Turn it over. Three cushion checks.

A cushion can look great from across the patio. Turn it over. Here are three things worth checking before you choose.

First, follow the seam around a corner. Look for gaps, loose stitches or puckering. Piping is a style detail, not a quality grade.

Next, open and close the zipper. Watch for catching or pulled fabric. A removable cover doesn't automatically mean you can machine-wash it.

Then ask what's inside. Get the filling type, thickness and firmness. A quick squeeze won't tell you how it will hold up.

Seams, closure, filling. Three better questions than, does it look plump? Send us the detail you're unsure about. We'll help you work through it.