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Daybed Cushions: How to Find the Perfect Outdoor Mattress for Your Daybed
A daybed in the garden or on the patio is more than just a piece of furniture – it's an invitation to linger. But only the right cushion turns a wooden frame, a rattan structure or a self-built platform into a place where you can truly relax, read or enjoy an afternoon nap. In this guide, we'll show you which cushion is ideal for your daybed, what thickness you need, how to measure correctly, and why a made-to-measure outdoor mattress is the only sensible choice here.
What defines an outdoor daybed?
A daybed is more than a sun lounger and less than a full-size bed. It's a hybrid outdoor furniture type: large enough to lie down lengthways, often with raised sides or a headrest, and designed so that two people can find space at once. It's exactly this multi-purpose use – sitting, lounging, reclining, sleeping – that places special demands on the cushion.
While a classic sun lounger is narrow and elongated, daybeds are wide. Typical lounging surfaces range from 140 × 200 cm to 200 × 200 cm. That means standard sun lounger cushions simply don't fit. You need a custom outdoor cushion that fully covers this surface and feels like a mattress – while standing up to every weather condition.
That's precisely why the Marocco outdoor mattress was developed: mattress-like lounging comfort thanks to premium PUR foam, combined with a weatherproof 100% olefin cover. Every Marocco is handcrafted in our own workshop in Hungary – made exactly to your daybed's measurements.
Outdoor mattress or lounger cushion – which suits your daybed?
Both models from the Lulu-Belle lounger range are fundamentally suitable for daybeds, but they serve different purposes. The right choice depends on how you use your daybed.
Marocco outdoor mattress
The Marocco is the right choice if you want your daybed to function like an outdoor bed. It offers mattress-like comfort, is available in thicknesses from 8 to 14 cm, and impresses with maximum shape retention. If you regularly spend extended periods lying on your daybed – reading, power naps, sunbathing with a book – the Marocco is your best bet.
Miami lounger cushion
The Miami lounger cushion is the more elegant, slimmer option. It's ideal if your daybed serves more as a cosy seating spot with occasional lounging use – for example, a wide lounge daybed or a daybed in a conservatory. Thickness is usually 6 to 8 cm.
Rule of thumb for your decision:
- Daily, extended lounging use (e.g. pool daybed): Marocco at 10–12 cm
- Mixed sitting and lounging use (lounge daybed): Marocco at 8–10 cm or Miami at 8 cm
- Outdoor bed or guest sleeping spot in the garden: Marocco at 12–14 cm
| Model | Thickness | Lounging comfort | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami lounger cushion | 6–8 cm | Lounge comfort | Lounge daybed, conservatory |
| Marocco outdoor mattress | 8–10 cm | Sitting and lounging comfort | Standard daybed, garden lounge |
| Marocco outdoor mattress | 10–12 cm | Premium lounging comfort | Pool daybed, intensive use |
| Marocco outdoor mattress | 12–14 cm | Mattress feel | Outdoor bed, sleeping spot outdoors |
Step by step: measuring your daybed correctly
Before you order, you need three values: length, width and desired thickness. Measuring a daybed differs slightly from a classic sun lounger, because the lounging surface is usually wider and symmetrical.
Step 1: Identify the lounging surface
A daybed often has raised edges, a headrest or a canopy. Important: you only measure the inner lounging surface, not the outer frame. The cushion should fit within the recess, not extend beyond the edges.
Step 2: Measure the length
Lay the tape measure lengthways across the lounging surface – from the inner edge at the head end to the inner edge at the foot end. Typical lengths: 180–200 cm for classic daybeds, up to 220 cm for oversized models.
Step 3: Measure the width
Across the lounging surface, from the inner edge on the left to the inner edge on the right. Typical widths: 100 cm (single daybed), 140 cm (double daybed), up to 200 cm (XXL daybed for two people with plenty of room).
Step 4: Choose the thickness
For daybeds, we recommend at least 10 cm thickness. If you use your daybed regularly for lounging or sleeping, choose 12 cm. You'll find more details in our guide What foam thickness for outdoor cushions?
Step 5: Double-check your measurements
As always: measure twice. With wide daybeds, it's worth having a second person hold the tape measure at the other end – this avoids distortion from sagging.
Three values – that's all you need:
- Length in cm (e.g. 200)
- Width in cm (e.g. 140)
- Thickness in cm (e.g. 12)
You enter these values directly in the configurator for the Marocco outdoor mattress. Custom sizes are available at no extra charge.
