How to Measure for Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor cushion sizes, explained.
Accurate measurements are the first step to finding the right outdoor cushions to enhance your patio, poolside, or deck. Whether you’re shopping for new cushions or replacing old ones, choosing the correct outdoor cushion dimensions for your furniture is essential for a comfortable fit. Read on to learn how to measure for outdoor cushions to ensure you end up with the perfect match.
How to Measure for Outdoor Cushions
Before you start measuring for outdoor cushions, you'll need a firm measuring tape and a place to record your measurements – like a pen and paper or your smartphone – so they'll be at the ready when you're shopping for the right fit.
Measuring for Seat Cushions
To find measurements for a seat cushion, use a firm tape measure to determine the width and depth of the space where the cushion will go. Start at the zero marker and find the width by running the tape measure from left to right across the seat, between the arms. To find the depth, start at the zero marker and measure from the front edge of the seat to the back.
Tip!
When choosing cushions, round up or down to the nearest 1/2 inch in order to achieve a more or less firm cushion.
Measuring for Back Cushions
To measure for back cushions, start by measuring the chair's backrest width from left to right between the armrests (if applicable). Make sure to measure the width of the top and bottom of the backrest as some chair designs have a narrowing backrest design. Then, measure the height of the backrest from the top of the chair's backrest down to where the backrest meets the seat portion.
Cushions by Furniture Type
Once you have your measurements down, you can start browsing for patio cushion sizes that go with a specific outdoor furniture. Below are popular sizes for outdoor cushions based on furniture type:
Dining Chair
Lounge Chair
Chaise Lounge
Bench
Loveseat/Sofa
Tip!
If you want to switch up the look of your patio without purchasing new cushions, you can opt for cushion covers that fit over your existing set.
(Shop this image: wicker patio sets, blue patio furniture cushions, gray outdoor rugs, outdoor planters, and beige patio umbrellas)
In addition to outdoor cushion size, there are a few other factors that’ll help you find the right cushions to complete your outdoor space. From materials to features to upkeep, here are some things you should keep in mind.
Outdoor Cushion Materials
- Sunbrella®: Known for its resistance to sun, water, and stains, Sunbrella® is a solution-dyed acrylic performance fabric that can handle the elements and everyday wear and tear.
- Cotton Blend: With the breathability of cotton and the outdoor-approved qualities of synthetic materials, cotton-blend outdoor cushions can give you the perks of natural fibers with some added durability and resistance.
- Polyester/Polyester Blend: Polyester and polyester-blend cushions are budget-friendly and durable, standing up to spills, stains, and the elements.
- Acrylic: Acrylic cushions are highly durable with stain-, mildew-, and UV-resistance. Because of these qualities, acrylic is a great option for high-traffic spaces that are more moisture-prone, such as poolside lounges.
Tip!
To learn more about outdoor cushion materials (and patio furniture materials too), check out our Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide.
Outdoor Cushion Features
- Water-Resistant: The ability to withstand the elements is a key feature of outdoor cushions. The water-resistant coating keeps your cushions protected from the weather.
- Fade- or UV-Resistant: The durable synthetic material used in making outdoor cushions is fade- and UV-resistant to keep vivid colors and patterns bright.
- Stain-Resistant: Whether you use your outdoor space for entertaining or relaxing, stain-resistant cushions ensure that paw prints, spills, and sandy feet are easy to clean.
- Mildew-Resistant: A mildew-resistant finish prevents prolonged moisture and keeps your outdoor cushions from developing mildew.
- Machine-Washable: Though outdoor cushions are often stain- and water-resistant, you’ll most likely need to clean them to keep your cushions fresh. Machine-washable cushion covers make maintenance simple.
- With Ties: Ties can help secure the cushions and prevent them from sliding off your patio furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you measure outdoor cushions correctly?
To measure outdoor cushions correctly, start by measuring the width from side to side, the depth from front to back, and height of the cushion from top to bottom. For the most accurate fit measure the furniture frame directly, instead of measuring the old cushion as it may have changed shape or size slightly over time.
2. What tools do I need to measure for outdoor cushions?
To measure outdoor cushions you will need a rigid tape measure, a notepad or divide to record your measurements, and a flexible tape measure if you’re measuring curved furniture or cushions.
3. How thick should outdoor cushions be?
The thickness of outdoor furniture cushions depends on preference. Thicker cushions generally offer more comfort while lounging, while thinner cushions work well to pad dining chairs where a balance between comfort and firm support is needed.
