Outdoor furniture has to put up with a lot - rain, heat, even snow! Make sure you keep reading below to learn how to care for outdoor furniture cushions.
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as lounging around in beautiful weather on comfortable outdoor furniture. Quality outdoor furniture brings all the comfort of home while allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. But unlike other types of furniture, outdoor furniture doesn’t just need to be comfortable and look nice. All-weather furniture, such as pieces made from durable plastic or resin materials like PVC or PE, is designed for outdoor use, offering excellent durability, low maintenance, and resistance to the elements. It needs to be able to stand up against rainstorms, scorching sunlight, and anything else nature throws at it. Fortunately, there are many ways you can keep your outdoor furniture in good condition season after season. Read on for the best outdoor furniture cushions care tips.
Introduction to Outdoor Furniture Care
Caring for your outdoor furniture is the key to enjoying a beautiful and comfortable outdoor space year after year. Whether you have a cozy outdoor sofa, a set of patio chairs, or a classic wooden outdoor furniture set, regular cleaning and proper care will help extend the life of your investment. Outdoor furniture is built to withstand the elements, but exposure to sun, rain, and wind can still take a toll over time. By using outdoor furniture covers, cleaning outdoor fabric, and storing your patio furniture during the off-season, you can protect your pieces from unnecessary wear and tear. This guide will walk you through the best ways to care for outdoor cushions, metal furniture, wicker furniture, and more, so your outdoor space always looks inviting and well-kept.
Preparing for Cleaning
Before diving into cleaning your outdoor furniture, it’s important to set yourself up for success. Start by clearing the area around your furniture to give yourself plenty of space to work. Use a soft-bristle brush or a very soft-bristle brush to gently sweep away any loose dirt, leaves, or debris from the surface. This step helps prevent scratching and makes the cleaning process more effective. Next, prepare a solution of mild soap and warm water, which is safe for most outdoor furniture materials. Use a wet cloth to wipe down the surfaces, paying special attention to areas where dirt tends to collect. For a more thorough cleaning, especially if you notice stubborn stains or built-up grime, you may need to use a deeper cleaning method. In these cases, a fine-grit sandpaper can help remove tough spots on certain materials, but always test a small area first to avoid damage. Taking these preparatory steps ensures your outdoor furniture is ready for a deeper clean and helps maintain its appearance for seasons to come.
Outdoor Furniture Cushions Care
Outdoor furniture cushions come in many different types of fabric, so it’s important to find the right one for your needs. Some of the most common materials for outdoor seat cushions include acrylic, PU-coated polyester, cotton canvas, and olefin. Most types of outdoor fabrics undergo special treatments to make them resistant to water, UV rays, mould, and mildew. These treatments often involve chemical additives that enhance durability and resistance to environmental factors. While these treatments make outdoor cushions more durable, they aren’t indestructible and can still be affected by the elements. Here are a few ways you can protect your patio furniture.
Sun Protection
While most outdoor furniture is designed to resist UV rays, too much sun exposure can fade fabric over time. The sun can also weaken wood and plastic furniture frames. Spun polyester outdoor fabric is less colourfast than solution-dyed options and may fade if exposed to the sun for prolonged periods. There are several ways to protect your furniture from the damaging effects of the sun. Taking steps to prevent sun damage, such as using protective treatments and choosing UV-resistant materials, can help minimise fading and prolong the durability of your outdoor furniture. The simplest is to just move your outdoor furniture to a shady or covered area when not in use. You can also use a spray-on fabric guard to help prevent your cushions from fading.
Rain and Snow Protection
Water-resistant fabric is designed to keep most moisture at bay, and weather-resistant fabrics and covers are especially effective at protecting outdoor cushions from rain and snow, but leaving your outdoor furniture out in the rain all the time will cause wear. Water-resistant isn’t the same as waterproof, so moisture can get into your cushions if they’re often saturated and not allowed to dry thoroughly. Cover your patio furniture beforehand if wet weather is expected. If cushions are left out in the rain or snow, be sure to shake off all the excess water as soon as possible. Then leave them out to air dry completely. Allowing moisture to sit in the fabric can cause mould and mildew to grow, even on fabric that has undergone antimicrobial treatment. If you’re wondering what antimicrobial treatment is, it’s a process that uses specialised additives, such as silver ions, to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould, and mildew on treated surfaces. While this can help extend the life of your cushions, proper care and drying are still essential to prevent long-term damage.
How to Clean Your Outdoor Furniture Cushions
Different types of outdoor fabric require different cleaning approaches. Before you begin, it's important to refer to the manufacturer's care instructions. You can usually find this information on the product's tag or on the company's website. Many types of outdoor furniture can be cleaned effectively with mild soap and water. Read on to learn the most effective step-by-step approach to cleaning outdoor cushions.
