Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space for your hotel, restaurant, or shopping center often starts with the materials. The choice of outdoor fabric is especially important in achieving both style and functionality. What is the best outdoor fabric?
Two popular contenders for outdoor fabrics are Olefin and Sunbrella. Below we look at what makes Olefin and Sunbrella unique, compare their characteristics, and help you make an informed decision on the best fabric for your custom outdoor furniture.
Olefin material, also known as polypropylene, is a synthetic fiber renowned for its durability and resistance to moisture, mildew, and fading. Created through a process called polymerization, Olefin fabric is exceptionally resilient and has become a popular choice for various outdoor applications, including furniture, cushions, and rugs. Its inherent resistance to water makes it a suitable option for outdoor use, and its lightweight nature ensures easy maintenance.
Sunbrella is the leading brand in the world of outdoor fabrics, recognized for its high-performance qualities and extensive color and pattern options. It works best for commercial situations due to its durability.
Sunbrella fabric for outdoor cushions is made from 100% solution-dyed acrylic fibers, a key factor in its exceptional durability. Solution-dyeing involves adding pigments to the liquid acrylic solution before the fibers are formed, ensuring color permeates the entire fabric rather than just the surface. This results in a fade-resistant material that can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Olefin: Olefin is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is inherently colorfast, meaning the color is integrated into the fibers during production, making it less prone to fading over time.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella fabric is synonymous with durability. Its solution-dyed acrylic fibers are resistant to UV rays, ensuring that the vibrant colors remain intact even with prolonged sun exposure. Sunbrella is also resistant to mold and mildew, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use.
Olefin: Olefin is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. This property makes it resistant to moisture damage and quick to dry after exposure to rain or humidity.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella fabric is water-resistant due to the inherent properties of acrylic fibers. While it’s not entirely waterproof, it has excellent water repellency and dries quickly, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Olefin: Olefin is known for its soft and comfortable feel, making it a pleasant choice for cushions and upholstery. Its lightweight nature also contributes to a comfortable seating experience.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella fabric is appreciated for its soft, cotton-like feel. Despite its outdoor durability, it offers a comfortable and inviting texture that adds to the overall luxury of outdoor furnishings.
Olefin: Olefin is relatively low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient to keep it looking fresh. Its resistance to stains and mold makes it easy to care for.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella fabric is easy to clean and maintain. Most spills can be addressed with a mild soap solution and water. The solution-dyed nature of the fabric also contributes to its resistance to fading and deterioration.
Olefin: Olefin offers a range of color and pattern options, though it may have fewer choices compared to Sunbrella. The colorfast nature of Olefin ensures that the chosen hues remain vibrant over time.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella is renowned for its extensive color and pattern options. From vibrant solids to intricate designs, Sunbrella provides a wide array of choices, allowing for greater customization in outdoor decor.
Olefin: Olefin is often more budget-friendly compared to Sunbrella. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for those looking for quality outdoor fabric without breaking the bank.
Sunbrella: Sunbrella fabric is considered a premium option, reflecting its high-quality materials, extensive color choices, and long-lasting performance. While it may have a higher initial cost, many consider it a worthwhile investment in the longevity and aesthetic appeal of their outdoor furnishings.
The decision between Olefin vs Sunbrella ultimately depends on your priorities and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective option with good durability and a soft feel, Olefin could be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize extensive color options, unparalleled fade resistance, and long-term durability, Sunbrella is likely worth the investment.
When looking for the best outdoor fabric for cushions, both Olefin and Sunbrella have their merits, and the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Olefin offers a cost-effective solution with good durability and comfort, while Sunbrella provides unmatched color options, fade resistance, and a luxurious feel.
Consider your budget, desired aesthetic, and the level of maintenance you’re willing to undertake to make an informed decision that fits your vision for the perfect outdoor space. Whether you go for the affordability of Olefin or the premium quality of Sunbrella, both fabrics contribute to creating a stylish and comfortable outdoor seating area.
