Outdoor Fabric Guide 2025: How to Choose, Care and Style for the Australian Climate

With summer just around the corner, there’s no better time to refresh your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re updating your coastal retreat or adding comfort to an inner-city courtyard, choosing the right outdoor fabrics makes all the difference.

Here, No Chintz founder Chrissie Jeffery shares her expert advice on selecting, caring for and styling outdoor textiles that are built to last in Australia’s unique climate.
 

What Makes a Fabric Suitable for Outdoor Use?

Not all fabrics are made equal when it comes to outdoor performance. Outdoor fabrics are specially designed to resist fading, moisture and mildew. They’re woven from solution-dyed yarns such as polypropylene, solution-dyed acrylics, olefin and outdoor polyester - fibres that retain their colour and strength when exposed to sunlight, rain and humidity.

These technical yarns ensure that your cushions, bench seats and upholstery maintain their vibrancy and integrity season after season.
 

Can I Leave Outdoor Cushions Outside All the Time?

Yes, you can, but a little care goes a long way. While outdoor fabrics are designed for durability, Australia’s weather can be unforgiving. To prolong their life, Chrissie recommends storing or covering cushions during extended wet periods or when you’re away from home.

Allowing fabrics to sit in standing water or remain damp will shorten their lifespan, so giving them the occasional break from the elements keeps them looking and feeling their best.
 

What Inserts Should I Use for Outdoor Cushions?

The right insert will keep your cushions comfortable, quick-drying and long-lasting.

• For throw cushions, use a recycled polyester fibre infill — it’s resilient and eco-friendly.
• For seat and back cushions, choose Urecel QuickDry or Floatation foam, both designed to drain or repel water quickly and prevent mildew.

These specialist foams help maintain the shape and support of your outdoor seating, even after a downpour.
 

How Do I Clean Outdoor Fabrics?

Regular maintenance is simple and extends the life of your fabrics:

• Brush off dust and debris frequently to prevent build-up.
• For deeper cleaning, wash on a gentle cycle using mild detergent and air-dry flat or on a line.
• Avoid tumble drying or harsh heat, which can damage the fibres.
• Some premium fabrics such as Sunbrella can be safely bleached, but always check the care label before using strong cleaners.

These steps help preserve colour and texture while keeping your outdoor area fresh and inviting.
 

Mixing Materials: Form Meets Function

At Chrissie’s South Coast beach shack, outdoor bench seating is upholstered in weather-resistant fabric and foam, then layered with linen or cotton throw cushions for softness and style.

Natural fabrics like linen may fade over time, but that gentle, sun-washed look adds relaxed charm. Bringing cushions indoors during heavy rain or when you’re away helps extend their life while maintaining that effortless, lived-in aesthetic No Chintz is known for.

 

What was the inspiration behind the No Chintz Summer Melon Outdoor collection?

Summer Melon was inspired by the traditional ikats of Uzbekistan. We wanted a big bright pattern that wasn’t floral and went well with stripes and woven textures. It comes in three colourways which offer a wide range of different combinations back with our other outdoor fabrics.

Outdoor Expertise, Crafted for Australian Living

At No Chintz, we offer a curated collection of outdoor fabrics designed to perform beautifully in Australian conditions - durable, fade-resistant and elegant. Our design team can help you select the perfect textile for your next project, whether it’s a poolside lounge, patio bench seat or coastal retreat.

Looking for something unique? We can source premium designer outdoor fabrics from leading international mills and create custom-made outdoor cushions and bench seats in our Sydney workrooms.

Visit us in store to explore the range and chat with our design consultants, or browse our outdoor fabric collection online to start planning your summer refresh.