Choosing the best material for outdoor bean bag chairs is the difference between a lounger that lasts for years — and one that fades, splits, or grows mould after one season. Outdoor conditions in Australia can be brutal: strong UV, humidity, salt air near the coast, chlorine splashes near pools, and sudden downpours.
If you’re shopping for outdoor bean bags (or upgrading your pool area with pool bean bags), this guide breaks down which fabrics perform best outdoors, what to avoid, and how to keep your bean bag looking great for longer. If you want a broader overview of every fabric type (indoor + outdoor), our pillar guide is here: bean bag fabrics & materials guide.
What Makes a Material “Outdoor-Ready”?
Outdoor bean bags aren’t just “indoor bean bags placed outside.” The fabric has to handle a different world: heat, wet, grit, chlorine, sunscreen, and constant movement. The best outdoor materials can cope with four things without drama:
- UV resistance (prevents fading and fabric breakdown)
- Water resistance + quick drying (reduces damp and mildew risk)
- Mould and mildew resistance (especially important in humid or coastal areas)
- Durability (abrasion, kids, pets, dragging on decks and pavers)
Comfort matters too. Some “waterproof” materials feel hot, sticky, or plastic-like in summer. The goal is to choose a fabric that balances weather performance with lounging comfort, based on how and where you’ll use it (poolside, deck, balcony, lawn, etc.).
Outdoor Bean Bags vs Indoor Bean Bags: Why Fabric Matters
It’s tempting to put any bean bag outdoors and hope for the best — but most indoor fabrics (especially cotton blends and plush materials) absorb moisture, stain easily, and can develop mildew if left damp.
Outdoor fabrics are usually built differently, with tighter weaves, UV-stable dyes, and finishes designed to resist water and grime. If you’re unsure whether a bean bag is built for outdoor conditions, start with purpose-made options in our outdoor bean bags collection.
Best Materials for Outdoor Bean Bag Chairs
1) Olefin (Best All-Round Outdoor Fabric)
Olefin fabric is one of the best all-round materials for outdoor bean bag chairs because it’s designed to cope with sun, moisture, and everyday wear. It’s also comfortable to sit on (unlike many vinyl-style waterproof fabrics) and tends to hold colour well in harsh sunlight.
Why it works outdoors:
- Strong UV resistance for long-term colour retention
- Resists moisture and dries quickly
- Helps prevent mildew when cared for properly
- Good balance of durability and comfort
Best for: most patios, decks, balconies, and general outdoor lounging.
Good to know: Olefin is a strong “set-and-forget” choice for most Australian homes — especially if you want outdoor performance without giving up that fabric-like feel.
2) Solution-Dyed Acrylic (Premium Feel + Excellent Fade Resistance)
Solution-dyed acrylic is a premium outdoor upholstery fabric used on high-end outdoor seating. The colour is locked into the fibre before it’s woven, which improves fade resistance over time. If you’ve ever seen outdoor cushions that look new after years in the sun, solution-dyed acrylic is often why.
Why people choose it:
- Excellent fade resistance in full sun
- Soft, “indoor-like” comfort for longer lounging sessions
- Good resistance to moisture and mildew with basic care
Best for: sunny patios where comfort and aesthetics matter as much as performance.
If you’re comparing premium outdoor fabrics, you may find this helpful: Olefin vs Sunbrella.
3) Polyester with Protective Backing (Budget Outdoor Option)
Polyester with a protective backing is common in budget outdoor covers and seating because it helps block water penetration and adds structure. The trade-off is often breathability and comfort — it can feel warmer and less “cushy” on hot days, especially in direct sun.
When it makes sense:
- You want occasional outdoor use
- Your space is mostly covered (alfresco, verandah, pergola)
- You’re willing to store it away during heavy rain
Best for: shaded areas, covered patios, and homes where the bean bag can be moved inside when needed.
4) Marine-Grade Vinyl (Maximum Waterproofing)
Marine-grade vinyl is built for wet zones. It wipes clean easily and handles splashes without absorbing moisture — which is exactly why it’s popular for commercial settings and some pool areas. The trade-off is comfort: it’s less breathable, can feel hot in summer sun, and doesn’t have that soft “fabric” feel.
Why people choose it:
- Maximum water resistance
- Wipe-clean convenience (sunscreen and spills)
- Strong durability in high-use environments
Best for: heavy splash zones, some commercial settings, or where wipe-clean durability is the priority.
Poolside Bean Bags: What to Prioritise
If your bean bag will be used in and around the pool, your priorities change slightly. Chlorine, sunscreen, water splashes, and dampness will punish the wrong fabric. Poolside also tends to mean more sun exposure — and that’s where materials rise or fall quickly.
For pool zones, look for:
- Fast drying (or drainage-friendly design)
- High UV resistance (to prevent fading and breakdown)
- Strong mould resistance (especially in humid areas)
- Easy cleanability (chlorine + sunscreen residue builds up)
If mould prevention is a concern (especially in coastal and humid areas), keep this guide handy: how to prevent mould on outdoor bean bags.
To browse options built specifically for pool environments, start here: pool bean bags.
Outdoor Fabric Comparison: Which One Should You Choose?
If you want a quick way to decide, here’s the simplest rule of thumb:
- Want the best all-rounder? Choose olefin.
- Want premium comfort + excellent fade resistance? Choose solution-dyed acrylic.
- Want budget-friendly for covered areas? Choose polyester with protective backing.
- Want wipe-clean waterproofing? Choose marine-grade vinyl.
Materials to Avoid for Outdoor Bean Bag Chairs
Some materials look great in photos but don’t hold up outdoors — especially when left exposed to rain, humidity, or UV. Avoid:
- Indoor cotton blends (absorb water, stain easily, higher mildew risk)
- Untreated canvas (can fade and grow mildew if left damp)
- Thin, cheap polyester with no outdoor-grade coating (tears, fades, degrades fast)
- Plush indoor fabrics (faux fur, velvet, chenille) anywhere exposed to weather
If you love the look of cotton or canvas, keep it to covered areas only and store it indoors when not in use.
Care Tips That Make Any Outdoor Fabric Last Longer
Even the best outdoor fabric benefits from basic upkeep. The goal is simple: don’t let grime, moisture, or chemicals sit there long enough to cause problems.
- Brush off leaves, sand, and dirt regularly so grit doesn’t embed into fibres
- Rinse with clean water after heavy pool use (chlorine + sunscreen residue)
- Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning
- Dry fully before storing or covering to reduce mildew risk
- Store under cover during long wet periods or storms
If you want an all-in-one cleaning and longevity checklist, our broader guide is here: bean bag care and maintenance.
Outdoor Safety Notes (Especially for Family Homes)
Outdoor areas add extra hazards: wet surfaces, pool edges, sharp corners on pavers, and heat from barbeques or fire pits. If you’re buying outdoor bean bags for family spaces, make sure you also understand safety essentials like zipper systems and proper containment.
For a practical overview, read: bean bag chair safety tips and childproof bean bag zippers.
Quick Recommendations
- Best overall: Olefin
- Best premium feel + sun resistance: Solution-dyed acrylic
- Best budget under cover: Polyester with protective backing
- Best wipe-clean waterproof: Marine-grade vinyl
Final Thoughts
The best outdoor bean bag material depends on where you’ll use it and what matters most: maximum waterproofing, all-day comfort, fade resistance, or low maintenance. For most Australian homes, olefin is the safest all-round pick — and for pool areas, prioritising quick drying and mould resistance is essential.
Ready to choose the right one?
