Outdoor chair cushions are subject to the elements and can get dirty pretty quickly. Regular cleaning is important to extend the life of outdoor cushions and keep them looking their best. There are several effective methods for cleaning outdoor chair cushions depending on the cushion material and how dirty they are.
Steps to Clean Outdoor Chair Cushions
Inspect the Cushions
The first step is to inspect the outdoor cushions closely. Look for stains, dirt buildup, mold or mildew, and wear and tear. This will help determine the best cleaning method to use.
Things to look for include:
- Dirt, leaves, pollen, etc. on the surface
- Stains from food, drinks, sunscreen, etc.
- Mold or mildew, especially on the underside or seams
- Fading or damage from sun exposure
- Rips, tears, or holes
Make notes on the condition of each cushion. Heavily soiled or stained cushions may need extra cleaning power. Cushions with damage should be repaired or replaced as needed.
Remove Debris and Loose Dirt
Use a vacuum cleaner or soft brush to remove any loose debris, dirt, leaves, etc. Pay close attention to seams and tufts where dirt can accumulate. This is an important first step to get rid of surface dirt.
For cushions with removable covers, you can take the cover off and shake out any debris before vacuuming the surface. Use the brush attachment to gently loosen and remove dirt from fabrics.
Spot Clean Stains
Inspect cushions for any visible stains from food, drinks, bird droppings, etc. Mix a mild detergent with warm water and use a soft cloth to spot treat any stains. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the fabric.
For tough oil-based stains, try using baking soda. Sprinkle it on the stain and let sit for a few hours before vacuuming up. The baking soda will help absorb and lift many types of stains.
You can also try spot cleaning sprays made specifically for outdoor fabrics. Check the product label and test on an inconspicuous area first.
Wash Removable Cushion Covers
If the cushion covers are removable, washing them is the most effective way to deep clean. Check the tag to see if they are machine washable. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Air dry the cushion covers fully before replacing them on the cushions.
If not machine washable, hand wash the covers in a tub or basin using a mild detergent and cool water. Rinse thoroughly. Reshape the covers and air dry completely before putting them back on the cushions.
Clean Full Cushions with Soap and Water
For cushions that aren’t removable, you’ll need to clean the entire cushion. Mix a mild laundry detergent or dish soap with cool water in a bucket. Use a soft scrub brush and dip in the soapy water to scrub the cushion surfaces.
Work in sections and rinse with clean water to remove the soap residue. Scrub gently to avoid damaging the fabric. Let the cushions air dry completely before placing them back on the furniture.
Use Bleach Solution for Mold and Mildew
Check cushion undersides and seams for any mildew or mold growth. This often shows up as black or green spots. Mix 1 cup of bleach into 1 gallon of water. Dip a scrub brush into the solution and gently scrub affected areas.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry fully. The bleach solution will disinfect and remove the mold and mildew.
Steam Clean for a Deep Clean
For a deeper clean, use a handheld steam cleaner on outdoor chair cushions. The steam helps sanitize and loosen ingrained dirt. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to steam clean fabric cushions.
Work in sections going over the surface with the steam cleaner. Don’t hold it in one spot too long, which can damage the fabric. The high heat from the steam also kills mold, bacteria, and dust mites.
Use Fabric Cleaner Spray
There are also cleaning sprays made specifically for outdoor fabric cushions. Check the directions for application method. Some require rinsing while others do not. Test a small hidden area first before spraying the entire cushion.
These sprays contain detergents and/or bleach to help remove stains, dirt, mildew and odor from outdoor fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that could damage or discolor the fabric.
Cleaning Tips by Material
Certain cushion materials require specialized cleaning methods:
Sunbrella Fabric
Sunbrella is a popular acrylic fabric for outdoor cushions. Clean by mixing a 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of warm water. Use a sponge or soft brush to clean. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. For mildew stains, use bleach cleaner.
Olefin Fabric
This synthetic polyolefin fabric resists mildew. Clean with mild soap and water. For tougher stains, use an oxygenated bleach. Do not use chlorine bleach.
