How To Measure Replacement Cushions For Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture cushions can fade, tear, and become uncomfortable over time. Replacing them can breathe new life into your patio, deck, or porch. To ensure a perfect fit, accurate measurements are crucial for ordering the right size cushions. This guide provides a step-by-step process for measuring your existing cushions and determining the right dimensions for replacements.

1. Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before embarking on the measurement process, gather the necessary tools:

Measuring tape: A flexible tape measure with clear markings is essential for accurate measurements.
Pen and paper: Jot down the measurements as you take them to avoid confusion.
Optional: A ruler or yardstick can provide additional accuracy for smaller measurements.

Having these tools readily available ensures a smooth and accurate measurement process.

2. Prepare Your Furniture

Before taking any measurements, ensure that the furniture piece is clean and clear of any obstructions. Remove any loose objects from the seating area and any items blocking access to the cushions. This ensures that the measurements are accurate and not affected by any impediments.

3. Measure the Dimensions of the Existing Cushions

Follow these steps to obtain accurate cushion measurements:

Width: Measure the width of the cushion at its widest point, running the measuring tape across the top of the cushion. Note the measurement on your paper.
Depth: Measure the depth of the cushion from front to back, along the bottom edge of the cushion. Note the measurement on your paper.
Height: Measure the height of the cushion from the bottom to the top. Note the measurement on your paper.
Thickness: If you are replacing the cushion with an identical version, measure the existing cushion's thickness. If you are wanting to replace the cushion with a different thickness, you will need to pick the thickness you desire.
Shape: Note the shape of the cushion. Is it square, rectangular, round, or an irregular shape? This will help when ordering replacement cushions.
Backrest Cushions: If you are replacing backrest cushions, measure the width, height, and depth of the cushion. Make sure to also measure the width and height of the cushion from the back of the chair to the front.

Be sure to record these measurements in a clear and organized manner to avoid confusion and ensure you have accurate data for ordering replacement cushions.

4. Account for Cushion Covers and Fillings

When measuring existing cushions, consider the fabric cover and the filling material. These factors can affect the overall size and shape of the cushion. For instance, if you are replacing a foam cushion with a cushion filled with down, you may need to order a larger size to accommodate the increased volume of the filling. Similarly, if you plan to replace a cushion cover with a thicker or more textured fabric, the replacement cushion should be slightly larger to accommodate the additional fabric thickness. This ensures that the replacement cushions fit snugly and comfortably on the furniture.

5. Include a Seam Allowance

To avoid the cushions appearing too small on the furniture, you should consider including a seam allowance in your measurements. This allowance is typically 1/2 inch to 1 inch, depending on the thickness of the cushion fabric. This will ensure the cushion fits snugly and doesn't appear too small or loose on the furniture.

6. Consider Different Cushion Styles

Beyond the basic dimensions, consider the desired style of the replacement cushions. For instance, would you prefer a standard cushion, a box cushion, or a loose cushion with ties? Understanding the different cushion styles will help you narrow down your options and ensure you order cushions that meet your preferences and expectations.

By following these detailed steps, you can accurately measure and order replacement cushions for your outdoor furniture. Accurate measurements ensure the replacement cushions fit perfectly and enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living space.