What are outdoor textiles?
Outdoor textiles are typically made from synthetic materials that are resistant to moisture and sunlight. Polyester is a common example, valued for its durability and its ability to withstand changing weather conditions.
If you use textiles that are not designed for outdoor use, they should be stored indoors when they are not in use or when the weather is poor.
Outdoor textiles help create an attractive and practical outdoor space, whether you have a large terrace or a small balcony. They add comfort while making it easier to enjoy time outdoors.
Many outdoor textiles are designed for repeated use throughout the season. Choosing products intended for outdoor conditions can help maintain their appearance for longer when they are exposed to sunlight, light rain and everyday use. Even so, storing textiles in a dry place when they are not needed can help keep them clean and ready for the next occasion.
Which textiles are useful for a terrace or balcony?
When planning a terrace or balcony, it is worth choosing textiles that can cope with outdoor conditions while adding comfort and visual appeal. Depending on your space, you may wish to consider cushions, seat pads, throws, quilted blankets, tablecloths, placemats and sun lounger mattresses.
A practical way to choose is to think about how each product will be used. Seat pads provide extra comfort for outdoor seating, cushions add support and decoration, while throws and quilted blankets are useful when the temperature drops. Tablecloths and placemats help complete an outdoor dining setting, and mattresses make sun loungers more comfortable.
When comparing products, look for textiles intended for outdoor use that can withstand sunlight, dirt and moisture. Materials that are easy to clean and maintain can also make everyday use simpler.
You may also want to consider colour, texture and size so that different textiles work well together. Coordinating cushions, throws and table textiles can create a consistent look while still allowing you to mix different patterns or shades if you prefer a more varied style.
How to style your outdoor space with textiles
Textiles can be used in many different outdoor settings, including terraces, balconies, orangeries, holiday homes, allotment gardens and other outdoor areas. They are an easy way to combine comfort with a personal look.
Seat pads and outdoor cushions make garden furniture more comfortable for longer periods of sitting. Throws and quilted blankets provide extra warmth during cooler evenings outside.
If you enjoy dining outdoors, a tablecloth or placemats can help create a finished table setting. If you prefer a tablecloth that is water-repellent and easy to clean, an acrylic tablecloth can be a practical choice.
Sun lounger mattresses provide additional comfort while relaxing outdoors. By combining different textiles, you can create an outdoor area that feels both comfortable and personal.
You can also use colour to shape the overall look. Bold colours create a vibrant expression, while calmer shades give the space a more understated appearance.
Layering different textiles can make outdoor seating feel more welcoming. A combination of seat pads, cushions and a throw allows you to adjust comfort throughout the day, whether you are reading, sharing a meal or relaxing outdoors.
Textiles for days out
Outdoor textiles are also useful beyond the terrace or balcony. A day at the beach, in the park or in the countryside often calls for practical textile products that are easy to bring along.
Beach towels
Many people prefer a large beach towel for relaxing by the water or sunbathing on the beach.
Picnic blankets
Picnic blankets are designed to create a comfortable place to sit in the garden, park, at the beach or in other outdoor locations. They provide a protective layer between you and the ground.
Cool bags
Cool bags help keep food and drinks cool during trips such as visits to the beach or the countryside.
These products can be useful for short outings as well as longer days outdoors. Choosing textiles that are easy to carry, clean and store can make them practical for regular use in different environments.
Södahl outdoor textiles
Södahl uses spun polyester for its outdoor textile collection. Polyester is well suited to outdoor products because it has water-repellent properties and fades more slowly in sunlight. It is highly durable, dries quickly and does not shrink during washing.
Spun polyester has a soft feel and a look similar to cotton. It is produced by twisting polyester fibres together to create yarn.
These textiles can be machine washed at 40°C. The fabric should be handled with care by avoiding high spin speeds, choosing air drying instead of tumble drying and not ironing the textiles.
Explore outdoor textiles at Kitchen Living Dining
Our selection of outdoor textiles includes products designed for outdoor use in a range of settings. Whether you are creating a comfortable balcony, preparing a terrace for outdoor dining or planning a picnic, this category brings together different textile options in one place, making it easier to compare products and choose those that match your needs.
If you are exploring the wider outdoor range, you can also browse outdoor furniture to complement your textiles.
Discover more for outdoor living
You can explore the complete outdoor range from the Kitchen Living Dining homepage or continue to the Outdoor Textiles category to compare the available products.
For more ideas for your outdoor space, see our selection of grill and accessories, garden games and lanterns. Together with outdoor textiles, these categories help you build an outdoor space that suits different occasions and activities.
Frequently asked questions
What are outdoor textiles made from?
Outdoor textiles are typically made from synthetic materials such as polyester because they are resistant to moisture and sunlight. In everyday use, this means they can better cope with changing weather conditions and repeated outdoor use than textiles intended only for indoor spaces.
Which outdoor textiles are useful for a terrace or balcony?
Common choices include cushions, seat pads, throws, quilted blankets, tablecloths, placemats and sun lounger mattresses. In practice, this helps you choose products based on how you use the space, whether you want more comfortable seating, a practical dining area or a place to relax.
What should I look for when choosing outdoor textiles?
Look for textiles that are intended for outdoor use and can withstand sunlight, dirt and moisture. Materials that are easy to clean are also practical. This makes it easier to keep the textiles looking good during the season while reducing everyday maintenance.
How can I style an outdoor space with textiles?
You can combine seat pads, cushions, throws, table textiles and sun lounger mattresses to create a comfortable and coordinated outdoor area. In everyday use, this means you can adjust comfort throughout the day while using colours and textures to achieve the look you prefer.
How should outdoor textiles be cared for?
Outdoor textiles should be stored in a dry place when they are not needed, especially if they are not designed for outdoor use or when the weather is poor. Södahl outdoor textiles can be machine washed at 40°C and should be air dried rather than tumble dried. In practice, this helps keep the textiles clean and ready for future use.
Can outdoor textiles be used away from the garden?
Yes, products such as beach towels, picnic blankets and cool bags are suitable for trips to the beach, park or countryside. In everyday use, this means they are practical for carrying, cleaning and storing when spending time outdoors in different locations.
How can I choose the right outdoor textiles on a webshop?
Start by thinking about where and how each textile will be used, then compare filtered choices based on material, size, colour and intended purpose. This makes it easier to find products that match your outdoor space and practical needs.