Polyester Fabric
Clean polyester cushion fabric with warm water and a mild detergent. Pre-treat oil-based stains before washing. Avoid using chlorine bleach on polyester.
Cotton Fabric
Wash cotton cushion covers in the washing machine in cold water. Hang dry. Spot clean stains on the cushions themselves with a mild detergent and water.
Vinyl Cushions
Mix warm water and mild soap and scrub vinyl cushions with a soft brush. Rinse off soap residue. Dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage vinyl.
Wood Furniture
Dampen a soft cloth with warm soapy water. Wring it out well and gently wipe wood frames to remove dirt and debris. Rinse with a clean damp cloth, then dry completely.
Wicker Furniture
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt from wicker. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt. Allow wicker to dry completely before placing cushions back.
Iron Furniture
Wipe iron furniture clean with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse and dry thoroughly. For tough stains, use a diluted vinegar solution. Rinse and dry well.
Stainless Steel Furniture
Clean stainless steel frames with a cloth dampened with warm water and a mild dish soap. Wipe dry with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Long-Term Protective Measures
Along with regular cushion cleaning, there are steps you can take to protect outdoor cushions:
- When not in use, store cushions indoors or use outdoor cushion covers
- Allow cushions to fully air dry before placing back outside
- Sprinkle baking soda on the cushions to absorb odors and moisture
- Check for rips, holes, or damage that require cushion repair or replacement
- Consider applying a fabric protector spray to guard against stains
- Wash cushion covers frequently to avoid buildup of dirt and grime
- Check cushions at the start and end of the season for thorough cleaning
- Discard musty or moldy cushions that can’t be salvaged
Thorough cleaning in spring and fall is recommended. Proper storage and frequent care will add years to the life of your outdoor chair cushions. With the right techniques, you can keep your outdoor cushions looking fresh, clean and vibrant all season long.
Common Questions about Cleaning Outdoor Chair Cushions
How often should outdoor cushions be cleaned?
- Outdoor cushions should be cleaned at least 2-3 times per season. Clean in the spring before first use, mid-season, and at the end of the season before storing for winter. Spot clean stains in between major cleaning.
What’s the best way to clean sun-faded cushions?
- Unfortunately, there is no way to restore faded color from sun damage. But a thorough cleaning can remove ingrained dirt to freshen up the appearance of faded cushions. Bleach cleaner may also help brighten them.
Can I put outdoor cushions in the washing machine?
- Only if the tag specifically says the cushions are machine washable. Most outdoor cushions should be hand washed or spot cleaned only. The agitation of a washer can damage cushions not designed for it.
How do I get mildew off outdoor cushions?
- Mix equal parts bleach and water and scrub into mildew stains using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly. The bleach will kill and remove the mildew. Allow to fully air dry before placing back outside.
What’s the best way to dry outdoor cushions after cleaning?
- Always allow outdoor cushions to completely air dry before putting them back outside. Wet cushions can develop mold and mildew if not fully dried. Drying time depends on cushion thickness but often takes several hours.
How can I make outdoor cushions smell fresh?
- Regular cleaning is the best way to keep cushions smelling fresh. You can also sprinkle baking soda over the cushions between uses to absorb odors. Febreze fabric spray applied sparingly can also freshen up cushion smells.
What should I look out for when inspecting cushions?
- Inspect for surface dirt, stains, discoloration, mold or mildew, rips or holes, damage to closures or zippers, fading of fabric, clumping of fill material, and musty odors. Address any issues before placing back on furniture.
Conclusion
Outdoor chair cushions require regular deep cleaning to extend their life and keep them in good condition. While cleaning methods will vary based on the fabric, in most cases a mild soap and water solution is effective. For stubborn stains and mildew, use a bleach cleaner. Completely dry cushions after cleaning.
Protective steps like cushion covers, frequent cleaning, and proper storage will help outdoor cushions look great season after season. With the right care, outdoor chair cushions can last for many years outdoors. Just be sure to give them the TLC they need on a regular basis.