Ditch Throw Pillows: Use This Bathroom Staple For More Comfortable Patio Furniture

Few things are as peaceful as unwinding in your backyard or on your balcony after a long day — assuming, of course, that you have comfortable enough patio furniture to sit on. But if that's not the case, you don't necessarily have to rush out and buy pricey throw pillows to soften up a stiff outdoor sectional couch or hard metal chairs. Instead, you can head into your bathroom and grab a spare bath mat to add cushioning (and enjoy a more pleasant time outside). 

Not only is this hack cost-effective and easy, but it can also improve your outdoor experience — especially if you've been avoiding using your patio furniture because it's uncomfortable. You should, however, be careful about how you set up your bath mat on your furniture. If you just throw a dirty old mat over a chair, it might look sloppy. But if you fold it neatly and make sure it matches the other colors and textures of your outdoor decor, it can fit in nicely.

In under a minute, you can make a rigid sofa or chair much nicer to sit on. Whether you like using your outdoor space for reading, entertaining, or just soaking up some sunshine, this tip can make it far more enjoyable. So, what else makes this hack so clever? Let's break it down.

There are a few benefits to ditching the throw pillows in favor of bath mats. One is that it doesn't cost anything, which is great if you're on a tight budget or trying to cut costs. On top of that, since bath mats are slimmer than pillows, they might actually be easier to sit on — especially when you use them as padding on a chair, rather than a couch. For extra cushioning, you can fold one up or stack a couple on top of each other. Plus, since bath mats are designed for wet environments, they can handle moisture well — an important feature in outdoor areas.

This hack also offers another perk. After you're done using the mat outside, you can simply throw it into the washer (as long as it's machine-washable) so it's ready to go for your next shower. Or, if you were thinking about upgrading your bathroom linens anyway, you can keep the old mat outside permanently, which can also help keep your outdoor furniture clean. It's also a more eco-friendly solution for spare bath maths than throwing them in the trash.

With that said, there are some caveats to keep in mind. Since bath mats aren't meant to be used outside, they probably won't withstand the elements as well as dedicated outdoor pillows would. (Keep in mind, though, that those outdoor pillows and cushions still need care to stay in good shape.) Something else to consider: Not all bath mat materials will perform the same. For example, polyester is fast-drying and moisture-resistant (which is ideal for outdoor use), but it may also wear out quicker. Meanwhile, chenille mats are soft and luxurious, but they dry out a bit more slowly and can be harder to clean effectively.