Sunbrella is the gold standard in outdoor fabrics—engineered for fade resistance, durability, and weather resilience. But its premium performance comes with a premium price. So what if you’re on a tighter budget?
Fortunately, there are several cheaper alternatives to Sunbrella that still offer solid outdoor performance. Some are even surprisingly good, especially for seasonal or part-time use.
Let’s break down the most cost-effective Sunbrella alternatives, including what you gain (and what you give up) when you save.
What Makes Sunbrella Expensive?
Before we look at alternatives, it’s worth understanding why Sunbrella costs more:
- Solution-dyed acrylic: Color is infused into the fibers before they’re spun—so the fabric doesn’t fade.
- UV, mildew, and stain resistance: Engineered for harsh outdoor use.
- 10+ year lifespan: Often used on yachts and in commercial settings.
Best Cheaper Alternatives to Sunbrella
✅ Olefin (aka Polypropylene)
- Why it’s great: UV-resistant, moisture-wicking, and budget-friendly.
- Fade resistance: Strong—though not quite as bulletproof as acrylics.
- Cost: ~40–60% less than Sunbrella
- Best for: Patio cushions, umbrellas, rugs
- Brands: Revolution Fabrics, InsideOut Performance Fabrics
✅ Textilene (PVC-Coated Polyester)
- Why it’s great: Excellent for sling-style chairs and breathable loungers.
- Fade resistance: Moderate to good with UV inhibitors
- Cost: Inexpensive and very durable for mesh applications
- Best for: Chaise lounges, commercial pool chairs
✅ Polyester with UV Coating
- Why it’s great: Cheap and easy to find.
- Fade resistance: Poor to moderate—coatings wear off over time
- Cost: ~70–80% cheaper than Sunbrella
- Best for: Seasonal or covered furniture
- Brands: CushionGuard™, standard off-brand patio sets
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Sunbrella | Olefin | Polyester (UV Coated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fade Resistance | Excellent (10 yrs+) | Very Good (3–6 yrs) | Fair (1–3 yrs) |
| Water Resistance | Excellent | Very Good | Moderate |
| Mold/Mildew Resistance | Excellent | Very Good | Low |
| Cost (Relative) | \$\$\$ | \$\$ | \$ |
| Feel / Texture | Soft, breathable | Slightly stiffer | Can feel plasticky |
When a Cheaper Alternative Makes Sense
- You use your patio furniture seasonally (e.g., just summer weekends)
- Your setup is covered by an awning or pergola
- You’re okay replacing covers every 3–4 years instead of every 10
- You’re outfitting rental or vacation property with high turnover
Pro Tip: Mix and Match
Use Sunbrella for high-exposure items (like umbrellas and back cushions), and use Olefin or polyester for low-use pillows or decorative pieces.
FAQs
Q: Can Olefin cushions really replace Sunbrella?
A: For many people—yes. It performs well, especially in shaded or part-time setups.
Q: What’s the biggest downside to polyester?
A: It fades and weakens faster. Expect a 1–3 year usable lifespan with direct sun exposure.
Q: Are Sunbrella pillows worth the upgrade?
A: If they’re exposed year-round or near pools, absolutely. For covered porches? Not essential.
Conclusion
Sunbrella is the industry leader for good reason—but it’s not your only option. If you’re decorating on a budget or only need short-term durability, consider Olefin for a balance of price and performance. Textilene is ideal for breathable seating, and coated polyester can work for temporary setups.
Just remember: The cheaper the fabric, the more often you’ll replace it.
If you’re okay with that tradeoff, there’s no shame in skipping the splurge—and still building a beautiful, functional outdoor space.
