Alfresco and Poolside Cushion Ideas for Summer

Quick answer: For alfresco and pool areas, use Sunbrella covers with quick-drain Dryfast foam: a 102–152 mm daybed mattress with bolsters, fitted sun lounger cushions with ties, deep seat cushions for the outdoor sofa, and 51–76 mm bench cushions for outdoor dining.

The alfresco area is where summer happens: long lunches, kids in and out of the pool, a book on the daybed in the afternoon. The right cushions make those spaces comfortable enough to stay all day. Here are ideas for the most popular outdoor spots, with fabric and foam tips for each.

The poolside daybed

A thick daybed mattress turns a frame into the best seat in the house. Go for 102–152 mm thickness, add two or three bolsters along the back, and finish with a mix of striped and solid pillows. Choose Sunbrella for the cover and Dryfast foam inside so it drains and dries quickly after a swim. See daybed cushions.

Sun loungers by the pool

Fitted lounger cushions with ties stay put in the wind. For a hinged lounger, measure seat length plus back length and note where the hinge falls. Lighter colours stay cooler to sit on in full sun. See chaise and lounger cushions.

The outdoor sofa under the pergola

Deep seat cushions with separate backs are the most comfortable for long afternoons. Mid-tone colours such as sand, grey and natural canvas hide dust and leaves between cleans. See deep seat outdoor cushions.

Built-in benches and outdoor dining

Built-in timber or rendered benches around the alfresco table rarely fit a stock cushion. A made-to-measure bench cushion at 51–76 mm keeps everyone at table height. Add ties to keep it in place. See bench cushions.

Shade for the hottest part of the day

Outdoor curtains on a verandah or pergola block low afternoon sun and give privacy from neighbours. Our Warwick outdoor curtains are made to your width and drop.

Colour ideas that suit Australian light

• Coastal: white, sand and navy stripes with timber
• Bush and native gardens: olive, eucalyptus green, charcoal and natural canvas
• Resort pool: white mattress with blue-and-white striped pillows
• Modern rendered home: charcoal or graphite cushions with one bright accent pillow

Fabric and foam that suit pool areas

• Sunbrella covers: fade- and mildew-resistant; Sunbrella Rain is waterproof
• Dryfast foam: open-cell foam that drains quickly, for seats that get wet
• Zipped covers: easy to remove and wash at the end of summer

Foam for Australian orders is made in Australia, and shipping within Australia is free.

Plan ahead for the holidays

Standard shapes take 2–3 weeks to make; custom shapes from your template take 5–6 weeks. Measure with our guide in mm, choose your fabric with our Sunbrella or Warwick guide, and order early for Christmas.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best cushion for a poolside daybed?

A 102–152 mm mattress in Sunbrella with Dryfast foam inside, so it drains and dries quickly after a swim, finished with bolsters and a mix of striped and solid pillows.

What colours work best for outdoor cushions in full sun?

Lighter colours stay cooler to sit on, and mid-tones such as sand, grey and natural canvas hide dust and leaves between cleans.

How thick should an outdoor bench cushion be?

51–76 mm keeps everyone at table height on built-in benches and outdoor dining seats.

Is shipping free in Australia?

Yes. Shipping within Australia is free, and foam for Australian orders is made in Australia.