How to Look After Your Garden Seat Cushions and Where to Store Them

Why Proper Cushion Care Matters

Garden seat pad cushions are one of the most used — and most neglected — items in any outdoor space. A little regular care goes a long way: well-maintained cushions stay vibrant, comfortable, and mould-free for years. Neglected ones fade, go musty, and need replacing far sooner than they should. Here's how to keep yours in top condition.

Everyday Care Tips

Good habits between uses make a big difference:

  • Shake and air cushions regularly — this prevents moisture from building up inside the filling
  • Stand cushions on their edge after rain so water drains away quickly rather than pooling
  • Wipe down covers promptly after spills — a damp cloth and mild soap solution is usually all you need
  • Avoid leaving cushions on wet furniture overnight — even waterproof fabrics benefit from airflow underneath
  • Rotate cushions periodically so they wear and fade evenly

How to Clean Garden Seat Cushions

For a deeper clean, follow these steps:

  1. Remove any loose dirt with a soft brush
  2. Mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of washing-up liquid or mild detergent
  3. Scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth, working in circular motions
  4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water — a garden hose works well
  5. Stand upright or hang to dry fully in the air before storing or using again
  6. Never tumble dry outdoor cushions unless the care label specifically allows it

For stubborn mould or mildew spots, a diluted white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) applied and left for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing is highly effective and won't damage most outdoor fabrics.

Dealing with Mould and Mildew

Mould is the most common problem with garden cushions stored incorrectly. If you spot it early:

  • Take the cushion outside and brush off any loose spores before cleaning
  • Apply a diluted vinegar or specialist outdoor fabric cleaner
  • Scrub, rinse, and dry thoroughly in direct sunlight if possible — UV light is a natural mould killer
  • Ensure the cushion is completely dry before storing again

Prevention is always easier than cure — which brings us to storage.

When to Bring Cushions In

Even the most weather-resistant outdoor cushions benefit from being stored when not in use:

  • Overnight — if rain is forecast, bring cushions in or store them
  • Extended periods away — always store before holidays or long absences
  • Autumn and winter — store all cushions once the outdoor season ends, typically October through to March in the UK

Where to Store Garden Cushions

The right storage solution keeps cushions dry, clean, and ready to use. Here are your options:

  • Garden storage box — the most practical solution. A weatherproof storage box lives outdoors year-round, keeping cushions dry and accessible without needing to bring them inside. Look for models with hydraulic lids for easy one-handed access.
  • Rattan storage box — doubles as garden furniture and storage. Ideal for smaller gardens where space is at a premium.
  • Indoor storage — a garage, shed, or utility room works well for winter storage. Stack cushions flat or on their edge in a dry, ventilated space.
  • Vacuum storage bags — useful for compressing bulky cushions for long-term indoor storage, though ensure cushions are completely dry before sealing.

Our Garden Seat Cushion Range

We stock a wide range of seat pad cushions to suit all types of garden furniture:

Our Garden Storage Box Range

Keep your cushions protected with one of our outdoor storage solutions:

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