Monday, March 30, 2009

What Is All The Hype With UV Resistant Patio Cushions?

To be fair, it isn't really hype. The company most notable for this innovation is Sunbrella (TM). They have really pioneered the way in which outdoor patio chair cushion fabric can resist the damaging effects of the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.

In the past, outdoor fabrics had little hope of surviving very long, especially in the harsh climates of the desert southwest. Since, this is where many patios are enjoyed and utilized throughout the year, it makes sense that patio cushions should be protected in this way. Now, more than ever, there are many types of fabric patterns, colors and styles that come with this type of UV resistance protection. So, you can believe the hype, because it is actually well founded.

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Aren't Chair Cushions Just Pads?

The short answer is no. Chair cushions that are truly made for comfort and use are more like custom designed and fitted mini-mattresses that fit on your patio chairs. Well, okay, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit. But, the truth is, they are far more than a simple pad.

In the past, this may have been more true. Pads were a better description because they were really just something that went under your rear end that sat right on the chair or bench you were using. Now, the cushion actually has depth, custom patterns, colors and even materials that make it as nice as your indoor furniture. Patio cushions are meant to enhance not only your appearance of fine patio furniture but also to enhance your experience of your patio itself. Use them and enjoy the difference they make.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Where Can You Find Patio Furniture Cushions?

Most of the time, people find the ones they like by shopping online first and then either ordering them directly that way. Other times, you can visit many of the larger pool stores and home improvement warehouses. They will often carry some variety, but you will be limited by their selection. My recommendation would be to go online, search for your particular criteria for your patio chair cushions and then go from there.

You may find that some manufacturers or even the direct retailer will send you a sample of the fabric or patterns to look at and feel in the flesh, so to speak. This way, "patio cushions" are not just some virtual thing you see on a screen in front of you. Plus, they realize that once you feel the material that is made for chair cushions these days that you are more likely to buy from them. It's just smart business. So, continue your search and see if you can't find the next great addition to your lovely patio.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

How To Get The Right Patio Cushions

When it comes down to it, you need to know how you hope to use your patio cushions and what you expect. The days of the chair cushions that needed to be replaced each season are gone. Now, all you have to do is pick from a palette of colors, patterns, styles and fabrics and you are all set.

See, there was a time when "chair cushions" really just meant chair pad that went under your rear end so that your 'sits bones' wouldn't be uncomfortable on that wrought iron or wooden furniture. Now, patio furniture cushions can be thick enough that you would think of them more like a mattress for your outdoor seating. They can be more elaborate with fine detail in the edging or have an even deeper seat to them - like what you might expect on a chaise lounge.

The patterns can range from the retro 1950s style floral prints to more modern colors in a muted color palette. Fabrics also have evolved. What used to be simple plastics over a cheap foam pad (that deteriorated each year) are now UV resistant fabrics that can wear well year round outdoors with proper care.

How To Get More Comfort Outdoors With Patio Cushions

How could anyone consider having a beautiful outdoor patio, all the best furniture and then fall short on using the right patio cushions to make it all comfortable enough to enjoy? Well, there are a lot of people who do that, believe it or not. So, here on this site, I want you to know that we are here to help.

To begin with, you should decide how you will plan on using your patio furniture cushions in the first place. Do you use it when wet, just out of the pool? If so, you are likely considering cushions for a chaise lounger type chair. Are you more of a deck chair person, with evening entertaining around a table with friends? I can see it now, you sitting there in your nice swayback padded deck chair with your beach umbrella stand set with that large shady umbrella. Who cares if you aren't at the beach - it's all a state of mind anyway, right?! This type of luxury lounging might require cushions with more back support or padding to allow for more comfort while sitting for a period of time.

When you get a taste of that chair with the perfect patio cushion, you will not know what you were thinking without them. Never again will you wiggle or squirm on those hard benches or wrought iron chairs. No one will know you were sitting outside again because of those waffle marks on the backs of your legs or pants. Get the patio cushions, they are well worth the investment.