As temperatures rise, it's crucial to learn how to clean outdoor cushions effectively to make the most of your outdoor area. After a long winter, cushions may be covered in dirt, mold, or stubborn stains.
Don’t worry if they seem worse for wear. Instead of buying new ones, you can restore their look with just four straightforward steps, rejuvenating your outdoor seating as spring unfolds.
Here are expert recommendations for refreshing your outdoor cushions, ensuring they look their best during essential spring cleaning.
Cleaning Outdoor Cushions Like an Expert
When selecting outdoor cushions, be aware of the cleaning instructions, as various fabrics have different care needs. Since labels can fade, consider noting the care guidelines and keeping them in a convenient spot, like near your washing machine.
In general, you'll find the following items useful when cleaning your outdoor cushions:
- A gentle lint brush available at Walmart or a vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
- Gentle laundry detergent, like Attitude detergent from Walmart, which avoids harsh chemicals and synthetic dyes.
- Microfiber cloths from Target for dabbing stains.
- Optional: White vinegar from Target for mold removal.
1. Remove Loose Dust and Dirt
Shake out loose dirt to avoid smudging when washing.
Outdoor cushions benefit from a good shake to eliminate dust and allergens before cleaning. Do this outdoors, away from your patio, to prevent dust from settling on your furniture.
Similarly to cleaning upholstery indoors, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove any dust hiding in creases and seams of cushions without removable covers; a cordless vacuum simplifies this outdoor task.
2. Machine Wash Removable Covers
Machine washing cushions simplifies the cleaning process while reviving their fluffiness.
Some outdoor furniture includes machine-washable cushions or removable covers. If so, toss them in the washing machine with a mild detergent like Tide Free & Gentle from Walmart to eliminate odors and stains.
Always check for a washing label inside the cushion cover. If there isn’t one, you can often tell by feel: removable covers without a special water-repellent finish can typically be machine-washed. Use a low temperature and a gentle detergent to maintain their quality.
After washing, reap the benefits of air drying by placing the cushions or covers outside in the sun. This method helps lift odors, lighten stains, and minimizes the risk of shrinking.
3. Clean Stains by Hand
Hand wash cushions as needed. Ensure inserts are completely dry before replacing them to avoid mold.
If your outdoor cushions can’t be machine washed or have tough stains, you'll need to clean them by hand.
This process resembles hand-washing clothes. Use warm water (not too hot) with a mild detergent for non-removable covers. A soft-bristle brush can help lift stubborn dirt before using a damp cloth for cleaning.
Consider doing a patch test on the back of the cushion first to ensure your detergent and/or brush don’t mark the fabric.
Protects skin
When working with detergents, use gloves to shield your skin from irritation.
Set of three
These brushes are ideal for targeting outdoor cushion stains without spreading them further.
Bestseller
Microfiber cloths are excellent for absorbing stains without the need for aggressive scrubbing. They clean well in the washer, but skip fabric softener to maintain their absorbency.
For cushions stored in damp environments, you may need to tackle mold. One effective method to eliminate black mold is to use vinegar. Mix one cup of vinegar with a gallon of warm water and a drop of detergent.
Spray the mixture on the cushions, allow it to sit for up to 30 minutes, then rinse. Finish by blotting with plain water and detergent to remove any residue, and let the cushion dry in a warm, airy place, like on your sunny patio. This helps eliminate odors and lighten any remaining stains.
Sunshine is great for naturally fading persistent stains.
4. Allow Thorough Drying
Drying cushions in the sun helps lift stubborn stains and prevents mold growth.
Ensure cushions dry completely to avoid mildew. After drying, consider applying a stain- and water-repellent product to facilitate future cleaning.
But don’t stop there. Regular maintenance is just as crucial. To keep cushions in top shape, perform routine cleanings and inspect for wear and damage.
Meet the Experts
Polya Petrova is a dedicated partner in the cleaning industry, recognized for her expertise in tackling dirt and grime. With experience since 2017, she transitioned to becoming a franchisee last year.
FAQs
How to Extend the Life of Outdoor Cushions?
It might be a bit of a hassle, but storing your outdoor cushions nightly protects them from moisture and extends their lifespan. An outdoor storage ottoman, like the 71-gallon resin storage box from Wayfair, can be useful for this purpose, as can outdoor furniture that includes built-in storage.
To avoid dirt accumulation, use protective covers or treat your fabric with upholstery protectors,” advises an interior expert.
Always store cushions indoors during winter. Clean them thoroughly, dry them well, and keep them in an airtight bag or container.
How to Remove Bird Droppings from Outdoor Cushions?
Bird droppings can be tough to clean, so wear gloves! Start by scraping off the bulk, then vacuum on the highest setting to remove more. The more you get off before adding water, the better.
Next, mix a drop of liquid detergent in a spray bottle with warm water and spray the area. Blot to absorb the mess, repeating until it's clean. Avoid scrubbing, as that can push dirt deeper into the fabric. If machine washing is an option, do so, and sanitize your washer afterward. Otherwise, rinse off any soap residue using a garden hose.
With warmer weather and longer days, cleaning outdoor cushions becomes a key task to prepare for the hosting season ahead.
