Why Removing Sling Fabric Requires Proper Technique

Outdoor sling chairs are designed with tensioned fabric stretched tightly across an aluminum or metal frame. This fabric is held in place by internal tracks and spline systems that keep the seat firm and supportive. Over time, sling fabric may fade, loosen, or wear out, making replacement necessary.
Manufacturers such as Sunstone Outdoor design sling chairs with durable mesh materials and precision-fitted frames, and removing the fabric correctly ensures the frame remains undamaged and ready for new installation.

Identify the Sling Chair Design Before Starting

Different sling chairs use slightly different systems for securing fabric.

Common attachment styles

• Fabric inserted into side channels using a plastic spline

• Fabric secured with bolts or screws at the top and bottom

• Removable end caps on chair arms or legs

Understanding your specific design helps determine the correct removal steps.

Remove Any Screws or Bolts Holding the Frame Tension

Most sling chairs include tension bolts that keep the frame tight around the fabric.

Steps

• Locate screws at the top or bottom of the side rails.

• Use the correct screwdriver to loosen them.

• Do not remove the rails completely unless required.

This reduces pressure on the fabric, allowing it to slide out more easily.

Take Off the End Caps to Expose the Spline Channel

The spline is a flexible plastic rod that holds the sling fabric inside the track.

How to remove end caps

• Use a flat, non-metal tool to pry end caps gently.

• Avoid bending or cracking the cap.

• Set the caps aside for reinstallation.

Sunstone Outdoor frames use strong yet lightweight caps designed to fit securely while still allowing maintenance access.

Slide Out the Spline From the Side Channel

Once the end cap is removed, the spline becomes accessible.

How to remove spline

• Grip the spline with pliers or fingers.

• Pull slowly along its length.

• Keep the spline intact if you plan to reuse it.

Removing the spline releases the tension holding the sling fabric inside the track.

Pull the Sling Fabric Out of the Channel

With the spline removed, the fabric should slide out.

Steps

• Grab the fabric near the end of the channel.

• Pull straight to avoid tearing or twisting.

• Apply steady pressure along the entire length.

Older fabrics may resist movement slightly due to dirt or tight tension.

Separate the Frame if Needed for Stuck or Tight Fabric

Some sling chairs require partial disassembly.

Situations where frame separation helps

• The fabric is extremely tight in the channel.

• Corrosion or debris is blocking clean removal.

• The chair includes a two-part side rail construction.

Loosening bolts along both sides can relieve pressure and allow smooth removal.

Remove the Fabric Completely and Prepare the Frame

Once the sling fabric is detached, the frame should be cleaned and inspected.

Preparation

• Wipe tracks with warm, soapy water.

• Remove dirt, rust, or debris.

• Check for dents or misalignment.

Clean channels ensure the new sling fabric slides in properly and remains securely tensioned.

How to Handle Old or Damaged Sling Fabric

Outdoor fabrics exposed to sun, salt spray, or pool chemicals may become brittle.

Guidelines

• Handle gently to avoid shedding fibers.

• Roll fabric for disposal rather than folding sharply.

• Take measurements before discarding if using it as a reference.

Sunstone Outdoor sling materials are engineered for UV stability, but even high-quality fabric eventually requires replacement.

Best Practices for Measuring Before Replacement

Accurate measurements ensure the new sling fits tightly and safely.

Measure

• Fabric width

• Fabric length

• Spline size

• Side rail spacing

Measuring the old fabric before removal is ideal, but measurements can also be taken directly from the frame.

Why Sunstone Outdoor Sling Chairs Are Easy to Maintain

Durable Aluminum Frames

Frames resist corrosion and remain stable even after multiple sling replacements.

Smooth Channel Construction

Allows fabric to slide in and out without difficulty.

High-Quality Mesh Sling Materials

Designed for long-term outdoor use and easy replacement when needed.

User-Friendly Engineering

Frames, caps, and channels are built for maintenance access.

Conclusion

Removing fabric from outdoor sling chairs involves loosening frame tension, removing end caps, pulling out the spline, sliding out the fabric, and preparing the frame for new installation. With proper technique, you can replace worn sling materials without damaging the chair structure.
Outdoor sling chairs built with quality materials—such as those from Sunstone Outdoor—are designed to simplify fabric removal and ensure long-lasting performance after reinstallation.