At Bean Bags R Us, durability and safety go hand in hand. Outdoor furniture is constantly exposed to moisture, humidity, sunlight and heavy use — all of which can create ideal conditions for mould and mildew. That’s why many of our outdoor fabrics undergo antimicrobial treatment to help reduce microbial growth and extend product lifespan.
But what exactly is antimicrobial treatment? How does it work? And why does it matter for outdoor furniture?
What Is Antimicrobial Treatment?
Antimicrobial treatment refers to a protective process applied to fabric that helps inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as mould, mildew and certain bacteria. These treatments do not make a product “sterile,” but they significantly reduce the conditions that allow microbes to multiply.
Antimicrobial finishes are commonly used in healthcare settings, outdoor equipment, sportswear and high-humidity environments where moisture can become trapped in seams and folds.
Why It Matters for Outdoor Bean Bags
Outdoor furniture faces harsher conditions than indoor seating. Large outdoor bean bag chairs are regularly exposed to:
- Strong UV radiation
- Rain and surface moisture
- High humidity
- Temperature fluctuations
- Heavy use at parties and gatherings
Even durable fabrics can suffer if moisture lingers. Our outdoor covers are typically manufactured from heavy-duty 1680D polyester, a dense weave known for strength, abrasion resistance and colour retention. If you’re comparing materials, see our detailed breakdown of nylon vs polyester fabric differences.
On its own, polyester is water-resistant and resilient. However, adding antimicrobial treatment provides another layer of protection against mould and mildew growth in damp environments.
The Real Risks of Mould and Mildew
Mould and mildew are more than cosmetic issues. Once spores take hold in fabric seams or creases, they can be difficult to eliminate completely. Warm, humid climates make this especially challenging.
Beyond fabric damage, mould exposure can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals, including:
- Stuffy or irritated nose
- Sore throat
- Coughing or wheezing
- Eye irritation
- Skin irritation
While severe reactions are uncommon in typical outdoor use, preventing mould growth helps maintain both product integrity and overall comfort.
Prevention Is Better Than Removal
Removing mould from fabric is possible in some cases, but prevention is far more effective. Once staining or fibre damage occurs, restoration can be difficult.
That’s why many outdoor products combine moisture-resistant fabrics with antimicrobial finishes. For general care tips and preventative maintenance, see our guide on how to clean a bean bag chair.
How Antimicrobial Treatments Work
The mechanism depends on the type of treatment used. Some treatments are integrated into fibres during production, while others are applied as surface coatings after weaving.
Common approaches include:
- Compounds that inhibit microbial cell growth on contact.
- Metal-based or polymer-based treatments that create an inhospitable surface for spores.
- Bonded coatings that prevent microorganisms from multiplying in damp conditions.
In many outdoor fabrics, antimicrobial agents are incorporated into a polyurethane (PU) coating, which adds water resistance while maintaining flexibility.
Polyurethane Coatings and Added Protection
Polyurethane coatings are widely used in waterproof and weather-resistant textiles. They provide an additional barrier against moisture while keeping the fabric soft and flexible.
If you want a deeper explanation of water protection levels, see our article on waterproof vs water-resistant fabric.
When antimicrobial compounds are bonded within a PU layer, they remain embedded rather than washing out easily. This multi-layer construction helps maintain protection across seasons of outdoor exposure.
Does Antimicrobial Mean Maintenance-Free?
No fabric treatment replaces basic care. Antimicrobial finishes reduce growth risk, but proper maintenance remains important:
- Allow furniture to dry after heavy rain.
- Store in covered areas during prolonged wet weather.
- Clean regularly to remove dirt and organic matter.
Outdoor environments in Australia can be especially harsh. If you’re styling high-exposure areas like pool zones, consider purpose-built options such as pool bean bags designed for splash-prone environments.
Cost vs Long-Term Value
Antimicrobial treatment increases manufacturing cost, which is why not all outdoor furniture includes it. However, the long-term benefit is improved durability and reduced risk of fabric degradation in humid climates.
For households with children, pets, or high-traffic entertaining spaces, this additional protection can significantly extend the usable life of outdoor seating.
Summary
Antimicrobial treatment helps reduce mould, mildew and bacterial growth in moisture-prone environments. When combined with durable fabrics such as 1680D polyester and protective PU coatings, it enhances both hygiene and longevity.
Outdoor furniture in Australia faces intense UV exposure, rain and humidity. Choosing materials with built-in protection — and maintaining them properly — ensures your seating remains comfortable, safe and long-lasting.
Durability, protection and smart fabric engineering make all the difference when investing in outdoor furniture.
