Patio Cushions

How to Measure for Replacement Patio Cushions

When you measure for replacement patio cushions you can either measure the old cushions that you will be replacing or the furniture itself. Remember in all cases to use a proper measuring tape rather than try and struggle with an old ruler – that is bound to lead to mistakes.

Measuring from Existing Outdoor Patio Cushions

For patio chair cushions, measure the width and length of the back rest part of the cushion taking measurements from edge to edge (rather than seam to seam) for the width and from the top edge to the break or fold in the cushion (where the seat part of the cushion starts) for the length. This gives you the seat back measurement. Then take the length and width of the seat part of the cushion separately.

For a patio bench, chaise lounge or lounger cushion, measure the whole length and width from edge to edge.

For a seat pad cushion, measure the length and width edge to edge (or the diameter of a round cushion).

Finally measure the thickness of your cushion and note that measurement too. Thicknesses may not match if cushions have received uneven wear – just get a rough idea of a suitable thickness for your patio furniture cushions.

If your cushions have been well used, remember that they may have “spread out” a little and take this into account with all your measurements.

Measuring for Patio Cushions Using Your Outdoor Furniture

measuring for patio cushions

measuring for patio cushions

If you do not have the old patio cushions to measure, you can take measurements from your furniture itself. If existing cushions are well squashed out of shape this may also give more accurate measurements.

To measure for a patio chair cushion, measure across the seat of the chair – this will give you the width of the cushion. (If there are armrests in the way measure the width across the seat inside the armrests.) Then measure from the back of the chair where you would like the top edge of the cushion to finish, to the start of the seat (where the break or fold in the cushion would come) to give the back length. (Cushions may be the whole length of the back or stop a little short of it) Measure from the back of the seat (the fold area) to the front edge to give the seat depth.

To measure a garden bench or lounge chair you just need the width of the seat (take measurements as for the patio chair) and then the whole length of the chair.

To measure for a seat pad take the width and length of the seat (or the diameter in the case of a round seat).

To estimate the thickness of cushions for a patio chair, visualize how your cushion will look as various thicknesses. What would look too thin/too thick/just about right?

When looking at ready made cushions you are looking for the nearest match for your chairs. You should be able to find something not too different which will be suitable.

If there is nothing available however don’t despair, you can always try custom replacement patio cushions.