Outdoor pillows add comfort and style to patio furniture, pool loungers, and outdoor seating areas. However, extended exposure to sun, rain, dirt, pollen, and everyday use can leave outdoor pillows looking dingy and worn. Cleaning outdoor pillows regularly removes stains, brightens colors, eliminates odors, and extends the life of outdoor cushions. Follow this guide to learn the best practices for keeping outdoor pillows looking fresh and vibrant season after season.
Supplies Needed for Cleaning Outdoor Pillows
Cleaning outdoor pillows doesn’t require much in the way of special supplies. Standard cleaning solutions and tools most homeowners already have on hand can tackle dirt, stains, and buildup on outdoor cushions. Here is a list of recommended supplies for cleaning outdoor pillows:
- Mild laundry detergent – Liquid laundry detergent works great for hand washing outdoor pillows. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free formula.
- Soft bristle brush – Use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub stains and lift dirt from outdoor fabric. Avoid stiff brushes that could damage the fabric.
- Spray bottle with water – Mist pillows with water to help dissolve and rinse away dirt and debris before scrubbing.
- Clean towels – Have plenty of clean towels on hand to blot excess water and air dry pillows after washing.
- Garden hose – Use a garden hose with a pressure nozzle to rinse pillows after washing. Adjust to a gentle setting.
- Cleaning gloves – Wear rubber cleaning gloves to protect your hands from dirt, detergents, and grime.
With these basic cleaning tools in hand, you’ll be prepared to wash outdoor pillows and keep them looking fresh all season long. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach that could degrade or discolor outdoor fabrics.
Preparing Outdoor Pillows for Washing
Before washing outdoor pillows, follow these tips to prepare the cushions and work area:
- Brush off loose debris – Use a soft bristle brush to gently brush off any loose dirt, leaves, or debris from the pillows before washing.
- Check care instructions – If there are care labels on the outdoor pillows, follow the instructions for washing methods and temperature.
- Select a washing location – Choose an outdoor location to wash the pillows, such as on the lawn or driveway. Washing outdoors prevents messes and allows ample space for drying.
- Clear the area – Sweep or hose down the washing area to remove dirt, leaves, or other debris that could transfer to the pillows during cleaning.
- Have a drying area ready – Set up a flat, even outdoor surface protected from direct sun where pillows can lay flat to air dry after washing.
Taking a little time to prep the pillows and your washing area will make the cleaning process fast and efficient. Always check care instructions to prevent damage to fabrics.
Hand Washing Outdoor Pillow Covers
The outer fabric covers on most outdoor pillows can be removed and machine washed. But hand washing is gentler, allows you to target stains, and works for pillows without removable covers. Follow these steps to hand wash outdoor pillow covers:
What You’ll Need
- Outdoor pillow covers
- Mild laundry detergent
- Soft bristle scrub brush
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Clean towels
- Access to a garden hose
Instructions
- Mix detergent and water – In a bucket or large bowl, make a washing solution of cool water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent. The solution should create a light lather when stirred.
- Spray pillows – Lightly mist the pillow covers with the spray bottle filled with water. This helps lift dirt from the fabric.
- Scrub with a soft brush – Dip the soft bristle brush in the detergent solution and gently scrub stains, being careful not to damage the fabric. Rinse the brush as needed.
- Rinse – Use a garden hose with adjustable pressure nozzle and gently rinse away all soap residue from the pillow covers.
- Blot excess water – Place pillow covers on a clean, dry towel and press to blot out excess moisture.
- Air dry – Transfer the pillow covers to your prepped drying area. Allow them to air dry completely before replacing cover on pillow inserts.
Repeat this hand washing process as needed until outdoor pillow covers are fresh, clean, and free of stains. Check that all detergent residue is removed.
Cleaning Outdoor Pillow Inserts
The inner pillow inserts can collect dirt, pollen, mold, mildew, and debris that filters through the outer cover over time. Follow these steps to deep clean inserts:
What You’ll Need
- Outdoor pillow inserts
- Large bucket or basin
- Mild laundry detergent
- Garden hose
- Clean towels
- Stiff bristle scrub brush
Instructions
- Fill basin with cool water – Fill a large bucket or basin with cool water. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent and stir to create light suds.
- Soak inserts – Place pillow inserts in the detergent solution, pushing them fully underwater. Allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes so the solution penetrates deep into the inserts.
