Slings for Outdoor Chairs: Essential Upgrades

Quick Summary

Slings for outdoor chairs are essential upgrades for comfort and longevity. Replacing worn-out chair slings revitalizes your patio furniture, improving aesthetics and preventing further damage. This guide offers simple, step-by-step instructions for choosing and installing new slings, making your outdoor seating inviting again.

Is your favorite outdoor chair looking a little sad and saggy? Those comfortable sling chairs can feel surprisingly uncomfortable and even unsafe when their fabric wears out. Before you consider tossing the whole chair, know that replacing the sling is a fantastic way to give it a new lease on life! It’s a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice that makes your patio or deck feel welcoming again.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from picking the right sling material to securing it in place. Get ready to transform your outdoor seating area and make it the perfect spot for relaxing with a cup of tea or a good book.

Why Upgrade Your Outdoor Chair Slings?

Outdoor chair slings are the unsung heroes of patio comfort. They bear the brunt of sun, rain, and constant use, which means they’re often the first part of a chair to show wear and tear. But why is replacing them such a smart move?

• Restored Comfort: A stretched, ripped, or faded sling can make even the most well-made chair uncomfortable. New slings provide proper support and a smooth surface for relaxation.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Worn slings can make your entire outdoor space look tired and neglected. Fresh slings can instantly brighten up your patio furniture, making it look brand new.
• Increased Durability: Old slings can tear easily, exposing inner cushion materials or even compromising the chair frame. Replacing them before they completely fail prevents further damage to the chair itself.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Buying new outdoor chairs can be expensive. Replacing just the slings is a fraction of the cost, allowing you to refresh your furniture without a major investment.
• Sustainable Choice: Instead of discarding perfectly good chair frames, you’re choosing to repair and reuse. This is a small but significant step towards a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing waste.

Types of Sling Fabrics and Their Benefits

Choosing the right fabric for your new outdoor chair slings is crucial for durability, comfort, and appearance. Different materials offer unique benefits, so let’s explore the most popular options:

Vinyl-Coated Polyester (VCP)

This is a very common and durable choice for outdoor furniture. It’s essentially a polyester fabric coated with vinyl. This combination makes it:

• Strong and Resilient: It can withstand a lot of use without tearing.
• Weather-Resistant: It holds up well against sun, rain, and humidity.
• Easy to Clean: Spills and dirt can usually be wiped away easily.
• Relatively Affordable: It offers excellent value for its durability.

Solution-Dyed Acrylic (SDA)

Often seen in high-quality outdoor cushions and umbrellas, solution-dyed acrylic is a premium choice for slings. The color is infused into the fibers before they are made into yarn, resulting in:

• Excellent Fade Resistance: The color stays vibrant even with prolonged sun exposure.
• Mold and Mildew Resistance: It’s naturally resistant to growth, which is great for humid climates.
• Soft Feel: Compared to VCP, it often has a more pleasant, fabric-like feel.
• Durability: It’s strong and holds its shape well.

Mesh Fabrics

Mesh slings are designed for breathability and quick drying. Made from woven synthetic fibers, they come in various densities and patterns.

• Quick Drying: Water drains through easily, preventing mildew and allowing you to sit down soon after a rain shower.
• Breathable: Air circulation keeps you cooler on hot days.
• Lightweight: They don’t add much bulk to the chair.
• Variety: Available in different patterns and colors. Fine mesh offers a smoother feel, while larger weaves might be more durable.

Comparison of Sling Fabrics

Here’s a quick look at how these popular materials stack up:

Feature	Vinyl-Coated Polyester (VCP)	Solution-Dyed Acrylic (SDA)	Mesh Fabric
Durability	High	High	Medium-High (depending on weave)
Comfort	Good (can be stiff)	Very Good (softer feel)	Good (breathable, can be textured)
Fade Resistance	Good	Excellent	Good to Excellent
Water Resistance/Drying	Good (wipes clean)	Good (dries reasonably fast)	Excellent (drains quickly)
Mold/Mildew Resistance	Good	Very Good	Good to Excellent
Cost	$$	$$$	$$

How to Measure for New Slings

Accurate measurements are key to ensuring your new slings fit perfectly. Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process. You’ll need a flexible measuring tape for this.

Step 1: Measure the Old Sling

If your old sling is still somewhat intact, this is the easiest way to get your dimensions.

1. Lay the chair flat: Gently lay the chair down on its side or back on a flat surface.
2. Measure width: Measure the width of the sling fabric itself, from seam to seam, where it attaches to the chair frame’s channels.
3. Measure length: Measure the length of the sling fabric from the inside edge of one seam to the inside edge of the other seam.
4. Measure piping/rod pocket (if applicable): If your sling has a rod or piping that slides into a pocket, measure the diameter of that rod or the width of the pocket itself. This is crucial for ensuring the new sling can be threaded onto the frame.

Step 2: Measure the Chair Frame (If Old Sling is Gone)

If you don’t have the old sling, you can measure the frame itself. This requires a bit more care.

