The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Outdoor Chaise Lounge Slipcovers
Spending time relaxing on your outdoor chaise lounge is one of life's simple pleasures on a warm sunny day. But leaving your chaise exposed to the elements over time can cause premature wear and tear. Investing in a high quality outdoor chaise lounge slipcover is the best way to protect your furniture investment while also adding style to your patio or deck.
From materials and measurements to securing and style advice, we've got you covered for choosing slipcovers that will stand up to sun, wind, rain, and dirt while keeping your chaise lounge looking like new.
Materials for Outdoor Chaise Lounge Slipcovers
Outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers come in a variety of durable materials designed to withstand the demands of outdoor use. The most common options include:
Sunbrella
Sunbrella is one of the most popular name brand fabrics for outdoor slipcovers. Made from 100% solution dyed acrylic, it is fade, mold, and mildew resistant. Sunbrella offers excellent breathability and a soft, comfortable feel. It's on the higher end for cost but is an excellent investment for long-lasting performance in outdoor conditions.
Polyester
Polyester slipcovers provide good durability and water resistance at an affordable price point. They dry quickly if they do get wet. Polyester can sometimes pill or fade faster than other fabrics. But overall it's a budget-friendly option for protecting your outdoor chaise.
Acrylic
Acrylic outdoor slipcovers have a soft, flexible feel similar to cotton, but with enhanced weather resistance. Acrylic is breathable, making it a good middle ground choice that provides comfort without overheating. It performs well against fading and resists mildew.
Vinyl
Vinyl is the most waterproof choice for outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers. It stands up well to rain, snow, and sprinklers. Vinyl can be prone to cracking over time and doesn't breathe as well as other materials. But its affordability and waterproofing make it ideal for wet climates.
Recommended Fabrics
If budget isn't a concern, Sunbrella is hands down the best all-around outdoor slipcover material. For a more affordable but still reliable option, polyester is a good choice. If you want a soft, comfy feel, acrylic is the way to go. And for waterproofing, vinyl is your best bet.
How to Measure Your Outdoor Chaise Lounge
Getting accurate measurements of your outdoor chaise lounge ensures you order a slipcover that fits properly. Here's what you'll need and how to measure it:
What You'll Need
- Soft measuring tape
- Notepad for writing down dimensions
- Outdoor chaise lounge dimensions worksheet for reference
Step-by-Step Measuring Instructions
Carefully measure and note the following dimensions:
- Length - Measure longest dimension from top to bottom
- Width - Width at widest part of chaise
- Height - Floor to top of backrest
- Arm width/height - If applicable
- Corners/shape - Note any custom or irregular dimensions
Allow Extra for Shrinkage
It's a good idea to add 2-3 extra inches in your measurements to accommodate for possible fabric shrinkage after washing. This prevents slipcovers from becoming too tight over time.
Types of Outdoor Chaise Lounge Slipcovers
Outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers come in two main styles - tailored and loose fitting. They also utilize different features to secure them in place.
Tailored vs Loose Fitting
Tailored slipcovers are designed to fit tightly over the chaise for a neat, sleek look. Loose fitting covers have a bit more room for design options like ruffles or to allow for cushion plumping as needed.
In general, tailored styles work well for solid colors while loose covers accommodate printed patterns better. Loose covers can also hide small wrinkles in the fabric.
Features
Some key features that help secure outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers include:
- Elastic edging to grip furniture snugly
- Ties, straps, or cords to tie down the cover
- Zipper closures on one or more sides
- Velcro tabs for easy fastening and removal
Styles
Outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers come in a wide variety of styles:
- Solid colors in your choice of fabric
- Printed patterns and textures
- Ruffled edges for a decorative accent
- Coordinating patterns to match other patio cushions/pillows
Securing and Caring for Your Slipcover
Properly securing your outdoor chaise lounge slipcover ensures it stays put and lasts longer. Follow these tips:
Securing Tips
- Use all available tie-down straps, hooks, or velcro
- Adjust straps for a snug, wrinkle-free fit
- Secure all zippers, closures, and velcro completely
- Check attachments after windy days or rain
Washing Instructions
Caring for your slipcover will prolong its life:
- Follow the fabric care label instructions
- Pre-treat any stubborn stains
- Line dry only, do not machine dry
- Store cover indoors when chaise is not in use
Matching Your Patio Decor
Choosing an outdoor chaise lounge slipcover is a great opportunity to complement your existing patio or deck furniture. Here are some tips for coordinating your slipcover with other outdoor accents:
Design Considerations
- Select colors and patterns that tie in with outdoor cushions/pillows
- Look for matching or contrasting textures/fabric types
- Coordinate with umbrella, rugs, curtains for a cohesive style
Style Ideas
- Solid bright slipcover + patterned cushions
- Neutral slipcover + bold printed cushions
- Ruffled slipcover + textured cushions
Shopping Tips and Recommendations
Knowing where to find the best selection of outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers and what to look for will make your shopping experience easier.
Where to Shop
- Big box stores - Convenient but limited fabric/style choices
- Specialty patio/outdoor furniture stores - Broader selection
- Online - Large variety but cannot see/feel in person
What to Look For
- High quality, thick fabrics
- Many color, pattern, and size options
- Good return policy in case of fit issues
- Positive customer reviews
Our Top Picks
Based on our research, these brands offer excellent quality and selection for outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers:
- Sunbrella
- Plow & Hearth
- Sears
Adding protective outdoor chaise lounge slipcovers lets you get the most enjoyment from your patio furniture while shielding it from the outdoor elements. Taking time to measure properly, choose the right fabric, and secure the cover will give you a custom fitted look.
Match your chaise slipcover style with your existing outdoor decor for a fashionable, pulled together patio aesthetic. Investing in a quality cover designed for outdoor use will save you money over time.
We hope this comprehensive outdoor chaise lounge slipcover guide gives you the knowledge to choose the perfect cover to take your patio furniture to the next level. Happy relaxation!