How to Clean Outdoor Cushion Covers

Outdoor cushion covers require special care and cleaning methods compared to regular indoor cushions. Exposure to the elements causes outdoor cushions to get dirty faster and need more frequent cleaning. Follow this guide to learn the best practices for keeping your outdoor cushion covers looking fresh and clean all season long.

Why It’s Important to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Outdoor cushion covers get dirtier faster than indoor cushions for a few key reasons:

• Exposure to dirt and debris – Outdoors, cushion covers are vulnerable to pollen, dust, leaves, grass clippings and other debris that can accumulate on the fabric.
• Moisture – Dew, rain and humidity all contribute to the growth of mildew and mold on outdoor cushions.
• Sun exposure – The sun’s UV rays can fade and degrade the fabric on your outdoor cushions.
• Food and beverage spills – It’s common for food and drinks to get spilled on outdoor seating areas. These spills can stain and attract critters if left untreated.

Regular cleaning keeps your outdoor cushions looking vibrant, extends their lifespan, and ensures harmful mold and mildew don’t take hold in the fabric.

Supplies Needed

Gather the following supplies before cleaning outdoor cushion covers:

• Mild detergent – Look for a gentle, enzyme-based detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
• Soft-bristle scrub brush – For tougher stains, a soft brush helps dislodge dirt.
• Garden hose – Use a light spray setting to rinse cushion covers clean.
• Cleaning gloves – Protect your hands from harsh detergents.
• Old towels – Absorb excess water from cushion covers after rinsing.
• Laundry line/rack – Hang covers to air dry thoroughly after cleaning.
• Fabric protector spray – An optional finishing step to guard against future stains.

Cleaning Frequency

How often you clean outdoor cushions depends on the level of use and exposure:

• Wash before first use each season.
• Every 2 weeks during high use seasons (spring, summer, early fall).
• Monthly or as needed in cooler months.
• Immediately after major spills or when mold/mildew develops.

Check cushions more frequently if you live in a rainy climate or have pets, trees, or other sources of debris around your outdoor living space.

Cleaning Methods

Follow these step-by-step instructions to clean outdoor cushion covers thoroughly:

Spot Treating Stains

Inspect covers and treat any stains, spills or soiled areas before washing:

• Blot wet stains ASAP with a clean towel to absorb moisture. Don’t rub.
• Spray stains lightly with a stain remover or diluted detergent.
• Let sit 5-10 minutes.
• Scrub gently with a soft brush to work in the detergent.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Repeat if needed for tough stains. This helps avoid spreading the stain during washing.

Washing by Hand

Supplies needed: detergent, soft brush, garden hose, gloves, towels.

1. Check care label instructions. Hand wash in lukewarm water unless care tag specifies machine washing.
2. Pretreat stains. Spot clean any soiled areas before washing (see instructions above).
3. Mix detergent with water. Use cool to lukewarm water. Only need a small amount of mild detergent.
4. Soak the cover. Place in the soapy water and let soak about 10 minutes.
5. Scrub with soft brush. Focus on stained/soiled areas. Avoid harsh scrubbing of the overall cover.
6. Rinse. Use a garden hose on a light spray setting. Rinse until water runs clear.
7. Remove excess water. Blot, roll, or lightly wring covers to remove excess moisture. Don’t twist or wring tightly.
8. Air dry. Hang over a laundry line or rack in the shade. Avoid direct sunlight.
9. Check for stains. Spot treat any remaining stains by repeating the process.

Washing by Machine

Supplies needed: washing machine, mild detergent.

1. Check care instructions. Machine wash only if specified on the label. Use cold water setting.
2. Pretreat stains. Spot clean any visibly soiled areas first.
3. Wash on gentle cycle. Add a small amount of mild detergent to the machine.
4. Air dry. Never machine dry outdoor cushion covers. Hang to air dry out of direct sunlight.
5. Spot treat if needed. Check for any remaining stains after washing. Pretreat and wash again if necessary.

Cleaning Mold or Mildew

Mold and mildew flourish on damp, dirty outdoor fabrics. Follow these steps if you see dark blotchy areas:

• Mix 1 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water.
• Spray mixture generously over stained areas.
• Allow to sit 10-15 minutes.
• Scrub with a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Wash as normal.
• Repeat if stains remain.
• Let thoroughly air dry before use.

Final Touches

Once washed and dried, apply these finishing touches:

• Fluff covers to restore loft and shape after washing.
• Spot treat remaining stains. Hand wash stubborn spots again if needed.
• Use fabric protector spray (optional). Spray on and let fully dry. Adds a stain resistant shield.
• Check for damage. Look for holes, tears or broken fasteners needing repair.

Your outdoor cushions are now fresh, clean and ready to enjoy all season long!

Storing Outdoor Cushions in Winter

When cold weather arrives, properly store your outdoor cushions to protect them in winter:

• Clean covers thoroughly before storage to prevent mold/mildew growth.
• Let dry completely. Don’t store damp cushions.
• Store cushion inserts indoors if possible. If keeping inserts outside, cover tightly with waterproof bags or sheeting.
• Keep covers dry. Move to a covered area or place waterproof coverings over the top.
• Avoid direct ground contact. Place on wood pallets or other waterproof surface off the ground.

With proper storage over winter, your outdoor cushion covers will be ready for another season of use when warmer weather returns!

FAQs About Cleaning Outdoor Cushions

How do I clean outdoor cushion covers?

Use a mild detergent and soft brush to hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle if the care tag allows. Rinse thoroughly and let air dry in the shade.

How often should I clean outdoor cushions?

Clean every 2 weeks during high use seasons, monthly in cooler weather, and immediately if cushions get heavily soiled or develop mold/mildew.

What’s the best way to remove stains on outdoor cushions?

Pretreat stains by blotting excess liquid, spraying with detergent, letting sit, then scrubbing gently before washing. Repeat if needed.

How do I get mold off outdoor cushion fabric?

Mix 1 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water. Spray over moldy areas, let sit 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush before washing as normal.

Can I machine wash outdoor cushion covers?

Only if the care label specifically indicates machine washing. Use a cold gentle cycle and air dry. Do not machine dry.

How should I store outdoor cushions in winter?

Before storage, wash covers thoroughly and let dry completely. Store cushion inserts indoors if possible. Keep covers dry and off the ground on a pallet or other waterproof surface.

Conclusion

Outdoor cushions require frequent cleaning and proper care to withstand exposure to the elements. By following these detailed steps for pretreating stains, washing, removing mold/mildew, and preparing cushions for seasonal storage, you can keep your outdoor cushion covers looking fresh and vibrant for seasons to come. Be sure to check and clean your outdoor cushions regularly to prevent buildup of dirt, debris, and moisture. With the proper techniques, you can easily keep your outdoor living space comfortable and looking neat all year long.