1. Measure the channel width on the frame: Locate the horizontal bars the sling slides into. Measure the width of this channel.
2. Measure the frame length where the sling is attached: Measure the distance between the two points on the frame where the sling will be secured.
3. Add for overlap/joining: You’ll need to add extra length for the seams and where the sling fabric might be wrapped around or secured to the frame. A general rule is to add about 4-6 inches to the length and 1-2 inches to the width for proper tension and seam allowance.
4. Consider the rod or piping: If your chair uses a rod, you’ll need to measure its diameter and account for the channel size it needs to fit into within the new sling.

Pro Tip for Measuring

It’s always best to measure your existing sling if possible. If you’re unsure, grab a friend to help hold the tape measure steady. Double-check your measurements before ordering, as custom-made slings often cannot be returned.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Gathering your supplies before you start will make the sling replacement process much smoother. You don’t need many specialized tools, which is great news for beginners!

Essential Tools:

• Measuring Tape: For accurately measuring your old sling or chair frame. A flexible tape measure is best.
• Scissors or Rotary Cutter: To cut fabric if you’re working with large rolls, or if you need to trim excess.
• Screwdriver or Allen Wrench (if applicable): Some chairs may have bolts or screws holding parts together that need to be removed.
• Pliers (needle-nose or regular): Can be helpful for pulling old fabric out of channels or feeding new fabric in.
• Flathead Screwdriver or Putty Knife: Useful for gently working the new sling into tight channels on the chair frame.
• Work Gloves: To protect your hands, especially if the old fabric is rough or the frame has sharp edges.
• Mild Soap and Water, or Upholstery Cleaner: For cleaning the chair frame and the new sling before installation.

Materials:

• New Sling Fabric: Measured and cut to your specifications, or purchased as a pre-made replacement. Ensure it’s suitable for outdoor use (UV resistant, water-repellent).
• Heavy-Duty Outdoor Thread (if stitching involved): If your replacement sling isn’t pre-made and you need to sew seams, use a strong, UV-resistant thread.
• Optional: New Grommets or Fasteners: If your old slings used grommets or specific fasteners that are damaged, you may need to purchase replacements. Popular outdoor furniture suppliers often carry these.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Outdoor Chair Slings

Ready to give your chairs a makeover? Follow these simple steps to replace those tired slings. This guide assumes your new sling is pre-made and ready to slide into place. If you need to sew your own, that’s a more advanced project, but the principles of measurement and attachment remain similar.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Chair

Find a clean, flat area to work. Lay down a tarp or blanket to protect your floor or outdoor surface. Gently position the chair so you have easy access to the sling and frame. If your chair has removable parts that make accessing the sling channels easier, like armrests, consider carefully removing them. For safety, always store small parts like screws in a labeled bag.

Step 2: Remove the Old Sling

This is often the trickiest part, especially if the fabric is brittle or stuck. Work patiently:

1. Identify attachment points: Most slings are secured by being threaded through channels on the chair frame and then sewn closed, or they might have rods attached that slide into these channels.
2. Gently pull or slide: If the sling is threaded directly, use pliers or a slender tool to carefully pull the old fabric out of the channels at one end. You might need to use a flathead screwdriver to ease it out from tight spots.
3. Cut if necessary (last resort): If the old sling is completely stuck, you might need to carefully cut it in half lengthwise. This will allow you to pull out the two halves from the channels more easily. Be very careful not to cut the chair frame itself.
4. Remove rods or piping: If your sling has a rod or piping, carefully feed it out of the old sling’s channel.

Inspect the chair frame’s channels to ensure they are clear of debris or old fabric remnants. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can remove any dust.

Step 3: Install the New Sling

This is where your new sling starts to transform the chair!

1. Feed the rod/piping (if applicable): If your new sling has a rod or piping, carefully feed it through its designated channel. This might require some gentle wiggling.
2. Thread the sling material: Start at one end and carefully feed the edge of the new sling material into the chair’s channel. Work your way along the channel, inch by inch. You can use the flathead screwdriver or putty knife to gently push the fabric into the channel.
3. Work from both ends: For longer channels, it’s often easier to thread the sling from both ends towards the middle. Ensure the fabric goes in evenly.
4. Ensure proper tension: As you thread, try to maintain even tension. You don’t want the sling to be too loose, as it will sag, but it shouldn’t be so tight that it’s difficult to get in. The fabric will stretch slightly when occupied.
5. Secure the ends: Once the sling is threaded all the way and centered, the ends will typically be sewn shut. If you purchased a pre-made sling with sewn ends, you should be all set. If you’re working with a fabric raw edge and need to sew it, ensure the fabric is folded over once or twice to hide the raw edge and provide strength, then stitch it securely using durable outdoor thread.

For slings that use rods and screws, you’ll thread the rod through the sling, then secure the rod into its place on the chair frame. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions if your chair uses this method.

Step 4: Reassemble and Test

If you removed any chair parts, reattach them now. Once everything is back in place, test the new sling. Gently sit on the chair to check for comfort and proper support. Ensure the fabric is taut and evenly distributed.

Congratulations! You’ve just successfully replaced your outdoor chair slings. Enjoy your beautifully refreshed and comfortable seating!

