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Yes, you can get outdoor pillows wet, but with some important considerations to keep them looking good and lasting longer.
Outdoor pillows are designed for use outside, so they often come with fabrics and fillings made to handle moisture better than indoor pillows.
However, not all outdoor pillows are equally water-resistant or waterproof, so understanding how to manage wetness is key.
In this post, we’ll explore whether outdoor pillows can get wet, the types of pillows best suited for wet conditions, and how to care for them when they do get wet.
Let’s dive right in!
Why Outdoor Pillows Can Get Wet
Outdoor pillows are specifically made to tolerate outdoor elements better than regular pillows.
Here’s why you can let your outdoor pillows get wet without worrying right away:
1. Water-Resistant or Waterproof Fabrics
Many outdoor pillows use fabrics like solution-dyed acrylic, polyester blends, or olefin that resist water penetration.
These materials shed water more efficiently than cotton or linen, which soak up moisture.
This means outdoor pillows can handle rain, splashes, or accidental spills much better.
2. Quick-Drying Filling Materials
The fillings inside outdoor pillows are often made of polyfill or other synthetic fibers that dry faster and don’t hold moisture like down feathers would.
Some even have drainage holes or mesh covers to let water escape quickly.
These design choices reduce mold and mildew risk when pillows get wet.
3. Mold and Mildew Resistance
Outdoor pillows frequently include treatments or fabrics designed to resist mold and mildew growth.
While not 100% mold proof, these treatments slow down the growth caused by moisture exposure.
This makes getting outdoor pillows wet less risky than indoor pillows.
4. Rain Exposure Is Common
Outdoor furniture and accessories like pillows are often exposed to the elements by design.
Rain and dew are natural parts of outdoor living, so pillows are built to withstand these reasonably well.
That doesn’t mean they should be left soaking endlessly, but brief wetting is expected and accounted for.
Types of Outdoor Pillows and Their Water Tolerance
Understanding which types of outdoor pillows can get wet and how much exposure they tolerate helps extend their life.
Here are some common categories and what you need to know:
1. Waterproof Outdoor Pillows
These pillows are made with completely waterproof fabrics and sometimes have sealed seams.
You can leave waterproof pillows outside in heavy rain without the inner fill becoming soggy.
They are perfect for areas with frequent rain or accidental splashes.
2. Water-Resistant Outdoor Pillows
Water-resistant pillows repel water to some degree, but prolonged exposure will eventually get the fill wet.
They are great for patios or covered porches where rain exposure is occasional.
Be sure to bring them inside during heavy rain or at night for best care.
3. Indoor/Outdoor Blend Pillows
These pillows combine indoor comfort with some outdoor durability.
They can handle light moisture but are not designed to get soaked.
Treat them as delicate and avoid letting them remain wet or storing them outside when rainy.
4. DIY Pillows with Outdoor Fabric
Some people make their own outdoor pillows using water-resistant fabric with typical pillow inserts.
Although the fabric keeps water out, the ordinary polyester or down filling inside could absorb moisture.
In this case, getting the pillow wet means drying it quickly to prevent damage.
How to Care for Outdoor Pillows When They Get Wet
No matter what type of outdoor pillow you own, they will inevitably get wet from time to time.
Here are important care tips to keep your pillows fresh and lasting longer after moisture exposure:
1. Dry Them Thoroughly
After pillows get wet, the most critical step is drying them as soon as possible.
Remove them from the wet area and place them in sunlight or a well-ventilated spot.
Drying slows mold and mildew growth and prevents unpleasant odors.
2. Spot Clean or Wash as Needed
If water causes dirt or stains, clean the pillow surface gently.
Many outdoor pillows have removable covers that can be machine washed or hand washed.
Always check care tags and use mild detergents.
Be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before putting covers back on the inserts.
3. Store When Not in Use
To avoid pillows staying wet for long periods, bring them indoors or into a dry storage bin when you’re not using them.
This especially applies during rainstorms or bad weather periods.
Even water-resistant pillows last longer this way.
4. Use Weatherproof Pillow Covers
If you love to keep pillows permanently outside, consider using waterproof pillow covers.
These covers shield the pillows from rain, dust, and dirt.
You can remove and wash the covers when they get dirty without washing the entire pillow.
5. Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure
Although outdoor pillows can handle water, sitting in a puddle or heavy, unrelenting rain isn’t ideal.
Prolonged exposure can push water into the fill.
Over time, this leads to mold, mildew, and deterioration of the pillow’s quality.
Try to keep pillows elevated or under covers to extend their lifespan.
Common Myths About Outdoor Pillows and Water
It’s easy to get confused about outdoor pillows’ relationship with water.
Here are some misconceptions cleared up:
1. Myth: Outdoor Pillows Are Completely Waterproof
While many pillows are water-resistant, not all are 100% waterproof.
Knowing the difference helps set expectations for how much wetness your pillows can handle.
Waterproof pillows exist but cost more and require specific materials.
2. Myth: Outdoor Pillows Don’t Need Any Care
Some think outdoor pillows can be left outdoors constantly without any maintenance.
The truth is, regular cleaning, drying, and storage help keep pillows in top shape.
Neglect can shorten their lifespan despite their water-tolerant design.
3. Myth: All Outdoor Pillows Are Mold-Proof
Even pillows treated to resist mold can develop it if continuously wet without drying.
Mold resistance slows growth but doesn’t eliminate the need for proper care.
Drying and cleaning practices are still essential.
4. Myth: You Should Never Let Outdoor Pillows Get Wet
Since they’re designed for outdoor use, outdoor pillows can get wet and recover quite well.
Absolutely avoid letting them stay wet permanently, but a bit of moisture here and there is normal.
Just follow care tips to keep them fresh.
So, Can Outdoor Pillows Get Wet?
Yes, outdoor pillows can get wet, and they’re built to withstand some water exposure thanks to water-resistant fabrics and quick-drying fill.
But not all outdoor pillows are the same—some handle moisture better, while others need extra care.
To keep your outdoor pillows looking great and lasting longer, dry them promptly after getting wet, clean and store them properly, and consider using waterproof covers in very wet environments.
Getting outdoor pillows wet isn’t a problem if you understand their limits and take good care of them.
Now, go ahead and enjoy your outdoor space worry-free, even when the pillows occasionally get a little wet!