Ahhhh, the Great British summer. We're missing it now, but even when it comes, it is famously unpredictable. One minute we're enjoying a coffee in the morning sunshine, the next we’re diving indoors to escape a sudden downpour at the weekend family BBQ.
If you’ve invested in garden furniture cushions for your Lazy Susan set, then it's only natural to wonder if you can leave them outside in the summer. If we get some good weather, is it safe, practical, or just a fast track to mould, stains, fading, and then ultimately, replacement?
At Lazy Susan, we've designed our cast aluminium furniture collection to thrive in the UK's changeable climate. It can be left outside all year round with very little in the way of maintenance or the need to store it inside. Our garden cushions, though, are a little different!
While modern outdoor fabrics are far more advanced than they were even a decade or so back, understanding the different types of fabric, the level of water resistance, the impact of the weather conditions in the UK, and how to clean and store correctly is essential if you want them to look great and feel comfortable for years to come.
Today, the Lazy Magazine team is exploring what you really need to know about leaving garden cushions outside in the UK. We're sharing some relevant buying tips, discussing storage advice, and we're breaking down our simple cleaning routine to protect your purchase.
Can you leave garden cushions outside in the UK climate?
The first thing to understand is that our climate is not just wet, it is what we would describe as changeable. In summer, our garden cushions and furniture could face bright sun, cool evenings, heavy downpours, damp mornings, and fluctuating temperatures. And that can be all on the same day, too!
It is these inclement conditions that play a huge role in whether cushions and any other outdoor fabrics, such as rugs, throws, curtains, and parasols, can be left outside safely.
Most of the garden furniture cushions on sale in the UK are designed for outdoor use (ours certainly are), and while they offer some level of water resistance, they are not weatherproof like our garden chairs and tables.
In other words, they are shower-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Light rain will bead on the surface, and water runs off, but prolonged exposure to heavy rain or damp conditions, and moisture will eventually seep inside to the foam filling (or through the canopy in the case of a parasol).
Leaving cushions outside on the odd occasion in the summer during dry spells or under a covered patio is rarely a problem. Leaving cushions out in the garden continuously, especially overnight or during unsettled weather, will certainly increase the likelihood of things like mildew, mould, and premature wear and tear.
Lazy Magazine Tip: If you have our cushions, and they do get a soaking in a sudden summer shower, it is not off to the bin they must go. The key is to ensure they are dried correctly, thoroughly, and not left damp. So, bring them inside, remove the foam inners, and leave them to fully dry flat before you use them again or put them away in storage.
What is the difference between garden furniture cushions and indoor cushions?
It is important to stress that not all cushions are of the same quality as our collection, though. Our outdoor cushions are specifically designed with durability and rain/sun resistance in mind. They have a rougher feel than indoor cushions but are shaped to fit perfectly on our outdoor seating without slipping off or succumbing to environmental factors.
Indoor cushions, on the other hand, even those made from textured cotton or heavier blended fabrics, will absorb moisture quickly but dry slowly. They are highly susceptible to fading, will not work with your garden chairs, so this makes them unsuitable for garden or patio use.
High-quality garden cushions are typically made from a spun polyester or similar synthetic fabric. Our range is made from a durable blend of polyester and cotton for the outer covers, and they are filled with a 100% polyester foam pad (please see the care label below).
We choose this combination of materials for its blend of durability, comfort, and weather resistance. These materials are highly resistant to moisture, dirt, fire, and fading. They dry faster than natural fibres, are far easier to maintain, and, most importantly, they hold their comfort, shape, and colour really well.
Lazy Magazine Tip: If you're shopping online, then always check that cushions are clearly labelled/specified as for outdoor use. Check customer reviews, request free samples, and together this will establish if they are suitable for garden furniture and built to cope with sun, rain, and everyday wear.
What does water-resistant really mean?
One of the most misunderstood terms when it comes to outdoor living in general is water resistance. Many misuse it. It does not mean waterproof. The terms we use are water-resistant or shower-resistant, and what that means is the fabric has been treated or woven in a way that repels light rain and splashes.
Most outdoor furniture cushions on sale in the UK are the same, even the high-end brand names. They are designed to be water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. But this is intentional. Fully waterproof fabrics will trap moisture inside, particularly if the cushion gets wet from underneath, and they’re also sticky and uncomfortable to sit on in hot weather.
To be honest, fully waterproof fabrics are usually only found on commercial or trade furniture, such as the sun loungers you will often see around a hotel pool. Anyone who’s used them knows they’re far from comfortable unless you pop a towel on top.
