How To Clean Cushions For Outdoor Furniture

How to Clean Cushions For Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture cushions provide comfort and style to your patio or deck, but they can also be prone to dirt, stains, and mildew. Cleaning them regularly will help them last longer and look their best. Here are eight simple steps on how to clean cushions for outdoor furniture:

1. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

Before you start cleaning, remove any loose dirt or debris from the cushions by shaking them out or brushing them off with a soft brush. This will help prevent the dirt from being ground into the fabric when you clean it.

2. Check Care Label

Before cleaning, check the care label on the cushions to see what type of cleaning method is recommended. Many outdoor cushion fabrics can be machine-washed, but some may need to be hand-washed or spot-cleaned only.

3. Machine Washing

If the care label says the cushions are machine-washable, wash them on a gentle cycle in cold water. Use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach or fabric softener. After washing, tumble dry the cushions on a low setting or air-dry them completely.

4. Hand Washing

If the care label says the cushions should be hand-washed, fill a bathtub or large sink with cold water and add a mild detergent. Submerge the cushions in the water and gently agitate them to remove dirt and stains. Rinse the cushions thoroughly with cold water until all traces of detergent are gone. You can then air dry or machine dry the curtains on a low setting in the dryer

5. Spot Cleaning

For small stains, you can spot-clean the cushions using a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Dampen the cloth with the detergent solution and gently rub it over the stain. Rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth and allow it to air dry.

6. Dealing with Mildew

If the cushions have mildew, you can clean it with a mixture of one part bleach to ten parts water. Apply the solution to the mildewed area and allow it to sit for several hours. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely.

7. Drying the Cushions

After cleaning the cushions, allow them to air dry completely before putting them back on your outdoor furniture. This will help prevent mildew from growing and will also ensure that the cushions are completely dry before you use them.

8. Regular Maintenance

To keep your outdoor cushions looking their best, clean them regularly and store them in a dry place when not in use. This will help them last longer and look great for years to come.