1. Remove the cushion covers and put them directly in the washing machine.
2. After inserting your detergent where indicated by your machine, add a laundry sanitizer in the fabric softener compartment of your machine, or it put directly into your rinse cycle—either way, the bacteria will be killed. (For standard machines, use two capfuls filled to line one of the dosing cup, and for HE machines, use two capfuls filled to line two of the dosing cup.)
3. Run a regular laundry cycle and be sure to use the extra rinse function, primarily so the machine will be cleaner for your next load of laundry.
4. Run the covers through the dryer on a low heat cycle and let them air dry fully afterward if they are damp. Ensure the inserts of the pillows are completely dry before putting the covers back on.
How often should I clean outdoor cushions?
At a bare minimum, a couple of times a season. Ideally, do a quick clean at the start and end of the outdoor season, plus spot cleans in between. (If you’re hosting a garden party or cocktail hour, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’ve cleaned your outdoor cushions in advance of a guest’s arrival. Nobody wants to take a seat on mystery stains!)
Can I pressure-wash outdoor cushions?
Yes and no. Some outdoor cushion upholstery is strong enough to withstand pressure-washing, but others may experience a hurricane’s worth of damage…with torn seams, fabric pilling, or even foam ejection. Proceed with caution. If you go this route, use the lowest pressure setting and a wide spray tip and keep a safe distance.
How do I clean Sunbrella outdoor cushions?
We turned to Blake Collins, director of Sunbrella Care, for insights. “To clean outdoor cushions, I recommend mixing 1/4 cup of dish soap with a gallon of water and use a sponge or soft-bristle brush to gently agitate and thoroughly clean fabric seam-to-seam, then rinse and position cushions upright to air-dry and prevent water rings,” Collins says. “For added protection, consider using a fabric treatment like Sunbrella Restore to help repel water and extend the life of the cushions.”
What is the easiest way to clean outdoor cushions?
If your cushions have removable covers that can be safely washed in a washing machine, then that’s the best way. If you need to hand wash the cushions, products like white vinegar, baking soda, Borax, a dish soap like Dawn, or dedicated fabric cleaning products can be used to spot clean the fabric. The cleaning method need not be anything fancy; a soft scrub brush or a sponge should be all you need.
What causes black spots on outdoor cushions?
The black spots on outdoor cushions and other outdoor fabric are likely either mildew of mold. Both mildew and mold are types of fungus that can form on anything from a plant in the forest to a bathroom wall to a cushion in your outdoor living space, and both can trigger mild to severe allergic and respiratory ailments in humans and animals. These fungi can grow when conditions are moist and at least a few degrees above the freezing point, so they can appear in most seasons in most places. To prevent mold and mildew on outdoor cushions, keep the furniture covered or store the cushions in a shed, garage, or inside when you are not using them.
Can I use bleach on outdoor cushions?
While of course bleach is safe to use on white outdoor cushions, it may cause discoloration on cushions with colors or patterns. You can use a color-fast bleach product on outdoor fabrics, but it’s still best to use a spray bottle and test the cleaner on a small portion of the fabric before you use it on an entire cushion, just in case it does cause color issues.
What is the best cleaning solution for outdoor cushion covers?
In most cases, a blend of white vinegar and baking soda is the best cleaning solution for outdoor cushions. This time-tested duo should be able to cut through build-up and get your cushions looking like new again. If you do need to use a more powerful cleaning product, just make sure you try it on a small area of the cushion before applying it to the prominent affected area or over the entire surface of the fabric to avoid permanently discoloring a cushion cover.
