Mildew stains on outdoor cushions can be annoying, but thankfully there are effective ways to remove them without using harsh bleach. Here are some simple methods to get your outdoor cushions looking fresh and clean again.
What Causes Mildew on Outdoor Cushions?
Mildew is a type of mold that grows on damp fabrics. Outdoor cushions often get mildew stains because of exposure to moisture and humidity. Prolonged wetness allows mold spores in the air to land on the cushion fabric and grow into mildew colonies. Areas of shade and poor air circulation also promote mildew growth.
Removing Mildew Stains Without Bleach
Bleach is an effective way to kill mildew, but it can damage and discolor outdoor cushion fabrics. Here are some alternative methods to remove mildew without bleach:
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and cleaning agent. Make a paste by mixing 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water. Rub the paste onto the mildew stains using a soft brush or sponge. Let it sit for a few hours before brushing off and rinsing the cushion with clean water. Baking soda helps absorb odors and lift stains without bleach.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is another natural cleaner that kills mold and mildew. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution onto the mildew stains and allow it to soak in for 15 minutes. Then scrub with a soft brush and rinse well with clean water. The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves mildew.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As an oxygen-based bleach alternative, hydrogen peroxide can sanitize and brighten outdoor cushions. Mix 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts water. Spray or sponge the solution onto the mildew stains. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Hydrogen peroxide is effective at killing mold and whitening fabrics.
Lemon Juice
The natural acidity in lemon juice cuts through mildew stains. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Spritz the solution onto the stained areas of the outdoor cushions. Let soak for about an hour before scrubbing and rinsing clean. The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent.
Borax
Borax is an alkaline mineral salt that can remove mildew stains and odors. Make a borax paste by mixing 1⁄4 cup borax powder with just enough warm water to form a spreadable consistency. Rub the paste into the mildew stains and let sit for a few hours before brushing off and rinsing thoroughly. Borax is abrasive enough to lift stains without bleach.
Oxygen Bleach
Oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) uses sodium percarbonate to lift stains. Make a concentrated paste of oxygen bleach powder and just enough warm water to form a spreadable paste. Apply the paste to mildew stains and allow to sit for 6-8 hours before rinsing clean. Oxygen bleach whitens and deodorizes without chlorine bleach.
Preventing Mildew on Outdoor Cushions
To avoid dealing with pesky mildew stains, here are some tips to keep your outdoor cushions fresh and mold-free:
- Allow cushions to dry completely before storing or stacking. Never put away damp cushions.
- Place cushions in a breezy, sunny area to thoroughly dry after rain or water exposure.
- Vacuum cushion covers frequently to remove surface mold spores.
- Consider removable, washable cushion covers that can be laundered to kill mildew.
- Sprinkle baking soda on cushion surfaces before storing to inhibit mold growth.
- Keep cushions dry by storing indoors or using cushion covers when not in use.
- Replace damaged cushions that are prone to collecting water and growing mildew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to remove mild mildew stains?
Mixing equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle provides an effective solution for mild mildew stains. Lightly spray the mixture on the stains, allow 15 minutes for it to work, then scrub and rinse clean. The acetic acid in vinegar kills mold and brightens the fabric.
How can I prevent mildew from growing back after removal?
It’s important to keep your cushions completely dry after treating and removing mildew stains. Allow them to dry thoroughly in sunlight, sprinkle with baking soda, and store indoors when not in use to prevent the return of moisture and re-growth of mildew.
Can I use lemon juice and salt to remove mildew?
Yes, the citric acid in lemon juice and abrasive quality of salt make a good mildew stain remover. Mix equal parts lemon juice and salt, rub into the stains, let sit 1-2 hours, then rinse clean. The salt lifts the stain while the lemon juice bleaches and deodorizes.
What laundry detergent works best on mildew stains?
For removable, washable outdoor cushion covers, use a laundry detergent containing sodium percarbonate, like OxiClean. This active ingredient provides oxygen-based bleaching power to kill mildew stains and leave fabric fresh.
Should I use chlorine bleach if other methods don’t remove the stains?
As a last resort, you can try diluted chlorine bleach if other non-bleach methods are ineffective. Mix 1 part bleach to 4 parts water and spot test first. Rinse thoroughly. But take care, as bleach may discolor or damage the fabric over time.
Conclusion
Mildew stains on outdoor cushions are common but treatable without harsh bleach. Natural cleaning solutions like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice and borax can lift stains and disinfect fabric. Proper drying, storage and care will help prevent the return of stubborn mildew. With some persistence and elbow grease, you can banish mildew from outdoor cushions for good.