That cozy look from your living room is tempting to recreate on your balcony or patio. You might be wondering: can I just use my regular indoor cushions on my urban outdoor furniture if I'm diligent about bringing them in every night? While this seems like a convenient solution, the answer isn't a simple yes. Here’s a breakdown of the risks and what you can do to make it work temporarily.
The core issue is that indoor cushions are not built to handle the outdoor environment, even for short periods. The sun's UV rays will cause the fabric colors to fade rapidly. Morning dew and unexpected rain showers can lead to moisture absorption, resulting in mildew growth inside the cushion foam, which is incredibly difficult to remove. Furthermore, outdoor furniture frames are often designed to allow water to drain away, while indoor cushions placed on them can trap that moisture against the frame, potentially causing rust on metal or rot on wood.
Bringing your cushions in at night is a good habit and will definitely help. It protects them from overnight dew and pests. However, it does not shield them from the elements they are exposed to during the day while you are using your outdoor space. A sudden afternoon rain shower can soak them in minutes.
If you must use indoor cushions outside, consider these protective steps. The best solution is to invest in waterproof covers for your indoor cushions. This creates a barrier against rain and spills. You should also ensure they are never left outside overnight and bring them in at the first sign of bad weather. Fluff them regularly and store them in a dry, well-ventilated area indoors.
For a truly durable and worry-free setup, specially designed outdoor cushions are the best choice. They are constructed with weather-resistant fabrics like solution-dyed acrylic and filled with quick-dry foam that withstands sun, rain, and mildew. While using indoor cushions outside with extreme caution is possible, outdoor cushions are a long-term investment that will maintain their look and feel for seasons to come.