Quick answer
Waterproof, UV-resistant outdoor fabric resists water and sun by combining a water-repellent synthetic fiber with fade-resistant solution dyeing. The most durable outdoor upholstery uses fibers that don't absorb moisture and pigment that runs through each strand, so the fabric sheds rain and holds color through seasons of sun. Revolution's outdoor fabrics are engineered for this — stain-resistant, easy to clean, and rated for heavy use, including styles tested to 100,000+ double rubs.
Water-resistant vs. waterproof: what's the difference?
The terms get used loosely, so it helps to separate them:
- Water-repellent / water-resistant: the fabric sheds water and resists absorption, but seams and prolonged soaking can still let moisture through. Most outdoor upholstery falls here — and it's what you want, because fully sealed "waterproof" coatings trap condensation and feel clammy.
- Waterproof: a fully impermeable barrier (think vinyl or coated marine canvas). Used for covers and tarps, not comfortable seating.
For cushions and outdoor furniture, a quick-drying, water-repellent performance weave is almost always the better choice — it sheds spills and rain, then dries without trapping water against the foam.
How fabric resists UV fading
Sun fades fabric when UV light breaks down dye molecules. Two design choices determine how long color lasts:
- Solution dyeing. Pigment is added to the liquid polymer before the fiber is formed, so color runs all the way through each strand. There's far more pigment to lose before fading shows — the reason solution-dyed fabrics dominate awnings and outdoor cushions.
- UV-stable fibers. Synthetics like solution-dyed acrylic and performance polypropylene resist UV degradation far better than untreated natural fibers.
For a deeper look at fiber types, see our acrylic and performance fabric guide.
What to look for in outdoor upholstery fabric
| Property | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Water-repellent finish | Sheds rain and spills, dries quickly without trapping moisture |
| Solution-dyed / UV-rated | Holds color through seasons of sun exposure |
| Mold & mildew resistance | Synthetic fibers don't feed mildew the way natural fibers do |
| High double-rub rating | Withstands heavy seasonal use; 50,000+ is excellent |
| Bleach-cleanable | Lets you remove tough outdoor stains without fading |
How to clean outdoor fabric
For Revolution outdoor fabric: remove loose debris, spray a solution of about 2 oz bleach to 30 oz water onto the stain, let it soak, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and air dry. Because the fabric is bleach-cleanable without discoloring, even mildew and tree-sap stains come out without harming the color. Avoid solvent-based cleaners and after-market protectants. Full guidance is on our choosing outdoor cushion fabric page.
Revolution outdoor & UV-resistant fabrics
- Bamboo Bay — an indoor/outdoor performance fabric rated to an exceptional 102,000 double rubs, also tagged pet- and kid-friendly.
- Pasadena Outdoor Collection — patterned outdoor upholstery built for sun and weather.
Frequently asked questions
Is outdoor fabric actually waterproof?
Most outdoor upholstery is water-repellent rather than fully waterproof — it sheds rain and spills and dries quickly without trapping moisture against the foam. Fully waterproof materials like coated vinyl are used for covers, not comfortable seating.
What fabric is most resistant to sun fading?
Solution-dyed fabrics resist fading best because pigment runs through each fiber rather than sitting on the surface. Solution-dyed acrylic and UV-stable performance polypropylene are the most fade-resistant choices for outdoor use.
How do you clean mildew off outdoor cushions?
On Revolution outdoor fabric, spray a solution of about 2 oz bleach to 30 oz water, let it soak, rinse with clean water, and air dry. Because the fabric is bleach-cleanable without discoloring, mildew lifts without fading the color.
Can outdoor fabric be used indoors?
Yes. Indoor/outdoor performance fabrics like Bamboo Bay work indoors too, and their high durability and easy cleaning make them popular for high-traffic rooms, sunrooms, and homes with kids and pets.
What does "double rubs" mean for outdoor fabric?
Double rubs measure abrasion resistance — how much rubbing a fabric withstands before showing wear. For outdoor furniture that sees heavy seasonal use, 50,000+ is excellent; some Revolution outdoor fabrics exceed 100,000.