April 2, 2025 Rob Murphy

Accessorising Your Garden Furniture: Cushions and Throws

The right accessories are what make garden furniture feel like a proper outdoor room rather than a collection of chairs. Cushions, throws, rugs and lighting are the finishing layer that adds comfort, colour and personality to any outdoor space. This guide covers how to choose and use them effectively.

Choosing Cushions

Outdoor cushions need to handle UV exposure, moisture and temperature changes. The key things to check before buying:

Fabric: solution-dyed acrylic is the most UV-resistant and longest-lasting outdoor fabric. UV-treated polyester is the most common mid-market option. Look for fabrics described as water-resistant or quick-drying. Avoid standard indoor fabrics outdoors — they deteriorate quickly.

Covers: removable, machine-washable covers significantly extend cushion life. Check the washing instructions before buying.

Foam: higher density foam holds its shape longer. Cheap cushions use low-density foam that compresses within a season. A good outdoor cushion should feel firm when new and maintain that firmness over time.

If your existing cushions have worn out, see our replacement cushions guide for sizing and compatibility. For full cushion care advice, see our garden furniture care guide.

Throws and Blankets

Outdoor throws are the single most effective way to extend the time guests want to stay outside on a cool evening. Keep a basket of lightweight throws near the seating area — they get used far more than most people expect, particularly in spring and autumn when evenings cool quickly.

Cotton and wool blend throws provide the best warmth-to-weight ratio. Acrylic fleece throws are more water-resistant and dry faster if they get damp. Choose throws that are easy to wash — they'll need regular cleaning through the season.

Colour and Pattern

The most effective outdoor colour schemes use a limited palette — 2–3 colours maximum — applied consistently across cushions, throws and any other soft furnishings. This creates a considered, intentional feel rather than a collection of unrelated items.

For UK gardens, colours that work well year-round: warm neutrals (stone, sand, terracotta), deep greens and blues that complement garden planting, and warm accent colours (rust, mustard, burnt orange) that work particularly well in autumn. Bright tropical colours look great in summer but can feel incongruous in autumn and winter.

Patterns add visual interest without requiring multiple colours. Stripes, geometric prints and botanical patterns all work well outdoors. Mix one patterned cushion with plain cushions in the same colour palette for a balanced look.

Layering Cushions and Throws

Layering creates a more luxurious, considered feel than a single cushion on each seat. For a sofa: 2–3 back cushions of varying sizes, plus a smaller accent cushion in a contrasting colour or pattern. A throw draped over one arm adds texture and signals that the space is comfortable and welcoming.

Vary sizes and shapes — a mix of square and rectangular cushions is more interesting than all the same size. Don't over-cushion — too many cushions on a small sofa looks cluttered and leaves no room to sit.

Beyond Cushions: Rugs, Lighting and Plants

Cushions and throws are the starting point, but the accessories that complete an outdoor space are an outdoor rug, good lighting and plants.

Outdoor rug: defines the seating area and adds warmth underfoot. Choose a flat-weave polypropylene rug that dries quickly. Size it so it extends at least 60cm beyond the furniture on all sides.

Lighting: string lights above the seating area extend usability into the evening and create atmosphere. See our patio lighting guide for full guidance. Browse our garden lighting range.

Plants: potted plants around the perimeter of the seating area create a sense of enclosure and make the space feel more considered. Herbs in pots are practical as well as decorative.

Care and Storage

The single most impactful habit for extending the life of outdoor cushions is storing them inside or in a weatherproof storage box when not in use. Damp cushions left outside develop mildew quickly and deteriorate significantly faster than stored ones.

Clean cushion covers according to the manufacturer's instructions — most are machine washable at 30°C. Spot-clean throws with warm soapy water and allow to dry fully before storing. For full seasonal care guidance, see our garden furniture care guide.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best fabric for outdoor cushions?

Solution-dyed acrylic is the most UV-resistant and longest-lasting. UV-treated polyester is the most common mid-market option. Look for removable, machine-washable covers regardless of fabric type. Avoid standard indoor fabrics outdoors.

How do I stop outdoor cushions going mouldy?

Store cushions inside or in a weatherproof storage box when not in use. If mildew develops, clean with warm water and white vinegar, rinse thoroughly and dry completely in the sun before storing.

How many cushions should I put on an outdoor sofa?

For a 3-seater sofa: 2–3 back cushions plus 1 accent cushion. For a 2-seater: 2 back cushions. Don't over-cushion — too many cushions leaves no room to sit and looks cluttered. A throw draped over one arm adds texture without taking up seating space.

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