Sunbrella® Grade
Details at a Glance
| Material | Solution-dyed acrylic fiber |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sunbrella |
| UV Resistance | Solution-dyed for colorfast performance |
| Water Resistance | Water-repellent finish |
| Mildew Resistance | Yes, resistant to mildew and rot |
| Fade Resistance | Engineered to resist fading in direct sun |
| Cleaning | Spot-clean with mild soap and water; machine washable on delicate cycle |
Will This Fabric Fade in Direct Sun?
No -- solution-dyeing saturates each acrylic fiber with pigment all the way through before the yarn is spun, so UV rays can't strip the color out. Surface-dyed fabrics lose their vibrancy after one or two summers of direct sun; Sunbrella holds its color for years because the dye is inside the fiber, not on top of it. That process is why Sunbrella-grade fabrics are the standard for marine canvas and high-exposure awnings. If your patio faces south or west and gets blasted with afternoon sun, you want solution-dyed acrylic.How Do You Clean and Care for It Over Winter?
Brush off loose dirt, then spot-clean with a solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water -- a soft-bristle brush works well for ground-in grime. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry; the fabric sheds water naturally, so it dries fast. Most Sunbrella-upholstered cushions can be machine-washed on a delicate cycle with mild detergent -- air-dry only, never heat. If you're storing cushions for winter, make sure they're completely dry first and keep them in a ventilated space; a sealed plastic bin can trap moisture and promote mildew even on mildew-resistant fabric. You don't have to bring Sunbrella cushions inside during the season -- they're engineered for weather -- but storing them dry over winter extends their life.Is It Suitable for a Coastal or Salt-Air Location?
Yes. The acrylic fiber won't corrode or rot in salt air, and the water-repellent finish helps ocean spray bead off instead of soaking in. Sunbrella is the go-to fabric for boat upholstery and seaside awnings because it handles constant moisture and salt without breaking down. You'll still want to rinse cushions occasionally if they're directly exposed to salt spray -- dried salt can stiffen any fabric over time -- but the material itself won't degrade. Pair Sunbrella cushions with frames from our all-weather seating or teak outdoor furniture collections for a full coastal-ready setup.Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Sunbrella cushions stay outside all year?
- The fabric resists UV, moisture, and mildew, so it can stay outside through the season. For winter storage in freezing or very wet climates, bring cushions inside or store them dry in a shed to prevent ice damage to foam cores.
- Will the finish fade in direct sun?
- No -- the solution-dyed acrylic fiber is colorfast and engineered to resist fading even in full-sun exposure for years.
- How do I remove stains from Sunbrella fabric?
- Blot the stain immediately, then clean with a mix of one-quarter cup mild soap per gallon of water, scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse well, and air-dry. For tougher stains, a diluted bleach solution is safe on most Sunbrella colors.
- Is it mildew-proof?
- It's mildew-resistant, not mildew-proof. Keep cushions dry between rains and store them with airflow -- mildew needs moisture and stagnant air to grow, and Sunbrella denies it both when cared for correctly.
- Does it feel rough or scratchy compared to indoor fabric?
- No -- Sunbrella acrylic is soft enough for everyday seating. It's not as plush as velvet, but it's far more comfortable than vinyl or polyester outdoor fabrics and it breathes better on hot days.
- How is it shipped?
- Free curbside delivery to the continental USA. Sunbrella fabric typically ships by the yard or as part of finished cushions; delivery method depends on the item.
We recommend a simple and effective cleaning and care regimen for our products.
Use a light application of mild soap and water with a spray bottle or dampened soft cloth to clean the surface of your piece.
Follow with a fresh dry towel to wipe away any excess moisture that remains.