When choosing thread for outdoor fabric, you have a few main options: nylon, polyester, and PTFE. These are the most common choices for outdoor cushions, outdoor beanbags, and pool beanbags. While these threads share some qualities, they also have important differences in weight, breathability, stain resistance, and how well they keep their color. Some are waterproof and great for pool use, while others are known for being tough and long-lasting.
Outdoor fabrics need threads that can handle sun, rain, and regular use. The right thread depends on what you need—like weather resistance for pool chairs or cushions. Outdoor fabrics can fade in the sun or get damaged by water, so it’s important to pick a thread that stands up to these challenges. Here’s a simple guide to the three main types of thread for outdoor fabric, with the pros and cons of each.
What Type of Thread is Best for Outdoor Use?
Nylon has been used for decades. It was first made as a replacement for silk, but now it’s used in everything from military gear to toothbrushes. Nylon is strong, stretchy, and very versatile. It’s one of the most common threads in the world, after cotton.
Nylon is made from petroleum. The way it’s produced makes it both stretchy and strong. This is why nylon is a good choice for outdoor fabric, especially for luxury outdoor bean bags.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Nylon Thread
Nylon thread is tough and resists wear and tear. It’s also elastic, so it stretches without breaking. Nylon is great for outdoor cushions, dog beds, and pool beanbags because it’s water-resistant and doesn’t get moldy. It’s also stain-resistant and easy to clean.
However, nylon has a shiny look that some people don’t like, and it can create static electricity. It’s not recyclable, so it’s not the most eco-friendly choice. Nylon can also fade in the sun more than other threads.
Overall, nylon is strong, flexible, and water-resistant, making it useful for pool beanbags and any outdoor fabric that might get wet. Its main downside is that it can lose color in the sun.
Polyester Thread for Outdoor Fabric
Polyester is another popular thread for outdoor fabric. Like nylon, it’s synthetic and very versatile. The most common type is PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which is used in many textiles. PET is flexible and more sustainable than some other fabrics, especially when made from recycled materials.
Polyester thread is durable and resists abrasion, just like nylon. It’s a finer thread, so it can have a higher thread count for extra strength, but nylon is still stronger for its weight.
Polyester is also water-resistant and dries quickly, making it good for pool beanbags. It resists mold, mildew, heat, and sunlight, so it keeps its color longer than nylon. Polyester is also recyclable, making it a more eco-friendly option.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Polyester Thread
Polyester is hard to dye, but it keeps its color well, which is great for outdoor use. One downside is that it can melt if it touches something hot, like a cigarette or BBQ spark. Oil can also stain polyester easily.
Polyester doesn’t breathe well and can feel shiny, which some people don’t like. It’s not biodegradable, but it can be recycled. Polyester can also get hot in the sun, so it might not be the best choice for very hot climates.
PTFE for Outdoor Fabric
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), also known as Teflon, is another excellent thread for outdoor fabrics. PTFE is a special fiber used in many industries because it’s so tough and versatile. It’s used in filters, cables, and protective clothing.
PTFE is often used for high-quality outdoor cushions and beanbags. It’s almost completely resistant to chemicals, so it won’t react with most things. Only a few elements, like sodium, can damage PTFE, making it very strong.
UV Resistance
PTFE is highly UV resistant, so it’s perfect for outdoor use. It won’t fade or break down in the sun, unlike nylon or polyester. PTFE is also flame-retardant and won’t burn easily, making it safe for outdoor use. It can handle a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.
PTFE is waterproof, so it’s great for pool beanbags and outdoor clothing. It’s easy to clean and resists stains, which is very handy for outdoor use. If you spill food or drinks on PTFE, you can clean it up quickly.
Durability of PTFE Thread
PTFE is very durable and long-lasting. This means you won’t have to replace your outdoor cushions or beanbags as often, saving you money and helping the environment. PTFE is a smart investment for premium outdoor products.
PTFE is also stain-resistant and easy to maintain. It won’t lose its color or texture, even after years of use. The main downside is that PTFE costs more than nylon or polyester, but it lasts much longer.
Advantages & Disadvantages of PTFE Thread
The main disadvantage of PTFE is the price. It’s more expensive than nylon or polyester because it’s not mass-produced as much. But you get a higher-quality, longer-lasting product. PTFE is the best choice for premium pool beanbags and luxury outdoor cushions.
PTFE is comfortable, durable, and more suitable for outdoor fabric than other threads. It’s worth the extra cost because it lasts longer and is easier to care for.
What Thread is Best for Me?
When choosing thread for outdoor beanbags and cushions, comfort and quality are most important. Style and color matter too. PTFE, nylon, and polyester all come in many colors and patterns, so you can find something that looks great in your outdoor space.
Outdoor fabric needs to handle sun, rain, and regular use. Make sure the thread you choose is weather-resistant and waterproof. This is especially important for pool beanbags and outdoor cushions.
Your choice depends on your needs and budget. If you want the best quality and don’t mind paying more, PTFE is the top choice. If you want something more affordable, nylon and polyester are good options. Both are waterproof and will let you enjoy your outdoor space without worry.
If you want to learn more about outdoor cushions and beanbags, check out our full range.
