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How to Choose Outdoor Cushions for a Hotel Pool Deck
A buyer's guide for hotels and resorts: which fabric, foam and construction last on a pool deck, how to measure, and how to plan orders around the season.
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Updated October 2026 · By Sam K, Fabrica Kraft
Quick summary
Pool deck cushions fail for three reasons: fabric that fades, foam that stays wet, and cushions that don't fit the frame. For a hotel or resort, the safest specification is Sunbrella fabric (or Sunbrella Horizon marine vinyl for wipe-down areas), quick-drain Dryfast foam, zippered covers and ties, cut to your exact frame size. Order early enough to have cushions out before the season starts.
1. Choose the fabric by how the area is used
| Area | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Loungers in full sun | Sunbrella upholstery fabric | Solution-dyed for fade resistance, breathable, covers machine wash |
| High-turnover loungers wiped between guests | Sunbrella Horizon marine vinyl | Wipes clean with mild soap and water |
| Uncovered or splash-heavy areas | Sunbrella Rain or marine collections | Waterproof rather than just water-repellent |
| Cabanas and daybeds | Sunbrella upholstery fabric with matching pillows | Soft hand for long stays, coordinated look |
2. Use foam that drains
Standard seat foam holds water. On a pool deck that means soggy cushions and mildew. Dryfast open-cell foam lets water run straight through, so cushions dry quickly after a swim or a storm. Pair it with Sunbrella and the whole cushion is built for wet use.
3. Get the construction right
- Zippered covers so housekeeping can remove and wash them.
- Ties or straps so cushions stay put in the wind; matching-fabric ties are standard.
- Hinged or one-piece chaise cushions to match how your loungers recline. Measure a hinged chaise as seat length plus back length.
- Thickness: 3–5″ is standard for loungers; deeper cushions suit daybeds and cabanas.
4. Measure every furniture type
List each lounger, daybed and chair model with its quantity, then measure one of each: length, width and thickness, plus where any hinge or tie should sit. Photograph the existing cushions. A good supplier will turn that into a spec drawing for you to approve before anything is cut; Fabrica Kraft cuts to within ±0.5″ of the approved spec.
5. Ask for the paperwork
Many properties need fire-safety documentation. Ask for the fabric maker's flammability test reports with your quote. See our guide to fire safety and flammability standards.
6. Plan around the season
- Custom cushions usually take 2–3 weeks from spec approval, plus shipping. Approve specs about four weeks before you need cushions out.
- Order a few spare covers in your most common size to swap out damaged ones mid-season.
- Keep your specs on file with the supplier so reorders don't need re-measuring.
Pool deck cushion checklist
- Sunbrella or Horizon vinyl chosen per area
- Dryfast foam for wet zones
- Zippered covers and ties
- One measured sample of each furniture type
- Spec drawing approved before cutting
- Fire test reports on file
- Order placed at least four weeks before opening
FAQ
How long do Sunbrella pool cushions last?
Sunbrella fabric carries a 5-year warranty from the fabric maker, and Fabrica Kraft adds a 2-year workmanship warranty.
Can you replace cushions for existing pool furniture?
Yes. Send the sizes or the furniture brand and model. We make replacement cushions for brands including Tropitone, Brown Jordan, Homecrest and POLYWOOD.
Is there a minimum order?
No. Order a few replacement pads or a full deck.
See hotel and resort pool cushions or request a pool deck quote.
