For relaxation and carefree days, try out an Adirondack rocker. It’s a great way to get some fresh air on the porch, relax in front of the TV, or comfort a crying infant. Rocking chairs are a part of American culture nostalgia, and they’re also shown to reduce stress and increase circulation. To better maximize the power of these miracle movers, add a cushion to your Adirondack rocker. Here are some tips.

The unique design of the Adirondack chair is built to be ergonomic, with a long back for vertebral support and often times a contoured, rounded back and seat to hug the body and take the stress off certain areas by giving muscles a break. For people with fragile tailbones, people in need of extra lumbar support, and those suffering from hemorrhoids, a little extra padding may be desired. Sitting for long periods may result in soreness, discomfort and even bruises.

In addition to being comfortable, an Adirondack cushion is cozy and can help to brighten up a room. Choose from different colors and prints, like plaid or florals. Indoor chair pads are made from soft fabrics, suede, toile and more, with a fluffy polyester fiberfill. They can come as one piece which fits just over the seat, one larger piece that fits over both the seat and the back, or two separate pieces. Some cushions move around freely, while others attach to the chair, normally by a simple ribbon tie. In addition, some cushions come with a built-in or matching non-slip chair pad so you’re not sliding around on your seat. This benefit is achieved with a latex backing which creates friction, effectively sticking to the wood. Some materials, like Jamaica micro fiber, are both comfortable and slip-resistant. Most cushions also have the luxury of being reversible, so when one side begins to flatten, simply untie and flip it over for evenness.

Outdoor cushions are a slightly different animal. If you’re planning on keeping your Adirondack on the porch or in the backyard, you’re going to need a cushion that can stand up to the elements. Outdoor patio cushions are made using fabrics, like Sunbrella, which are waterproof, tear resistant, and won’t easily fade in the sun. Also, they’re made from synthetic fiber that’s easy to wipe clean and even hose off. For mild stains, using soap and warm water is usually adequate, while more stubborn spots and the accumulation of mildew can be removed with bleach or chlorine mixed with water. What’s also nice about outdoor fabrics is that they are woven together instead of being one single piece of fabric, so they breathe better and won’t heat up even when they’re left out in the sun. However, some cushion coverings are more comfortable than others. Acrylic linen and canvas materials are the softest, while some blends, like Olefin and Marquesa tend to be a little bumpier and rougher to the touch. The stiffest material by far, though, is PVC, which has the most plastic feel to it. On the upside, it’s the easiest to clean and the most durable.

Whatever type you choose, keep in mind two things. First, make sure the cushion is big enough or it won’t be effective. When tied, a cushion should reach about halfway up your back. If you can’t find one that does, consider having a custom cushion made. They’re not exorbitantly expensive and will really help you in the long run. Second, think about whether you want to spend a little extra on cushion covers. More than likely, the Adirondack rocker will not be the only piece of furniture in a room, and it’s a nice effect to have everything in the same color scheme, if not completely matched. Also, covers keep cushions cleaner and newer looking for longer. Plus, covers are usually machine washable; the cushions themselves are not.