Outdoor furniture must be constructed from materials that can endure exposure to the elements. If you’re in search of materials for outdoor furniture upholstery, you’ve come to the right place. LCR Services is a cut-and-sew manufacturer that produces various products, including seat cushions. We are located in Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about your options, read on.
Fabrics
Outdoor furniture seat cushions and pillows must be crafted from durable fabrics capable of withstanding constant exposure to harsh outdoor elements. Materials made from natural fibers are prone to breaking down when exposed to the elements.
Fabrics composed of synthetic materials, like plastic, are ideal for outdoor upholstery covers. They exhibit superior resistance to the elements and maintain their color for an extended period.
Acrylics
Acrylic fibers are flexible and fast-drying. They are easy to clean and dyed with a solution that allows them to retain vivid colors even when exposed to direct sunlight. Outdoor fabrics made from acrylic fibers are durable, strong, and resistant to wear and tear, as well as various outdoor elements.
They are also mold and mildew-resistant and can withstand rubbing and tearing. This makes them suitable for outdoor upholstery in both busy residential and commercial applications.
Acrylic fibers are solution-dyed, meaning their threads are dyed before being woven together. This characteristic allows the textile to retain its color for an extended period even when exposed to harsh weather elements. These fabrics are also water-resistant and breathable, offering a cooler feel even in hot climates.
Cleaning them is a breeze – simply use water and mild detergent soap. These features make acrylic fibers one of the best choices for outdoor furniture seat cushions, pillows, and patio umbrellas.
Olefin Fabric
Olefin fabric, crafted from synthetic materials, boasts impressive durability, quick-drying properties, and excellent resistance to fading. Its solution-dyed nature makes it an ideal choice for withstanding the elements.
Additionally, it effectively prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Olefin is highly resistant to moisture and can handle high temperatures with ease. It is also a cost-effective alternative to acrylic fabrics.
Though it is lightweight and smooth, it may not match the smoothness of other textiles. Olefin fabric is stain-resistant, can endure abrasions, and is easy to clean. For those on a budget, it presents a great alternative to acrylics.
Polyester Fabric
Polyester is a synthetic material typically coated with acrylic or vinyl for added protection against harsh environmental conditions. It is renowned for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to water damage and staining.
With strong resistance to wear and tear, it dries quickly. However, it’s important to note that its color may fade more rapidly compared to other synthetic textiles. Unlike acrylic fibers, polyester fabrics are dyed after the threads are woven.
While this allows for a wide range of colors and unique patterns, it may not maintain its color when exposed to direct sunlight. For longer-lasting results, it’s advisable to use polyester fabrics in shaded areas where they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight.
Polyester coated with acrylic is an excellent choice for accents and throw pillows. In contrast, vinyl-coated polyester offers a plastic-like texture, making it suitable for self-supporting seats, back slings, umbrellas, and screens, where constant skin contact is not expected.
Batyline Mesh
Batyline mesh, a premium synthetic outdoor fabric, stands out for its remarkable strength and resistance to wear and tear. Its open design allows for efficient airflow, ensuring it remains cool and dries quickly. This makes it a popular choice for a range of outdoor furniture, from poolside sun loungers to patio dining chairs and outdoor bar stools.
Core Foam
For seat cushions and accent pillows on outdoor furniture, selecting durable materials is crucial as they face exposure to various elements, including rain, sleet, wet swimwear, or damp towels.
Even when using a water-resistant acrylic cover, moisture can still penetrate seams and zippered areas.
Therefore, the core foam inside a seat cushion should not only maintain its shape and provide comfort but also be quick-drying and resilient against moisture-related damage. The quality of foams used in outdoor seat cushions varies based on the material, manufacturing process, and treatment.
Open Cell Foam
Open cell foam, although pricier than alternatives, offers a range of benefits. It is known for its quick-drying nature, antimicrobial properties, and enhanced comfort.
The foam contains pores that facilitate the flow of moisture and air, ensuring that pillows and seat cushions remain cool and comfortable. Additionally, its antimicrobial characteristics deter bacterial growth and provide protection against mold and mildew.
Urecel Quick Dry Foam
Urecel quick dry foam is a valuable choice for outdoor cushions. Utilizing the Hydro-Blast Reticulation technique, it features a porous structure that efficiently drains any accumulated moisture from the cushion. Even when sitting on a seat cushion with Urecel quick dry foam during cooler weather, you can expect it to keep you dry and warm.
Closed Cell Foam (Floatation Foam)
Closed cell foam, also referred to as floatation foam, exhibits a unique property of water repellence, rendering it buoyant when in contact with water. This type of foam is often employed in applications such as boat seating and life vests. It is crafted from various plastics, including neoprene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene.
Polyethylene Terephthalate Foam (PET Foam)
Polyethylene terephthalate foam, commonly known as PET Foam, presents itself as a durable and recyclable material suitable for outdoor upholstery. This foam is firm and maintains its shape effectively, unlike other materials. Its quick-drying nature prevents moisture accumulation, guarding against the growth of mold, bacteria, and mildew.
Polyurethane Foam
Polyurethane foam finds frequent use in outdoor seating. It boasts a medium level of firmness but tends to absorb water when exposed to moisture.
To counteract this, it is treated with chemicals like biocide to deter mold, mildew, and fungi growth. For added protection, it is encased in plastic before being incorporated into a pillow or seat cushion.
Polyester Foam
Compressed polyester, a more economical alternative to traditional foam, offers quick drying and ease of cleaning. It is best suited for low to moderate usage in outdoor settings. However, it is worth noting that it may not maintain its form over time, gradually losing its shape with frequent use.
Polyester Fiberfill
Polyester fiberfill is another cost-effective choice for outdoor applications. It is straightforward to clean and resistant to mold and mildew. This material is typically stuffed inside a pre-sewn cover and then covered with fabric. Keep in mind that its loose fibers may tend to bunch up during washing, necessitating reshaping after each wash.
Why Choose LCR Services for Seat Cushion Solutions?
LCR Services is your premier provider of high-volume cut and sew services. Our expertise encompasses material cutting and the assembly of final seat cushions.
We specialize in designing lightweight density fabricated and molded seat cushions, along with cover solutions tailored to a broad spectrum of applications. Furthermore, we take pride in offering customized commercial seat cushion solutions to meet your unique requirements.
If you’re in search of a trusted cut-and-sew product manufacturer in Phoenix, Arizona, look no further than LCR Services. As a minority-owned company, we are committed to delivering top-notch products, including seat cushions.
For more information about our extensive range of products and services, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can reach us by phone at 602-200-4277 or via email at sennsour@lcrsvcs.com. When it comes to your cut-and-sewn product needs, make the right choice – choose LCR Services. Contact us today!