- Agitate and scrub – Pull inserts from the water and firmly press, squeeze, and knead them to loosen and release dirt and debris. Use a stiff bristle scrub brush on heavily soiled areas.
- Rinse – Move the inserts to an outdoor location and use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse away all soap residue. Press inserts while rinsing to remove suds.
- Blot excess moisture – Place inserts on clean, dry towels. Firmly press and blot to absorb as much moisture as possible.
- Air dry – Transfer inserts to the prepped drying area. Fluff and rotate periodically while drying. Completely air dry before returning to pillow covers.
Deep cleaning pillow inserts helps remove mold, mildew, and caked-on debris that can shorten their lifespan. Be sure inserts are 100% dry before returning to covers.
Cleaning Outdoor Pillows In Place
Some outdoor pillows are oversized, sewn-in, or otherwise unable to be disassembled for washing. Use this method to deep clean pillows in their original place:
What You’ll Need
- Outdoor pillows in place
- Soft bristle scrub brush
- Mild laundry detergent
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Clean towels
- Access to a garden hose
Instructions
- Vacuum – Use a handheld vacuum to suck up loose dirt and debris from the pillow surface.
- Spray and scrub – Lightly mist pillows with the water-filled spray bottle, then make a sudsy detergent solution in a small bowl. Dip the scrub brush in the solution and gently scrub stains.
- Rinse – Use a garden hose on a gentle setting to thoroughly rinse detergent from the pillows.
- Blot dry – Press clean towels onto the pillows to absorb excess water. Blot, don’t rub, to prevent fabric damage.
- Air dry – Allow the pillows to completely air dry in place before using again. Rotate periodically for even drying.
Spot clean stains and heavy soil as needed with this method. Avoid over-wetting pillows and take care not to damage the surface fabric when scrubbing.
Removing Mold and Mildew from Outdoor Pillows
Mold and mildew are common issues that can grow on outdoor pillows when moisture gets trapped in the fabric. Take these steps to remove mold and prevent recurring outbreaks:
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 gallon water
- Spray bottle
- Soft bristle scrub brush
- White vinegar (optional)
- Garden hose
Instructions
- Make baking soda spray – Add 1 cup baking soda to 1 gallon water in a spray bottle. Shake vigorously to dissolve the baking soda.
- Spray pillows – Liberally spray the solution onto any areas with mold or mildew, fully saturating the fabric.
- Let sit – Allow the solution to sit on the wet areas for 2-3 hours. This gives the baking soda time to kill mold and lift stains.
- Scrub – Use a soft bristle brush dipped in baking soda solution to gently scrub affected areas.
- Rinse – Thoroughly rinse pillows with your garden hose.
- Dry – Allow pillows to fully air dry before using or storing.
For severe mold and mildew, spray pillows with undiluted white vinegar after Step 2. Let vinegar sit 1 hour before rinsing.
Baking soda and vinegar help remove mold and mildew stains and prevent recurrence. Make sure pillows are completely dry before storage or use.
Stain Removal for Outdoor Pillows
Outdoor pillow fabrics will pick up difficult stains from food, drinks, sunscreen, pollen, grease, and everyday use. Use these methods to tackle tough outdoor pillow stains:
Oil-based stains – Spray with WD-40 or Goo Gone. Let sit 5 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse.
Food stains – Use enzyme-based stain remover and cold water. Avoid hot water set in stains.
Drink stains – Lightly scrub with baking soda paste. Rinse and blot dry.
Sunscreen stains – Spray with prewash stain remover or rub with bar soap. Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Pollen stains – Dab with rubbing alcohol using a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing.
Grease stains – Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on stain. Let sit 1-2 hours before brushing off.
Always spot test stain removers on hidden seam or corner first. Soak, lift, and blot stains immediately for best results removing outdoor pillow stains.
How to Dry Outdoor Pillows Quickly
It’s important to allow enough drying time after washing outdoor pillows. Wet inserts and covers left bunched in a pile promote mold and mildew growth. Here are some tips for faster drying:
- Shake pillows vigorously after washing to remove excess water.
- Spread out inserts and covers in a single layer, not touching.
- Place in direct sunlight on hot days to use the sun’s heat.
- Move pillows indoors to a well-ventilated area on humid days.