Breathable, water-resistant fabrics are much better suited to home use. They allow air to circulate and help our cushions dry quickly. In the summer, with a little caution, water-resistant cushions perform exceptionally well.
How do you protect outdoor cushions from UV rays?
Sunlight is just as much of a challenge as rain, to be honest with you. Which, even in the UK, is often hard to avoid. Direct sun and prolonged exposure to those UV rays will cause fading, weaken the fabric, and eventually lead to fading and the fibres' ultimate degradation.
Many of the higher-end outdoor fabrics will use UV-stabilised materials that are designed to resist fading in the sun.
Some premium brands even use a solution-dyed polyester whereby the colour runs through the fibres rather than sitting on the surface. However, while highly fade-resistant, like almost all outdoor textiles, they will still fade over time if not maintained and stored correctly. Often, what you're paying for is a brand name.
Constant exposure to intense sunlight, coastal conditions, or a lack of cleaning will gradually dull the colour of all outdoor fabrics. Lighter shades tend to show the changes less than the darker or very bright colours.
Lazy Magazine Tip: To protect our cushions during the summer, we would recommend you rotate them regularly so the same areas are not always facing the sun. When they are not in use, store them inside, or use protective covers to help preserve colour and fabric quality. If nothing else, a cover helps keep your furniture set clean, dry, and ready to enjoy when the sun does shine.
Can our garden cushions stay outside all summer?
Back to the main question... Can our garden cushions stay outside all summer in the UK? The short answer is a big fat yes, as long as you use a bit of common sense.
Cushions are generally fine to be left out during settled summer weather, especially during the day when you’re using them. However, if you want them to stay plush and looking their best, it’s worth bringing them inside, covering them, or storing them away overnight, during heavy rain, or when damp conditions hang around.
Even if your furniture sits under a canopy, pergola, or covered roof, your garden cushions are still exposed to moisture from morning dew, humidity, sideways rain, etc. In fact, these slower, lingering damp conditions can be just as tough on cushions as a sudden downpour, particularly if they don’t get a chance to dry out properly.
Lazy Magazine Tip: It helps to think of cushions as an add-on rather than a permanent part of your garden furniture set up. Our chairs and tables, no problem, leave them outside all year. Our cushions need a little extra TLC. It goes a long way in keeping them fresh, comfortable, and ready to enjoy all summer long. During heavy rain or prolonged exposure, it is best to remove them and store inside or cover them with a breathable waterproof furniture cover.
Lazy Magazine's protective measures that make a real difference
Taking simple protective measures can significantly extend the life of your furniture cushions.
One of the easiest solutions is using the aforementioned breathable protective covers when furniture is not in use. Covers should include air vents or a breathable, waterproof fabric that will keep rain out but allow moisture to escape and prevent condensation buildup underneath.
The other steps we recommend you take are:
1. Get some garden cushion storage bags
Cushion storage bags are, in our view, one of the easiest and most practical ways to protect your outdoor cushions clean and dry. It protects them, keeps them dry, and safe from dirt, insects, and sudden rain. You can pick them up online, but check that they're made from a breathable, water-resistant fabric.
In terms of size, the cushions should fit comfortably without being squashed, as this helps them keep their shape. Also, look for strong zips, sturdy handles, and decent ventilation. Once packed away, the bags can be stored in a utility room, garage, or shed and brought out when needed, making them just as useful in unpredictable summer weather as they are for full winter storage.
2. Cleaning garden cushions the right way
Keeping your garden cushions clean doesn’t need to be complicated, but doing it properly makes a big difference to how long they last. A little regular care is best to prevent dirt, moisture, and mould from building up.
These are the maintenance steps we would recommend for our range:
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Routine Care
Brush off loose dirt regularly and wipe the fabric with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge. This will stop dirt and grime from building up and help maintain the fabric’s look and finish. -
Machine Washing
Our cushion covers are removable, so every now and then, take them off and machine wash on a cool, delicate cycle using a mild detergent. Avoid fabric conditioner, bleach, or high heat, and always air-dry flat, as tumble drying can cause shrinkage or damage the fibres. -
Foam Cleaning
If the foam insert needs freshening up, you can just rinse it gently with clean warm water and lightly squeeze between towels (never wring the foam) to remove excess moisture. Leave it to dry fully in a warm, well-ventilated area, standing upright so air can circulate. -
Drying Properly
If your cushions do get wet in a sudden downpour, stand them on their sides or ends to allow air to flow around them and help them dry evenly. Never store cushions while damp, as this creates the perfect conditions for mould and mildew. -
Spot Cleaning
Deal with spills as soon as they happen. Blot (don’t rub) the area with a clean cloth and mild soapy water to prevent stains from setting.