Maintaining Your New Slings for Longevity

You’ve invested in new slings, so let’s keep them looking great and lasting for years to come! Regular care is simple and makes a big difference.

Regular Cleaning:

• Wipe down periodically: Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water to wipe away dust, pollen, and general grime. This is especially important after windy days or during pollen season.
• Address spills immediately: Blot up spills as soon as they happen to prevent staining.

Deeper Cleaning:

When a deeper clean is needed:

1. Check manufacturer’s instructions: Always refer to any care labels that came with your new slings.
2. Mild soap and water: For most fabrics, a gentle solution of mild dish soap and water is effective. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub gently.
3. Rinse thoroughly: Ensure all soap residue is rinsed away with clean water to prevent attracting dirt.
4. Air dry completely: Allow the slings to dry thoroughly in the sun before use. This prevents mildew growth.

Protecting from the Elements:

• Consider covers: When chairs aren’t in use for extended periods, especially during harsh weather season, consider using breathable outdoor furniture covers. This is one of the best ways to protect your investment from UV rays, rain, snow, and dirt. Check out resources from organizations like the EPA’s sustainability guidelines for tips on extending product life.
• Storage: If possible, store cushions and slings indoors or in a protected shed or garage during off-seasons or extreme weather.
• Spot treatment for stains: For stubborn stains, use a specific outdoor fabric cleaner designed for your fabric type. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first.

Preventing Fading:

Even the most fade-resistant fabrics will eventually show some signs of sun exposure. Rotating your furniture or ensuring it’s not constantly in direct, harsh sunlight can help prolong its vibrant appearance.

When to Consider Replacing Your Frames

While replacing slings is an excellent way to refurbish outdoor chairs, there comes a point when the chair frames themselves may be beyond repair or simply not worth the effort. Here are some signs that it might be time to consider new furniture:

• Rust or Corrosion: For metal frames, significant rust or corrosion that weakens the metal is a critical issue. Surface rust can often be treated, but deep pitting or flaking indicates structural compromise.
• Cracked or Broken Frames: Plastic or wooden frames that are cracked, splintered, or have broken joints can be a safety hazard and are difficult to repair reliably.
• Wobbly or Unstable: If the chair frame is inherently unstable, with loose joints that cannot be tightened or repaired, it’s no longer safe to use.
• Outdated or Damaged Designs: Sometimes, even if a chair is structurally sound, its design might be outdated, uncomfortable, or no longer fit your aesthetic preferences.
• Significant Mold or Mildew: While slings can often be cleaned or replaced, deeply ingrained mold or mildew on the frame itself, especially in porous materials like wood, can sometimes be unsalvageable and pose health concerns.

When your chair frames reach this stage, it’s a good opportunity to look into new furniture. Consider furniture made from sustainable materials or those known for their durability in outdoor environments, such as recycled plastic lumber or powder-coated aluminum. Resources from university extension offices, like those offered by The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, can offer insights into choosing durable outdoor furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions about Slings for Outdoor Chairs

Q1: How do I know if my outdoor chair needs a new sling?

A: Look for signs of wear like sagging fabric, rips, tears, excessive fading, or mildew that won’t come out. If the chair feels uncomfortable or unstable due to the sling, it’s time for an upgrade.

Q2: Can I reuse the old sling to measure for a new one?

A: Yes, if the old sling is still intact, it’s the best way to get accurate measurements for width and length, especially noting seam allowances and rod pockets.

Q3: What is the most durable fabric for outdoor chair slings?

A: Vinyl-Coated Polyester (VCP) and Solution-Dyed Acrylic (SDA) are generally considered very durable. Mesh fabrics are also durable and offer excellent breathability.

Q4: Do I need special tools to replace a chair sling?

A: Usually, you’ll only need basic tools like a measuring tape, scissors, pliers, and a flathead screwdriver or putty knife. Some chairs might have screws requiring a screwdriver or Allen wrench.

Q5: How long should new outdoor chair slings last?

A: With proper care and maintenance, high-quality outdoor chair slings can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on the fabric type, climate, and exposure to the elements.

Q6: Can I wash my outdoor chair slings?

A: Yes, most outdoor sling fabrics can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first, and ensure they are thoroughly air-dried to prevent mildew.

Q7: Where can I buy replacement slings for outdoor chairs?

A: You can find replacement slings online from specialty patio furniture parts retailers, large home improvement stores, or directly from furniture manufacturers if they offer replacement parts. Some DIY fabric stores also carry outdoor-rated fabrics.

Conclusion

Giving your outdoor furniture a refresh with new slings is one of the most rewarding and accessible DIY projects for any homeowner. It’s not just about making your chairs look good again; it’s about reclaiming those comfortable spots on your patio for relaxation and enjoyment without breaking the bank. From choosing the right fabric that can withstand the elements to carefully measuring and installing your new slings, we’ve covered the essential steps to ensure your success.

Remember, regular care will help your new slings maintain their beauty and function for many seasons to come. So, embrace this simple upgrade, breathe new life into your outdoor seating, and get ready to spend more time enjoying the fresh air in comfort. Happy gardening and happy relaxing!