How to Clean Outdoor Couch Cushions - Outdoor Cabinets

Outdoor couch cushions are a great way to add comfort and style to your patio, deck, or pool area. However, outdoor cushions require a bit more maintenance and cleaning than regular indoor upholstered furniture. Outdoor fabric is exposed to the elements like sun, rain, dirt, pollen, and mildew. With regular care and deep cleaning, you can keep your outdoor cushions looking fresh and extend their life. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to clean outdoor couch cushions properly using various methods.

Supplies Needed to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Before you start cleaning outdoor couch cushions, gather the necessary supplies:

Mild detergent or upholstery cleaner: Use a gentle laundry detergent or a specialty upholstery cleaner safe for outdoor fabrics. Avoid harsh detergents.
Soft-bristle scrub brush: Use a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric. Avoid stiff brushes that could damage the fabric.
Garden hose: Use a garden hose with an adjustable nozzle to rinse the cushions thoroughly after cleaning.
Clean towels or cloths: Have some clean towels or soft cloths to blot excess water after rinsing.
Laundry dryer (optional): If the cushion covers are removable, a dryer can help fluff and dry them.
Vacuum cleaner (optional): Use a vacuum to suck up excess dirt and debris before washing.
Protective gloves: Wear waterproof gloves to protect your hands during scrubbing and rinsing.

Preparing Outdoor Cushions for Cleaning

Follow these tips before washing outdoor couch cushions:

Check the care label on your cushions for any special washing instructions from the manufacturer.
Remove the cushion covers if they have zippers or ties. Check if covers can be machine washed.
Brush off any loose dirt or debris from the cushions using a soft bristle brush or vacuum cleaner.
Sweep or hose off the patio or deck area under and around the cushions.
Mix a cleaning solution according to the detergent instructions in a bucket. Use warm or cool water.
Test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first before full application.
Lay down some protective drop cloths in your work area to keep splatters contained.

How to Hand Wash Outdoor Cushions

Follow these steps to hand wash outdoor couch cushions or cushion covers:

Step 1: Apply Cleaner and Scrub

Apply your mixed cleaning solution generously over the fabric using a sponge or soft cloth.
Allow it to soak in for 5-10 minutes. This gives the detergent time to break down dirt and stains.
Use a soft bristle scrub brush to gently scrub all fabric surfaces. Apply light pressure and work in a circular motion.
Focus on scrubbing grimy areas but avoid harsh scrubbing that could damage the fabric.
Rinse frequently so you can see if dirt and stains have lifted. Reapply cleaner and scrub again if needed.

Step 2: Rinse Thoroughly

Use a garden hose with an adjustable nozzle to rinse away all soapy residue from the cushions. Start rinsing from the top down.
Adjust the water pressure to medium strength. The stream should be strong enough to rinse effectively but not so harsh that it damages the fabric.
Keep rinsing until all traces of detergent have been removed. Remaining soap can attract more dirt after drying.
If cushions are removable, you can rinse them right inside a bathtub for easier containment of rinse water.

Step 3: Blot Away Excess Water

After thorough rinsing, use clean towels or cloths to blot excess water from the cushion fabric.
Try not to rub the fabric too roughly. Allow it to air dry partially after blotting.
If your cushion covers are removable, unzip them and lay them flat right after rinsing. Blot gently to soak up excess moisture.
You can put removable covers into the dryer on a no-heat fluff cycle to restore cushion shape after hand washing.
For fixed cushion covers, gently reshape and smooth them after blotting and partial air drying. Allow them to finish drying fully outside.

Cleaning With a Power Washer

Power washing is an effective way to deep clean outdoor cushions and revive their color. Follow these tips:

Check that your cushions are rated for power washing. The intense spray can damage some fabrics.
Remove cushion covers if possible and wash separately before power washing the cushion inserts.
Move cushions to an outdoor area like the driveway for easier cleanup. Lay them flat.
Use the wand at a 45° angle about 8-10 inches away from the fabric. Adjust pressure as needed.
Power wash in horizontal paths starting at the top, making sure to overlap passes.
After power washing, rinse off any grimy residue and allow cushions to fully air dry before replacing covers.
You can also power wash cushion covers if the fabric is durable enough. Ensure all soap residue is rinsed out.

Cleaning Mold and Mildew

Mold, mildew, and other fungal growth can be common on outdoor cushions. Follow these tips for removal:

Mix 1 cup of bleach or other disinfectant with 1 gallon of water. Or use a dedicated mildew remover.
Apply the solution generously to mildewed areas and allow 10-15 minutes of penetration.
Scrub with a soft brush and rinse very thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Allow the cushions to dry fully in direct sunlight which naturally inhibits mold growth.
You can also use oxygen bleach spray cleaners that are safe for outdoor fabrics.
After cleaning, improve ventilation and air circulation around cushions to prevent recurring mildew.

How to Disinfect Outdoor Cushions

It’s a good idea to periodically disinfect your outdoor cushions along with deep cleaning. Here’s how:

Mix a disinfecting bleach solution using 3/4 cup bleach per gallon of water. Or use an outdoor furniture disinfectant.
Apply the disinfectant solution liberally over the entire surface using a sponge or clean cloth.
Allow the solution to soak in for 10-15 minutes to sanitize properly.
Use a soft-bristle scrub brush over the entire cushion, then rinse very thoroughly with clean water.
Allow cushions to air dry fully in direct sunlight before replacing covers or placing back on patio furniture.
You can also use steam cleaners to disinfect and sanitize outdoor cushions while deep cleaning.

