outside unattended, you live in a rainy climate or you want minimal maintenance. Many owners use both: spray for everyday splashes and covers or storage when bad weather is coming.

Focus on fabric type, protection level, UV resistance and safety.

Fabric Compatibility

Check the cushion label. Solution dyed acrylic, polyester and olefin all take outdoor protectors well. Test on a hidden area first, since some sprays can darken certain fabrics slightly.

Water Repellency vs Waterproof

Sprays make fabric water repellent, not fully waterproof. Heavy rain will eventually soak through. For full waterproofing, use covers or liners.

UV Protection

Outdoor protectors with UV inhibitors help colors last longer in strong sun, which is especially valuable on south facing patios.

Coverage and Size

Check how many square feet a can covers. A patio set with several cushions may need two cans for a thorough coat.

Safety and Odor

Apply sprays outdoors with good ventilation, keep pets and children away until dry and follow the label.

1. Clean the cushions first, removing dirt and mildew, and let them dry completely.
2. Choose a dry, calm day with no rain forecast for at least a day.
3. Test the spray on a hidden area and let it dry.
4. Hold the can about six inches away and spray in even, overlapping passes until the fabric is damp but not soaked.
5. Let it dry, then apply a second light coat for better protection.
6. Allow the full cure time on the label before using or exposing to rain.

Sprinkle a few drops of water on the cushion. If the drops bead up and roll off, the protection is still working. If they soak in or leave dark spots within a few seconds, it is time to clean and retreat the fabric. Check high wear areas like seat fronts and arm rests first, since protection wears off there fastest.

• Reapply once or twice a season and after deep cleaning.
• Stand cushions on edge after rain to drain.
• Store cushions in a deck box during storms and winter.
• Brush off debris regularly so dirt does not break down the finish.

These are the questions owners ask most.

Can you make outdoor cushions fully waterproof?

Not with spray alone. Sprays make fabric water repellent; for full protection, add waterproof covers, inner liners or store cushions during heavy rain.

How often should I waterproof outdoor cushions?

Usually once or twice a season, and after any deep cleaning.

Does waterproofing spray change the fabric?

Most outdoor sprays are invisible once dry, but some can slightly darken certain fabrics. Always test first.

Is fabric protector spray safe for pets?

Once fully dry and cured, most are considered safe, but keep pets away during application and drying. Follow the label.

Can I waterproof cushions that already have mildew?

Clean the mildew first and let the cushions dry fully, otherwise the spray can seal moisture and spores in.

The three things that matter most are cleaning before treating, choosing an outdoor protector with UV inhibitors and adding covers or storage for heavy rain. Most owners will be well served by a quality outdoor spray, budget buyers by a value spray and anyone with cushions left outside all season by waterproof covers. Use this guide to choose the best waterproofing for outdoor cushions, then check the product table above for current prices. Clean them first with the best cleaner for outdoor furniture cushions.