Olefin is a synthetic fabric made from polypropylene or polyethylene fibres. It's widely used in outdoor furniture, marine applications, and pool-area products because it handles UV, moisture, chlorine, and heavy use better than most fabrics — natural or synthetic. If you've ever wondered why some outdoor bean bags and pool loungers hold up season after season while others fade and fall apart, the fabric is usually the answer — and olefin is typically why the good ones last.
What is olefin fabric?
Olefin fabric is a synthetic textile derived from ethylene and propylene, with propylene being the primary source. It was first created in Italy in 1957 and production spread quickly due to its relatively simple manufacturing process — smaller manufacturers could produce it, which helped drive rapid adoption across the industrial and furniture sectors. Production began in the United States just three years later.
While cotton remains the world's most widely used fabric, it performs poorly outdoors — it absorbs moisture, fades in UV, and is prone to mould without treatment. Fabrics like nylon and polyester are better choices for outdoor use, but olefin is generally more durable, more naturally water-resistant, and more colourfast than either. That's why we use it across our premium outdoor bean bag and pool bean bag ranges.
How is olefin produced?
The production process is quite different from natural fibres like cotton or wool. Propylene — a byproduct of oil production that was originally burnt off — is melted together with other chemicals at 110–135°C. The melted compound is then forced through a spinneret (a device similar to a showerhead with tiny holes), forming long continuous fibres that are allowed to cool and dry before being woven into fabric.
One of the most important steps happens before the fibres are even formed: dyeing. Because olefin is extremely difficult to dye once woven, the colouring — known as solution dyeing — is added directly to the chemical mix before or during the melting stage. This locks colour deep into the fibre itself rather than sitting on the surface, which is why olefin fabric doesn't fade even after years of direct sun exposure.
Benefits of olefin fabric
Water-resistant
Olefin fibres are synthetic and inherently moisture-resistant. Rather than absorbing water, they repel it — droplets pool on the surface and run off, or evaporate quickly. This makes olefin ideal for poolside furniture, outdoor cushions, and anything that gets wet regularly. It's also resistant to the damaging effects that chlorine has on most fabrics, which is why it's the material of choice for pool loungers and floating bean bags.
UV and fade resistant
Solution dyeing — where colour is locked into the fibre during production rather than applied to the surface — means olefin holds its colour in direct sunlight far better than most outdoor fabrics. Quality olefin fabric used in outdoor furniture is typically rated for 5+ years in sunlight before any noticeable fading occurs. For a direct comparison of how olefin performs against other outdoor fabrics, see our olefin vs Sunbrella guide.
Mould and mildew resistant
Because olefin doesn't absorb moisture and dries quickly, it doesn't give mould or mildew the damp surface they need to grow. Cotton and many natural fabrics hold moisture against the fabric long enough for mould to establish — olefin eliminates that risk. This makes it especially suitable for humid climates and pool environments. For more on keeping outdoor furniture clean, read our guide to preventing mould on outdoor bean bags.
Durable and abrasion resistant
The tight weave and inherent strength of synthetic olefin fibres make it highly resistant to wear, abrasion, and tearing. It holds up to daily use in demanding environments — from private home pools to commercial resort settings — without developing thin spots or losing structural integrity. This durability is part of why it's commonly used in marine applications, automotive interiors, and high-traffic commercial spaces.
Stain resistant
In the same way liquids bead on the surface rather than soaking in, most stains — including food, sunscreen, and dirt — can be wiped away easily. Oil-based stains are the exception and can be more difficult to remove, but in general olefin is one of the lowest-maintenance fabrics for outdoor use. Find out how to clean olefin fabric and bean bag covers.
Lightweight and no static charge
Olefin is lighter than many comparable outdoor fabrics, which matters for furniture you move around — poolside loungers, bean bags brought in from the deck, chairs rearranged for entertaining. It also doesn't transmit static charge, which is a minor but practical benefit for upholstered furniture used regularly indoors.
Eco-friendly production
Despite being a synthetic fabric, olefin production generates very little byproduct — the raw materials are almost entirely consumed in the process. Olefin fibres can also be recycled and re-extruded up to 10 times before they're no longer usable, making it a more sustainable choice than many single-use synthetics.
What is olefin fabric used for?
Olefin's combination of UV resistance, water resistance, and durability makes it the material of choice for:
- Outdoor furniture — bean bags, cushions, sun loungers, and pool chairs
- Marine applications — boat covers, awnings, and deck furniture
- Pool areas — floating loungers and poolside seating where chlorine and saltwater exposure is constant
- Commercial spaces — high-traffic indoor and outdoor areas in hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
- Automotive interiors — upholstery that resists wear and staining
- Industrial uses — filters, bags, and geotextiles
What to look for when buying olefin fabric products
Not all olefin fabrics perform equally. When choosing outdoor furniture made from olefin, look for:
- Tight weave — a loose weave reduces the fabric's natural strength and water resistance
- Solution-dyed colour — ensures the dye is locked into the fibre rather than applied to the surface, which is what gives olefin its long-term fade resistance
- Outdoor-rated specification — basic olefin on its own isn't always engineered for prolonged sun exposure. Ensure the product you're buying is specified for outdoor use
- GSM rating — higher GSM (grams per square metre) generally indicates a denser, more durable weave. Our pool and premium outdoor range uses 320 GSM olefin
For a full comparison of how olefin stacks up against other outdoor fabrics, read our complete guide to bean bag fabrics and materials.
How to care for olefin fabric
Olefin is low-maintenance, but it does have one important sensitivity: heat. The synthetic fibres can melt or deform under high temperatures, so avoid exposing olefin products to direct heat sources. When drying, air drying is always preferable to machine drying — if you use a dryer, set it to tumble dry with no heat or the lowest possible setting.
For routine cleaning:
- Brush off loose dirt and debris regularly
- Spot clean stains with mild soap and warm water
- For oil-based stains, use a degreasing dish soap applied directly to the area
- Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before storing
- Store in a dry, ventilated area when not in use for extended periods
For more detailed care advice, see our guide to caring for outdoor furniture cushions.
Olefin vs polyester — how do they compare?
| Feature | Olefin | Polyester |
|---|---|---|
| Water resistance | Naturally water-resistant | Requires coating treatment |
| UV protection | Excellent — solution-dyed colour won't fade | Good with UV treatment, but can fade |
| Durability | Very durable — resists abrasion and tearing | Durable but generally less than olefin |
| Mould resistance | Excellent — dries fast, doesn't absorb moisture | Moderate — depends on treatment |
| Weight | Lightweight | Varies by weave and GSM |
Olefin fabric FAQ
Is olefin fabric waterproof?
Olefin is water-resistant, not fully waterproof. It repels water naturally and dries quickly, making it ideal for outdoor and pool-adjacent use — but prolonged submersion or heavy rain may allow some penetration over time.
How long does olefin fabric last outdoors?
Quality outdoor-rated olefin typically lasts 5+ years in direct sunlight with normal care. Its UV and fade resistance make it one of the more durable options available for outdoor furniture in Australian conditions.
Is olefin safe for children and pets?
Yes. Olefin is non-toxic and doesn't harbour bacteria or allergens, making it a practical choice for family outdoor furniture.
What's the difference between olefin and polypropylene?
Polypropylene is a type of olefin. Olefin is the broader category that includes both polypropylene and polyethylene fibres — polypropylene is the most commonly used variety in outdoor fabric applications.
Does olefin fabric get hot in the sun?
Like all outdoor fabrics, olefin will warm in direct sunlight. However, its breathable structure and the tendency to use lighter colourways in outdoor applications means it typically stays more comfortable than darker, denser synthetics.
