Based on the provided reference, no, polyester is generally not considered good for outdoor cushions.
While polyester is a common fabric, it performs the worst among typical outdoor cushion materials when exposed to the elements. This is primarily due to its limitations in key areas necessary for outdoor durability.
According to the reference, polyester fabrics have the lowest light fastness rating. This means they are highly susceptible to fading and degradation when exposed to sunlight over time. Unlike materials designed for outdoor use, polyester will quickly lose its color and structural integrity under UV rays, making it a poor long-term choice for items constantly left outside.
Furthermore, achieving stain resistance with polyester for outdoor use often requires a PFC chemical finish. While this finish can provide some protection, relying on chemical treatments that may wash off or degrade over time adds another layer of maintenance and potential environmental concern compared to inherently stain-resistant fibers.
In contrast to polyester's limitations, the reference highlights that the two best fibers for making outdoor cushions are solution-dyed olefin and solution-dyed acrylic. These materials are specifically engineered to withstand outdoor conditions, offering superior light fastness, water resistance, and inherent stain resistance without the need for potentially harmful chemical finishes.
Here's a quick comparison based on the reference:
| Feature | Polyester | Solution-Dyed Olefin / Acrylic |
|---|---|---|
| Light Fastness | Lowest rating (performs the worst) | High (best options) |
| Stain Resistance | Requires PFC chemical finish | Inherently resistant (solution-dyed) |
| Overall Performance | Poor for outdoor use (performs the worst) | Excellent for outdoor use (the two best) |
Why Avoid Polyester for Outdoor Cushions?
- Poor Fade Resistance: It has the lowest light fastness, meaning it fades quickly in the sun.
- Reliance on Chemical Finish: Often needs PFC chemicals for stain resistance, which isn't a permanent solution.
- Lower Durability: Less resilient to the stresses of outdoor exposure compared to specialized fibers.
For long-lasting, fade-resistant, and durable outdoor cushions, solution-dyed olefin or acrylic are the recommended choices over polyester.
