The Colours of Patio Furniture Covers Are Brighter This Year

When it comes to fashion and interior design, trends come and go. Sometimes I agree with the colors and patterns that appear to be in vogue, sometimes not so much. This year is a good design year in my opinion, especially with the trends for patio furniture covers. It seems that this years designers are continuing the retro feel, but the colors appear to be much more vibrant than the cautious monotone palette of the recent past.

With the recession in full swing, I think many designers have made a conscious move towards brighter more cheerful palettes. Even if this is a sub-conscious design trend, I think that it is a good one, since you can’t help but smile when you see vibrant colors and cheerful fun flower prints everywhere. The colors may clash with the throw back to the 60’s and 70’s rainbow combinations, but I for one am ready for a change from beige on beige.

Notwithstanding the wild array colours and patterns available this season, there are some common elements that never seem to change from year to year. The elements that are resistant to change or that change very slowly relate to the functionality of the patio furniture covers. These elements relate to the durability of the covers, the quality of the covers, the ease of removing the covers, the style of fastening the covers, and the ability to protect patio furniture from the elements.

I am often asked about what I look for when buying outdoor furniture covers for me or my clients. The answer is twofold. The first thing I look for is the type of fabric used in the manufacture of the covers. A few decades ago, furniture covers tended to be of a very poor quality with a layer of plastic bonded to a cotton lining. The sun and rain destroyed these covers quickly and quickly the covers looked shabby. The covers that are available today are made from newer more durable and advanced man-made fabrics. These fabrics are both breathable and water resistant. The combination of these factors protects the furniture from the rain and dew and at the same time allows mildew producing moisture to escape.

The second feature that should be examined relates to durability. Look at the seams. Are all of the seams double stitched? Are there any lose threads which might indicate a weakness in the integrity of the cover? Also examine the manner in which the covers are fastened. The more expensive outdoor patio furniture covers fasten with heavy duty zippers. Zip and unzip all of the zippers completely. Make sure the zippers run smoothly and easily for the entire range of the zipper.

When buying outdoor furniture covers you should keep a few things in mind. Colour and pattern are important but these aspects are only a part of what should be seriously considered. The functionality of the covers is very important too. Are they easily removed? Are they easily washed? Is the fabric protective and durable? A proper consideration of all of these factors will allow you to purchase the best patio furniture covers for your family.