How to Clean Outdoor Patio Cushions - Outdoor Cabinets

Outdoor patio cushions are essential for creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor living space. However, they are exposed to the elements and can get dirty quite easily. Learning how to properly clean patio cushions is key to maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. This comprehensive guide will provide useful tips and recommended methods for keeping outdoor cushions looking fresh and clean all season long.

Why It’s Important to Clean Outdoor Cushions

There are several reasons why routine cleaning of outdoor patio cushions is so critical:

Prevent stains & buildup – Outdoor cushions are vulnerable to stains from food and beverages, as well as pollen, dirt, mildew and other environmental factors. Regular cleaning prevents these from setting into the fabric.
Extend lifespan – The upholstery on patio cushions breaks down more quickly when not cared for properly. Appropriate cleaning methods preserve the integrity of the fabric and foam fill to maximize usage.
Health reasons – Soil, pollen, mold and mildew that accumulate on cushion surfaces can trigger allergic reactions for some individuals. Eliminating these allergens keeps your cushions hygienic.
Aesthetic appeal – While patio cushions are meant to be used, dirty, dingy cushions detract from your outdoor decor. Proper cleaning restores their visual appeal.

Knowing the most effective techniques for cleaning outdoor cushions based on your specific fabric will pay off all season long.

Cleaning Tips Based on Fabric Type

Outdoor cushions come in a wide variety of fabrics and materials. The cleaning method you use should be determined by the type of fabric you have. Below are tips tailored to different cushion fabrics:

Canvas Cushions

Canvas is a classic cushion covering made of durable cotton. It’s lightweight and breathable, but still prone to dirt and stains. Here’s how to clean canvas patio cushions:

Vacuum regularly – Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to pick up surface-level debris weekly. Check crevices for crumbs and other accumulated dirt.
Spot clean stains – Pre-treat stains with a solution of warm water, mild dish soap and white vinegar. Use a soft bristle scrub brush to work it into the fabric. Rinse with clean water and air dry.
Machine wash removable covers – If your canvas covers are removable, machine wash them occasionally on the gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry the covers.
Use bleach alternative if needed – For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing. Oxygen-based bleach can also be used.
Protect from elements – Use a cushion cover or bring cushions indoors when not in use to prevent premature wear.

Cotton Cushions

Cotton is a popular outdoor cushion choice praised for its breathability. Here are some cleaning tips for cotton patio cushions:

Vacuum weekly – Use an upholstery nozzle to remove surface debris from cushions. Pay close attention to seams and tufts where dirt collects.
Spot treat stains – Mix warm water, lemon juice and salt and rub it into stains gently with a soft cloth. Rinse with clean water once the stain fades. Let air dry completely.
Rinse with garden hose – For a deeper clean, take the covers off and rinse them thoroughly with a garden hose on a low setting. Allow to fully air dry before replacing covers.
Machine wash removable covers – Check the tag to confirm if covers can be removed and machine washed. Use mild detergent on the delicate cycle and line dry.
Disinfect with vinegar solution – Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly mist cushions and let sit 5 minutes before wiping clean.

Polyester Cushions

Polyester is a synthetic fabric noted for its durability and wrinkle resistance. Here are polyester cushion cleaning recommendations:

Use mild dish soap and water – Mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water. Using a soft cloth, spot clean stains and dirt. Avoid aggressively rubbing.
Rinse with hose – A more thorough cleaning can be achieved by spraying cushions down with a garden hose on a low pressure setting. Allow to completely air dry.
Spot clean with baking soda – For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub into the stain and let sit 15-30 minutes before rinsing clean.
Machine wash removable covers – Check tag to confirm if removable covers can be machine washed. Use cold water on a delicate cycle. Line dry or tumble dry on low.
Try vinegar solution – Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Mist cushions to eliminate odors and disinfect. Wipe with damp cloth.

Sunbrella Fabric Cushions

Sunbrella is a popular, durable outdoor fabric. Here are some tips for cleaning Sunbrella patio cushions:

Brush off debris – Use a soft bristle brush weekly to remove surface-level dirt and debris. Be gentle to avoid snagging or damaging the fabric.
Rinse with hose – Once a month, spray Sunbrella cushions down with a garden hose on low pressure. This helps rinse away stubborn debris and dirt buildup. Allow to fully air dry.
Make a bleach cleaning solution – Fill a bucket with 2 gallons of water, 1/4 cup of bleach and 1/4 cup of mild soap. Use a sponge to scrub the solution into the Sunbrella. Rinse thoroughly.
Spot clean with fabric cleaner – For localized stains, spray Sunbrella fabric cleaner directly onto the spot according to product directions. Gently blot the stain then rinse with water.
Machine wash removable covers – If covers can be removed, machine wash on a normal cycle in cold water with mild detergent. Tumble dry on low.

