Waterproof Upholstery Fabrics for Kitchens & Gardens

December 22, 2025

Waterproof upholstery fabrics are essential when you want furniture that stands up to spills, moisture, humidity, and outdoor elements—especially in kitchens, dining areas, patios, gardens, and conservatories. Choosing the right waterproof fabric not only protects your investment but also enhances comfort, aesthetics, and longevity.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn what waterproof upholstery fabrics are, how they work, the best types available, their advantages, practical uses, and tips for maintenance. Whether you’re upholstering a garden sofa or re-covering kitchen seats, this guide will help you make the right choice.

waterproof fabric

What Makes a Fabric Waterproof?

A fabric becomes waterproof through one or both of these methods:

  1. Material Properties

Some fabrics are inherently water‑resistant due to their fibre structure—such as acrylic, olefin (polypropylene), PVC, and coated polyester.

  1. Surface Treatments & Coatings

Other fabrics are treated with waterproof membranes, laminates, spray coatings, or lamination that prevent water from passing through.

Waterproof fabrics may also be breathable, meaning they block water on the surface while allowing moisture vapour to escape—important for comfort, especially in garden furniture or sunrooms.

Why Choose Waterproof Upholstery?

Waterproof upholstery fabrics offer a wide range of benefits:

  • Spill Protection

Accidental spills from drinks, sauces, or pets in kitchen and dining areas won’t soak into the fabric.

  • Mould & Mildew Resistance

In humid environments like gardens or conservatories, waterproof fabric helps inhibit growth of mould and mildew.

  • Durability

These fabrics are often more rugged, resisting abrasion, UV fading, and weather exposure.

  • Ease of Cleaning

Liquids bead on the surface and are easier to wipe away, reducing deep cleaning needs.

  • Versatility

Ideal not only for outdoor furniture but also kitchen seats, breakfast nooks, kids’ playrooms, RV interiors, and boats.

Top Types of Waterproof Upholstery Fabrics

  1. Outdoor Acrylic Fabrics

Examples: Sunbrella®, Weatherproof®, acrylic canvas

Why they’re popular:

  • Naturally water‑resistant, breathable, and colourfast
  • Excellent UV protection
  • Soft, textile feel—great for garden sofas and cushions

Best for: Outdoor lounges, patio chairs, pergolas, sunrooms

  1. PVC/Marine Vinyl (Vinyl Upholstery)

Why this works:

  • Completely waterproof and easy to wipe clean
  • Resists stains and microbial growth
  • Durable and cost‑effective

Best for: Outdoor benches, boat seating, pool‑side furniture, kitchen stools

Consideration: Some vinyls can feel less breathable than textile fabrics, but premium vinyl options now balance comfort with performance.

  1. Polyester with Coatings (PU / Wax / Laminated)

Features:

  • Polyester base with a waterproof coating (e.g. polyurethane)
  • Can be engineered to be soft, textured, and stylish
  • Often treated for stain resistance and easy cleaning

Best for: Kitchen seating, indoor/outdoor blends, café seating

  1. Olefin (Polypropylene)

Why it’s chosen:

  • Excellent moisture resistance
  • Lightweight and mildew resistant
  • Easy to clean with mild soap and water

Best for: Garden furniture, cushions, family room seating near windows or conservatories

  1. Treated Natural Fibres (Cotton/Linen with Waterproof Finish)

Features:

  • Natural look and texture
  • Water repellent finishes applied via coating or impregnation

Best for: Kitchens or indoor spaces where natural aesthetics matter most

Note: These fabrics may need occasional re‑treatment to maintain water repellency.

How to Choose the Right Waterproof Fabric

When selecting a fabric for kitchens or outdoor areas, consider:

⭐ Level of Exposure

  • Full outdoor exposure? Go with acrylic or marine‑grade vinyl
  • Light rain or occasional splashes? Polyester or treated natural fibres work well

⭐ Comfort & Feel

  • Softer, textile textures: acrylic and coated polyester
  • Easy wipe‑down surfaces: vinyl or olefin

⭐ Maintenance Priorities

  • Frequent spills or kids’ furniture—choose high‑grade vinyl or outdoor acrylic
  • Long‑term UV resistance—go for solution‑dyed acrylic fabrics

⭐ Design & Colour

Choose fabrics that complement décor while also resisting fading. Light colours can show stains more but stay cooler in sunlight.

⭐ Breathability

Outdoor settings benefit from fabrics that allow airflow to avoid trapping heat or moisture underneath.

Cleaning & Care Tips

Even waterproof fabrics require care for long life:

  • Wiping Spills

Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water. Mild soap can be used for stubborn marks.

  • Deep Cleaning

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most outdoor acrylics can be cleaned with mild detergent and rinsed.

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Bleach or abrasive cleaners can weaken coatings or fade colours.

  • Fabric Re‑Treatment

For fabrics with water repellent finishes, occasional re‑application of a fabric protector can help maintain performance.

Waterproof vs Water Resistant: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to understand the terms:

  • Waterproof: Liquid cannot penetrate under normal usage conditions. Best for outdoor or high‑spill environments.
  • Water‑Resistant: Repels liquid initially, but may allow penetration over time or under pressure.

For kitchens and gardens where spills and weather can be unpredictable, true waterproof fabrics offer the most reliable protection.

Why Use Waterproof Upholstery Fabrics?

Waterproof fabrics deliver peace of mind and performance—ensuring furniture looks great while standing up to everyday life. They save time on maintenance, protect foam and inner linings from moisture, and extend your furniture’s life across seasons.

Choose Quality Waterproof Fabrics at Upholstery Warehouse

At JA Milton , we stock a wide range of premium waterproof upholstery fabrics perfect for kitchens, gardens, patios, conservatories, and beyond. You’ll find:

  • Outdoor acrylic fabrics
  • Marine‑grade vinyl upholstery
  • Waterproof and water‑resistant polyesters
  • Treated natural fibre options
  • Cleaning and protective care products

Visit us today: JA Milton

Make your seating functional, stylish, and built to last—choose the right waterproof fabric for every space with Upholstery Warehouse.



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