Outdoor pillows are a fantastic addition to any patio or garden, providing comfort and style. However, if you live in a windy area, the whims of the wind can turn your arranged patio into a chaotic scene. Keeping these cushions from blowing away can be a challenging task. We understand the frustration and inconvenience this can cause.

Here, we’ve presented several effective methods you can use to secure your outdoor cushions and keep them in place, even on the windiest days. This article will explore 11 DIY methods to help you keep outdoor pillows from blowing away.

Understanding The Causes

Outdoor areas often experience varying wind patterns, leading to pillows being blown away unexpectedly. Understanding these patterns is crucial to devising practical solutions. The lightweight nature of some outdoor cushions exacerbates the problem. Choosing pillows made of heavier materials can significantly reduce the likelihood of them becoming airborne.

Benefits of Secure Outdoor Pillows

Securing your outdoor pillows contributes to a more enjoyable and comfortable outdoor experience.  Effective securing methods not only prevent damage to pillows but also contribute to the longevity of your outdoor pillows. Protect your investment by implementing practical solutions.

How Can You Keep Outdoor Pillows From Blowing Away?

Here are many effective methods for securing outdoor cushions.

1. Velcro Closure

Velcro is one of the easiest and most effective methods to secure outdoor cushions. Velcro is a versatile fastening material that is easy to establish and provides a firm hold. How can you attach pillows with Velcro?

• Buy a roll of Velcro and cut it down to the length of your cushions.
• Peel off the backing to expose the sticky backside of the Velcro.
• Attach one side of the Velcro to the underside of your cushions.
• Attach the other side of the Velcro to the base of the furniture.
• Situate your pillows on your furniture, and they’ll have almost no chance of blowing away.

2. Use Double-Sided Tape

If you don’t have Velcro, you may also use double-sided tape. Double-sided tape provides a temporary grip and can readily be removed as needed. How can you use double-sided tape to secure your cushions?

• Purchase double-sided tape suitable for outdoor use.
• Cut the tape into small strips or squares.
• Peel off the backing from one side of the tape and attach it to the underside of your cushions.
• Remove the backing from the opposite side of the tape and firmly press the pillows into place on the furniture.

The double-sided tape will provide a temporary adhesive bond, keeping your cushions in place.

3. Opt for Fabric Glue

You can use fabric glue to secure your outdoor cushions for a more permanent option. Fabric glue creates a strong bond between the pillows and the furniture, which keeps the pillows in place even during strong winds. How can you use fabric glue to secure your cushions?

• Purchase fabric glue suitable for outdoor use.
• Apply a thin, even layer of fabric glue to the underside of your cushions.
• Press the cushions firmly onto the furniture and hold them for a few minutes to allow the glue to set.
• Allow the glue to dry completely before using the pillows.

4. Add Non-Slip Fabric Underneath

Put a piece of non-slip fabric below your cushions to keep them from sliding off the furniture. The non-slip fabric offers a grip and helps to keep the cushions in place. How can you use non-slip fabric?

• Purchase a large sheet of non-slip fabric.
• Cut the fabric to fit your pillow size.
• Place the fabric underneath each pillow, to prevent them from sliding off the furniture.
• Adjust the fabric as needed to ensure a secure fit.

As an alternative to non-slip fabric, use rubber mats that have been cut to the proper size.

5. Utilize Cushion Covers with Ties

Another excellent way to protect your outdoor cushions is to seek cushion covers with ties on the back and sides. These ties help to secure your outdoor pillows. Follow these steps to use cushion covers with ties:

• Purchase cushion covers that have ties on the back and sides.
• Place the cushions on the furniture.  
• Bind the cushions to the legs or base of outdoor furniture using ties.
• Adjust the ties as needed to ensure a secure and snug fit.

Don’t worry if you have no tie covers for your cushions! You can easily add ties to your pillow covers with a little DIY work.

How Do I Add Ties to the Cushion Cover?

If your cushion cover doesn’t have ties, you can add ties to it by following these simple steps:

• Start by measuring and marking the ideal placement for the cushion cover ties.
• Evenly spaced ties provide a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
• Once marked, sew the ties securely to the cushion cover.
• Ensure tight stitches to guarantee longevity, especially if your cushions undergo frequent use.
• Use your new tie to attach the cushions to your furniture.

Adding DIY ties to your cushions lets you keep them in place.

6. Secure Pillows With Bungee Cords

Bungee cords are a great way to secure your outdoor cushions, especially if you live in an area with strong winds. Follow these steps:

• Grab a bungee cord and wrap it around the top of the cushion.
• Attach the ends of the bungee cord to the legs or base of the furniture.
• Pull the bungee cord tight to ensure there is no chance of the cushion slipping out.

You can hide the bungee cords with decorative pillows on your furniture for a more visually attractive effect.

7. Loop Zip Ties

Zip ties are another effective method for securing your outdoor cushions. 

• Cut two small, discreet holes in the back of your cushions.
• Loop a zip tie through each hole.
• Bind the zip ties to the back of your furniture.
• Tightly zip the ties to hold the cushions in position.
• Choose zip ties that match the color of your furniture for a unified effect.

You can keep your cushions from blowing away while creating a coherent and elegant outdoor space with the help of zip ties.

8. Use Patio Furniture Weights

If you prefer a straightforward solution, you can easily use patio furniture weights to keep your cushions in place. These weights are small enough to be hidden behind pillows yet heavy enough to provide stability. How can you use patio furniture weights? Follow these steps:

• Purchase patio furniture weights that are suitable for outdoor use.
• Place the weights directly on top of your cushions.
• Use decorative cushions on your furniture if you wish to hide the weights.
• The weights will keep your cushions in place throughout the day, even in windy conditions.

9. Cover Cushions with a Weighted Tarp

Suppose you know that a big windstorm is coming. In that case, you can take extra precautions by covering your cushions and decorative pillows with a weighted tarp. This method secures the cushions and protects them from rain or morning dew, preventing potential damage over time. Just follow these steps:

• Purchase a weighted tarp large enough to cover all your cushions and decorative pillows.
• Cover the cushions completely with the tarp.
• The tarp can be secured by weighting the ends with rocks or bricks.
• The weighted tarp will provide extra stability and protection in windy and wet conditions.

If you don’t have a weighted tarp, you can also use a typical tarp and weigh down the ends with boulders or huge blocks to get a similar effect.

10. Store Indoors

If none of the above options appeal to you or if you expect extreme weather conditions. If so, remove all your cushions and store them indoors. Keep your pillows inside or in a garage to protect them from damage. Follow these steps to store your pillows:

• Take all of your pillows off the outdoor furniture.
• Place them in a large basket or outdoor chest.
• Keep the basket or bin indoors or in a garage to protect the cushions from damage.

By storing your pillows indoors, you may extend their life.

11. Cushion Storage Box

Consider an outdoor cushion storage box if you prefer to keep your cushions outdoors but want a secure storage option. In extremely windy and rainy weather, this box protects your pillows. Follow these steps:

• Buy a waterproof outside cushion storage box.
• Put the storage box on the outdoor wall.
• Place your cushions inside the storage box.
• Cushions are secure and within easy reach whenever you need them.
• If you’re worried about the storage basket blowing away, place one or two bricks on top of the basket, or look for one with a securing hook on the back that can be attached to a wall outside.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, keeping outdoor pillows from blowing away is a manageable task with the proper methods. You have various options, such as Velcro, double-sided tape, ties, weighted tarps, indoor storage, storage boxes, and more. Applying one of these methods allows you to enjoy your outdoor spaces without any worries. It’s important to remember that different solutions work better for others, so choosing the one that fits your needs is best.