Wicker Patio Cushions

Wicker patio furniture is naturally prone to collecting dirt and pollen. Here is how to properly clean wicker cushions:

Vacuum weekly – Use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum to pick up surface debris. Get into crevices and under wicker.
Hose down monthly – Once a month, take cushions outdoors and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose on a low setting. Allow to fully air dry.
Make a soap and water solution – Mix 2 tablespoons of gentle soap like castile soap into 1 gallon of warm water. Use a sponge to wipe wicker clean. Rinse.
Spot clean wicker stains – Use a toothbrush dipped in soap and water to scrub stains on wicker surfaces. Avoid wire brushes or other abrasives.
Consider fabric protector spray – Spraying wicker cushions with a fabric protector every 6 months will help resist dirt, oil, and water stains.

General Cleaning Tips

In addition to cleaning methods suited for particular fabric types, the following general tips will help keep all patio cushions fresh and clean all season:

Check cushion tags for the manufacturer’s specific care recommendations. Follow any special instructions indicated.
Vacuum both sides of cushions weekly using an upholstery brush attachment. This prevents buildup of debris.
Spot clean stains immediately using the appropriate technique for your fabric. Don’t let stains set in.
Allow cushions to fully air dry before replacing covers or putting them into storage or on furniture.
Consider removable cushion covers for easier maintenance. Check for machine washable covers.
Steam clean cushions once or twice a season for a deeper, sanitizing clean. Allow ample drying time.
Alternate cushions between indoor and outdoor use to prolong their lifespan when possible.
Use furniture or seat cushion covers when cushions are not in use to protect from weathering.
Inspect cushions regularly for signs of excessive wear, damage or mildew. This allows for repair or replacement before issues worsen.
Store cushions in a protected, dry area like a shed or garage during off seasons or bad weather.

Cleaning Methods to Avoid

Just as important as using the right cleaning techniques is avoiding detrimental methods that can damage patio cushions:

Avoid bleach – Bleach can fade or discolor many cushion fabrics and cause deterioration over time. Exceptions include Sunbrella fabric and some cottons.
Skip the washing machine – Most outdoor cushions should not be machine washed as it can destroy the fabric and fill material. Exceptions include removable covers designated as machine washable.
Don’t use harsh chemicals – Avoid rubbing alcohol, acetone, mineral spirits and other harsh solvents. They can strip protective treatments from fabric.
No wire brushes – Stiff wire patio brushes can snag and pull threads on cushion fabric, causing permanent damage. Use soft bristle brushes only.
Skip the dryer – Tumble drying patio cushions can cause shrinkage or tearing of fabric. Always allow cushions to fully air dry instead.
Avoid excessive water pressure – High pressure from a hose or sprayer can force water into cushions, causing interior fill to become saturated. Use low water pressure.
Don’t let mildew set in – Mildew thrives on moisture. Allow cushions to dry thoroughly before storage or replacing covers to avoid mold issues.

Being cautious about using only cleaning techniques suitable for outdoor fabrics will maximize the longevity of your patio cushions.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

Commercial cushion cleaning products can be pricey and are not always necessary to properly care for outdoor cushions. The following homemade solutions work just as effectively and are more budget-friendly:

All-Purpose Cushion Cleaner

2 gallons warm water
1⁄4 cup mild liquid hand or dish soap
1⁄4 cup baking soda

Mix ingredients together in a bucket until dissolved. Use a sponge to wipe solution over the surface of cushions. Rinse thoroughly with clean water from a hose and allow to fully air dry.

Bleach-Based Cleaner for Sunbrella Fabric

2 gallons warm water
1⁄4 cup bleach
1⁄4 cup mild liquid soap

Combine ingredients in a bucket and stir to mix. Use a clean sponge or soft cloth to wipe the solution onto Sunbrella fabric. Rinse very thoroughly until all bleach residue is gone. Air dry.

Vinegar Disinfectant Spray

2 cups warm water
1 cup white vinegar
Optional: 5-10 drops essential oil for fragrance

Mix ingredients in a spray bottle. Mist over cushions and wipe with a damp cloth to clean and disinfect. Allows cushions to fully dry before replacing covers.

Foaming Cushion Cleaner

2 cups warm water
3 tablespoons oxygen bleach powder
1 teaspoon castile or other mild vegetable oil soap

Mix water and oxygen bleach powder first until combined. Slowly blend in soap until it creates a foamy texture. Apply foam to cushions using a soft bristle scrub brush. Rinse clean.

Deep Cleaning Methods

For more stubborn built-up dirt or to sanitize cushions, these occasional deep cleaning methods can help restore patio cushions:

Pressure Washing

Use an electric pressure washer on a low setting from at least 12 inches away to spray cushions. Avoid concentrated direct spraying. Rinse thoroughly and allow ample time to dry.

Upholstery Shampooer

Shampoo cushions with an upholstery cleaning machine using the manufacturer’s instructions. Use minimal water and avoid over-wetting. Allow extra dry time.

Steam Cleaning

Utilize a specialized upholstery steam cleaner to deep clean and sanitize cushion fabric. Be cautious not to oversaturate cushions and take time to fully dry before replacing covers.

