Fabric guide · By Sam K · Updated October 2026
For most outdoor cushions, standard Sunbrella is the right choice: a solution-dyed acrylic that resists fading, mildew and stains and repels water. Choose Sunbrella Horizon marine-grade vinyl for boats and poolside, and Sunbrella waterproof upholstery when rain or spills must never reach the foam. Indoors, Warwick upholstery and velvet give a softer feel.
Which fabric fits your space?
Fade-, mildew- and stain-resistant, water-repellent. 160+ colours.
Shop Sunbrella
A built-in barrier keeps rain and spills out of the foam.
Build with waterproof
Marine-grade vinyl. Wipe-clean, salt-water and UV resistant.
Shop Horizon
Cushion fabrics compared
| Fabric | What it is | Best for | Water | Fabric warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sunbrella | Solution-dyed acrylic, 160+ colours | Patio, verandah, garden benches, chaises, deep seating; also indoors | Water-repellent, not waterproof | 5 years (Sunbrella upholstery) |
| Sunbrella waterproof upholstery | Sunbrella with a built-in barrier | Uncovered seating and rainy climates | Waterproof: rain and spills cannot soak into the foam | Sunbrella mill warranty |
| Sunbrella Horizon marine-grade vinyl | Marine vinyl | Boats, pool loungers, restaurant booths | Wipe-clean, salt-water and UV resistant | Sunbrella mill warranty |
| Warwick upholstery | Australian-made upholstery fabrics | Indoor window seats, benches, dining and living rooms | Easy to clean; indoor unless marked outdoor | 3 years |
| Velvet | Soft pile fabric | Indoor accent cushions, banquettes, piano benches | Indoor only | Mill warranty |
On top of the fabric warranty, our workmanship is covered for 2 years and our foam for 1–7 years depending on the foam. See Warranty & Fit Guarantee.
How to chooseThree questions to decide
Indoors or outdoors?
Indoors, any fabric works. Outdoors, choose a Sunbrella fabric.
How much water will it see?
Covered patio: standard Sunbrella. Open to rain: Sunbrella waterproof. On a boat or by the pool: Sunbrella Horizon vinyl.
How will you clean it?
Sunbrella covers are machine washable. Marine vinyl wipes clean.
Outdoors, pair the fabric with Dryfast foam so the inside drains and dries too. Piping is not available on waterproof fabric.
Order swatches · $7Common questions
Is Sunbrella waterproof?
Most Sunbrella is water-repellent, not waterproof: water beads on the surface but can soak in during long rain. Some ranges are waterproof, including the Sunbrella marine collections and Sunbrella waterproof upholstery.
Can I use Sunbrella fabric indoors?
Yes. Sunbrella resists stains and fading, so it works well on window seats and kitchen benches that get sun or heavy use.
Does Sunbrella fade in the sun?
Sunbrella is solution-dyed: the colour goes through each fibre rather than sitting on the surface, so it resists fading far better than printed fabrics. Upholstery fabrics carry a 5-year mill warranty.
What fabric is best for boat cushions?
Sunbrella Horizon marine-grade vinyl with Dryfast foam. It wipes clean and resists salt water and UV.
Can I see the fabric before I order?
Yes. Order swatches for $7 each to check the colour at home.
