Identify the Stain
The first step is to identify what caused the stain. Common outdoor cushion stains include:
- Food and drink stains like wine, coffee, ketchup, mustard, etc.
- Grease and oil stains
- Dirt and mud
- Pollen and tree sap
- Mold and mildew
- Sunscreen and lotions
- Ink and paint
Knowing what caused the stain will help you select the right cleaning method and product to remove it.
Pre-treat the Stain
For fresh stains that have just occurred, try to blot up any excess liquid immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing the stain, which can grind it deeper into the fabric.
Once blotted, pre-treat the stain by spraying a stain remover or spot cleaner formulated for the type of fabric. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before cleaning. This helps lift and loosen the stain for easier removal.
For dried or set-in stains, go ahead and apply the stain remover and let it soak in for longer, up to 30 minutes.
Remove Stains from Washable Outdoor Cushion Covers
If the outdoor cushion covers are removable and washable, you can launder them to remove many types of stains. Check the care label first and wash on the recommended setting.
For food stains: Pre-treat with a stain remover, then wash in hot water with an enzyme-based detergent which helps break down food particles. Oxygen bleach can also help lift stains.
For grease, oil, and mud: Pretreat, then wash in hot water with a heavy duty detergent containing grease-fighting ingredients.
For mildew stains: Wash with bleach, oxygen bleach, or a mildew stain remover. Be sure the fabric can be bleached.
For sunscreen and lotions: Pretreat with dish soap, then launder. The soap helps cut through oily stains.
For ink and paint: Pretreat with isopropyl alcohol or hairspray. Then launder. The alcohol dissolves ink stains.
For pollen and tree sap: Use a heavy duty liquid detergent and wash in the hottest water allowed for the fabric. The heat helps loosen the gummy sap.
After washing, air dry the cushion covers in the sun which can help bleach out any remaining stains.
Cleaning Stains on Unremovable Outdoor Cushion Covers
If the cushion covers cannot be removed for washing, you’ll need to spot clean stains by hand. Here are some tips:
For food, grease, oil, mud, and dirt stains: Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Use a sponge or soft brush to gently scrub the stain. Avoid scrubbing too aggressively on delicate outdoor fabrics. Rinse thoroughly.
For mildew and mold: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and sponge it onto the stain. The acidity of vinegar kills mildew spores. Rinse well and allow to fully dry.
For pollen and tree sap: Use isopropyl alcohol applied with a cotton ball. Rub gently to dissolve the sap. Rinse with water.
For sunscreen and lotion: Use a stain remover formulated for greasy stains. Or try rubbing the stain with baby shampoo, then rinse.
For ink: Apply hairspray or rubbing alcohol to the stain. Let sit, then gently blot with a cloth. The alcohol will dissolve ink.
Be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the cushion after spot cleaning. Allow it to air dry completely before replacing the covers.
Deep Cleaning Outdoor Cushions
For a deep clean to revitalize faded and dingy outdoor cushions, a thorough wet or steam cleaning is ideal. Here are some options:
- Wet extraction machine: This professional-style equipment injects a cleaning solution deep into fabrics then immediately extracts it along with dirt and stains.
- Portable steam cleaner: A handheld steam cleaning machine uses high heat and steam to sanitize and deep clean outdoor cushions. Look for one with attachments to target stains.
- Full submersion: For removable, washable covers, a thorough cleaning can be achieved by fully submerging them in a tub with hot water and detergent. Agitate gently then rinse multiple times. Air dry thoroughly.
- Professional service: Outdoor cushion cleaning services use powerful equipment like truckmounts to deep clean cushions without removing them. This is ideal for large or delicate cushions.
A periodic deep cleaning can keep outdoor cushions fresh and stain-free so you can enjoy them year after year.
Stain Prevention Tips
To keep outdoor cushions looking their best for as long as possible:
- Vacuum cushions regularly using an upholstery attachment. This prevents dirt from becoming embedded.
- Immediately rinse food and drink spills – don’t let them set.
- Spray fabric protector on cushions which makes stains bead up. Reapply as needed.
- Check for pollen, bird droppings and debris – clean as needed so stains don’t set.
- At end of season, wash or professionally clean cushions and allow to fully dry before storage.
- Store cushions indoors when not in use – away from moisture and mildew.
With some periodic cleaning and care, outdoor cushions can stay vibrant and stain-free for many seasons of use. Follow these tips on how to remove stubborn stains, and enjoy lush, comfortable cushions outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Stains from Outdoor Cushions
How do you get grease stains out of outdoor cushions?
To remove grease stains from outdoor cushions, first blot up any excess grease. Apply a degreasing spot remover and let it soak for 10-30 minutes. Use a soft brush or sponge with dish soap and warm water to gently scrub the stain. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Launder washable covers.
What removes food stains from outdoor cushions?
Pre-treat food stains with an enzyme cleaner or stain remover specifically for food and drinks. Let it soak in, then scrub with dish soap and rinse. Wash removable cushion covers in hot water with an enzyme detergent. This removes stains caused by food particles.
How do you get rid of mildew on outdoor cushion covers?
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to mildew stains on outdoor cushions. Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly. Wash mildew-stained covers with bleach or an oxygen based detergent. Allow to completely dry in the sun to prevent reoccurrence.
What removes wine stains from outdoor cushions?
Blot wine immediately, don’t rub it in. Use an enzyme cleaner made for wine and food stains. Apply it generously and let it soak for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean. Launder washable covers in hot water with an enzyme detergent.
How do you clean pollen off outdoor cushions?
Use a stiff brush to brush off any loose pollen on outdoor cushions. Mix warm water and a heavy duty detergent. Use a sponge or scrub brush to clean the cushions with this solution. For removable covers, wash in hot water with extra rinse cycles.
What gets tree sap out of outdoor fabric?
Tree sap can stain and stick to outdoor cushions. Apply isopropyl alcohol to the sap using a cotton ball. Gently rub and blot until the sap dissolves, then rinse the area thoroughly. Launder washable covers as needed using the hottest water safe for the fabric.
What is the best way to deep clean outdoor cushions?
For a deep clean, using a wet extraction machine is ideal for pushing water and detergent deep into the cushions then extracting it out along with stains. Portable steam cleaners also work well. Or have cushions professionally cleaned using truckmount equipment for a thorough clean.
How can I prevent stains on outdoor cushions?
Routinely vacuum, brush and check cushions for debris and spills. Treat spills immediately by blotting then spot cleaning. Apply a fabric protector spray which makes liquid bead up. Bring cushions indoors when not in use and clean at the end of each season. Store completely dry.
Conclusion
Outdoor cushions are prone to staining from their constant exposure to food, drinks, weather, dirt and other elements. However, stains don’t have to be permanent. With the right cleaning methods and stain fighting products, even stubborn stains can be removed from outdoor cushions. Identify the stain and use targeted treatments like enzyme cleaners, degreasers, bleach, vinegar, alcohol, or abrasive scrubbing with dish soap. For the deepest clean, wet extract, steam clean or fully wash removable covers. And be sure to routinely maintain and protect your cushions to prevent stains in the first place. Follow these tips and enjoy clean, comfortable outdoor seating for years to come.