Sunbrella Rocking Chair Cushions for Outdoor Style
A cozy rocking chair on the patio or deck can be a wonderful place to relax and unwind outdoors. But without proper cushions, your outdoor rocking chair can feel hard and uncomfortable. Investing in cushions made from Sunbrella fabrics is the perfect solution to make your outdoor rocker as comfortable as your living room recliner.
Sunbrella rocking chair cushions provide the ideal mix of comfort and durability to withstand the elements while creating an inviting look. Made from fade-resistant, all-weather fabrics, Sunbrella cushions retain their vibrant colors and resist fading in the sun, rain, snow, and wind.
Why Choose Sunbrella Fabric for Outdoor Cushions
Sunbrella is a leader in performance fabrics designed for outdoor use. The dense, woven construction repels water, resists mildew and stains, and stands up to sun exposure over the years. Sunbrella fabrics are also breathable to keep you cool and comfortable while rocking on warm days.
Some key benefits of Sunbrella rocking chair cushions include:
- Long-lasting colorfastness - Sunbrella fabrics withstand up to 1500 hours of direct sun exposure while retaining rich hues.
- Superior UV protection - Proprietary dyeing process and UV stabilizers prevent fading.
- Quick-drying and breathable - Won't trap moisture; ideal for humid climates.
- Easy to clean - Just hose down cushions and air dry.
- Mildew, mold, and stain resistance - Repels spills, pet accidents, dirt, and debris.
With proper care, Sunbrella cushions can last 5+ years outdoors. The durable performance fabrics stand up to constant rocking motion without damage. So you can relax knowing your Sunbrella cushions will provide comfort and style season after season.
Choosing the Right Size Sunbrella Cushions
Finding cushions tailored to your specific outdoor rocking chair is key for a perfect fit and handsome look. When shopping for Sunbrella rocking chair cushions, start by carefully measuring your rocker:
- Seat width and depth
- Full height of chair back
- Armrest width and length (if applicable)
Many retailers offer custom-sized cushions to fit your exact dimensions. Provide them the measurements and they'll create cushions tailored to your rocker. Custom sizing ensures a snug fit without gapping or shifting.
For added convenience, look for Sunbrella cushions with zippered covers. The zippered design makes it easy to remove the covers and cushions for cleaning and seasonal storage.
Cushion Fill Materials
Sunbrella cushion covers can be filled with different materials to achieve the desired comfort and support:
- Polyester fiber - Lightweight, soft, and affordable filling.
- Feather/down - Luxurious cushy feel but requires delicate handling.
- Memory foam - Conforms to body shape for exceptional comfort.
- Polyurethane foam - Firmer, supportive cushioning.
Consider your priorities - softness, support, affordability, etc. - when choosing cushion fill material. Aim for a density that holds its shape without flattening out.
Selecting Colors, Patterns, and Textures
Sunbrella fabrics come in a rainbow of colors and options:
- Solids from vibrant brights to neutral earth tones
- Nautical and tropical inspired stripes and prints
- Textured Sunbrella fabrics like velvet, canvas, and leather
Whether your style is traditional, coastal, or contemporary, you'll find a Sunbrella pattern and texture to complement your outdoor living space. For a cohesive look, match or coordinate the Sunbrella cushions to your existing outdoor furniture and umbrella.
Bold solid colors show less dirt over time. But stripes and patterns can disguise wear and stains. For high traffic areas, darker Sunbrella colors tend to show less visible signs of wear.
Ties and Straps
Outdoor rocking naturally causes cushions to slide and shift. Adding ties and straps to your Sunbrella cushions prevents this nuisance. Elastic straps with adjustable buckles keep the seat cushion contained securely. Ties in each corner prevent the back cushion from slipping down or sideways.
Look for cushions designed with discrete side or rear ties. Or, DIY your own ties using marine rope and brass grommets to complement your style.
DIY or Custom Sunbrella Cushions
You can save money by making your own DIY Sunbrella cushions. But this requires purchasing the fabric, foam, zippers, and ties separately. You'll also need basic sewing skills and a machine (or hiring a seamstress).
Benefits of DIY Sunbrella cushions include:
- Customizing the fabric patterns/colors
- Choosing cushion fill density and thickness
- Adding extra ties and straps
- Coordinating with other DIY projects
The tradeoff is this DIY project requires an investment of time and labor. But if you enjoy crafting and sewing, the cost savings of DIY may be worthwhile.
Ordering custom fitted cushions from a manufacturer is simpler but costs more. Benefits include:
- Professional design and construction
- Convenient online ordering process
- Tailored sizing for a perfect fit
- Experience ensuring optimal durability
Custom cushion suppliers have the special skills and industrial equipment needed to fabricate your cushions properly. The right fit also ensures a polished, upscale look.
Cost Analysis
On average, custom Sunbrella rocking chair cushions cost $200-$500 depending on size, fabrics, and design details. DIY cushions can cost half that amount but require time and effort to construct.
View the project as an investment into your outdoor living space that will pay dividends over years of use. Quality Sunbrella cushions provide comfort and enhance your decor for seasons to come.
With proper care, Sunbrella cushions will outlast cheap cushions by years. Follow these tips to keep your cushions looking fresh:
- Check label for cleaning methods approved for your specific Sunbrella fabric.
- Spot clean spills and stains immediately before they set.
- Hose down cushions occasionally and air dry fully before storing or using.
- Use mild soap and water for more thorough cleaning; avoid harsh detergents.
- Bring cushions indoors when not in use to avoid harsh weathering.
- Repel water by applying Sunbrella water repellent every 1-2 years.
Sunbrella cushions will retain their beauty season after season with regular light cleaning. Their colorfastness and durability make them a wise investment for stylish outdoor relaxation and rocking.