With these simple steps, you can keep your Lazy Susan garden cushions clean, fresh, comfortable, and ready to roll throughout the summer.
Lazy Magazine Tip: Once our cushions are clean and completely dry, you can also apply a fabric protective spray to improve water resistance and guard against stains. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and reapply periodically, especially after washing. We like Scratch Doctor's Fabric Protector but you should always test any solution you buy before you apply it fully.
Can outdoor furniture cushions be left outside overnight?
Leaving cushions outside overnight is a fast track to moisture damage. As temperatures drop, evening or early morning dew forms and airflow slows, meaning outdoor cushions take much longer to dry than they do during the day.
Even when there’s no rain in the forecast, moisture can still build up inside the cushion cover, so it’s always best to cover them or bring them indoors overnight.
If you do accidentally leave them out overnight (we’ve all done it), make sure your cushions are fully dry before using them again. Sitting on damp cushions isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also push moisture deeper into the filling, increasing the risk of long-term damage such as mould growth.
The advantages of Lazy Susan’s outdoor cushion range
Our cushions are designed to make garden living more comfortable, more stylish, and easier to look after.
Here’s what sets the Lazy Susan cushion range apart:
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Designed to fit our garden chairs, benches and loungers
Shaped specifically to fit our loungers, chairs, and benches, our cushions sit neatly without slipping, sagging, or bunching. A proper fit means better all-day comfort and a smarter overall look. -
Secure fastening to keep them in place
Practical tie fastenings keep our cushions firmly in place, even with regular use or if the wind picks up; they will not slip off. -
Outdoor-ready durable fabrics
We use durable outdoor fabrics that are designed to cope with sunshine, moisture, and everyday garden use, while remaining comfortable to sit on. -
Shower-resistant patio comfort
Our cushions are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, helping them handle light showers while still allowing moisture to escape and dry naturally when faced with hot bums. -
Easy to wash and maintain
Removable covers make cleaning super simple. You can take them off and machine-wash on a cool, delicate cycle to help keep your cushions fresh throughout the summer. -
Coordinated design and colours
Colours are carefully chosen to coordinate with your patio, our furniture range, and our parasols, making it easy to create a cohesive and stylish outdoor space. -
Practical care guidance
Our clear care labels help you get the most from your cushions, making it easier to clean, dry, and store them properly so they last longer. -
Real-world reassurance
Customer reviews provide helpful insight into comfort, durability, and ease of maintenance, giving you confidence in your choice. -
Big bundle deal savings in the Lazy Susan shop
When purchased alongside our furniture, cushions are available as part of our bundle deals, offering better value than buying separately and making it easier to complete your set in one go.
Lazy Magazine Tip: Doing a little homework up front makes it much easier to choose cushions that look good, last longer, and are easy to live with. To see and feel our fabrics for yourself, order one of our Sample Kits (pictured above).
Lazy Magazine's final thoughts on leaving garden cushions outside
Leaving your garden cushions outside all summer in the UK is possible, but for us, it should come with a few words of caution. Understanding water resistance, weather conditions, and simple protective measures will help you get the most from your investment.
Deciding whether to keep cushions inside or out often comes down to lifestyle. If you use your garden daily and have sheltered areas, you may feel comfortable leaving them outside. If your garden is more exposed or only used occasionally, then storing cushions indoors when not in use is usually the safer option.
There’s no single right answer, so it’s all about what works best for your space and routine. But proper storage doesn’t need to be inconvenient. Cushions that are easy to remove, store, and care for, like our range, are much more likely to be treated well, which means they’ll last longer, stay comfy, and look great.
Paired with breathable covers, cushion storage bags, and a little light maintenance, good outdoor cushions will deliver comfort without compromise. Just think of them as part of your garden routine, like bringing tableware out, rather than a permanent fixture like the furniture itself.
At Lazy Susan, we want outdoor living to be relaxed, beautiful, and practical. With the right furniture, cushions, and a little old-fashioned TLC, your patio will be ready for that first sunny day of 2026.
We’d love to see how you style and enjoy your Lazy Susan garden furniture. Share your outdoor moments this summer on Instagram or Facebook by tagging @LazySusanFurniture to support our Do Some Good charity campaign.
