How to Clean Patio Furniture Cushions

No matter where patio cushions are placed outside - on porch, poolside, or deck furniture; under a backyard pergola; or situated on other outdoor furniture - each cushion is susceptible to naturally-occurring outdoor elements. The best way to keep those outdoor cushions looking good is to give them a regular, monthly cleaning by simply hosing them off with the garden hose and letting them air dry. This will keep dirt from sticking and embedding into the fabric fibers. Depending on the type of upholstery fabric, as long as it is kept clean and allowed to air dry properly, then the growth of mildew on the fabric surface can be prevented or at least minimized. However, in most environments and with most outdoor cushion fabrics, a more in-depth cleaning is usually needed every two to three years to eliminate more stubborn stains like bird droppings, rust, and mildew.

Before getting started, always check first to see what type of outdoor fabric the cushion is made from and view that particular fabric manufacturer's cleaning recommendations where applicable. Some outdoor fabric manufacturers recommend different cleaning methods such as spot cleaning, hand washing, cleaning with a bleach or borax solution, and even machine washing. However, many outdoor cushions do not have removable fabric shells and for this reason this article only focuses on light to general universal cleaning practices to keep any outdoor cushion unsoiled which will help prevent the growth of mildew on the cushion surface. Depending on the level of cleaning needed, it is highly recommended to check with the cushion or fabric manufacturer or retailer where the cushion was purchased to learn more about any proper cleaning techniques for that type of cushion fabric.

The worse thing one can initially do is to put the cushion or shell into a washing machine. This is why it is important to know what type of outdoor fabric the cushion is made of to even see if the manufacturer suggests placing the cushion fabric in the washer. Even the most delicate of washing cycles can damage the fabric and wash away the protective water-repellent finish that most outdoor fabrics maintain. Similarly, the excessive ringing can loosen the sewn ends which can ultimately lead to the fabric seams pulling apart or fabric shrinkage. For a more thorough and in-depth general cleaning, or to reduce persistent stain buildup, it is easier to spot clean the fabric using lukewarm water and a mild or natural soap like Dreft, Ivory Snow, or Woolite. These soaps are a gentle alternative to other cleaning detergents because the soaps rinse out easily and will not weaken any water-repellent finish that has been previously applied to the fabric.

Step 1. Brush or hose off any loose dirt.
Use a soft bristle brush, sponge, or a jet stream direct from a water hose to get as much of the soiled material off of the fabric.

Step 2. Mix the Cleaning Solution.
Mix together 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of mild detergent with 1 gallon of lukewarm water. Putting the solution in a spray bottle will make it easier to apply the soap more uniformly.

Step 3. Saturate and Lightly Wash the Cushion Fabric.
While in a shaded location, spray the affected areas generously with a considerable amount of the soapy solution. Using the bristle brush or sponge, gently work the soap into the fabric where the soiled areas persist (don't forget the cracks and crevices) and then allow the cleaning solution to soak into the cushion fabric (about 10 -15 minutes).

Step 4. Rinse the Cushions.
After several minutes, rinse the soapy residue from the cushions using a full spray or jet stream from the water hose to knock the stains right off. It may be necessary to repeat the cleaning and rinsing process if stains are still present.

Step 5. Let Cushions Air Dry.
Stand cushions on end and allow to air dry. This can take a day or two and is a very important step because the fabric and inner filling needs to completely dry before placing the cushion back onto any furniture. This will decrease the possibility of mildew growing underneath a wet cushion. The warm air or sun's rays along with the wet environment (especially in a humid location) will tend to promote subsequent mildew growth. Also, trust me, no one likes to sit down on a cushion that looks dry when it's not. Let those cushions completely dry!

Step 6. Apply a Fabric Protector.
Once the cushions are completely dry, apply a fabric protector to the cushion to protect them and make them easier to clean in the future.

For heavier cleaning on more stubborn stains be sure and check the cleaning recommendations for the type of fabric and/or cushion before using certain cleaning products or harsh chemicals like bleach. If the outdoor cushion is worn and has seen better days, it may be a good idea to just replace the cushion. There are alternative ways to replace an outdoor patio cushion. One can have the cushion replaced or even custom made using fine outdoor fabrics found online at Outdoor Fabric Source. They offer high end acrylic exterior fabrics like the Sunbrella or Robert Allen line of exquisite outdoor textiles. Whether the need is great for selecting an outdoor fabric to take on the task of making a cushion oneself or to simply choose a fabric to be used in the fabrication of a customized patio cushion, the online choices are extensive with this custom fabric shop. So, if cleaning those patio furniture cushions isn't working, at least there are other options available online. To clean or not to clean and replace? - That is the question!