Remove Surface Debris
The first step in cleaning your patio cushions is to remove all the debris from the surface. This means all the dirt, dust, leaves, and other muck that accumulates over time. You can use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, which is especially effective for cleaning intricate or tight spaces, or an upholstery attachment. For more stubborn dirt, use a wet cloth to scrub it out of the material.
Washing Outdoor Fabric
Although outdoor furniture is designed to be resilient, it will still benefit from a good washing every so often. Some types of outdoor cushions can be machine washed, but not all can. Refer to the care instructions to avoid damaging your cushion. Check out our article on how to protect outdoor furniture from the weather.
After washing, consider applying a fabric protector to help restore water-repellent properties and prolong the durability of the fabric.
Use Mild Soap
Most types of outdoor fabrics can be washed with mild soap and water. You can either submerge the cushion completely or scrub difficult spots with a rag or sponge. For really set-in spots, allow the soap and water to soak in before trying to scrub it out. Repeat this as needed.
Dry Thoroughly
Be sure the cushions dry completely after washing. You can remove most of the excess water with a towel or a hairdryer, then leave the cushions out to air dry in a sunny place, if possible. Drying your outdoor cushions thoroughly after washing is essential for preventing mould and mildew.
Removable Covers and Liners
Outdoor cushions with removable covers and liners are very easy to clean. They can often be machine washed, and they help to protect the interior of the cushion from dirt and moisture. You can machine wash removable covers with mild laundry detergent and cool or cold water. Either allow them to air dry or tumble dry on a low setting, depending on the fabric and the care instructions. To wash your cover by hand, use 1/4 cup of dish soap and 1 gallon of warm water. Rinse out the soap thoroughly and allow the cushion to air dry.
Cleaning Mould and Mildew
Even outdoor cushions with antimicrobial fabrics can be susceptible to mould and mildew if they are allowed to remain wet for too long. Any signs of mould and mildew should be cleaned immediately. Mould and mildew have a very unpleasant smell, and the spores are unhealthy to breathe in or touch. Learn how to remove mould from fabric
Bleach
Mould and mildew can be removed with a solution made of one part bleach, one part water, and two parts mild laundry soap. Scrub the cushion with a sponge to remove the mould or mildew and then rinse and dry completely. Be careful when using bleach on your furniture, and only use it in a well-ventilated area. Make sure to test the solution on a small patch of the material before using it on the whole cushion. This will avoid discolouring or damaging the fabric.
Borax
If you prefer to avoid using bleach, you can use borax instead. Borax is a good cleaning alternative for fabrics that can't be cleaned with bleach. It's also less harsh and doesn't have strong fumes.
Use Caution
Always use caution when working with mould, mildew, and cleaning chemicals. Wear gloves, goggles, and a safety mask for protection. Make sure there are no children or pets in the area.
Caring For Other Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor ottomans and furniture with cushions often also have frames made of other materials. These pieces need maintenance to keep your patio furniture at its best. Here are some tips on how to care for metal, wood, and plastic outdoor furniture. Cleaning plastic furniture is straightforward—plastic furniture, such as Weathergrain or recycled plastic pieces, can be cleaned using similar methods as other outdoor furniture. Or click here to discover how to clean a bean bag chair.
Metal Frames
Patio furniture with a metal frame is sturdy and reliable, but it still needs regular maintenance. Many outdoor furniture pieces use a steel frame for added durability and support. To get rid of dirt and grime, metal furniture can be cleaned with soap and water as needed. For outdoor metal furniture, avoid scrubbing with hard brushes or harsh chemicals to protect the finish. To remove problems like rust stains and mould, use a wire brush or fine-grit sandpaper. Touch up the paint in places where it’s worn away, or give the whole piece a fresh coat every few years. Protective coatings, such as powder coating or galvanising, are applied to metal frames to prevent rust and corrosion.
Wood Frames
Wood frames are strong, but they need a gentle approach for cleaning. Use a mild, oil-based soap to remove grime. Wooden outdoor furniture can also be cleaned with mild soapy water and a sponge. Don’t use a pressure washer to rinse, as this can cause gouges in the wood. Try to keep your wood furniture as dry as possible, as too much moisture can cause it to rot. Uncoated or naturally weathered wooden outdoor furniture is very low maintenance and develops a unique appearance over time. As it ages, wood acquires a grey-silvery patina, which can be left for a natural look or altered with sealants for a more polished finish. You can apply a wood oil every so often for added protection from the elements.
Plastic Frames
Plastic furniture is lightweight and durable. Some plastic furniture is designed to mimic wood or wicker, offering a realistic appearance with less maintenance. Chemical additives, such as UV stabilisers and fungicides, are used in the manufacturing process to improve durability and resistance to the elements.
You can just wipe it down from time to time with a sponge and gentle soap. To remove stains, use dishwasher detergent on white plastic to restore it to its original condition. Plastic furniture stains can also be treated with baking soda and warm water. You can clean coloured plastic with a mixture of white vinegar and water.