Professional Service

Hire a professional patio furniture cleaning service to deep clean, sanitize, and restore cushions using commercial grade equipment. Gets cushions like-new clean.

Removing Specific Stains from Cushions

Even with regular cleaning, outdoor cushions will inevitably develop some stubborn spots and stains over time. Here are tips for removing some common cushion stains:

Food & Beverage Stains

Mix warm water and dish soap. Use a soft bristle scrub brush dipped in the solution to gently scrub the stain. Rinse clean and let air dry fully. For tougher food stains, apply baking soda and let sit 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Grease and Oil Stains

Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda directly on the grease stain. Allow to sit for 1-2 hours to absorb the grease. Using a dry cloth, brush off the powder. Repeat as needed for stubborn grease spots.

Mold & Mildew Stains

Combine 1 part bleach and 4 parts water. Use a sponge to wipe the solution onto mold stains. Allow to sit 10 minutes then rinse clean. Allow to fully air dry to prevent re-growth of mildew.

Bird Droppings or Leaf Stains

Make a paste using baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto the stain. Let sit for 30 minutes then rinse clean with water. Check fabric care tag before using vinegar or bleach solutions.

Ink Marks or Permanent Marker

Apply isopropyl rubbing alcohol to ink stains using a clean cloth, blotting gently. Avoid aggressively rubbing. Rinse with water and repeat process if stain persists. Use caution on delicate fabrics.

Rust Stains

Make a solution of oxalic or citric acid powder mixed with warm water. Use a small brush to gently dab onto rust marks. Allow to sit briefly before rinsing clean.

Cushion Maintenance Between Cleanings

To maximize the time between deep cleanings and keep your cushions looking their best, incorporate these maintenance tips into your regular routine:

Vacuum cushions weekly using the soft brush attachment. Gets rid of surface debris and dirt.
Spot clean spills and stains right away as they occur to prevent setting in.
Fluff and rotate cushions regularly to help them retain shape and wear evenly.
Check for damage including tears, broken seams or frayed fabric and repair immediately.
Rinse with a hose monthly to prevent heavy soiling.
Use furniture covers between uses to protect from rain, wind and UV rays.
Check foam interior for moisture or mildew odors indicating its time to replace fill.
Consider hiring professional cushion cleaning services annually or bi-annually to revitalize.
Apply fabric protectant spray as indicated on care tags to resist stains.

With regular cleaning and conscientious maintenance habits, your outdoor cushions will stay fresh and vibrant for seasons of use. Keep this guide handy for cleaning recommendations all year long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you clean outdoor cushions?

Outdoor cushions should be cleaned at least monthly during seasons of use. Weekly vacuuming and prompt spot cleaning as needed is also recommended. Deep clean cushions every 3-6 months.

What is the fastest way to clean patio cushions?

For a quick clean, hose cushions down with water then use an all-purpose mild soap and water solution applied with a sponge or soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully air dry.

Should patio cushions be cleaned individually or on furniture?

It’s best practice to remove cushions from patio furniture frames before cleaning. This allows for thorough cleaning of both the cushions and furniture frames.

Can you put outdoor cushions in the washing machine?

Most outdoor cushions should not be machine washed, but removable cushion covers may be if the tag indicates machine washable. Use cold water and delicate cycle. Always air dry.

How do you get old stains out of outdoor cushions?

For old, set-in stains, try scrubbing with baking soda paste. Vinegar or oxygen bleach solutions also help eliminate stubborn staining on outdoor cushion fabric.

How do I get mildew off outdoor cushions?

Mix equal parts water and bleach in a spray bottle. Spray over mildewed areas, allow 10 minutes to work, then rinse thoroughly. Make sure cushions are completely dry before using or storing to prevent re-growth of mildew.

What can I spray on outdoor cushions to protect them?

There are several fabric protectant sprays made for outdoor cushions that help repel water, stains, and mildew growth. Be sure to test on an inconspicuous area first and follow product instructions. Reapply every 1-2 months.

How do you freshen up old patio cushions?

To freshen dingy cushions, deep clean using an upholstery cleaner, steamer or pressure washer. Disinfect with a vinegar solution. Use baking soda to deodorize. Consider replacing deteriorated foam fill to refresh.

Should outdoor cushions be flipped regularly?

Yes, fluffing and flipping patio cushions every few uses will help them maintain shape and wear more evenly. Rotate their positioning on furniture as well.

Can I put patio cushions in storage dirty?

It’s best to clean cushions thoroughly before placing into storage to avoid mold or mildew growth in storage. Vacuum and spot clean at minimum. Disinfect with vinegar spray before storage.

Conclusion

Outdoor cushions require periodic deep cleaning along with regular maintenance to keep them looking fresh in outdoor living spaces. Following fabric-specific recommendations, using proper methods and avoid detrimental cleaning techniques will optimize results. Incorporating DIY solutions, stain removal tricks and preventative maintenance will minimize the effort involved. With this complete guide, outdoor cushions can stay cleanly and inviting all season long.