Typical daybed dimensions for orientation
So you can put your own measurements into context, here's an overview of the most common daybed sizes. This table doesn't replace your own measuring, but it helps with a plausibility check.
| Daybed type | Typical length | Typical width | Recommended thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic single daybed | 200 cm | 90–100 cm | 10 cm |
| Standard daybed | 200 cm | 120–140 cm | 10–12 cm |
| XL double daybed | 200 cm | 160–180 cm | 12 cm |
| XXL daybed | 200–220 cm | 200 cm | 12–14 cm |
| Bali daybed (pavilion) | 200 cm | 140–180 cm | 12 cm |
| Pallet bed (2 pallets crosswise) | 160 cm | 120 cm | 10–12 cm |
| Pallet bed (3 pallets crosswise) | 240 cm | 120 cm | 10–12 cm |
| Hanging bed / floating bed | 180–200 cm | 100–140 cm | 10 cm |
If your measurements fall well outside these ranges, you likely have a custom piece of furniture or a special construction – no problem either way, since every Marocco is made to your exact measurements.
The right thickness for maximum lounging comfort
Thickness matters more for a daybed than for any other piece of outdoor furniture. While you might sit on a bench for only 30–60 minutes, you often spend several hours on a daybed – reading, dozing, or entire afternoons by the pool. A cushion that's too thin means your back starts to ache after 30 minutes, and the daybed ends up sitting unused in the garden.
Thickness recommendations for daybeds:
- 8 cm – minimum for occasional use as a seating lounge
- 10 cm – standard for classic daybeds with regular lounging use
- 12 cm – premium comfort for daily, extended use by the pool or as an outdoor bed
- 14 cm – mattress feel for a full outdoor sleeping spot
A practical note: greater thickness also means more weight. A 12 cm Marocco in 200 × 140 cm weighs around 14 kg. That's not an issue when bringing it in for winter storage, but it's worth keeping in mind when buying. If your daybed sits under a pavilion or carport, you can happily leave the cushion out throughout summer and into early autumn.
Weatherproof fabrics and their secret
A daybed cushion is often exposed to more weather than any other outdoor cushion – it's large, heavy, and rarely put away after every use. That's why fabric choice matters so much here.
Lulu-Belle uses exclusively 100% olefin fabrics in three quality tiers: Standard, Premium and Premium ZigZag. Olefin is naturally water-repellent, UV-stable, dirt-repellent and colourfast – not a chemical coating that wears off after two seasons, but a material property that lasts as long as the fabric itself. You'll find more detailed information on our foam page.
Which fabric for which daybed:
- Standard fabric – if the daybed stands under cover (pavilion, conservatory, patio with awning)
- Premium fabric – for free-standing daybeds in the garden and by the pool
- Premium ZigZag – if you want to add a visual design accent
- Free fabric samples – if you're unsure, order free fabric samples and compare them at home
Bolster cushions, back cushions and outdoor cushions as an addition
A daybed mattress on its own is good. But it's only with cushions and bolsters that your daybed becomes the feel-good piece of furniture you're picturing. Three worthwhile additions from the Lulu-Belle range:
Milano bolster cushion as a neck support
The Milano bolster cushion is the ideal neck support on any daybed. It's also made to measure and supplied in the same fabric as the Marocco – for a consistent look. We recommend 2 bolster cushions (one at the head end and one at the foot end) for maximum flexibility.
Monaco back cushion for lounge mode
If you also use your daybed as a lounge sofa, you'll benefit from the Monaco back cushion. It's made to the width of the daybed and can be leaned against either the head end or one of the sides, depending on your seating position.
Outdoor cushions for accents
Outdoor cushions add colourful accents and boost comfort even further. 3 to 5 cushions in an accent colour (e.g. petrol on a light Marocco cover) turn the daybed into a true lounge island.
| Component | Recommendation | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Marocco outdoor mattress | 10–12 cm thickness | Base comfort |
| Milano bolster cushion | 2 pieces, each 50 × 25 cm | Neck support |
| Monaco back cushion | 1 piece, width of the daybed | Lounge mode |
| Outdoor cushions | 3–5 pieces, 40 × 40 cm | Visual accents |
Special cases: Bali daybed, pallet bed, hanging bed
Bali daybed with pavilion
Bali daybeds often have an integrated pavilion with curtains or a canopy. Important: you only measure the inner lounging surface – the pavilion plays no role in the cushion size. Bali daybeds are usually 200 × 140–180 cm and benefit from 12 cm thickness.
