When thinking about buying outdoor pillows, consider the following:

Are you buying outdoor cushions or outdoor pillows? While this may seem like an obvious and unnecessary question, knowing what you plan to use your pillows for will only expedite the process and aid you in making necessary decisions faster. With cushions, you will need to be more precise with size and style as this will need to fit on a chair or chaise base more precisely. With outdoor pillows, have fun with size, style and pattern. They’re decorative accents and can be treated as such.

What style of cushion do you want? If you are buying outdoor chair cushions, consider the different options and styles available. For chaises or other patio loungers, a cushion with a full back and seat would be the most comfortable to spend hours in, while a garden bench only needs a flat seat cushion. Outdoor furniture and pillows are for a comfortable seating experience, so if you need to constantly readjust your seat cushion back in order to make it comfortable, something isn’t right.

Are the pillows covered in outdoor fabric? Another important tip is that you confirm that the pillow materials you are buying in fact are intended for outdoor use. Pillows made of Sunbrella fabric, or other UV and weather resistant materials are perfect for protecting against the harsh rays of the sun, as well as for preventing mold and mildew that may build up in damper conditions.

Design and Accessories to complete the look.Often times the material used to cover outdoor cushions is available for other outdoor accessories. Think about a matching patio umbrella or even some outdoor curtains. Some sites may group design and color families together, so that you can create the perfect complementary outdoor space.

Take a look at the outdoor pillows on Houzz, and before you purchase make sure to take thorough and accurate measurements.