1. Introduction
Custom Outdoor sofas are the heart of patios, gardens, and balconies. The right outdoor sofa material and fabric not only enhance style but also determine durability, comfort, and maintenance. This guide compares frame materials, fabric options, factory specifications, and FAQs to help you make informed choices for your market or home.

2. Frame Materials for Custom Outdoor Sofas
a) Wood (Teak, Acacia, Eucalyptus)
Pros: Natural, durable (especially teak with natural oils).
Cons: Needs regular oiling/sealing.
Best For: Classic and rustic outdoor settings.
b) Metal (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron)
Pros: Strong, sleek, rust-resistant when powder-coated.
Cons: Can heat up in the sun; risk of rust if untreated.
Best For: Modern, industrial patios.
c) Rattan & Wicker
Natural Rattan: Stylish, eco-friendly, but not very weather-resistant.
Synthetic Rattan (PE Wicker): UV-resistant, waterproof, low-maintenance.
Best For: Versatile use, from casual to luxury setups.
d) Plastic & Resin
Pros: Lightweight, waterproof, budget-friendly.
Cons: Less durable; prone to fading.
Best For: Affordable, practical solutions.
e) Upholstery & Fabrics (for cushions)
Sunbrella® / Olefin: UV- and mildew-resistant, long-lasting.
Quick-dry Foam: Great for wet climates.
Best For: Comfort-focused, colorful outdoor sofas.
3. Custom Outdoor Sofas Fabrics – Main Types
Fabric | Pros | Cons | Best For |
Polyester | Affordable, lightweight | Fades quickly, absorbs water | Budget furniture in covered areas |
Olefin | UV-resistant, quick-dry, mildew-proof | Slightly stiff | All-weather outdoor use |
Sunbrella® | Premium, soft, fade-proof, mold-resistant | Higher cost | Luxury outdoor sofas |
Textilene® | Extremely durable, waterproof, easy to clean | Firm, less breathable | Poolside & high-traffic use |
Cotton Blend | Soft, breathable | Absorbs water, prone to mildew | Indoor/covered patios only |
4. Extended Fabric Comparison (Factory Specs)
Fabric | Color Fastness | Waterproof | Price Range (¥) | Feel | Lead Time | Highlights |
Polyester | 80–2000 hrs | 90 min | 7.5–30 | Smooth | 30–45 days | Large supply, affordable |
Spun Polyester | 400 hrs / EU 6–7 | 90 min | 17–25 | Cotton-like | 30–45 days | Soft, acrylic substitute |
Olefin | 800–1500 hrs / EU 7–8 | 80–90 min | 13–20 | Slightly rough | 30–45 days | Durable, cost-effective |
Acrylic | 2000 hrs / EU 8 | 90 min | 30–60 | Soft, premium | Up to 90 days | High-end, vibrant colors |
5. How to Choose the Right Fabric
1. Climate – Rainy & humid → Olefin, Sunbrella®. Hot & sunny → Acrylic, UV-resistant fabrics.
2. Maintenance – Low effort → Aluminum + Olefin/Textilene. High-end care → Teak + Acrylic.
3. Budget – Entry → Polyester. Mid-range → Olefin. Premium → Sunbrella®, Acrylic.
6. Outdoor Sofa RFQ Q&A
- Q: What is the most durable material?
A: Teak wood, aluminum, synthetic rattan frames; Sunbrella® and Olefin fabrics.
- Q: Which fabrics are best for outdoor use?
A: Olefin, Sunbrella®, Textilene – resist UV, water, mildew.
- Q: What is the MOQ for outdoor sofas?
A: Usually 20–50 sets, depending on design and material.
- Q: How are sofas packed for shipping?
A: Protective wrapping, foam, export cartons, pallets if needed.
- Q: What is the delivery time?
A: Normally 30–45 days, up to 90 days for premium acrylic fabrics.
- Q: Do you offer customization?
A: Yes, OEM/ODM available – materials, colors, cushion thickness, combinations.
7. Conclusion
The best outdoor sofa material and fabric depends on your market and lifestyle:
– Premium comfort & durability → Teak wood + Sunbrella®/Acrylic.
– Value & all-weather use → Aluminum frame + Olefin.
– Budget projects → Polyester fabrics with resin or PE wicker.
By combining the right frame and fabric, you can create outdoor sofas that balance comfort, aesthetics, and durability while meeting customer expectations in different markets.