- Place a fan nearby to keep air circulating around the pillows.
- Periodically flip and rotate inserts to expose all sides to air.
- Change towels under wet pillows to absorb moisture.
- Check for damp spots and dry those areas thoroughly.
- Fluff and gently stretch covers and inserts while drying.
Allowing outdoor pillows to fully air dry before storage preserves the fabrics and prevents odor issues. Never put wet or damp pillows into storage bins or furniture covers.
Storing Clean Outdoor Pillows
Once outdoor pillows are thoroughly dry, proper storage preserves that fresh, clean look until the next time they are used. Follow these outdoor pillow storage tips:
- Store clean and dry – Only store pillows that are completely dry and free of dirt or stains from the washing process.
- Use breathable bags or bins – Store pillows in cotton or mesh bags/bins that allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid plastic bags – Plastic traps condensation that promotes mold growth. Never use plastic bags for storing pillows.
- Give space – Don’t pack pillows too densely in storage. Allow space for air circulation.
- Add drying agents – Place cedar balls, charcoal, or silica gel packs in storage containers to absorb excess moisture.
- Clean storage areas – Ensure storage bins and spaces are clean and free of dirt, pests, mildew, or chemical odors.
- Indoor storage – If possible, store pillows in a climate-controlled indoor space rather than a damp garage or shed.
Proper storage between uses keeps outdoor pillows fresh and ready for the next season of relaxation and comfort in your favorite outdoor space.
FAQ About Cleaning Outdoor Pillows
How often should outdoor pillows be cleaned?
Outdoor pillows should be washed at least 2-3 times per year or whenever they get visibly dirty. Pillows used in covered spaces can go longer between cleaning. Increase washing frequency for pillows exposed to full sun and weather.
What is the best way to clean outdoor pillow inserts?
Fully submerge inserts in a tub of cool water mixed with laundry detergent. Let soak 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. Press and flatten inserts while rinsing to remove all soap. Air or machine dry fully before returning to the cover.
Why do my freshly washed outdoor pillows smell bad?
A mildew, musty, or sour odor most likely means the pillows were stored before completely drying. Always allow inserts and covers to dry fully in the open air before storage. Storing damp pillows encourages odor-causing bacterial growth.
Can I machine wash outdoor pillow covers?
Most outdoor pillow covers can be removed and machine washed on a gentle cycle with cool water and mild detergent. Always check care labels and wash using the recommended settings. Air dry pillow covers fully before returning to the inserts.
How do I get rid of black mold on my outdoor cushions?
Mix one cup baking soda with one gallon of water in a spray bottle. Liberally spray cushions with the solution and allow it to sit for 2-3 hours before rinsing. The baking soda helps kill mold spores and removes stains. Allow to fully dry before use.
What is the best way to dry large outdoor pillows that can’t be washed?
Use a vacuum attachment to remove loose dirt and debris from large, non-washable outdoor pillows. Mix a light detergent solution and use a sponge or soft brush to spot clean stains and spills. Mist with water, scrub, and immediately blot excess liquid. Allow pillows to fully air dry before replacing covers or using.
Caring for Outdoor Pillows Year Round
With regular cleaning and proper care, high quality outdoor pillows can last for many years. Here are some tips for keeping outdoor pillows in great shape all year long:
- Inspect pillows often for signs of wear, stains or damage. Spot clean as needed between deep cleanings.
- Fluff and rotate pillows frequently to maintain even wear and shape.
- Check for fading and replace faded covers when needed to keep your outdoor space looking fresh.
- Look for mold/mildew spots and treat immediately to inhibit spreading.
- Rinse away bird droppings, sap, and other messes quickly before staining occurs.
- Bring delicate pillows indoors during inclement weather and seasons not in use.
- Follow all manufacturer instructions for cleaning, care and storage.
Protect your investment in stylish, high quality outdoor pillows by regularly washing and properly storing them when not in use. With proper care, they will provide comfort and accent your outdoor living space for many years.
So in summary, cleaning outdoor pillows regularly removes stains, brightens colors, eliminates odors, and extends their lifespan. Learn the best practices for hand and spot washing pillow covers and inserts. Rinse away all soap residue after washing. Always allow pillows to fully air dry before storage or reuse. With regular cleaning and proper dry storage, outdoor pillows will stay fresh and vibrant for seasons of beauty and relaxation to come.