Pallet bed in the garden
If you've built an outdoor bed from pallets, the Marocco is an excellent choice. You'll also find tips on construction and cushion optimisation in our guide Turning pallet furniture into cushioned comfort. Typical dimensions: 2 pallets crosswise give 160 × 120 cm, 3 pallets give 240 × 120 cm.
Hanging bed or floating bed
Hanging beds need a little less thickness (10 cm is usually enough), because the natural swing already adds comfort. Important: the cushion shouldn't be too heavy – a 14 cm cushion at full lounging size can overload the hanging bed. When in doubt, opt for 10 cm thickness.
Care and storage of your daybed cushion
A daybed cushion is an investment that can last many years – if cared for properly. Since daybed cushions tend to be large and heavy, storage deserves special attention.
Practical care tips:
- In dry weather, the Marocco can stay on the daybed permanently
- In rain, stand it upright so water can drain off
- During longer rainy spells, place it under a breathable cover
- Store it dry over winter – garage, cellar, garden shed
- If soiled, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soapy water
You'll find all the details on proper care in our comprehensive care guide: How to care for outdoor cushions so they last forever.
From measurements to order at Lulu-Belle
Once you have your measurements, the rest is quick.
Step by step
- Open the product page for the Marocco outdoor mattress
- Enter your measurements: length × width × thickness
- Choose your fabric: Standard, Premium or Premium ZigZag
- Optionally add the Milano bolster cushion and Monaco back cushion
- The price appears automatically – add to cart and check out
What to expect after ordering:
- Order confirmation immediately by email
- Handcrafted in our Hungarian workshop within 2–3 weeks
- Free shipping to Germany, Austria and other EU countries
- Personal advice by email for any questions about your order
For the right measuring technique for classic sun loungers or garden benches, we have dedicated guides: Sun lounger cushion made to measure: taking measurements correctly and Bench cushion made to measure: choosing the right length and thickness. For a complete overview of all cushion types, see our comprehensive guide Custom outdoor cushions – the complete guide.
Frequently asked questions about daybed cushions
What thickness is ideal for a daybed?
For classic daybeds, we recommend at least 10 cm. If you use your daybed regularly for lounging, reading or dozing, choose 12 cm. For outdoor beds and pool daybeds with daily use, even 14 cm is worthwhile – that comes very close to a real mattress.
Can I leave the Marocco outside in winter too?
For short frost spells on a covered patio, that's fine. For prolonged frost, snow or persistent damp, we recommend storing it in a dry room – this protects the foam core and extends its lifespan by years.
Do I need a back cushion if I order the Marocco?
If your daybed has a back wall or a raised edge: no, that's usually enough to lean against. If the daybed is flat with no backrest: yes, a Monaco back cushion makes the difference between "lying there" and "lounging comfortably".
How much does a made-to-measure daybed cushion cost?
The price depends on size, thickness and fabric. A classic Marocco in 200 × 140 × 12 cm with standard fabric starts at around 380 euros. The online configurator calculates the exact price in seconds.
How long does delivery take?
At Lulu-Belle, made-to-measure cushions reach you in 2 to 3 weeks – free shipping to Germany, Austria and other EU countries. In peak summer, delivery time can extend to 3 to 4 weeks, so it's best to order in spring.
Can I clean the cushion later or remove the cover?
Yes, the Marocco's cover has a zip and can be removed for cleaning. For washing, we recommend hand washing or a gentle 30-degree cycle without fabric softener.
What if my daybed's lounging surface has unusual measurements?
No problem – the Marocco is always made to your measurements. Special sizes, very wide or very long daybeds are all possible. Simply enter the measurements in the configurator, or get in touch by email for extreme custom sizes.
Conclusion
A daybed without the right cushion is wasted potential. Only with a made-to-measure outdoor mattress does the piece of furniture become what it's meant to be: a feel-good spot in the garden, by the pool, or on the patio, where you truly want to spend your time. The Marocco outdoor mattress from Lulu-Belle is built for exactly that – with mattress-quality PUR foam, a 100% olefin cover, configurable in any size and thickness.
With three simple values – length × width × thickness – you can order your own daybed cushion in under two minutes. For a complete overview of all cushion types, materials and variants, see our comprehensive guide Custom outdoor cushions.
