Outdoor cushions are susceptible to mold growth due to exposure to moisture and humidity. Mold can be unsightly and potentially hazardous, so it’s important to remove it from cushions as soon as it appears. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively remove mold from outdoor cushions.
What Causes Mold on Outdoor Cushions?
Mold grows on outdoor cushions when the conditions are right for it to thrive. The main factors that contribute to mold growth on cushions include:
- Moisture – Exposure to rain, sprinklers, humidity, and dampness provides the moisture mold needs to grow.
- Heat – Warm environments combined with moisture are ideal for mold.
- Organic materials – Cushion fabrics like cotton and polyester contain cellulose that mold feeds on.
- Lack of sunlight – Shaded areas prevent sunlight from killing mold spores.
- Poor air circulation – Stagnant air allows mold colonies to expand.
When cushions remain wet for prolonged periods and are not dried out fully, mold can quickly take hold. Spores land on the damp surface and when they find nutrients, moisture and suitable temperatures, they multiply into visible mold growth.
How to Remove Mold from Outdoor Cushions
Removing established mold on outdoor cushions requires using an effective process. Here are the recommended steps to clean mold off cushions:
Inspect and Assess the Cushions
- Carefully inspect the cushions, looking in all creases, seams and surfaces for any visible mold. Check the undersides too.
- Determine how much mold is present. A small amount may come off with light cleaning, whereas heavy mold growth requires more intensive treatment.
- Identify the types of materials used in the cushion cover and interior filling to choose suitable cleaning methods.
Brush Off Surface Mold
- For light mold growth that is dry and powdery, use a stiff brush to gently brush it off the cushion. This removes the top layers of spores.
- A soft brush can be used on more delicate materials. Take care not to rub the mold deeper into fabrics.
- Brushing should remove mold from woven and thicker cushion materials.
Vacuum the Cushion
- Use a vacuum cleaner to extract more stubborn mold that has taken hold on the cushion surface and embedded itself into the fibers.
- Vacuum all sides, crevices, seams and surfaces thoroughly to lift out as much mold as possible.
- Opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture all mold spores and prevent them circulating back into the air.
Wash Removable Cushion Covers
- If cushion covers can be removed, wash them in the machine according to care instructions.
- Use hot water, the highest recommended temperature setting, and add bleach or other antimicrobial products to kill any remaining mold.
- Dry thoroughly in the dryer on a high heat setting to prevent mold returning.
Clean Non-Removable Covers and Fillings
- For cushions that cannot be disassembled, mix a solution of warm water and oxygen bleach in a spray bottle.
- Liberally spray the solution over all cushion surfaces, saturating any moldy patches. Let it soak in for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub with a soft brush and then wipe clean with a cloth. Allow to fully dry in the sun.
- Repeat as needed for stubborn mold or stains. This can also be used on removable covers.
- For fillings, sprinkle baking soda and allow it to sit for a few hours before vacuuming it out.
Use Protectants and Inhibitors
- Treat cushions with mold-inhibiting products to prevent future growth. Options include:
- Boric acid solutions
- Tea tree oil
- Vinegar solution
- Essential oils
- Apply fabric protectants and sealants to create a layer that repels moisture and resist mold.
- Re-apply inhibitors and protectants regularly as they can wash off over time.
Expose Cushions to Sunlight
- Sun exposure naturally kills mold spores and inhibits further growth.
- Place cushions in direct sunlight for a few hours at a time. Ensure moldy patches get adequate exposure.
- Rotate and flip cushions periodically to cover all sides.
- Store cushions dry and allow sunlight to reach all surfaces when not in use.
Preventing Mold on Outdoor Cushions
Prevention is the best way to avoid having to remove mold from outdoor cushions repeatedly. Here are some tips for prevention:
- Allow cushions to completely dry after rain or water exposure before storing.
- Improve airflow around cushions so moisture can evaporate.
- Use cushion covers with ventilation eyelets to facilitate drying.
- Bring cushions indoors when not in use for extended periods.
- Clean cushions regularly to remove organic debris mold feeds on.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cushion care and cleaning.
- Check for mold growth frequently and treat at first signs.
- Apply UV and weather resistant sprays to protect cushion fabrics.
- Ensure outdoor cushions get regular sunlight exposure.
With diligent prevention and prompt treatment when mold appears, outdoor cushions can be kept free of persistent mold issues.
FAQs About Removing Mold from Outdoor Cushions
Can I use bleach to remove mold from outdoor cushions?
Yes, you can use bleach to kill mold on outdoor cushions. Dilute bleach with water and apply it to affected areas, allowing it to sit briefly before rinsing off. This is effective for removable cushion covers that can be soaked and washed. Be cautious using bleach on cushions that will remain outdoors as it can degrade fabrics over time. Test on a small inconspicuous area first.
What temperature kills mold spores?
Mold spores are killed when exposed to temperatures above 140°F (60°C). Washing cushion covers in hot water exceeding this temperature will help kill mold. Similarly, machine drying on a high heat setting for 30 minutes or longer can destroy any remaining mold spores.
How do you dry out wet outdoor cushions?
To thoroughly dry out wet outdoor cushions, bring them indoors and allow air circulation around them. Use a fan to speed up drying. Once indoors, remove cushion covers if possible and machine wash and dry them. For the interior cushion filling, sprinkle baking soda to absorb excess moisture, allow it to sit, and then vacuum.
Does vinegar remove mold from cushions?
Yes, vinegar is an effective household ingredient for removing mold from cushions. The acetic acid in vinegar kills mold. Make a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water and spray it onto affected areas. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes before wiping clean and allowing cushions to air dry.
Can sunlight damage outdoor cushion fabrics?
Extended direct sunlight exposure can potentially damage and fade some outdoor cushion fabrics. Limit sun exposure to a few hours at a time for mold removal. Test inconspicuous areas first. Sunlight is very effective at mold removal but fabrics may need re-treatment afterwards if they show signs of sun damage.
Conclusion
Outdoor cushions are breeding grounds for mold if left damp and neglected. It is important to act quickly at the first signs of mold to prevent it taking hold. With the proper cleaning techniques, mold can be safely removed from cushion covers and interiors. Preventative care is also key to limiting mold growth. Drying cushions thoroughly between uses, keeping them clean, and applying protectants are some of the best ways to avoid persistent mold issues. With this guide’s mold removal and prevention steps, outdoor cushions can be kept mold-free and ready to enjoy for seasons to come.