Cleaning patio furniture cushions regularly is key to preventing mildew, mold and dirt buildup on fabric cushions. All that’s necessary for upkeep is water and detergent use to keep fabric cushions looking great!
Spread a plastic tarp on the ground to create a work area, then remove fabric cushion covers from furniture and scrub them using a soft-bristled brush.
Vacuuming
Outdoor cushions collect dirt, dust and grime quickly; regular cleaning will prevent mildew growth. The easiest way to do this is with a vacuum cleaner fitted with an upholstery attachment; taking special care not to damage fabric while doing this job will remove most surface debris; however a good rubdown with a brush or cloth may also help eliminate stubborn grime trapped within seams and creases.
If your patio furniture cushions have become coated in dirt and grime, give them a quick rinse with a garden hose for easier cleanup. Rinsing will remove loose debris and dust while making cleanup simpler; however, be wary of using pressure washers, as this could create small tears in fabric that allow moisture in and lead to mold or mildew growth.
Sunbrella fabrics, designed to maintain their color in direct sunlight, can withstand bleach and other cleaning agents without discoloration or degradation. If you own Sunbrella cushions, hand washing or machine-washing should follow manufacturer instructions; removable fabric covers can also be put through the wash separately.
Oily spills and drips, such as those from suntan lotion, bug spray or food can stain your outdoor cushions. To minimize staining, it’s best to absorb excess liquid with paper towels or microfiber cloths as soon as it appears – quickly blotting fresh stains with paper towels or microfiber cloths before it has time to set and become permanent stains. For existing stains sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on top and let sit for 15 minutes; scrape off and scrub clean afterwards using a clean brush and water-jetted brush/waterjet machine.
If your cushions have developed an extensive mildew build-up, a homemade cleaning solution made up of one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid mixed with 1/4 cup of Borax and one gallon of lukewarm water should do the trick. Mix thoroughly before scrubbing with soft-bristled brush and sponge soaked in cleaning solution before rinsing well and leaving to air dry in a sunny location.
Bleach
If your patio furniture cushions have stubborn stains like sunscreen, bug spray and grease drips from a delicious barbecue (mmmm buttery corn and juicy cheeseburgers!), bleach could be your answer to lifting them. Before using any cleaning product on a hidden area of your cushion to test for colourfastness before proceeding. Prepare a solution of natural detergent, warm water and two scoops or more of natural oxygen bleach; mix the solution to apply directly onto a stain using a bristle brush, and scrub before rinsing thoroughly afterwards. If the stain persists after applying, try sprinkle an absorbent powder like cornstarch or baking soda over it for 30 minutes before scrubbing again before proceeding further with this route.
If the stains persist, try another household cleaner with oxygen like OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover. Checking its label to make sure your fabric is appropriate for bleaching before mixing the product according to its directions will also help.
Add 1/4 cup of bleach per gallon of water in a bucket and soak the cushions for five minutes, before rinsing out and leaving to dry against a clean surface or outside on a sunny day. To expedite drying time, blot them with clean kitchen towels to absorb excess moisture before returning them to their original positions once dry. Ideally, cover outdoor cushions with waterproof protective covers when not in use; this will keep them comfortable as well as preserve their shape!
Vinegar
Outdoor cushions are susceptible to dirt, dust, and grime that can make them appear worn-out and less comfortable to sit on. Regular cleaning helps extend their lifespan while making them more inviting for seating purposes. A simple and effective method for cleaning patio furniture cushions would be mixing white vinegar and water together; this cleaning method works on different fabrics while being safe for all colors except leather.
Before beginning, check the care instructions of your fabric to make sure it can be cleaned without causing any harm. If there are no specific cleaning guidelines, start by spreading a plastic tarp on grass or patio as a work area and unplugging all fabric cushions from furniture. Next, mix equal parts natural detergent and warm water together, adding powdered oxygen-based bleach as an intensifier of color or stubborn stain removal. Using a soft-bristle brush dipped into this cleaning solution, scrub cushions thoroughly; paying special attention to any stains or trouble areas that need special treatment.
Once your cushions have been thoroughly scrubbed, use a garden hose to rinse them with medium pressure – anything more forceful could damage their fabric and needlessly damage them further. Allow them to air-dry in an open location away from any wind or rain for best results.
After giving your cushions a thorough clean, it’s wise to protect them from further wear-and-tear by spraying fabric protection spray on them. Most fabric protection sprays typically last at least one or two years and keep them looking new even after repeated exposure to elements.
Dish Soap
If dusting with a vacuum cleaner or mild soap and water isn’t enough to restore the appearance of your patio cushions, more aggressive methods may be required. Check the care tag of each cushion for specific instructions or restrictions related to cleaning methods; fabric designed to resist UV damage, stains and moisture such as “performance” or “solution-dyed” cloth can tolerate more aggressive cleansers than printed or piece-dyed materials.
To clean cushion covers, first remove them and soak them in a bucket of warm water mixed with 1/4 cup or two scoops of natural oxygen bleach (test it first on a small area to make sure there will be no discoloration). When fully saturated, wring out any excess liquid before using a soft-bristled nylon scrub brush dipped into cleaning solution to start from the top and slowly go in circles over the fabric, paying special attention to any spots or stains that require special attention.
Once your covers are clean, rinse them well in a garden hose before pressing out any extra moisture and leaning them against an exterior wall to dry vertically. Once they’re completely dry, replace them on your furniture; alternatively store them indoors when not being used – protecting them from mold, dirt and mildew growth!
To avoid future stains on cushions, it may be beneficial to apply fabric protectant spray once they’ve been dried. This will help the fabric resist stains, mildew and moisture–keeping it looking fresh longer! However, before resorting to sprays such as this, make sure you still regularly wash your cushions to maintain their beauty!
OxiClean
If your patio is the place where you go to unwind with a glass of wine or coffee in hand, or watch the sun go down, then keeping its cushions clean is key to enjoying all season long relaxation and entertainment. With proper cleaning methods in place, your outdoor furniture will remain looking brand new all season long!
Begin by taking off your cushion covers, brushing or vacuuming them to remove loose dirt and debris before using a garden hose to rinse the fabric clean. If your cushions are made of water-resistant fabric, spraying a protector sealant may help prevent future stains while making cleaning simpler.
OxiClean is often used for clothing stain removal and odor control, but its many applications extend far beyond clothing – it can even help clean patio furniture! OxiClean works well against soap scum build-up, hard water deposits, food and beverage stains as well as soap residue. Look for it in the laundry aisle of your local grocery store to use this multi-tasker!
When dealing with difficult stains, it’s best to use a soft-bristled scrub brush and cloth or rag. For tough spots, leave the solution on for 20 minutes before wiping away with either cloth or sponge.
If you prefer natural cleaners that won’t harm the fabric, consider borax, vinegar and baking soda instead of bleach when cleaning patio furniture cushions. Bleach can sometimes ruin fabrics so it is wise to be safe.