Sunbrella® Grade
Details at a Glance
| Fabric Brand | Sunbrella |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Solution-dyed acrylic performance fabric |
| UV Resistance | Engineered for fade resistance in direct sun |
| Weather Performance | All-weather rated for rain, moisture, and salt air |
| Mildew Resistance | Yes, built into fiber structure |
| Application | Outdoor furniture upholstery upgrade |
How Does Sunbrella Fabric Hold Up Outdoors Year After Year?
Sunbrella is solution-dyed, meaning the color is locked into the acrylic fiber before the fabric is woven -- it can't wash or bleach out the way surface-dyed fabrics do. That makes it genuinely fade-resistant even in high-altitude or coastal sun where standard outdoor fabrics surrender color in a single season. The acrylic fiber itself repels moisture and resists mildew from the fiber level up, so cushions dry faster after rain and won't develop that mildewed smell even in humid climates. Sunbrella also stands up to salt air without corroding or stiffening, which is why you'll find it on yacht cushions and coastal resort furniture that stays outside 365 days a year.What Maintenance Does Sunbrella Require Off-Season?
Brush off loose dirt and hose down the fabric monthly during active use -- Sunbrella cleans with plain water and mild soap, no special treatments required. Most stains (including tree sap and sunscreen) lift with a soft brush and detergent solution; a diluted bleach wash is safe for deeper stains because the color won't fade. You can leave Sunbrella cushions outdoors through winter in most climates, but storing them in a dry shed or deck box extends their lifespan by reducing long-term UV exposure and keeping them cleaner between seasons. Never machine-wash or put Sunbrella in a dryer -- air-dry only.Where Should You Upgrade to Sunbrella on a Patio or Deck?
Upgrade any piece that sits in full afternoon sun or near a pool, where standard fabrics would fade or mildew within months. Sunbrella makes the biggest difference on outdoor lounge chairs, sectionals, and dining chairs that live outside rather than being carried in each night. If you're outfitting a coastal deck or rooftop terrace with serious UV and salt exposure, the Sunbrella upgrade pays for itself in longevity -- you won't be replacing faded cushions every other year.Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Sunbrella fabric stay outside all year?
- Yes, Sunbrella is rated for year-round outdoor exposure in most climates. Storing cushions in a deck box or shed during the off-season reduces UV load and keeps them cleaner, but the fabric itself won't degrade from winter weather.
- Will Sunbrella fade in direct sun?
- Sunbrella is solution-dyed for genuine UV resistance and holds color far longer than surface-dyed outdoor fabrics. Expect minimal fading even after years in high-UV environments like rooftops or coastal decks.
- Is Sunbrella suitable for a coastal or salt-air location?
- Yes, Sunbrella acrylic resists salt corrosion and won't stiffen or degrade in salt air the way some synthetics do. It's a standard choice for marine and coastal outdoor furniture.
- How do I clean stains from Sunbrella fabric?
- Brush off loose dirt, then scrub with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. For deeper stains, a diluted bleach solution is safe because the color is locked into the fiber, not surface-applied.
- Does the Sunbrella upgrade apply to all cushions on a piece of furniture?
- The upgrade applies to all upholstered surfaces on the item you're ordering -- seat, back, and arm cushions where applicable. If you're customizing a modular set, confirm coverage with the product listing or contact us before ordering.
- How is this upgrade delivered?
- The Sunbrella fabric is applied to your furniture during manufacturing. The finished piece ships with free curbside delivery to the continental USA; white-glove setup and assembly are available for an additional fee upon request.
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.