Stain Removal Tips and Tricks

Outdoor cushions often get all kinds of stubborn stains. Try these stain busting ideas:

For food and drink stains, blot immediately and rinse with cool water before washing. Avoid hot water setting stains.
Create a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub onto grease, oil or dirt stains before washing.
For red wine stains, blot immediately and pour seltzer water directly onto the stain to lift it away.
Make a solution of oxygen bleach powder and cool water and apply to mold, mildew or other organic stains before washing.
For tough pollen stains, use a stiff brush in circular motions to help break down and remove the pollen before washing.
For sunscreen or suntan lotion stains, blot immediately and use a citrus solvent like lemon juice before washing. Let it sit before rinsing.

How to Fully Dry Outdoor Cushions

It’s important to fully dry outdoor cushions after washing to prevent mold and mildew growth. Here are some tips:

Allow cushions to air dry in direct sunlight which helps kill mold and mildew. Turn periodically.
Separate cushion covers from inserts to allow both to dry faster if removable.
Use a laundry dryer on a no-heat air fluff cycle to help fully dry removable cushion covers. Add a couple of dry towels to absorb moisture.
Place cushions upright on end rather than flat to allow air circulation inside.
Use a space heater or fans to speed up drying time if slow drying in shade. Just don’t apply direct high heat.
Check for dampness inside cushions by pressing down. Fully dried cushions should spring back up.
Consider investing in quick-drying cushion covers that are mesh or microfiber if covers stay damp often.

Storing Outdoor Cushions in Wet Weather

Take steps to protect outdoor cushions in damp weather:

Check cushions daily if rain is expected and allow to fully dry between storms.
Move cushions indoor or under a covered patio area if heavy rain is forecast.
Keep cushions raised off wet surfaces which can cause mildew growth underneath.
Invest in water-resistant cushion covers if your cushions will be exposed to frequent rain.
Apply fabric protectants to help repel water and prevent moisture absorption. Reapply after deep cleaning.
Place moisture absorbing items like towels inside cushion covers temporarily to wick away dampness faster.
Allow removed covers to air fully before placing back on cushions to avoid trapping moisture inside.

Caring for Outdoor Cushions in Winter

Special care is needed for outdoor cushions during colder months:

Check for mildew before storing cushions for winter and clean if needed.
Air dry cushions fully before placing into storage bags. Check for dampness inside.
Store cushions indoors in a heated area during winter if possible.
If storing outdoors, keep cushions in a covered area and raised off concrete or the ground.
Place mothballs or cedar blocks in storage bags to deter insects and rodents. Avoid using plastic which can trap moisture.
Store cushions upright rather than flat to allow air circulation and prevent mildew.
Unpack cushions occasionally during winter and allow to air out if storing for many months.
Inspect stored cushions for any early signs of mold or mildew and clean immediately if found.

General Outdoor Cushion Care and Maintenance

Follow these tips year round to keep outdoor cushions in good condition:

Vacuum cushions regularly using a soft brush attachment to prevent dirt buildup in fabric.
Spot clean spills and stains right away to prevent setting and permanent damage.
Allow cushions to dry fully between uses and check for dampness inside covers.
Every few weeks, spray cushions lightly with disinfectant and allow to dry in sunlight.
Use fabric protectant sprays designed for outdoor furniture to repel water, stains, and mildew. Reapply after deep cleaning.
Fluff and rotate cushions frequently to evenly distribute wear and maintain shape.
Check for signs of damage like torn seams, broken zippers or fraying ties and repair immediately.
Deep clean all cushions thoroughly 2-3 times per year depending on usage and exposure.

When to Call for Professional Outdoor Cushion Cleaning

It’s a good idea to have outdoor cushions professionally cleaned once a year or so. Call the pros when:

Cushion covers have locked in deep stains that you can’t remove completely after multiple attempts.
Mildew, mold or other fungal growth has spread extensively into the cushion interior.
Fabric has degraded from sun damage and needs intensive restoration or sealing.
Cushion inserts have become misshapen and need expert fluffing and reshaping.
You want cushions to undergo intensive deep cleaning and sanitizing at the start of a new season.
Upholstery requires specialized cleaning methods beyond typical washing.
You don’t have the time for intensive DIY deep cleaning of multiple cushions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Outdoor Cushions

Can I put outdoor cushion covers in the washing machine?

Check the care label first. Some removable outdoor cushion covers can be machine washed on gentle cycles according to particular washing instructions. Avoid very hot water. Line dry or dry on no heat setting.

How often should outdoor cushions be deep cleaned?

Outdoor cushions should be deep cleaned 2-4 times per year depending on exposure and usage. Clean at the start and end of summer at minimum. Clean immediately if dirty, stained or growing mold.

What is the best way to clean outdoor cushion inserts?

Spot clean inserts regularly. For deep cleaning, it’s best to remove covers and hand wash inserts thoroughly with mild detergent and a soft brush if they can’t go in the washing machine. Rinse very well and air dry fully.

How do I get mildew off outdoor cushions?

Mix a solution of bleach and water or use an outdoor furniture mildew cleaner. Apply the solution well and allow it to soak before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly. Allow to dry fully in sunlight.

Should outdoor cushions be stored inside or outside in winter?

It’s best to store outdoor cushions indoors during winter if space allows. If storing outside, keep them in a dry, covered area up off the ground with mothballs to protect from insects and rodents.

Conclusion

Outdoor couch cushions require regular deep cleaning and maintenance to stay fresh looking and last a long time when exposed to the elements. By using the right methods and supplies, you can effectively remove dirt, stains, and mildew buildup at home. Be sure to fully dry cushions after washing. Proper storage in winter and year-round preventative care are also key. With the proper cleaning tips provided in this article, you can keep your outdoor couch cushions looking vibrant and new.