Patio Umbrellas
Patio umbrellas require regular attention, too. Every so often, you should clean off dirt and debris with a rag or vacuum. Not only will this help keep the umbrella looking neat, but it will prevent it from being weighed down and sagging over time. If possible, remove the umbrella fabric to wash it. Machine wash the fabric or wash it by hand according to the care instructions. If the fabric can’t be removed, scrub the fabric with mild soap and water. Clean the umbrella stand with the appropriate method for whatever material it's made of.
To keep the umbrella operating smoothly and prevent rust, apply silicone spray to the umbrella ribs and any moving parts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with regular cleaning, outdoor furniture can sometimes develop issues like mildew stains, rust stains, or leftover soap residue. If you spot mildew stains on your outdoor cushions or furniture, mix powdered oxygen bleach with warm water and gently apply it to the affected area using a soft cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For rust stains on metal frames, use a fine-grit sandpaper to remove the rust carefully, then apply a touch-up paint to protect the metal and restore its appearance. If you notice soap residue after cleaning, simply wipe down the entire surface area with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent to remove any leftover film. Addressing these common problems promptly will keep your outdoor furniture looking fresh and ready for outdoor use.
Storing Your Outdoor Furniture
You can make your outdoor furniture last longer by storing it whenever it’s not in use. Some good ways to store outdoor furniture include covering it with a protective tarp or placing it in a sheltered place, like a basement, shed, or garage. Having adequate storage space is important to protect your furniture and cushions from the weather and humidity.
Wherever you choose to store your furniture, make sure it’s a dry environment that’s free of pests. If you place your cushions in plastic storage bags, make sure they have ventilation holes. This will allow air to get in while keeping moisture, insects, and rodents out. Proper airflow will help prevent the growth of mould and mildew. It can be a good idea to give your outdoor furniture a good cleaning before putting it in storage. This will help make sure the past season’s stains won’t set in. However, if you do wash your furniture, make sure it’s completely dry before putting it away.
Maintaining Outdoor Furniture
One of the easiest ways to keep outdoor furniture looking its best for seasons to come is to keep up with simple daily maintenance. Keeping your furniture clean is essential for prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its appearance. Here are a few small things you can do to make a big difference in the longevity of your outdoor furniture.
Keep Surfaces Clear of Dirt
Regularly brush away any debris that appears on your outdoor cushions. You can do this with a soft rag, brush, or vacuum cleaner. Not only will this keep your furniture more hygienic, but it will also help prevent dirt from setting in over time. Mildew requires dirt to grow on, so keeping surfaces clear of debris is important for prevention. The more you keep up with surface dirt, the less often you'll have to give your cushions a deep clean.
Take Care of Spots ASAP
Be sure to treat any spots and spills immediately after they happen. This will help prevent them from permanently staining the fabric. You can treat most spills by removing them with a wet cloth and mild soap. When learning how to remove oil stains, keep in mind that certain types of stains and fabrics may require special care for effective cleaning. This is especially important for food and drink spills. Spilled snacks or soda can attract bugs and cause mould and mildew to form.
Check the Water-Repellant Coating
Some water-repellant coatings will break down over time. This leaves your cushions susceptible to mould and mildew. Check your outdoor cushions to be sure water beads on the surface. If it doesn't, you may need to refresh your water-resistant coating. There are many spray-on varieties of water-resistant coatings to choose from. Check the manufacturer's instructions to find out which one is best for the type of fabric.
Shade and Shelter
And of course, protect your furniture from the weather whenever possible. Move your outdoor seating to a shady place if it's left out on a particularly bright day. Cover it or move it into a sheltered area if you expect rain.
Regular Cleaning
Even if your cushions don’t look dirty, it’s a good idea to give them a thorough cleaning at least once a season. This will help you stay one step ahead of big problems like mould and insects. Keeping up with these tips will help preserve your outdoor furniture for the long run.
For best results, use a lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth when cleaning to ensure a smooth, residue-free finish.
DIY vs Professional Care
Most outdoor furniture care can be handled with simple DIY methods, such as regular cleaning with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. For outdoor cushions with removable covers, machine washing according to the manufacturer’s instructions is usually sufficient. However, if you encounter stubborn stains, delicate fabrics, or are unsure about the best cleaning approach for your specific furniture, it may be wise to consult a professional. Professional care can be especially helpful for deep cleaning, treating specialty materials, or restoring heavily soiled or damaged pieces. For most outdoor furniture, though, sticking to a routine of regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your patio looking its best without the need for professional intervention.
Kick Back and Relax with Comfy Outdoor Furniture
You can keep your outdoor furniture cushions looking and feeling great with these simple care tips. By doing just a little regular maintenance, you're free to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and style. Interested in adding to your patio furniture collection? Check out our line of cool and comfortable outdoor bean bag chairs.
