Outdoor Fabric Joins the In Crowd
Stepping out in even the poshest interiors, durable outdoor fabrics have transcended sidekick status
Outdoor fabrics are one of the great design success stories of the past 10 or 15 years. It used to be that they came in solids, stripes, beachy patterns, tropical florals and very little else — nothing you'd want to see on a bedroom chaise or a living room ottoman.
Now, however, they're available in a huge range of chic colors and motifs, and homeowners have embraced the idea of using them in high-traffic interior spaces, such as dens, kitchens, kids' rooms and more (in fact, most now are labeled "indoor-outdoor"). Here's what you need to know before you take them from an al fresco to an interior setting.
Now, however, they're available in a huge range of chic colors and motifs, and homeowners have embraced the idea of using them in high-traffic interior spaces, such as dens, kitchens, kids' rooms and more (in fact, most now are labeled "indoor-outdoor"). Here's what you need to know before you take them from an al fresco to an interior setting.
How easy are they to clean?
Generally speaking, very. Swab them with a mild soap and warm water, then wipe the excess away with a towel and let them air dry in a well-ventilated space. You may be able to toss removable pillow covers or slipcovers directly into the wash, but check with the manufacturer first.
Generally speaking, very. Swab them with a mild soap and warm water, then wipe the excess away with a towel and let them air dry in a well-ventilated space. You may be able to toss removable pillow covers or slipcovers directly into the wash, but check with the manufacturer first.
Can I use them in all the same ways as interior fabrics?
Yes, you can; your imagination is the limit. Use them for furniture upholstery, decorative pillows and cushions, window treatments, shower curtains, table linens and more.
Are they expensive?
Outdoor fabrics tend to cost more than comparable indoor fabrics, simply because of their added features. As with interior textiles, designer versions, of which there are many, come with a higher price tag. However, you usually get what you pay for — a quality brand will most likely will last longer than a cheaper one.
Yes, you can; your imagination is the limit. Use them for furniture upholstery, decorative pillows and cushions, window treatments, shower curtains, table linens and more.
Are they expensive?
Outdoor fabrics tend to cost more than comparable indoor fabrics, simply because of their added features. As with interior textiles, designer versions, of which there are many, come with a higher price tag. However, you usually get what you pay for — a quality brand will most likely will last longer than a cheaper one.
Are some outdoor fabrics unsuitable for indoor use?
No, but some work better for certain applications. For example, you probably wouldn't want to use a stiff laminated fabric for floor-length draperies. Some styles also have a looser weave that allows pillow and upholstery stuffing or padding to breathe. Ask the manufacturer or your upholsterer or fabric shop about recommended usage of the fabrics you're considering.
No, but some work better for certain applications. For example, you probably wouldn't want to use a stiff laminated fabric for floor-length draperies. Some styles also have a looser weave that allows pillow and upholstery stuffing or padding to breathe. Ask the manufacturer or your upholsterer or fabric shop about recommended usage of the fabrics you're considering.
Can I turn an indoor fabric into an outdoor fabric?
It depends. You can buy sprays that add a protective coating, some with built-in UV light resistance. However, they're not suitable for every fabric type, particularly delicate ones. Read the label, then consult the fabric manufacturer for guidance.
It depends. You can buy sprays that add a protective coating, some with built-in UV light resistance. However, they're not suitable for every fabric type, particularly delicate ones. Read the label, then consult the fabric manufacturer for guidance.
These textiles are woven from synthetic materials such as acrylic and polyester, natural fibers such as cotton or a combination of the two. They're treated with a chemical coating that wards off water and stains, as well as protects against mold, mildew and fading from UV light rays. This makes them ideal for moisture-prone spaces such as bathrooms, basements and laundry areas, as well as rooms that get a lot of sun.